"At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it."
"Cuts to local authority cleaning budgets have been linked to a "horrifying" surge in rat sightings across Scotland, Scottish Labour has warned. Data obtained by the party through a freedom of information request reveals councils recorded 19,752 complaints about rats last year. This marks a significant 35% increase compared to the 2021/22 period. Glasgow experienced the most acute problem, accounting for more than half of all complaints. The city registered 10,840 reports in 2024/25, a stark 50% rise from the 7,215 complaints lodged in 2021/22."
The Independent solicits donations to fund on-the-ground reporting, avoids paywalls, and positions quality journalism as available to everyone paid by those who can afford it. Scottish Labour obtained freedom-of-information data showing councils logged 19,752 rat complaints in 2024/25, a 35% rise from 2021/22. Glasgow accounted for 10,840 reports, a 50% jump from 7,215. Street-cleaning spending in Scotland has fallen 34% since 2010/11. Public satisfaction with street cleaning dropped to 57% Scotland-wide and 37% in Glasgow. Labour links reduced street-cleaning budgets to the surge in rat sightings and criticizes the SNP's basic service performance.
Read at www.independent.co.uk
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