SNP ministers are doing a bad job in seven key areas including the NHS, living standards and the economy, voters say.

A poll found the Nats are also failing on education in a “damning verdict” on John Swinney’s government.

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A poll found the Nats are doing a bad job in seven key areas, voters say[/caption]

Michael Schofield, News Group Newspapers Ltd

The poll also found that there is “no consensus” on whether Scottish Labour can do a better job[/caption]

And the public was critical of the party’s record on helping those on low incomes as well as on tax bands and climate change.

But in a blow to Anas Sarwar’s chances of becoming First Minister in 2026, there is “no consensus” on whether Scottish Labour can do a better job.

Emily Gray, of Ipsos Scotland, said of its findings: “Fourteen months out from the next Holyrood elections, these findings suggest the Scottish public is broadly negative about the SNP’s record in government, but showing little enthusiasm for the alternatives.”

Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane weighed in: “Scots have delivered a damning verdict on the SNP’s gross mismanagement of our NHS over their 18 years in power but have no faith that Labour will do any better.”

On health, 57 per cent of Scots reckon the Nats are doing a “bad job”. 

Some 48 per cent think the party is failing to boost living standards and the economy.

Ministers are also ruled to be flopping on education by 46 per cent of respondents.

A further four in ten believe income tax is not set at the right level.

The nation has three extra tax bands compared to England, with Scots earning at least £28,867 paying more than those down south.

But in a boost to the SNP, John Swinney — pictured in a hard hat as he toured a housing development in Edinburgh — is the least unpopular party leader in Scotland.

Favourability towards Mr Sarwar and Scottish Labour has plummeted since September after a difficult first few months for Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street.

But Ms Gray warned: “While the First Minister’s ratings are the least worst of any Scottish party leader, the public’s critical view of his government’s record on public services and the economy should give particular cause for concern.”

Labour have slumped to a 17-point deficit behind the SNP in the polls, having been level with the Nats ahead of the General Election last July.

Such a result next May would likely see the SNP returned as the biggest party in Scotland — extending their grip on power to more than 20 years.

But voters are most likely to say they do not believe Scottish Labour could do  better than the SNP, including on key issues focused on by party chief Mr Sarwar such as the NHS.

And around a quarter of Scots believe the party would do a worse job on turning round the health system or Scotland’s schools.

Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said it was “no wonder” the public were “massively critical” of Nats’ handling of the NHS.

SNP MSP Fulton Mac- Gregor said: “After a string of broken promises, it is no wonder that Anas Sarwar and   Labour’s popularity is plummeting”

But Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour’s deputy leader, hit back last night: “We will work to earn every vote.” 

Ipsos quizzed 1,025 adults aged 16 and over from February 21-26.

Alamy

John Swinney is the least unpopular party leader in Scotland[/caption]

GARDAI have arrested and charged 17 people over major burglary investigation in the capital.

A total of 38 charges are being brought against those arrested in this phase of the investigation.

Alamy Stock Photo

A number of recent incidents of robbery, burglary and theft have been reported in the North Dublin area.

Cops carried out the investigation under Operation Thor and Operation Tairge.

During the operation 16 people and a youth were arrested.

The 16 individuals are set to appear before the Criminal Courts of Justice tomorrow.

While the youth will appear before the Children’s Court in Smithfield.

Gardai confirmed that investigations into the incidents are ongoing.

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai from the DMR North Division have arrested and charged 17 individuals in connection with ongoing investigations under Operation Thor and Operation Tairge, targeting recent incidents of robbery, burglary and theft in the North Dublin area.

“A total of 38 charges are being brought against those arrested in this phase of the investigation.

“16 individuals are scheduled to appear before the Criminal Courts of Justice tomorrow, Thursday, 6th March, 2025, at 10:30am.

“One individual will appear before the Children’s Court in Smithfield.

“Investigations are ongoing.”

Operation Thor, launched in November 2015, is designed to tackle the anticipated increase in the number of burglaries and associated criminal activity that usually occur in winter months by undertaking targeted enforcement and preventative activity.

Operation Tairge is part of An Garda Siochana’s Crime Prevention and Reduction Strategy supporting operational activity aimed at detecting and preventing Organised Retail Crime (ORC).

Separately, a dog was put down after it was shot and seriously wounded by Gardai after they chased a man suspected of a drugs offence.

The XL Bully, similar to dogs that appear on Ireland’s restricted dog breeding list, was shot and injured as Gardai searched the curtilage of a house in Limerick city on Tuesday night where they believed drugs had been discarded by a suspect they had been chasing.

Two dog wardens attached to Limerick City and County Council “assisted” Gardaí in removing the injured dog from the scene, a Council spokesman said.

The dog was later euthanised, sources confirmed.

PA:Press Association

MARRIED At First Sight Australia is set for a huge schedule shake-up as E4 prepares to launch a new dating show.

Series 12 arrived in the UK earlier this week – and there’s already been explosive moments.

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Married At First Sight Australia is set for a big schedule shake-up[/caption]

Nine/Seven.One Studios/Geoff Mag

UK viewers have already seen explosive moments play out[/caption]

Channel 4

Fellow dating show Love Triangle is returning[/caption]

Viewers are set for a huge schedule shake-up with the next thrilling instalment.

Although the first three episodes aired at 9pm, episode four (March 10) will be on at 7.30pm.

Fellow E4 dating show Love Triangle UK will instead occupy the 9pm slot.

Love Triangle UK – which is returning for its second series – sees singletons text two people, before picking one to go on a date with.

But they are then forced to move in with both potential suitors, and have to decide which person they have more of a spark with.

At the end, they will choose the one partner they want to carry on dating.

Meanwhile. MAFS Australia fans have seen one bride branded a  a “f***ing c**t” on her wedding day – by her own sister – in shocking scenes.

Lauren Hall was left stunned when sibling Tamara flew off the handle over the reception menu.

It saw the narrator hint at explosive drama, remarking: “Lauren’s sister Tamara is on the warpath after not receiving a pescatarian meal.”

Despite the wedding party attempting to appease her by finding an alternative, Tamara was far from understanding.

She raged: “I don’t care. Can I please actually have a potato? You can have the whole bowl of them.”

The theatrics continued when she stormed out, declaring the situation “an absolute abortion”.

Tamara also dropped the C-bomb on her way out further hurting Lauren’s feelings.

Making herself the centre of the situation, Tamara fumed: “You’ve totally killed my mood.

“You haven’t listened to my dietary requirements as the bride’s sister. I find it very frustrating that she can’t just keep it together for the sake of me. 

“It’s an important day. It makes me look bad, and I’m extremely upset.”

One wrote on social media: “OMG the sister of Lauren, she needs a straight jacket and to disappear.”

Another penned: “Lauren and her sister both seem annoying but Tamara is out of control she’s acting like she’s the flipping bride! Just rude attention seeking drama queen.”

Channel 4

Love Triangle first aired last year[/caption]

FASHIONISTAS are going wild for ‘very flattering’ trousers from M&S – but they’re selling out fast.

Not only have they been praised as ‘ideal for travelling’, but they’re also ‘perfect for spring’ too.

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Shoppers are raving about linen-rich trousers from M&S that are ‘perfect for spring’[/caption]

M&S

They are ‘very flattering’ and ‘ideal for travelling’[/caption]

M&S

They’re super purse-friendly too[/caption]

M&S

There’s five colours to choose from but they are selling out fast[/caption]

So if you fancy giving your wardrobe an upgrade and want to treat yourself for the upcoming warmer weather, you’ll need to check this out.

Shoppers are raving about the Linen-Rich Drawstring Tapered Trousers from M&S – and there’s five colours to choose from.

Thanks to the elasticated waist and tapered fit, they’re super comfortable and great for bloated days.

As well as being extremely ‘flattering’, they are an easy-to-wear wardrobe staple that are super stylish too.

They combine classic and contemporary styles and can be dressed up with loafers for a smart look with a laid-back edge, or worn with sandals for the ultimate spring vibe. 

Not only this, but they’re pretty purse-friendly too – with a price tag of £27.50.

There’s four length options to choose from – extra short, short, regular and long – making them suitable for a variety of different body shapes.

Shoppers can choose the trousers in navy, black, white, oatmeal and bright sage, but the latter is currently out of stock online.

The bottoms are cut in a tapered fit with a drawstring fastening at the high waistband and have two side pockets, as well as patch pockets at the back for a practical finishing touch.

The trousers, which are selling out fast and have been described as ‘true to size’, have clearly impressed many, as they have amassed an average rating of 4.4 out of five.

Not only have fashion fans praised the ‘very flattering’ fit, but they’ve even been hailed as ‘the perfect lightweight trouser for comfort and style’, with 71% of shoppers recommending them to others. 

One satisfied M&S fan wrote: “Perfect for spring. I have several pairs, and they are easy to wear and wash well.”

Very comfy and light material, ideal for travelling

Fashion fan

Another added: “I’ve just worn them for a long haul journey, and they’re so comfortable and lightweight to wear. Good quality too, I love them.”

A third penned: “Great trousers, perfect sizing and not see-through. Perfect for work or everyday wear and will see you into the summer.”

At the same time, one travel enthusiast beamed: “Very comfy and light material, ideal for travelling.” 

Whilst someone else chimed in: “Great to find a pair of trousers that are a perfect fit.”

But you’ll need to get your shoes on and leg it to your local M&S as fast as you can, as sizes are selling out quickly. 

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HUMAN skeletal remains found near a major retail park are being treated as an unexplained death, police say.

The grim discovery was made by horrified passersby at around 3.40pm yesterday near Festival Park in Stoke-on-Trent.

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Police are investigating after human remains were found in the park[/caption]

PA

The area has been cordoned off[/caption]

PA

The remains were discovered yesterday afternoon by a passerby[/caption]

The site is home to Go Outdoors, Argos, Next, Boots and JD Sports.

Staffordshire Cops launched an investigation yesterday afternoon, with a cordon put up blocking a footpath outside a Morrisons supermarket.

A police spokesman said today: “Our investigation is ongoing and we’re working hard to progress a number of inquiries to help us identify the remains and how they ended up there.

“We are currently treating this as an unexplained death.”

Four cop cars and a blue tent were spotted inside the cordon.

Four forensics officers were also seen in white suits going in and out of a large blue tent set up on the hilly wooded area yesterday.

The force said yesterday: “We were called to reports of skeletal remains found by a member of the public on land near Festival Park.

“We can now confirm that the remains are human but at this time have not been formally identified.

“A scene is in place while investigators examine the scene.”

Anyone with information should call the police on 101, quoting incident number 397 of 2 March.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In the sports entertainment industry, Vince McMahon has been seen as a ruthless businessman who will do everything that is “best for business.” This trait has helped him to make WWE a global brand, where fans would tune in each week to watch the emotionally gripping fictional storyline that pushes the limits of sports entertainment. […]

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I just cannot hide it and start with some tantalizing words to build the hype surrounding Daredevil: Born Again. Because for me, it’s already ruined—Foggy Nelson is gone. And not in some dramatic, last-stand hero moment—no, Bullseye took him out in episode one—just like that. After years of watching Matt and Foggy’s friendship survive everything, […]

This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire

Sergio Mayer Mori is a Mexican actor and model. He is recognized for his work in television and his notable…

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Naomi Osaka started strong with an ace on Stadium Court at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden on Wednesday evening, but the match quickly turned into an uphill battle for the four-time Grand Slam champion. She surrendered an early break to Camila Osorio in the opening set and dropped her serve twice more, ultimately falling 6-4, […]

The post Naomi Osaka apologizes to fans after ‘worst match I’ve ever played’ at Indian Wells appeared first on ClutchPoints.

THOUSANDS of drivers brace for chaos as a major A-road is set to close this weekend.

The popular stretch, used by countless motorists every day, is undergoing a huge restructuring – and National Highways has already apologised for the disruption.

MEN Media

Huge roadworks will take place on the A63 in Hull this weekend[/caption]

NATIONAL HIGHWAYS

National Highways has released a series of diversion maps for drivers[/caption]

Part of the A63 in Hull city centre will be completely blocked from 8pm on Friday until 6am on Monday.

Drivers will still be able to get to city centre parks, retail and leisure facilities but they will have to find alternative routes that avoid Castle Street.

The renovation project will include pumping 1,2000 cubic metres of concrete onto the road to form an underpass.

Heavy machinery will be trundling to and from the underpass as the new base is constructed, forcing the area to be closed off to all road users.

With the roadworks requiring large loud equipment, National Highways have issued an apology ahead of the commotion, warning “disturbance is unfortunately unavoidable.”

This “huge task” will force drivers to divert from the A-road as both directions between Daltry Street and Roger Milard Way will be closed for all vehicles.

Concrete will be siphoned into Castle Street all weekend to create a new split-level junction with Ferensway and Commercial Road crossing over the A63.

Despite the short-term disruption, the project should improve connections between the city centre and tourist facilities after it’s completion.

For Castle Street commuters, National Highways has released a series of diversion maps on their website to allow motorists to plan their routes.

The eye-watering £355million project, which started five years ago, is set to be fully complete by Spring 2026.

A spokesperson for National Highways said: “We’ll be pumping more than 1,200 cubic metres of concrete, which is a huge task, with pumps running for the full weekend.

“Machinery will also be needed across both carriageways as we construct the base for the new electronic signage.

“Routes to city centre parks, retail and leisure facilities will still be available.

“Drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

“During the weekend, we’ll also complete some key areas of work throughout the scheme, including works on the A63 main carriageway close to some residential areas.

“The equipment we use means that some disturbance is unfortunately unavoidable, but we’ll make every effort to minimise noise caused by the activity.

“We’re sorry for any disruption during this complex phase of the scheme.”

This comes as drivers using the M25 have been warned to reconsider their routes as a major section of Britain’s busiest motorway is set to close.

National Highways warned that Junction 10 is to shut from 9pm on Friday, March 7, and won’t open again until 6am on Monday, March 10.

The closure will allow for the completion of a number of works on the junction that are expected to be finished this year – including the demolition and removal of old bridges.

Drivers travelling into London and the surrounding areas have been urged to plan their journeys in advance, as well as allow extra time or make alternative travel arrangements.