Editor's note

After a series of parliamentary votes last night, Theresa May can at last get her itchy finger on the Article 50 trigger, enabling her to open Brexit negotiations.

But one person has no intention of going along quietly. Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed that she will seek a second vote on Scottish independence once the Brexit deal takes shape. But does she actually have the legal right to call another one?

On top of the tension at home, May has a daunting diplomatic mountain to climb in Europe. Reports from several member states suggest her hard Brexit bravado has gone down like a sack of mouldy potatoes with some key players. The PM needs allies, but will find few friendly faces around the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, there are some things you either love or you hate, and liquorice is surely one. We know that there may be genetic reasons behind a dislike of some foods, such as coriander and Brussels sprouts, but why do some people hate the dark root so much? Simon Cotton takes a closer look.

And a few animals seem to have near-magical eyesight, finding their way in the dark with apparent ease. Eric Warrant explains how nocturnal insects can adjust their eyes like a camera to enhance their night vision.

Laura Hood

Politics Editor, Assistant Editor

Top story

The EU referendum has changed the debate on Scottish independence. PA/Jane Barlow

Scotland heads towards a second independence referendum

Craig McAngus, University of Aberdeen

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's first minister, has indicated that the country will again seek independence – this time against the backdrop of Brexit.

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