Italian cities ban cars due to smog
The Italian cities of Milan and Rome restrict car use after high levels of pollution made worse by a lack of rainfall in recent weeks. BBC News – Europe
Craig Taylor
Flood defences ‘need complete rethink’
There needs to be a “complete rethink” of the UK’s flood defences following unprecedented flooding across northern England, the Environment Agency says. BBC News – UK
Dozens dead in US Christmas storms
At least 43 people have been killed over five days by severe storms across southern and western parts of the United States. BBC News – US & Canada
Nigeria militants in deadly village raid
Militants in Nigeria attack a village near the north-eastern city of Maiduguri killing 21 people and injuring 91 others, officials say. BBC News – Africa
Nine UK banks launch fee-free accounts
Nine High Street banks and building societies in the UK are to launch basic bank accounts which will not charge a fee for missed payments. BBC News – Business
Evacuation from Syrian camp ‘on hold’
The expected evacuation of thousands of rebels from in and around Yarmouk refugee camp in southern Damascus is put on hold, reports say. BBC News – Middle East