Chinese intelligence operatives have attempted to recruit thousands of UK officials through LinkedIn, offering lucrative business proposals in exchange for British state secrets. An intelligence officer named 'Robin Zhang' created fake identities and businesses to connect with UK officials with access to sensitive information. The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China's Luke de Pulford criticized the UK government's lack of a coherent strategy against Beijing. MI5's campaign 'Think Before You Link' highlights the dangers of hostile state intelligence on social networks. LinkedIn has been criticized for lax security standards and has pledged to eliminate false profiles and state-backed activities. The UK's National Security Bill aims to facilitate prosecution of individuals passing intelligence to hostile states. Experts and Lords have criticized the UK government for being complacent about Chinese infiltration and influence.

The European Union expressed concern over the 'continued erosion of high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms' in Hong Kong in its 2022 annual report, particularly highlighting the impact of the National Security Law on the rule of law, freedom of speech, assembly, media, and academic freedom in the region. The report detailed key political events in Hong Kong, including the unchallenged appointment of Lee Ka-chiu as Chief Executive, President Xi Jinping's visit, and COVID-19 restrictions. It also noted the law's effect on foreign scholars and media in Hong Kong, leading to visa denials, self-censorship, and charges against journalists. Hong Kong activists, including Zheng Wenjie of Hongkongers in Britain and Guo Zijian of The Hong Kong Scots, called for EU support for Hongkongers fleeing the crackdown. Dr. Alicia Hennig warned of a future of self-censorship and the potential departure of multinational companies from Hong Kong due to the encroaching CCP ideology.

Franco Marchesan, a 61-year-old fashion store owner known for his style, has passed away. He is remembered as light-hearted, witty, and humorous. A final farewell will be held tomorrow at 9 am in the Chapel of the cemetery followed by a blessing at 10 am.

Claudio Pastoricchio, a well-known figure in Grado, has passed away at the age of 87. He was a long-time manager of the Cooperative Operaie, an avid AC Milan fan, a collector of postcards and stamps, and an activist of the Associazione Nazionale Venezia Giulia Dalmazia. Despite being bedridden for some time, he remained conscious until his passing at his home on Saturday morning. He leaves behind his wife Armida, several relatives, and many friends and acquaintances. Pastoricchio was known for his extensive collection of postcards depicting Grado, particularly those of Barbana, which helped shape the island's tourist image. His funeral will be held at Sant'Eufemia on Wednesday, January 27th.