UK Government Grants £63.7M to Organizations; Jury in Robbery Trial Fails to Reach Verdict

In 2023, the UK government distributed over £63.7 million in grants to 39 organizations. Overseas Aid received the largest portion, totaling £17.2 million, followed by the Jersey Heritage Trust with over £8 million. The government initiated the publication of grants in 2010 as part of its annual business plan to enhance transparency and accountability. Organizations receiving grants exceeding £5,000 or representing more than 50% of their total income are required to submit their accounts.

A jury failed to reach a verdict in the trial of Junior Kunu, accused of conspiring to commit robbery at 247 Kettles, a jewelry store in Richmond, south-west London, on May 25. Mannix Pedro was convicted in the same case. The Woolwich Crown Court jury was discharged after 28 hours of deliberation. The trial revealed that Oliver White, the shop's office manager, who was tied up during the robbery, died by suicide the following day.