Scotland’s parliament is considering legislation that would allow people with a terminal illness to take their own lives, joining countries like Switzerland, Canada, New Zealand, Austria, and Ecuador in allowing assisted dying. Individuals would need to self-administer the substance that will end their life if the legislation is passed.
Scotland midfielder John McGinn described their 4-0 defeat by the Netherlands in a friendly as embarrassing and emphasized the need for the team to be more “streetwise” when falling behind. The match saw Scotland hitting the woodwork twice and missing several chances, with the Netherlands securing their win with late goals from Georginio Wijnaldum, Wout Weghorst, and Donyell Malen. This game was part of both teams’ preparations for the European Championship in Germany. Scotland captain Andy Robertson stressed the importance of not just qualifying for tournaments but competing in them, highlighting the team’s ambition to return to winning ways.
NatWest (NWG.L) plans to seek shareholder approval for a buyback of up to 15% of its stock from the UK government as part of its privatisation efforts. This request is an increase from the previous limit of 5% per year. The bank, which is about one-third owned by taxpayers following a bailout during the 2007-9 financial crisis, aims to accelerate the government’s exit, planned by 2026. The proposed buyback, based on current market capitalisation, would be worth around £3 billion. The UK government has been reducing its stake from a peak of 84% through sales to institutional investors and directly to NatWest. Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt announced plans to sell stock to retail investors to speed up the process. NatWest’s annual meeting will also include votes on the formal appointments of chairman Rick Haythornthwaite and CEO Paul Thwaite. The bank’s shares have increased by 9% year-to-date, following a report of its highest annual profit since the bailout. However, sales of government-owned stock have been at a loss compared to the bailout price of 502 pence.
Ireland beat Scotland 17-13 at the Aviva Stadium, clinching back-to-back Six Nations titles for the second time in 11 years. Ireland had a 7-6 halftime lead, and Andrew Porter scored a try in the 65th minute. A late try by Huw Jones and an Irish yellow card made the finish tense. This victory placed Ireland too far ahead of England, who were second-placed and had a game left. Scotland finished the championship with two wins and three losses.