Catalonia independence: Rajoy dissolves Catalan parliament
Mariano Rajoy begins imposing direct rule over Catalonia after its push for independence. BBC News – Europe
Craig Taylor
Pools and sports halls ‘could be forced to close’
Pools and sports halls across England are at risk as council budget cuts bite, say town hall bosses. BBC News – UK
White House distances itself from Whitefish power grid deal
The statement comes as federal authorities express “significant concerns” about the contract. BBC News – US & Canada
Ghana investigation after child rape ‘pardon’
Campaigners say the case demonstrates a culture in Ghana that shields sex attackers. BBC News – Africa
Barclays shares close down 7% after profits disappoint
Barclays’ overall third-quarter profits jump by 31% but investment banking profits are sharply down. BBC News – Business
Catalan crisis: Regional MPs debate Spain takeover bid
Regional leader Carles Puigdemont has referred a decision on independence to the Catalan parliament. BBC News – Europe