Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Tuesday 13 Dec 2016

1. Hammond calls for transitional Brexit deal

Philip Hammond says the UK will not be able to leave the EU within two years without serious side effects. Opening a potential rift with Cabinet colleagues by saying "thoughtful politicians" would agree, the Chancellor said a transitional deal, in which the country pays for access to the single market, would ensure a "smooth" Brexit.

Brexit: Theresa May says ‘trust me’ to deliver

2. Donald Trump names Exxon boss secretary of state

US president-elect Donald Trump has named Rex Tillerson, the chief executive of Exxon Mobil, as his choice for US secretary of state. Trump called him one of the world's "most accomplished business leaders and international dealmakers". He is also said to have a good relationship with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

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Who is Rex Tillerson? From Exxon chief to US secretary of state

3. English cities hold female genital mutilation 'parties'

Cities across England are hosting female genital mutilation (FGM) "parties", a charity has warned. The Black Health Initiative says midwives from Africa are being flown into the country to carry out the illegal practice on women and girls. Latest NHS figures show more than 8,000 women across England have had the procedure.

4. Rail workers and post office staff stage strikes

Rail commuters suffered travel misery as striking train drivers brought the Southern network to a halt. Members of the Aslef union walked out for 48 hours at midnight. A further 24-hour strike is set for Friday. Meanwhile, Post Office workers will stage five days of strikes from next Monday in a dispute over jobs, pensions and branch closures.

Tube commuters face more delays as engineers begin industrial action

5. Widely used pesticide stops bees from fertilising crops

The most commonly used insecticides harm the ability of bees to vibrate flowers and shake out the pollen to fertilise crops, according to a new study. Researchers from Scotland say bees exposed to a neonicotinoid pesticide fail to learn how to create the level of buzz needed and collect less pollen as a result.

6. Ageing parents would rather die than drain inheritance

Older parents are drawing up legal documents stating they would prefer to die rather than use their child’s inheritance to pay for care homes, claims a leading law firm. Paul Gotch, a lawyer with JMW Solicitors, says more middle-aged parents are making formal declarations refusing treatment should they become incapacitated.

7. UN warns of 'atrocities' against civilians in Aleppo

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed his alarm "over reports of atrocities against a large number of civilians" in Aleppo and urged all sides to safeguard civilian life. The organisation's humanitarian advisor, Jan Egeland, said Syria and Russia were "accountable" for any atrocities committed by pro-government militias.

Syria 'planning a new chemical attack', US claims

8. Knifeman shouted: 'I want to kill me a Muslim'

A man who allegedly stabbed a train passenger in London was heard barking foul-mouthed threats at Muslims, according to reports. Witnesses say the man shouted: "I want to kill me a Muslim." He is said to have attacked a man in his forties on a moving train yesterday afternoon. The passenger is in a serious but not life-threatening condition.

Forest Hill stabbing: Knifeman shouted 'Death to Muslims'

9. Brexit will make your Xmas 'more expensive'

Soaring petrol and food prices are expected to push up official inflation when figures are released today. Analysts forecast the Consumer Price Index rose by 1.1% in November, compared to 0.9% in October and 1% in September. A number of firms say the rising costs associated with Brexit are having an impact on their businesses.

10. 'Proud' Ronaldo beats Messi to the Ballon d'Or

Cristiano Ronaldo has won the prestigious Ballon d'Or award for a fourth time - one less than his rival Lionel Messi of Barcelona. "I feel so proud and happy," said the 31-year-old Real Madrid forward. Atletico Madrid's French forward Antoine Griezmann came third.