A marathon UN climate summit wrapped up Sunday with little to show, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anger-erupts-at-un-climate-summit-as-major-economies-resist-bold-action-268332">squeezing hard-earned compromises from countries</a> over the global warming battle plan that fell well short of what science says is needed to tackle the climate crisis.

The COP25 deal "expresses the urgent need" for new carbon cutting commitments to close the gap between current emissions and the Paris treaty goal of capping temperature at below two degrees, host country Spain said in a statement.

"Today &nbsp;the citizens of the &nbsp;world are asking for us to move ahead faster and better, in financing, adaptation, mitigation," Carolina Schmidt, Chilean environment minister and President of COP25, told the closing plenary.&nbsp;

Following a year of deadly extreme weather and weekly strikes by millions of young people demanding action, negotiations in Madrid were under pressure to send a clear signal that governments were willing to double down.

The summit -- moved at the last minute from Chile due to unrest -- at times teetered on the brink of collapse as rich polluters, emerging powerhouses and climate-vulnerable nations groped for common ground in the face of competing national interests.

"Based on the adopted text, there is a glimmer of hope that the heart of the Paris Agreement is still beating," said Mohamed Adow, Director of Power Shift, referring the treaty inked in the French capital.&nbsp;

"But its pulse is very weak." &nbsp;

Negotiators from nearly 200 nations came to Spain's capital with the aim of finalising the rulebook for the 2015 agreement, which enjoins nations to limit global temperature to below two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit).

'Missing in action'

With the accord set to become operational next year, it had been hoped COP 25 would show the world that governments would be moved by protests, irrefutable science, and deadly storms and wildfires that marked 2019 to redouble their efforts.

But greater ambition -- how far each country is willing to slash carbon emissions or assist less wealthy peers to do likewise -- has largely failed to materialise.

Veteran observers of UN climate talks were stunned by the state of play.

"Never have I seen such a disconnect between what the science requires and what the climate negotiations are delivering in terms of meaningful action," said Alden Meyer, director of strategy and policy at the Union of Concerned Scientists and a 28-year veteran of the climate process.

"Most of the world's biggest emitting countries are missing in action and resisting calls to raise their ambition."

The push for a strengthening of voluntary carbon cutting plans is led by small-island and least-developed states, along with the European Union.

These have called out nations they see as blocking consensus for all countries to step up, notably the United States, Australia and Saudi Arabia.

China and India, the world's No. 1 and No. 4 carbon emitters, made it clear they see no need to improve on their current emissions reduction plans, which run to 2030.

These emerging giants chose instead to emphasise the historical responsibility of rich nations to lead the way and provide financing to poor countries.&nbsp;

"Major players who needed to deliver in Madrid did not live up to expectations," said Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and, as France top negotiator, a main architect of the Paris Agreement.

"But thanks to a progressive alliance of small island states, European, African and Latin American countries, we obtained the best possible outcome, against the will of big polluters."

'Loss and damage'

The summit was also meant to finalise a chapter on carbon markets in the Paris rulebook.

Some nations, notably Brazil and Australia, want to count carbon credits accumulated under a previous climate deal as part of their commitments under the Paris goals.

Discussions over markets ended in impasse Sunday and the issue will to be handed over to next year's COP 26 in Glasgow.

The US, which is leaving the Paris deal next year, was accused of playing spoiler on a number of issues vital to climate-vulnerable nations. &nbsp;

This included so-called "loss and damage" funding to help disaster-hit countries repair and rebuild.&nbsp;

"The US has not come here in good faith," said Harjeet Singh, climate lead with charity ActionAid.&nbsp;

"They continue to block the world's efforts to help people whose lives have been turned upside down by climate change."

Even if all countries implement their current plans under Paris, Earth is on course to warm more than 3C by 2100.

The failure to get the rulebook finalised in Madrid mean all eyes will be on Glasgow 2020 -- when the true Paris deal deadline falls.&nbsp;

"We must all act quickly, working in partnership to decarbonise our economies and adapt to the impact of climate change," Archie Young, Britain's Head of International Climate Change Negotiations.

A marathon UN climate summit wrapped up Sunday with little to show, squeezing hard-earned compromises from countries over the global warming battle plan that fell well short of what science says is needed to tackle the climate crisis.

A marathon UN climate summit wrapped up Sunday with little to show, squeezing hard-earned compromises from countries over the global warming battle plan that fell well short of what science says is needed to tackle the climate crisis. The COP25 deal "expresses the urgent need" for new carbon cutting commitments to close the gap between current emissions and the Paris treaty goal of capping temperature at below two degrees, host country Spain said in a statement. "Today the citizens of the world are asking for us to move ahead faster and better, in financing, adaptation, mitigation," Carolina Schmidt, Chilean environment minister and President of COP25, told the closing plenary. Following a year of deadly extreme weather and weekly strikes by millions of young people demanding action, negotiations in Madrid were under pressure to send a clear signal that governments were willing to double down. The summit -- moved at the last minute from Chile due to unrest -- at times teetered on the brink of collapse as rich polluters, emerging powerhouses and climate-vulnerable nations groped for common ground in the face of competing national interests. "Based on the adopted text, there is a glimmer of hope that the heart of the Paris Agreement is still beating," said Mohamed Adow, Director of Power Shift, referring the treaty inked in the French capital. "But its pulse is very weak." Negotiators from nearly 200 nations came to Spain's capital with the aim of finalising the rulebook for the 2015 agreement, which enjoins nations to limit global temperature to below two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit). 'Missing in action' With the accord set to become operational next year, it had been hoped COP 25 would show the world that governments would be moved by protests, irrefutable science, and deadly storms and wildfires that marked 2019 to redouble their efforts. But greater ambition -- how far each country is willing to slash carbon emissions or assist less wealthy peers to do likewise -- has largely failed to materialise. Veteran observers of UN climate talks were stunned by the state of play. "Never have I seen such a disconnect between what the science requires and what the climate negotiations are delivering in terms of meaningful action," said Alden Meyer, director of strategy and policy at the Union of Concerned Scientists and a 28-year veteran of the climate process. "Most of the world's biggest emitting countries are missing in action and resisting calls to raise their ambition." The push for a strengthening of voluntary carbon cutting plans is led by small-island and least-developed states, along with the European Union. These have called out nations they see as blocking consensus for all countries to step up, notably the United States, Australia and Saudi Arabia. China and India, the world's No. 1 and No. 4 carbon emitters, made it clear they see no need to improve on their current emissions reduction plans, which run to 2030. These emerging giants chose instead to emphasise the historical responsibility of rich nations to lead the way and provide financing to poor countries. "Major players who needed to deliver in Madrid did not live up to expectations," said Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and, as France top negotiator, a main architect of the Paris Agreement. "But thanks to a progressive alliance of small island states, European, African and Latin American countries, we obtained the best possible outcome, against the will of big polluters." 'Loss and damage' The summit was also meant to finalise a chapter on carbon markets in the Paris rulebook. Some nations, notably Brazil and Australia, want to count carbon credits accumulated under a previous climate deal as part of their commitments under the Paris goals. Discussions over markets ended in impasse Sunday and the issue will to be handed over to next year's COP 26 in Glasgow. The US, which is leaving the Paris deal next year, was accused of playing spoiler on a number of issues vital to climate-vulnerable nations. This included so-called "loss and damage" funding to help disaster-hit countries repair and rebuild. "The US has not come here in good faith," said Harjeet Singh, climate lead with charity ActionAid. "They continue to block the world's efforts to help people whose lives have been turned upside down by climate change." Even if all countries implement their current plans under Paris, Earth is on course to warm more than 3C by 2100. The failure to get the rulebook finalised in Madrid mean all eyes will be on Glasgow 2020 -- when the true Paris deal deadline falls. "We must all act quickly, working in partnership to decarbonise our economies and adapt to the impact of climate change," Archie Young, Britain's Head of International Climate Change Negotiations.

Anger, relief but no joy as UN talks limp to an end

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday.

Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings.

The visitors were never in contention after losing their first wicket with just six runs on the board and were unable to push the match into a fifth day after Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins cleaned up the Kiwi tail under lights in Perth's first ever day-night Test.

New Zealand were dismissed for 171 and were beaten by 296 runs, the last five wickets falling in a hurry for just 17 runs.

It was just one run shy of their biggest losing margin to Australia -- in runs -- in a match where both teams batted twice.

Australia's biggest win, other than innings victories, was 297 runs in Auckland in 1974.

Starc (4-45), who claimed nine wickets for the match, and Cummins (2-31) used the pink ball to good effect under lights to bring the match to a quick conclusion after none of the recognised Kiwi batsmen offered significant resistance.

The chase started poorly, with opener Jeet Raval making just one before being caught at gully by Nathan Lyon (4-63) from the bowling of Starc.

Star batsman and captain Kane Williamson then made just 14, before falling to Lyon's first ball of the innings.

Williamson got off to a fast start with boundaries from the first two balls he faced, but was caught at short leg fending a ball that bounced and turned sharply off his glove into the hands of Matthew Wade.

Ross Taylor was their last real hope of making a revival but on 22 he tried to pull a Starc delivery and got a bottom edge through to wicketkeeper Tim Paine to give the left-arm quick his seventh wicket of the match.

Tom Latham showed plenty of application to face 68 balls for his 18, but was given out leg before wicket to Lyon after an Australian DRS review, with umpire Aleem Dar initially giving him not out.

BJ Watling attempted to stem the tide with a gritty 40 and enjoyed a bit of luck as Australia didn't review when he got a faint outside edge through to Paine.

Smith then dropped a tough chance off the bowling of Lyon at first slip.

He was given out on review caught down leg side by Paine off the bowling of Starc after umpire Nigel Llong had turned down the appeal -- a dismissal that signalled the end of the Kiwi resistance.

Earlier, Australia's second innings fell away dramatically after being 131 for one at one stage on the third day.

The home team lost seven wickets for 58 runs, as they struggled against a sustained barrage of short-pitched bowling on another hot Perth day.

Tim Southee again impressed with 5-69, after also picking up four wickets in the first innings.

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday. Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings.

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday. Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings. The visitors were never in contention after losing their first wicket with just six runs on the board and were unable to push the match into a fifth day after Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins cleaned up the Kiwi tail under lights in Perth's first ever day-night Test. New Zealand were dismissed for 171 and were beaten by 296 runs, the last five wickets falling in a hurry for just 17 runs. It was just one run shy of their biggest losing margin to Australia -- in runs -- in a match where both teams batted twice. Australia's biggest win, other than innings victories, was 297 runs in Auckland in 1974. Starc (4-45), who claimed nine wickets for the match, and Cummins (2-31) used the pink ball to good effect under lights to bring the match to a quick conclusion after none of the recognised Kiwi batsmen offered significant resistance. The chase started poorly, with opener Jeet Raval making just one before being caught at gully by Nathan Lyon (4-63) from the bowling of Starc. Star batsman and captain Kane Williamson then made just 14, before falling to Lyon's first ball of the innings. Williamson got off to a fast start with boundaries from the first two balls he faced, but was caught at short leg fending a ball that bounced and turned sharply off his glove into the hands of Matthew Wade. Ross Taylor was their last real hope of making a revival but on 22 he tried to pull a Starc delivery and got a bottom edge through to wicketkeeper Tim Paine to give the left-arm quick his seventh wicket of the match. Tom Latham showed plenty of application to face 68 balls for his 18, but was given out leg before wicket to Lyon after an Australian DRS review, with umpire Aleem Dar initially giving him not out. BJ Watling attempted to stem the tide with a gritty 40 and enjoyed a bit of luck as Australia didn't review when he got a faint outside edge through to Paine. Smith then dropped a tough chance off the bowling of Lyon at first slip. He was given out on review caught down leg side by Paine off the bowling of Starc after umpire Nigel Llong had turned down the appeal -- a dismissal that signalled the end of the Kiwi resistance. Earlier, Australia's second innings fell away dramatically after being 131 for one at one stage on the third day. The home team lost seven wickets for 58 runs, as they struggled against a sustained barrage of short-pitched bowling on another hot Perth day. Tim Southee again impressed with 5-69, after also picking up four wickets in the first innings.

Australia beat New Zealand by 296 runs to win first Test in Perth

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeremy-corbyn-says-he-will-not-lead-labour-into-another-election-after-crushing-defeat-267990">Britain's main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn</a> apologised Sunday for waging a disastrous campaign that handed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-urges-healing-for-brexit-bound-britain-268237">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> a mandate to take the UK out of the EU next month.

But the veteran socialist defended his far-left platform and blamed the media for helping relegate his century-old party to its worst performance since before World War II.

"I will make no bones about it. The election result on Thursday was a body blow for everyone who so desperately needs real change in our country," Corbyn wrote in the Sunday Mirror newspaper.

"I wanted to unite the country that I love but I'm sorry that we came up short and I take my responsibility for it."

Thursday's snap general election turned into a re-run of the 2016 EU membership referendum in which Johnson championed the Brexit cause.

Johnson now commands an 80-vote majority in the 650-seat House of Commons -- a margin last enjoyed by the late Tory icon Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s.

A sombre but combative Corbyn said Friday that he will step aside once Labour completes a period of "reflection" about its mistakes.&nbsp;

The party is expected to have a new leader in place before England votes yet again in local polls in May.

Yet the 70-year-old has no clear successor after a year of infighting between a protectionist old guard backed by the unions and more metropolitan members with pro-European views.

Corbyn tried to find a balance between the two camps by taking a neutral position on Brexit -- a decision that Labour finance spokesman John McDonnell proved to be fatal.

"What we tried to do is bring both sides together and we failed," McDonnell told the BBC.

Labour's campaign was also dogged by allegations of anti-Semitism that forced a handful of senior lawmakers to resign.

Corbyn tried to shift the campaign's focus on bread-and-butter social issues important to Labour voters.

"But despite our best efforts, this election was ultimately about Brexit," Corbyn admitted in his letter.

"The Tory campaign, amplified by most of the media, managed to persuade many that only Boris Johnson could 'get Brexit done'," he said in reference to Johnson's campaign slogan.

"We will learn the lessons of this defeat."

Soul-searching

The soul-searching and recriminations have been accompanied by questions in other Western countries about how far left traditionally liberal voters are prepared to go.

"Look what happens when the Labour party moves so, so far to the left," US Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden warned Friday.

Yet Corbyn signalled Sunday that he wanted to leave behind a radical legacy that keeps Labour's focus on vast social spending and redistribution of wealth.

He came under intense citicism from more moderate supporters Sunday for claiming that his platform ultimately proved right.

"I am proud that on austerity, on corporate power, on inequality and on the climate emergency we have won the arguments and rewritten the terms of political debate," he wrote in a separate column in The Observer newspaper.

Several prominent Labour members who are viewed as potential leaders sharply disagreed.

"It's time to try something different, rather than re-enacting old battles," lawmaker Jess Phillips wrote in The Observer.

"Everywhere I campaign, I heard the same thing. It was less about Brexit and more about belief. In these places of generations of Labour voting, they did not believe a Labour government would or could deliver for them."

Labour parliamentarian Lisa Nandy agreed that the party had "lost touch with the day-to-day... experience of many of the people we want to represent".

"If we are going to represent the country, we need to understand it, to see it as it really is, not how we might imagine it to be," she wrote in The Observer.

Britain's main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn apologised Sunday for waging a disastrous campaign that handed Prime Minister Boris Johnson a mandate to take the UK out of the EU next month.

Britain's main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn apologised Sunday for waging a disastrous campaign that handed Prime Minister Boris Johnson a mandate to take the UK out of the EU next month. But the veteran socialist defended his far-left platform and blamed the media for helping relegate his century-old party to its worst performance since before World War II. "I will make no bones about it. The election result on Thursday was a body blow for everyone who so desperately needs real change in our country," Corbyn wrote in the Sunday Mirror newspaper. "I wanted to unite the country that I love but I'm sorry that we came up short and I take my responsibility for it." Thursday's snap general election turned into a re-run of the 2016 EU membership referendum in which Johnson championed the Brexit cause. Johnson now commands an 80-vote majority in the 650-seat House of Commons -- a margin last enjoyed by the late Tory icon Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. A sombre but combative Corbyn said Friday that he will step aside once Labour completes a period of "reflection" about its mistakes. The party is expected to have a new leader in place before England votes yet again in local polls in May. Yet the 70-year-old has no clear successor after a year of infighting between a protectionist old guard backed by the unions and more metropolitan members with pro-European views. Corbyn tried to find a balance between the two camps by taking a neutral position on Brexit -- a decision that Labour finance spokesman John McDonnell proved to be fatal. "What we tried to do is bring both sides together and we failed," McDonnell told the BBC. Labour's campaign was also dogged by allegations of anti-Semitism that forced a handful of senior lawmakers to resign. Corbyn tried to shift the campaign's focus on bread-and-butter social issues important to Labour voters. "But despite our best efforts, this election was ultimately about Brexit," Corbyn admitted in his letter. "The Tory campaign, amplified by most of the media, managed to persuade many that only Boris Johnson could 'get Brexit done'," he said in reference to Johnson's campaign slogan. "We will learn the lessons of this defeat." Soul-searching The soul-searching and recriminations have been accompanied by questions in other Western countries about how far left traditionally liberal voters are prepared to go. "Look what happens when the Labour party moves so, so far to the left," US Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden warned Friday. Yet Corbyn signalled Sunday that he wanted to leave behind a radical legacy that keeps Labour's focus on vast social spending and redistribution of wealth. He came under intense citicism from more moderate supporters Sunday for claiming that his platform ultimately proved right. "I am proud that on austerity, on corporate power, on inequality and on the climate emergency we have won the arguments and rewritten the terms of political debate," he wrote in a separate column in The Observer newspaper. Several prominent Labour members who are viewed as potential leaders sharply disagreed. "It's time to try something different, rather than re-enacting old battles," lawmaker Jess Phillips wrote in The Observer. "Everywhere I campaign, I heard the same thing. It was less about Brexit and more about belief. In these places of generations of Labour voting, they did not believe a Labour government would or could deliver for them." Labour parliamentarian Lisa Nandy agreed that the party had "lost touch with the day-to-day... experience of many of the people we want to represent". "If we are going to represent the country, we need to understand it, to see it as it really is, not how we might imagine it to be," she wrote in The Observer.

UK opposition chief Corbyn 'sorry' for election wipeout

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October.

Police said a rescue operation had been launched at a heavily damaged market building in Padada near the 6.8 magnitude quake's epicentre, which is about 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the major city of Davao.

Patients were evacuated from hospitals as a precaution and nervous crowds massed outside shopping malls after the jolt and dozens of smaller, but strong aftershocks.

"We can no longer use our office because the walls cracked and the stairs collapsed," local police spokeswoman Lea Orbuda told AFP. "The power is off and the water taps are dry."

A provincial police commander said the number of injured across the hardest hit areas had reached 62, with one confirmed fatality after a child was crushed under a collapsed structure.

The commander, Alberto Lupaz, said there appeared to be some people trapped under the damaged market building but rescue efforts had been delayed.

"They (rescuers) were attempting to check the rubble... the aftershocks were too strong," Lupaz said.

President Rodrigo Duterte, who is from Davao, was caught up in the earthquake but was unharmed, officials said.

"The First Lady... said the car she was riding (in) was swaying," spokesman Salvador Panelo said. "They are unhurt."

There was no threat of a tsunami, said the US Geological Survey, which initially reported the magnitude at 6.9.&nbsp;

The Philippines is situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

Three quakes above 6.0 magnitude hit roughly the same area of Mindanao in a matter of weeks in October, killing some two dozen people and heavily damaging office buildings, schools and apartments.

Tens of thousands of people were forced into shelters by the string of tremors, the government said, either because their homes were damaged or they were too afraid to return.

Most of the deaths in October were due to collapsing walls and falling debris, including a teenage boy who was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school.

Other fatalities were attributed to rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking that injured at least 400 people.&nbsp;

The Philippines has been hit by several very powerful earthquakes in recent decades, including one of magnitude 7.8 that struck the northern resort town of Baguio in 1990.

That tremor toppled multi-story buildings and hotels, killing some 1,200 people.

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October.

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October. Police said a rescue operation had been launched at a heavily damaged market building in Padada near the 6.8 magnitude quake's epicentre, which is about 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the major city of Davao. Patients were evacuated from hospitals as a precaution and nervous crowds massed outside shopping malls after the jolt and dozens of smaller, but strong aftershocks. "We can no longer use our office because the walls cracked and the stairs collapsed," local police spokeswoman Lea Orbuda told AFP. "The power is off and the water taps are dry." A provincial police commander said the number of injured across the hardest hit areas had reached 62, with one confirmed fatality after a child was crushed under a collapsed structure. The commander, Alberto Lupaz, said there appeared to be some people trapped under the damaged market building but rescue efforts had been delayed. "They (rescuers) were attempting to check the rubble... the aftershocks were too strong," Lupaz said. President Rodrigo Duterte, who is from Davao, was caught up in the earthquake but was unharmed, officials said. "The First Lady... said the car she was riding (in) was swaying," spokesman Salvador Panelo said. "They are unhurt." There was no threat of a tsunami, said the US Geological Survey, which initially reported the magnitude at 6.9. The Philippines is situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Three quakes above 6.0 magnitude hit roughly the same area of Mindanao in a matter of weeks in October, killing some two dozen people and heavily damaging office buildings, schools and apartments. Tens of thousands of people were forced into shelters by the string of tremors, the government said, either because their homes were damaged or they were too afraid to return. Most of the deaths in October were due to collapsing walls and falling debris, including a teenage boy who was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school. Other fatalities were attributed to rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking that injured at least 400 people. The Philippines has been hit by several very powerful earthquakes in recent decades, including one of magnitude 7.8 that struck the northern resort town of Baguio in 1990. That tremor toppled multi-story buildings and hotels, killing some 1,200 people.

Child killed as earthquake strikes southern Philippines

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees".

The prime minister's remarks came during an address in Dumka, Jharkhand.&nbsp;

"Congress and their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: To give respect to those (minority communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, &amp; Bangladesh) who fled to India &amp; were forced to live as refugees, both houses of parliament passed the law (Citizenship Amendment). <a href="https://t.co/IVa0SDCg5Q">pic.twitter.com/IVa0SDCg5Q</a>
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The prime minister said the Congress party and their allies are giving silent support to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-3-dead-27-injured-till-now-in-protests-over-citizenship-268360">incidents of violence over Citizenship Amendment Act</a>.&nbsp;

"These scenes are strengthening the country's confidence that Modi, Parliament and the government have saved the country by bringing the Act," he stated.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: Congress &amp; their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes itself. <a href="https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S">https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1206145414107295745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"For the first time, the Congress party has done what Pakistan has been doing for long. What can be more shameful than that? Will any Indian stage a demonstration outside any Indian embassy in other countries," asked Modi, while addressing an election rally.

As a part of its Bharat Bachao Rally, the Congress party staged protests outside Indian embassies across the world to highlight the problem of unemployment, slump in the economy, and distressed farmers in the country on Saturday.&nbsp;

Parts of the northeast, states like Nagaland and Meghalaya, are facing curfew as unrest prevails over the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

Protest have also gripped the national capital and parts of West Bengal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees". The prime minister's remarks came during an address in Dumka, Jharkhand. "Congress and their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes," PM Modi said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: To give respect to those (minority communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, & Bangladesh) who fled to India & were forced to live as refugees, both houses of parliament passed the law (Citizenship Amendment). pic.twitter.com/IVa0SDCg5Q — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2019 × The prime minister said the Congress party and their allies are giving silent support to the incidents of violence over Citizenship Amendment Act. "These scenes are strengthening the country's confidence that Modi, Parliament and the government have saved the country by bringing the Act," he stated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: Congress & their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes itself. https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2019 × "For the first time, the Congress party has done what Pakistan has been doing for long. What can be more shameful than that? Will any Indian stage a demonstration outside any Indian embassy in other countries," asked Modi, while addressing an election rally. As a part of its Bharat Bachao Rally, the Congress party staged protests outside Indian embassies across the world to highlight the problem of unemployment, slump in the economy, and distressed farmers in the country on Saturday. Parts of the northeast, states like Nagaland and Meghalaya, are facing curfew as unrest prevails over the Citizenship Amendment Act. Protest have also gripped the national capital and parts of West Bengal.

Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed to give respect to those who fled to India as refugees: PM Modi 

Small groups of anti-government protesters gathered in shopping malls across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-teenagers-arrested-over-mans-death-in-hong-kong-protests-268280">Hong Kong</a> on Sunday amid sporadic scuffles with riot police, with Chief Executive Carrie Lam away on a visit to Beijing.

In the peak shopping season ahead of Christmas, groups of masked protesters, clad in black, marched through malls chanting slogans including "Fight for freedom" and "Return justice to us".

In the Telford Plaza mall in Kowloon Bay, skirmishes broke out with riot police, who used pepper spray on crowds and wrestled several people to the ground before taking them away.

In Shatin, police fired one tear gas canister outside the New Town Plaza mall, and took away several people, according to media reports, after some entrances and walkways were blocked, glass panels smashed, and graffiti sprayed.

The police said in a statement that some shops had been damaged and that a smoke bomb had been set off. Many shops closed early.

Hong Kong has been embroiled in its worst political crisis in decades since June with anti-government protests posing a populist challenge to China's leader Xi Jinping, complicating ties between China and the United States at a time of heightened tensions including over trade.

Demonstrators have railed against what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

They also say they are responding to excessive use of force by police. Last Sunday, a protest march drew around 800,000 people, according to organisers, suggesting the movement still has significant public support.

On Hong Kong island, several hundred people, many social workers, gathered peacefully to reiterate demands that include full democracy and an independent inquiry into allegations of police brutality. Some called for more strikes, while others sat at tables to write Christmas cards to those who have been jailed.

"One of our goals is defending social justice," said Chan, a 20-year-old studying to become a social worker. "We have tried every measure to express our voices ... but the government still doesn't listen. We haven't put enough pressure."

Separately, a pro-government rally drew over a thousand people nearby.

"We don't support any violence in Hong Kong," said Lee Man-kan, a 54-year-old solicitor.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam is in Beijing where she is due to meet Xi on Monday.

Some observers say the visit could yield fresh directives including a possible cabinet reshuffle of key local officials. Lam, however, seemed to play that down before she left, saying the first task was to curb violence and restore order.

The government is also planning more public dialogue through social media channels, as well as a second planned town hall session with top officials to try to bridge differences.

Despite the febrile public mood, China maintains it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting Hong Kong autonomy and says it fully supports Lam.

Small groups of anti-government protesters gathered in shopping malls across Hong Kong on Sunday amid sporadic scuffles with riot police, with Chief Executive Carrie Lam away on a visit to Beijing.

Small groups of anti-government protesters gathered in shopping malls across Hong Kong on Sunday amid sporadic scuffles with riot police, with Chief Executive Carrie Lam away on a visit to Beijing. In the peak shopping season ahead of Christmas, groups of masked protesters, clad in black, marched through malls chanting slogans including "Fight for freedom" and "Return justice to us". In the Telford Plaza mall in Kowloon Bay, skirmishes broke out with riot police, who used pepper spray on crowds and wrestled several people to the ground before taking them away. In Shatin, police fired one tear gas canister outside the New Town Plaza mall, and took away several people, according to media reports, after some entrances and walkways were blocked, glass panels smashed, and graffiti sprayed. The police said in a statement that some shops had been damaged and that a smoke bomb had been set off. Many shops closed early. Hong Kong has been embroiled in its worst political crisis in decades since June with anti-government protests posing a populist challenge to China's leader Xi Jinping, complicating ties between China and the United States at a time of heightened tensions including over trade. Demonstrators have railed against what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They also say they are responding to excessive use of force by police. Last Sunday, a protest march drew around 800,000 people, according to organisers, suggesting the movement still has significant public support. On Hong Kong island, several hundred people, many social workers, gathered peacefully to reiterate demands that include full democracy and an independent inquiry into allegations of police brutality. Some called for more strikes, while others sat at tables to write Christmas cards to those who have been jailed. "One of our goals is defending social justice," said Chan, a 20-year-old studying to become a social worker. "We have tried every measure to express our voices ... but the government still doesn't listen. We haven't put enough pressure." Separately, a pro-government rally drew over a thousand people nearby. "We don't support any violence in Hong Kong," said Lee Man-kan, a 54-year-old solicitor. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam is in Beijing where she is due to meet Xi on Monday. Some observers say the visit could yield fresh directives including a possible cabinet reshuffle of key local officials. Lam, however, seemed to play that down before she left, saying the first task was to curb violence and restore order. The government is also planning more public dialogue through social media channels, as well as a second planned town hall session with top officials to try to bridge differences. Despite the febrile public mood, China maintains it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting Hong Kong autonomy and says it fully supports Lam.

Hong Kong mall protests flare with leader Lam in Beijing

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast.

"Culture, language, social identity, and political rights of our brothers and sisters from the northeast will remain intact. It is the responsibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. Now that we've brought the Citizenship Amendment Act, some are trying to incite violence in the Northeast," he said at an election rally here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured people of the northeast on Thursday that they had nothing to worry after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

He gave an assurance that no one can take away rights, unique identity and beautiful culture of the people in the northeast and it will continue to flourish and grow.

The Act provides citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast. "Culture, language, social identity, and political rights of our brothers and sisters from the northeast will remain intact. It is the responsibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. Now that we've brought the Citizenship Amendment Act, some are trying to incite violence in the Northeast," he said at an election rally here. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured people of the northeast on Thursday that they had nothing to worry after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. He gave an assurance that no one can take away rights, unique identity and beautiful culture of the people in the northeast and it will continue to flourish and grow. The Act provides citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.

Culture, language, political rights of people of northeast will remain intact: Amit Shah

France reeled under a crippling public transport strike for a 10th day Saturday aimed at forcing the government to scrap a pension revamp, as fears grew of travel mayhem during Christmas.

Train traffic was severely disrupted with only one out four TGV high speed long-distance trains and three of 10 regional trains running across the country.

But Paris and its environs remained the worst hit. Nine metro lines in the capital remained closed and there were skeletal transport services between the city and its suburbs.

Only 60 percent of the city's bus services were running.

Strikers have warned of similar disruptions on Sunday and Monday and national rail operator SNCF and the RATP Paris transport network confirmed service would be very limited with just one in four TGVs running.

On Saturday, SNCF managing director &nbsp;Rachel Picard, told Le Parisien daily that "half of the passengers" would have trains to visit family for Christmas" but did not elaborate.

Unions are hoping for a repeat of 1995, when they forced a rightwing government to back down on pension reform after three weeks of metro and rail strikes just before Christmas.

The prospect of a protracted standoff has businesses fearing big losses during the crucial year-end festivities, and travellers worried that their holiday plans will fall through.

On Friday, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe asked SNCF chief Jean-Pierre Farandou to draw up a list of exactly which trains would be running during the festive season.

Philippe told the Parisien daily in an interview for its Sunday edition that the French would not accept being "deprived" of festive transport options.

"I can well see that everyone is worried as they see Christmas near. Christmas is an important time.

"Everybody must take their responsibilities. I do not think the French would accept people depriving them of this moment," Philippe warned.

But unions said they would not give in -- and that the government would have to.

"If the government wants the conflict to end before the holidays, they have all of next week to take the wise decision and scrap the point-based pension plan," Laurent Blum, the general secretary of the hard-line CGT-Cheminots, the main SNCF union, told AFP.

Historic reform'

The reform would do away with 42 separate regimes, some of which offer early retirement and other benefits to public sector workers such as train drivers, dockers and even Paris Opera employees.

The strike organisers have announced a massive protest for Tuesday when tens of thousands are expected to take to the streets again.&nbsp;

Meanwhile teachers, who have been mobilised since the start of the protest, on Friday gained guarantees from the government of salary reviews which would cost the state 10 billion euros. The details were not revealed.

Policemen meanwhile ended their protest on Friday after managing to get assurances that their early retirement scheme would be maintained, owing to the "dangerous" nature of their job.

Both Paris operas, the Garnier and the Bastille, cancelled Friday performances, and more through the weekend.

President Emmanuel Macron's government insists the changes will make for a fairer system and help erase pension system deficits forecast to reach as much as 17 billion euros ($19 billion) by 2025.

The average French person retires at just over 60, years earlier than most in Europe or other rich OECD countries.

Prime Minister Philippe has held talks with union leaders and more negotiations are scheduled over the coming week.

Philippe on Friday struck a combative note, saying he "has absolutely no fear of implementing this reform".

Macron, who has maintained a studied silence since the protests began, told reporters in Brussels on Friday that it was a "historic reform", while expressing solidarity with those affected by the fallout.

France reeled under a crippling public transport strike for a 10th day Saturday aimed at forcing the government to scrap a pension revamp, as fears grew of travel mayhem during Christmas.

France reeled under a crippling public transport strike for a 10th day Saturday aimed at forcing the government to scrap a pension revamp, as fears grew of travel mayhem during Christmas. Train traffic was severely disrupted with only one out four TGV high speed long-distance trains and three of 10 regional trains running across the country. But Paris and its environs remained the worst hit. Nine metro lines in the capital remained closed and there were skeletal transport services between the city and its suburbs. Only 60 percent of the city's bus services were running. Strikers have warned of similar disruptions on Sunday and Monday and national rail operator SNCF and the RATP Paris transport network confirmed service would be very limited with just one in four TGVs running. On Saturday, SNCF managing director Rachel Picard, told Le Parisien daily that "half of the passengers" would have trains to visit family for Christmas" but did not elaborate. Unions are hoping for a repeat of 1995, when they forced a rightwing government to back down on pension reform after three weeks of metro and rail strikes just before Christmas. The prospect of a protracted standoff has businesses fearing big losses during the crucial year-end festivities, and travellers worried that their holiday plans will fall through. On Friday, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe asked SNCF chief Jean-Pierre Farandou to draw up a list of exactly which trains would be running during the festive season. Philippe told the Parisien daily in an interview for its Sunday edition that the French would not accept being "deprived" of festive transport options. "I can well see that everyone is worried as they see Christmas near. Christmas is an important time. "Everybody must take their responsibilities. I do not think the French would accept people depriving them of this moment," Philippe warned. But unions said they would not give in -- and that the government would have to. "If the government wants the conflict to end before the holidays, they have all of next week to take the wise decision and scrap the point-based pension plan," Laurent Blum, the general secretary of the hard-line CGT-Cheminots, the main SNCF union, told AFP. Historic reform' The reform would do away with 42 separate regimes, some of which offer early retirement and other benefits to public sector workers such as train drivers, dockers and even Paris Opera employees. The strike organisers have announced a massive protest for Tuesday when tens of thousands are expected to take to the streets again. Meanwhile teachers, who have been mobilised since the start of the protest, on Friday gained guarantees from the government of salary reviews which would cost the state 10 billion euros. The details were not revealed. Policemen meanwhile ended their protest on Friday after managing to get assurances that their early retirement scheme would be maintained, owing to the "dangerous" nature of their job. Both Paris operas, the Garnier and the Bastille, cancelled Friday performances, and more through the weekend. President Emmanuel Macron's government insists the changes will make for a fairer system and help erase pension system deficits forecast to reach as much as 17 billion euros ($19 billion) by 2025. The average French person retires at just over 60, years earlier than most in Europe or other rich OECD countries. Prime Minister Philippe has held talks with union leaders and more negotiations are scheduled over the coming week. Philippe on Friday struck a combative note, saying he "has absolutely no fear of implementing this reform". Macron, who has maintained a studied silence since the protests began, told reporters in Brussels on Friday that it was a "historic reform", while expressing solidarity with those affected by the fallout.

Christmas mayhem feared as French transport strike continues

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama was quick to come to climate activist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-power-of-youth-greta-thunberg-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year-267728">Greta Thunberg</a>'s defence after the latter was mocked by US President Donald Trump on Twitter.

In a tweet, Obama asked Thunberg not to let anyone dim her light.

"You have so much to offer us all. Ignore all the doubters...," her tweet read.

"@GretaThunberg, don’t let anyone dim your light. Like the girls I’ve met in Vietnam and all over the world, you have so much to offer us all. Ignore the doubters and know that millions of people are cheering you on," Obama's tweeted out.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GretaThunberg</a>, don’t let anyone dim your light. Like the girls I’ve met in Vietnam and all over the world, you have so much to offer us all. Ignore the doubters and know that millions of people are cheering you on.
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichelleObama/status/1205354898231050241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This comes after US President Donald Trump mocked Thunberg on Twitter and said that she should work on her "anger management problems".&nbsp;

"So ridiculous. Greta must work on her Anger Management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill!" Trump's tweet read.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
So ridiculous. Greta must work on her Anger Management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill! <a href="https://t.co/M8ZtS8okzE">https://t.co/M8ZtS8okzE</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1205100602025545730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thunberg retaliated by changing her Twitter bio to, "A teenager working on her anger management problem. Currently chilling and watching a good old fashioned movie with a friend."

Thunberg was named as Time Magazine's Person of the Year 2019 earlier this week. The magazine ran the story with the subtitle ''The Power of Youth'' on its cover.&nbsp;

Last year, the magazine named 'The Guardians' as the people of the year. These included journalists who faced persecution, arrest or murder for their reporting. Those highlighted on four different covers were Jamal Khashoggi, Maria Ressa, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo.

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama was quick to come to climate activist Greta Thunberg's defence after the latter was mocked by US President Donald Trump on Twitter.

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama was quick to come to climate activist Greta Thunberg's defence after the latter was mocked by US President Donald Trump on Twitter. In a tweet, Obama asked Thunberg not to let anyone dim her light. "You have so much to offer us all. Ignore all the doubters...," her tweet read. "@GretaThunberg, don’t let anyone dim your light. Like the girls I’ve met in Vietnam and all over the world, you have so much to offer us all. Ignore the doubters and know that millions of people are cheering you on," Obama's tweeted out. .@GretaThunberg, don’t let anyone dim your light. Like the girls I’ve met in Vietnam and all over the world, you have so much to offer us all. Ignore the doubters and know that millions of people are cheering you on. — Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) December 13, 2019 × This comes after US President Donald Trump mocked Thunberg on Twitter and said that she should work on her "anger management problems". "So ridiculous. Greta must work on her Anger Management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill!" Trump's tweet read. So ridiculous. Greta must work on her Anger Management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill! https://t.co/M8ZtS8okzE — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 12, 2019 × Thunberg retaliated by changing her Twitter bio to, "A teenager working on her anger management problem. Currently chilling and watching a good old fashioned movie with a friend." Thunberg was named as Time Magazine's Person of the Year 2019 earlier this week. The magazine ran the story with the subtitle ''The Power of Youth'' on its cover. Last year, the magazine named 'The Guardians' as the people of the year. These included journalists who faced persecution, arrest or murder for their reporting. Those highlighted on four different covers were Jamal Khashoggi, Maria Ressa, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo.

After Trump mocks Greta on Twitter, Michelle Obama tells Thunberg to 'ignore the doubters'

North Korea has said that its recent tests of defence technology are directed towards subduing nuclear threats from the United States, news agency Reuters reported citing North Korea's state news agency KCNA.

The state agency on Saturday had reported a senior North Korean military official saying that that "hostile forces" should not provoke North Korea. &nbsp;

Chief of the General Staff Pak Jong Chon warned that "hostile forces," including the United States, should refrain from provoking North Korea if they wanted to see a peaceful year-end, state news agency KCNA said as reported by Reuters.

The development comes shortly after North Korea said it had conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-conducts-another-crucial-test-at-satellite-launch-site-report-268259">another "crucial test" at its Sohae satellite launch site</a>.&nbsp;

"Another crucial test was successfully conducted at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground from 22:41 to 22:48 on December 13," a spokesman for the North's National Academy of Defence Science said in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency.

The "research successes" will be "applied to further bolstering up the reliable strategic nuclear deterrent" of North Korea, the Reuters report added quoting the spokesman. 
The announcement comes after the United States tested a medium-range ballistic missile over the Pacific Ocean on Thursday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has set a year-end deadline for talks with the United States, warning he may take an unspecified "new path" if concessions aren't made.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

North Korea has said that its recent tests of defence technology are directed towards subduing nuclear threats from the United States, news agency Reuters reported citing North Korea's state news agency KCNA.

North Korea has said that its recent tests of defence technology are directed towards subduing nuclear threats from the United States, news agency Reuters reported citing North Korea's state news agency KCNA. The state agency on Saturday had reported a senior North Korean military official saying that that "hostile forces" should not provoke North Korea. Chief of the General Staff Pak Jong Chon warned that "hostile forces," including the United States, should refrain from provoking North Korea if they wanted to see a peaceful year-end, state news agency KCNA said as reported by Reuters. The development comes shortly after North Korea said it had conducted another "crucial test" at its Sohae satellite launch site. "Another crucial test was successfully conducted at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground from 22:41 to 22:48 on December 13," a spokesman for the North's National Academy of Defence Science said in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency. The "research successes" will be "applied to further bolstering up the reliable strategic nuclear deterrent" of North Korea, the Reuters report added quoting the spokesman. The announcement comes after the United States tested a medium-range ballistic missile over the Pacific Ocean on Thursday. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has set a year-end deadline for talks with the United States, warning he may take an unspecified "new path" if concessions aren't made. (With inputs from Reuters)

North Korea's defence tests aimed at subduing US nuclear threats: State media 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-a-strong-mandate-for-brexit-boris-johnson-after-landslide-victory-268181">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> visited former strongholds of his Labour opponents in northern England on Saturday and pledged to repay their trust for helping to deliver a stunning victory for his Conservative Party in Britain's national election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-urges-healing-for-brexit-bound-britain-268237">Johnson</a> led the Conservatives on Thursday to their biggest election win since Margaret Thatcher's landslide victory of 1987, trouncing his socialist Labour Party foe Jeremy Corbyn by capturing 365 parliamentary seats and securing an overall majority of 80. Labour won 203 seats.

The election saw the crumbling of Labour's "Red Wall" of formerly safe seats in working-class areas across northern and central England where most people voted in a 2016 referendum to leave the European Union.

Johnson, the face of the "Leave" campaign in that referendum, fought the election on the slogan "Get Brexit done".

"I know that people may have been breaking the voting habits of generations to vote for us," Johnson told supporters in Sedgefield, a symbolically important seat as it was once held by former prime minister Tony Blair, Labour's most successful leader.

"I want the people of the northeast to know that we in the Conservative Party, and I, will repay your trust."

Brexit was widely seen as the decisive factor in the election, with Johnson's promise to take Britain out of the EU by Jan. 31, 2020, winning over many former Labour voters.

"What an incredible thing you have done, you have changed the political landscape, you’ve changed the Conservative Party for the better and you've changed the future of our country for the better," said Johnson.

"First of all, what are we going to do to repay that trust? We are going to get Brexit done."

Johnson, who called the snap election to break years of deadlock in parliament over Brexit, has also promised to spend more money on health, education and the police.

Addressing newly elected Conservative lawmakers, Johnson evoked Blair's own words on taking office.

"When we get down to Westminster and we begin our work, remember we are not the masters, we are the servants now...and our job is to serve the people of this country and to deliver on our priorities. And our priorities and their priorities are the same," he said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited former strongholds of his Labour opponents in northern England on Saturday and pledged to repay their trust for helping to deliver a stunning victory for his Conservative Party in Britain's national election.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited former strongholds of his Labour opponents in northern England on Saturday and pledged to repay their trust for helping to deliver a stunning victory for his Conservative Party in Britain's national election. Johnson led the Conservatives on Thursday to their biggest election win since Margaret Thatcher's landslide victory of 1987, trouncing his socialist Labour Party foe Jeremy Corbyn by capturing 365 parliamentary seats and securing an overall majority of 80. Labour won 203 seats. The election saw the crumbling of Labour's "Red Wall" of formerly safe seats in working-class areas across northern and central England where most people voted in a 2016 referendum to leave the European Union. Johnson, the face of the "Leave" campaign in that referendum, fought the election on the slogan "Get Brexit done". "I know that people may have been breaking the voting habits of generations to vote for us," Johnson told supporters in Sedgefield, a symbolically important seat as it was once held by former prime minister Tony Blair, Labour's most successful leader. "I want the people of the northeast to know that we in the Conservative Party, and I, will repay your trust." Brexit was widely seen as the decisive factor in the election, with Johnson's promise to take Britain out of the EU by Jan. 31, 2020, winning over many former Labour voters. "What an incredible thing you have done, you have changed the political landscape, you’ve changed the Conservative Party for the better and you've changed the future of our country for the better," said Johnson. "First of all, what are we going to do to repay that trust? We are going to get Brexit done." Johnson, who called the snap election to break years of deadlock in parliament over Brexit, has also promised to spend more money on health, education and the police. Addressing newly elected Conservative lawmakers, Johnson evoked Blair's own words on taking office. "When we get down to Westminster and we begin our work, remember we are not the masters, we are the servants now...and our job is to serve the people of this country and to deliver on our priorities. And our priorities and their priorities are the same," he said.

'I will repay your trust', UK PM Johnson tells ex-Labour voters on trip to north

Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday.

Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment.

The DGP said, "the act will come into force soon, once the parts that are related to the central government are given nod."

The state government is going to set up special courts for these cases which will be highly helpful in the speedy trial of the cases, he said.

Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Friday passed two Disha Bills which enable the death penalty for rape besides taking stringent action for crimes on women by setting up special courts to deal with such offences.

The AP Disha Bill prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children and includes Section 354 F and 354 G in IPC.

In cases of harassment of women through social or digital media, the Bill states two years imprisonment for the first conviction and four years for second and subsequent convictions.

For this a new Section 354 E will be added in IPC, 1860, a press note said.

To ensure a speedy trial, the state will set up exclusive special courts in all the 13 districts to deal with cases of offences against women and children including rape, acid attacks, stalking, voyeurism, social media harassment of women, sexual harassment and all cases under POCSO Act.

The state will also employ special Public Prosecutors and Special Police force dedicated to such crimes only.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday. Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment.

Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday. Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment. The DGP said, "the act will come into force soon, once the parts that are related to the central government are given nod." The state government is going to set up special courts for these cases which will be highly helpful in the speedy trial of the cases, he said. Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Friday passed two Disha Bills which enable the death penalty for rape besides taking stringent action for crimes on women by setting up special courts to deal with such offences. The AP Disha Bill prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children and includes Section 354 F and 354 G in IPC. In cases of harassment of women through social or digital media, the Bill states two years imprisonment for the first conviction and four years for second and subsequent convictions. For this a new Section 354 E will be added in IPC, 1860, a press note said. To ensure a speedy trial, the state will set up exclusive special courts in all the 13 districts to deal with cases of offences against women and children including rape, acid attacks, stalking, voyeurism, social media harassment of women, sexual harassment and all cases under POCSO Act. The state will also employ special Public Prosecutors and Special Police force dedicated to such crimes only.

Andhra Pradesh DGP welcomes new AP Disha Act passed by State Assembly

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