China-based Hainan Airlines has been facing criticism for its policy of suspending flight attendants if they are above a certain weight limit. The carrier has defended the move of imposing weight requirements after the report went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;

State-run Global Times reported that Chinese airlines issued guidelines to its cabin crew earlier this month, which stated that if female flight attendants would exceed the "standard limit" by 10 per cent, they would be immediately grounded.

The guideline basically outlines specific weight control and body size standards for female flight attendants at different levels and is based on a formula, which calculated the limit considering the height of the flight attendants. The formula is — "height (cm) -110= standard weight (kg)".&nbsp;

As mentioned in the report, the flight attendants who were suspended would be put on a company-supervised "weight-reduction plan". The report referred to a statement, which read that if female flight attendants are less than five&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;overweight, their weight will be monitored on a monthly basis to prevent crew members from gaining weight.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-long-will-you-make-us-wait-passengers-furious-after-airlines-delay-flights-amid-inclement-weather-603311">'How long will you make us wait': Passengers furious after airlines delay flights amid inclement weather</a>&nbsp;

Global Times also mentioned in its report that a civil aviation employee said that the weight requirement policy by Hainan Airlines for female flight attendants is unprecedented in the domestic aviation industry.&nbsp;

A legal expert was interviewed by the media regarding the matter and the person raised concerns over the weight requirements, stating that the move imposes additional labour obligations on employees without following proper legal procedures.&nbsp;

Watch&nbsp;his report:&nbsp;

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While responding to the same, Hainan Airlines confirmed to CNN on Monday that they used a "weight reference standard". However, it noted that the policy is applied to all flight attendants regardless of gender.&nbsp;

The airline also said the measure "cannot be interpreted as a simple criterion to suspend a flight attendant as some media did".&nbsp;

The airline said that the standard is "based on the standard human body weight reference and matched with the healthy weight range measurement for the crew".&nbsp;

It further added that the rules are used to evaluate and manage the crew's "health, physical shape and posture".&nbsp;

"This is intended to advocate healthy living habits and maintain a good professional image and healthy physique by anchoring the reference target, rather than passively waiting for individual crew members’ physique to change significantly and then affect safety service work," it added.&nbsp;

Global Times quoted an employee surnamed Huang, who has worked for the airline, told the media: "If airlines deprive overweight flight attendants of the right to work normally purely because of visual aesthetic considerations, this is definitely employment discrimination. The introduction and implementation of such regulations have no respect for flight attendants."&nbsp;

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China-based Hainan Airlines has been facing criticism for its policy of suspending flight attendants if they are above a certain weight limit. The carrier has defended the move of imposing weight requirements after the report went viral on social media platforms.

China-based Hainan Airlines has been facing criticism for its policy of suspending flight attendants if they are above a certain weight limit. The carrier has defended the move of imposing weight requirements after the report went viral on social media platforms. State-run Global Times reported that Chinese airlines issued guidelines to its cabin crew earlier this month, which stated that if female flight attendants would exceed the "standard limit" by 10 per cent, they would be immediately grounded. The guideline basically outlines specific weight control and body size standards for female flight attendants at different levels and is based on a formula, which calculated the limit considering the height of the flight attendants. The formula is — "height (cm) -110= standard weight (kg)". As mentioned in the report, the flight attendants who were suspended would be put on a company-supervised "weight-reduction plan". The report referred to a statement, which read that if female flight attendants are less than five per cent overweight, their weight will be monitored on a monthly basis to prevent crew members from gaining weight. Also read: 'How long will you make us wait': Passengers furious after airlines delay flights amid inclement weather Global Times also mentioned in its report that a civil aviation employee said that the weight requirement policy by Hainan Airlines for female flight attendants is unprecedented in the domestic aviation industry. A legal expert was interviewed by the media regarding the matter and the person raised concerns over the weight requirements, stating that the move imposes additional labour obligations on employees without following proper legal procedures. Watch his report: × Also read: Ahmedabad-bound IndiGo Airlines flight veers off course into Pakistan airspace: Report While responding to the same, Hainan Airlines confirmed to CNN on Monday that they used a "weight reference standard". However, it noted that the policy is applied to all flight attendants regardless of gender. The airline also said the measure "cannot be interpreted as a simple criterion to suspend a flight attendant as some media did". The airline said that the standard is "based on the standard human body weight reference and matched with the healthy weight range measurement for the crew". It further added that the rules are used to evaluate and manage the crew's "health, physical shape and posture". "This is intended to advocate healthy living habits and maintain a good professional image and healthy physique by anchoring the reference target, rather than passively waiting for individual crew members’ physique to change significantly and then affect safety service work," it added. Global Times quoted an employee surnamed Huang, who has worked for the airline, told the media: "If airlines deprive overweight flight attendants of the right to work normally purely because of visual aesthetic considerations, this is definitely employment discrimination. The introduction and implementation of such regulations have no respect for flight attendants." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China's Hainan Airlines to ground 'overweight' female flight attendants

Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of Mali's junta, Colonel Assimi Goita, discussed security and economic relations between their two countries, both sides reported on Wednesday.

During the phone talks, "at the initiative of the Malian side", the two leaders paid "particular attention" to trade and economic relations, including the delivery of cereals, fertilisers and fuel from Russia to Mali, the Kremlin said in a press release.

Colonel Goita thanked Putin "for the humanitarian aid provided, as well as for the help given to ensure security, neutralise the terrorist threat and stabilise the situation" in his country, the Kremlin added.

The landlocked Sahel state has been battling a security crisis since jihadist and separatist insurgencies broke out in the north in 2012.

It has since August 2020 been ruled by a military junta, which broke a long-standing alliance with France and other Western partners in the fight against jihadism and turned to Russia for political and military assistance.

Mali received shipments of Russian military supplies in March and August 2022, and again in January 2023.

In March, the Malian army received several aircraft from Russia.

"Very satisfied with my telephone conversation" with Putin, Goita said on Twitter.

"We had direct and sincere exchanges on subjects of common interest and on our desire to strengthen our diplomatic, economic and security relations", he added.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of Mali's junta, Colonel Assimi Goita, discussed security and economic relations between their two countries, both sides reported on Wednesday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of Mali's junta, Colonel Assimi Goita, discussed security and economic relations between their two countries, both sides reported on Wednesday. During the phone talks, "at the initiative of the Malian side", the two leaders paid "particular attention" to trade and economic relations, including the delivery of cereals, fertilisers and fuel from Russia to Mali, the Kremlin said in a press release. Colonel Goita thanked Putin "for the humanitarian aid provided, as well as for the help given to ensure security, neutralise the terrorist threat and stabilise the situation" in his country, the Kremlin added. The landlocked Sahel state has been battling a security crisis since jihadist and separatist insurgencies broke out in the north in 2012. It has since August 2020 been ruled by a military junta, which broke a long-standing alliance with France and other Western partners in the fight against jihadism and turned to Russia for political and military assistance. Mali received shipments of Russian military supplies in March and August 2022, and again in January 2023. In March, the Malian army received several aircraft from Russia. "Very satisfied with my telephone conversation" with Putin, Goita said on Twitter. "We had direct and sincere exchanges on subjects of common interest and on our desire to strengthen our diplomatic, economic and security relations", he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mali junta leader discusses security, economy with Putin

Israeli defence exports hit an all-time high of $12.5 billion last year, with Arab countries that recently established ties accounting for nearly a quarter of purchase contracts, officials said Wednesday.&nbsp;

The defence ministry, which oversees and approves the exports of Israel's defence industries, said one quarter of deals were for drone systems, with "missiles, rockets and air defence systems" making up another 19 per cent.&nbsp;

Ministry figures show total exports have doubled over the past nine years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A breakdown of the regions to which the goods are exported showed a leap among Abraham Accords countries from $853 million (nine per cent) in 2021 to $2.96 billion (24 per cent) in 2022.&nbsp;

The US-brokered Abraham Accords from 2020 saw Israel normalise ties with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco.&nbsp;

The defence ministry would not provide further details.&nbsp;

"Global instability increases the demand for Israeli air defence systems, drones, UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and missiles, and we continually work to preserve our capabilities and strengthen them," defence ministry director-general Eyal Zamir said in a statement.&nbsp;

The German parliament was set to approve a $4.3 billion deal later Wednesday to purchase Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system, as the country moves to bolster its defences following Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year.&nbsp;

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Israeli defence exports hit an all-time high of $12.5 billion last year, with Arab countries that recently established ties accounting for nearly a quarter of purchase contracts, officials said Wednesday.

Israeli defence exports hit an all-time high of $12.5 billion last year, with Arab countries that recently established ties accounting for nearly a quarter of purchase contracts, officials said Wednesday. The defence ministry, which oversees and approves the exports of Israel's defence industries, said one quarter of deals were for drone systems, with "missiles, rockets and air defence systems" making up another 19 per cent. Ministry figures show total exports have doubled over the past nine years. A breakdown of the regions to which the goods are exported showed a leap among Abraham Accords countries from $853 million (nine per cent) in 2021 to $2.96 billion (24 per cent) in 2022. The US-brokered Abraham Accords from 2020 saw Israel normalise ties with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco. The defence ministry would not provide further details. "Global instability increases the demand for Israeli air defence systems, drones, UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and missiles, and we continually work to preserve our capabilities and strengthen them," defence ministry director-general Eyal Zamir said in a statement. The German parliament was set to approve a $4.3 billion deal later Wednesday to purchase Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system, as the country moves to bolster its defences following Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Arab states account for quarter of record Israel arms exports

The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure&nbsp;to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Bloomberg quoted sources to report that after existing policies failed to sustain a rebound in the property market, China aimed at introducing a set of measures to support the ailing sector.&nbsp;

While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the sources told the outlet that the measures are designed to support areas such as real estate and domestic demand. They also mentioned that interest rate reductions, supporting the real estate market, and more key areas are under consideration.&nbsp;

As quoted, one person said that regulators are seeking to lower costs on outstanding residential mortgages and boost re-lending through the nation's policy banks. They want to ensure homes are delivered.&nbsp;

This comes as the news agency Reuters reported that China's central bank cut short-term borrowing costs on Tuesday to help restore confidence. The move signalled possible easing for longer-term rates.&nbsp;

The plan is not final yet, and the State Council may discuss the policies as soon as this Friday. They might make some amends in the policies during the discussion.&nbsp;

According to Larry Hu, who is the head of China economics at Macquarie Group Ltd, the rate cut signals Beijing's stance is turning more supportive.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-samsung-electronics-executive-accused-of-stealing-secrets-for-china-chip-factory-603612">Former Samsung Electronics executive accused of stealing secrets for China chip factory</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by Bloomberg, Hu said that "policy is the only game changer" in the face of weak consumer and business confidence in the economy.&nbsp;

Hu added, "The rate cut today sent a clear signal that policy would turn more supportive in the coming months, a significant shift from the tapering in stimulus since April."&nbsp;

<h2>China's new loans in May miss forecasts</h2>

Reuters mentioned in its report that China's new bank loans picked up in May from the previous month, amid an economy-friendy policy being accommodated by the central bank. However, the signs of slowing momentum have raised expectations that more stimulus may be needed to sustain the recovery.&nbsp;

Analysts have said that the weaker-than-expected credit data could strengthen the case for policymakers to roll out more support steps, including a cut in the benchmark lending rate this month.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-searching-waters-where-north-korean-satellite-crashed-south-korea-603520">China searching waters where North Korean satellite crashed: South Korea</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why&nbsp;

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New bank lending rose to $190.18 billion in May, data from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) showed on Tuesday. The figures are up from April but missed analysts' estimates.&nbsp;

According to the economists polled by Reuters, it was expected that new yuan loans would jump to 1.6 trillion yuan last month, versus 718.8 billion yuan in April and against 1.89 trillion yuan a year earlier.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency, Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, said in a note: "The credit growth is weak, which is not surprising as other economic indicators such as PMI and exports also sent consistent signals."&nbsp;

"This explains why the PBOC cut the reverse repo rate this morning. It is a small step in the right direction. I expect more policy actions to follow in coming weeks," Zhang added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
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The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter.

The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter. Earlier this month, Bloomberg quoted sources to report that after existing policies failed to sustain a rebound in the property market, China aimed at introducing a set of measures to support the ailing sector. While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the sources told the outlet that the measures are designed to support areas such as real estate and domestic demand. They also mentioned that interest rate reductions, supporting the real estate market, and more key areas are under consideration. As quoted, one person said that regulators are seeking to lower costs on outstanding residential mortgages and boost re-lending through the nation's policy banks. They want to ensure homes are delivered. This comes as the news agency Reuters reported that China's central bank cut short-term borrowing costs on Tuesday to help restore confidence. The move signalled possible easing for longer-term rates. The plan is not final yet, and the State Council may discuss the policies as soon as this Friday. They might make some amends in the policies during the discussion. According to Larry Hu, who is the head of China economics at Macquarie Group Ltd, the rate cut signals Beijing's stance is turning more supportive. Also read: Former Samsung Electronics executive accused of stealing secrets for China chip factory As quoted by Bloomberg, Hu said that "policy is the only game changer" in the face of weak consumer and business confidence in the economy. Hu added, "The rate cut today sent a clear signal that policy would turn more supportive in the coming months, a significant shift from the tapering in stimulus since April." China's new loans in May miss forecasts Reuters mentioned in its report that China's new bank loans picked up in May from the previous month, amid an economy-friendy policy being accommodated by the central bank. However, the signs of slowing momentum have raised expectations that more stimulus may be needed to sustain the recovery. Analysts have said that the weaker-than-expected credit data could strengthen the case for policymakers to roll out more support steps, including a cut in the benchmark lending rate this month. Also read: China searching waters where North Korean satellite crashed: South Korea Watch: Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why × New bank lending rose to $190.18 billion in May, data from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) showed on Tuesday. The figures are up from April but missed analysts' estimates. According to the economists polled by Reuters, it was expected that new yuan loans would jump to 1.6 trillion yuan last month, versus 718.8 billion yuan in April and against 1.89 trillion yuan a year earlier. As quoted by the news agency, Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, said in a note: "The credit growth is weak, which is not surprising as other economic indicators such as PMI and exports also sent consistent signals." "This explains why the PBOC cut the reverse repo rate this morning. It is a small step in the right direction. I expect more policy actions to follow in coming weeks," Zhang added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China mulling broad stimulus to prop ailing real estate sector, boost economy: Report

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the largest IT firms in India, has been dealing with a tricky situation after the mass resignation of female employees. A report by Bloomberg mentioned that when the IT giant ended the work-from-home policy, more female employees decided not to return to the office as compared to male employees.&nbsp;

Not just TCS, the work-from-home policy was implemented in various sectors during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to curb the spread of the deadly virus. But the economies across the world gradually reopened when the lockdown measures were relaxed and many companies started to call their employees back to office.&nbsp;

But the report shows that the attrition among women was reported to be higher at TCS when it called employees back to work, which was unusual for the company, where female attrition has historically been either lower or similar to their male counterparts.&nbsp;

In the company's annual report last week, Chief Human Resources Officer of TCS Milind Lakkad said, "I would think working from home during the pandemic reset the domestic arrangements for some women, keeping them from returning to office."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nine-tata-steel-workers-hospitalised-after-steam-leak-in-odisha-plant-603973">Nine Tata Steel workers hospitalised after steam leak in Odisha plant</a>&nbsp;

"It is a setback to our efforts to promote gender diversity, but we are doubling down on it," Lakkad said, further adding that women make up about 36% of TCS employees. He said that the company is trying to increase their representation, including in leadership roles.&nbsp;

According to the report, the work-from-home scenario has provided the flexibility to work remotely. In recent years, it has helped companies to attract and retain talent.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India tops digital payments ranking&nbsp;

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<h2>WFH: A blessing for women?&nbsp;</h2>

Work-from-home has helped women employees especially as several reports have claimed that they have managed to juggle office and home duties in a hybrid environment. Bloomberg said that the shift now is making them drop out of the workforce, worsening already low participation in the workforce.&nbsp;

According to World Bank data, at 24%, India's female labour force participation is much lower than 61% in China. The report argues that's a risk for economic growth in the world's most populous nation, where women comprise about half of the citizens.&nbsp;

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Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the largest IT firms in India, has been dealing with a tricky situation after the mass resignation of female employees. A report by Bloomberg mentioned that when the IT giant ended the work-from-home policy, more female employees decided not to return to the office as compared to male employees.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the largest IT firms in India, has been dealing with a tricky situation after the mass resignation of female employees. A report by Bloomberg mentioned that when the IT giant ended the work-from-home policy, more female employees decided not to return to the office as compared to male employees. Not just TCS, the work-from-home policy was implemented in various sectors during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to curb the spread of the deadly virus. But the economies across the world gradually reopened when the lockdown measures were relaxed and many companies started to call their employees back to office. But the report shows that the attrition among women was reported to be higher at TCS when it called employees back to work, which was unusual for the company, where female attrition has historically been either lower or similar to their male counterparts. In the company's annual report last week, Chief Human Resources Officer of TCS Milind Lakkad said, "I would think working from home during the pandemic reset the domestic arrangements for some women, keeping them from returning to office." Also read: Nine Tata Steel workers hospitalised after steam leak in Odisha plant "It is a setback to our efforts to promote gender diversity, but we are doubling down on it," Lakkad said, further adding that women make up about 36% of TCS employees. He said that the company is trying to increase their representation, including in leadership roles. According to the report, the work-from-home scenario has provided the flexibility to work remotely. In recent years, it has helped companies to attract and retain talent. Watch: India tops digital payments ranking × WFH: A blessing for women? Work-from-home has helped women employees especially as several reports have claimed that they have managed to juggle office and home duties in a hybrid environment. Bloomberg said that the shift now is making them drop out of the workforce, worsening already low participation in the workforce. According to World Bank data, at 24%, India's female labour force participation is much lower than 61% in China. The report argues that's a risk for economic growth in the world's most populous nation, where women comprise about half of the citizens. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What’s forcing women employees to quit India’s largest IT firm TCS?

Apocalyptic and cataclysmic images showed a yellowish haze descending&nbsp;upon New York last week when toxic smoke from Canadian wildfires spread in wide swaths across the Northeastern and Midwestern regions.&nbsp;

ABC News reported on Monday that the US is still facing the dangers of smoke coming from hundreds of wildfires burning throughout Canada and the current situation could mean that smoke and poor air quality concerns will continue to impact northern parts of America throughout the summer.&nbsp;

The report cited data by AirNow.gov. to report that Philadelphia's Air Quality Index measured at 101 on Monday morning (or "Code Orange"). It is unhealthy for a certain section — especially sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with pre-existing lung and heart conditions.&nbsp;

This comes after a provincial minister said that the number of wildfires raging out of control across Quebec dropped on Sunday as firefighters in the Canadian province gained the upper hand in some areas.&nbsp;

The Canadian Broadcasting Corp reported that Quebec Natural Resources Minister Maite Blanchette Vezina said told reporters that the number of out-of-control fires in the eastern province dropped to 44 from 72 on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-spark-ecoterrorist-conspiracy-theory-602560">Canada wildfires spark 'ecoterrorist' conspiracy theory</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'This&nbsp;worst-ever spring fire season for Canada'&nbsp;</h2>

Canada is enduring its worst-ever spring fire season, with 431 active fires as of Sunday, up five from Saturday, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.&nbsp;

The organisation said that more than 4.8 million acres burned, and fire officials said that 220 of the active fires have been deemed out of control.&nbsp;

By Monday, around 1,200 firefighters were expected to battle&nbsp;blazes across Quebec. More than 100 were from France and some from other provinces.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agency Reuters, Vezina said that the authorities were not yet ready to send many evacuated residents home. "With the resources we got from France and New Brunswick, the situation is more safe,"&nbsp;Vezina said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faced-with-smoke-from-canada-fires-people-turn-to-diy-air-purifiers-are-they-safe-602555">Faced with smoke from Canada fires people turn to DIY air purifiers. Are they safe?</a>&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Canada wildfires: Joe Biden assured help as toxic smoke lingers into US&nbsp;

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Chuck Schumer, who is New York Senator, urged the Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on Sunday to increase the number of firefighters being sent to Canada in order to prevent a "summer of smoke".&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;federal government meteorologist forecast, which came on Saturday, Quebec could receive light rain on Tuesday in some burning areas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Apocalyptic and cataclysmic images showed a yellowish haze descending upon New York last week when toxic smoke from Canadian wildfires spread in wide swaths across the Northeastern and Midwestern regions.

Apocalyptic and cataclysmic images showed a yellowish haze descending upon New York last week when toxic smoke from Canadian wildfires spread in wide swaths across the Northeastern and Midwestern regions. ABC News reported on Monday that the US is still facing the dangers of smoke coming from hundreds of wildfires burning throughout Canada and the current situation could mean that smoke and poor air quality concerns will continue to impact northern parts of America throughout the summer. The report cited data by AirNow.gov. to report that Philadelphia's Air Quality Index measured at 101 on Monday morning (or "Code Orange"). It is unhealthy for a certain section — especially sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with pre-existing lung and heart conditions. This comes after a provincial minister said that the number of wildfires raging out of control across Quebec dropped on Sunday as firefighters in the Canadian province gained the upper hand in some areas. The Canadian Broadcasting Corp reported that Quebec Natural Resources Minister Maite Blanchette Vezina said told reporters that the number of out-of-control fires in the eastern province dropped to 44 from 72 on Saturday. Also read | Canada wildfires spark 'ecoterrorist' conspiracy theory 'This worst-ever spring fire season for Canada' Canada is enduring its worst-ever spring fire season, with 431 active fires as of Sunday, up five from Saturday, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. The organisation said that more than 4.8 million acres burned, and fire officials said that 220 of the active fires have been deemed out of control. By Monday, around 1,200 firefighters were expected to battle blazes across Quebec. More than 100 were from France and some from other provinces. As quoted by news agency Reuters, Vezina said that the authorities were not yet ready to send many evacuated residents home. "With the resources we got from France and New Brunswick, the situation is more safe," Vezina said. Also read | Faced with smoke from Canada fires people turn to DIY air purifiers. Are they safe? Watch | Canada wildfires: Joe Biden assured help as toxic smoke lingers into US × Chuck Schumer, who is New York Senator, urged the Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on Sunday to increase the number of firefighters being sent to Canada in order to prevent a "summer of smoke". According to a federal government meteorologist forecast, which came on Saturday, Quebec could receive light rain on Tuesday in some burning areas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canada's wildfires: US to face air quality concerns throughout summer?

More than 6,000 civilians were killed in Myanmar in the first 20 months after the February 2021 military coup, a report published Tuesday by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo said.

"Our data shows that the human toll of the conflict is higher than previously reported, and while the junta is clearly the main killer, anti-junta forces also have large amounts of blood on their hands," Stein Tonnesson, one of the two co-authors of the report, said in a statement.

The report said 6,337 civilians were killed "for political reasons" between 1 February&nbsp;2021 and 30 September 2022, and 2,614 were injured.

That toll is much higher than others that have circulated, including those from international organisations.

According to the report, almost half of the deaths, 3,003, were attributed to the regime – the army, police and militias – while 2,152 were attributed to armed opposition groups.

Twelve were attributed to other civilians not affiliated with either the regime or opponents and 1,170 to undetermined actors.

"This is a larger number than is normally cited in the media, and yet it is only an estimate, based on reported killings gathered from reliable media reports," the report said.

"The actual total is surely higher since many killings have likely gone unreported".

Alleging massive fraud, the Myanmar military annulled the legislative elections won by Aung San Suu Kyi's party and overthrew her government.

Since then, the junta has carried out large-scale repression of any opposition, arresting more than 23,000 people, according to a local watchdog.

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More than 6,000 civilians were killed in Myanmar in the first 20 months after the February 2021 military coup, a report published Tuesday by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo said.

More than 6,000 civilians were killed in Myanmar in the first 20 months after the February 2021 military coup, a report published Tuesday by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo said. "Our data shows that the human toll of the conflict is higher than previously reported, and while the junta is clearly the main killer, anti-junta forces also have large amounts of blood on their hands," Stein Tonnesson, one of the two co-authors of the report, said in a statement. The report said 6,337 civilians were killed "for political reasons" between 1 February 2021 and 30 September 2022, and 2,614 were injured. That toll is much higher than others that have circulated, including those from international organisations. According to the report, almost half of the deaths, 3,003, were attributed to the regime – the army, police and militias – while 2,152 were attributed to armed opposition groups. Twelve were attributed to other civilians not affiliated with either the regime or opponents and 1,170 to undetermined actors. "This is a larger number than is normally cited in the media, and yet it is only an estimate, based on reported killings gathered from reliable media reports," the report said. "The actual total is surely higher since many killings have likely gone unreported". Alleging massive fraud, the Myanmar military annulled the legislative elections won by Aung San Suu Kyi's party and overthrew her government. Since then, the junta has carried out large-scale repression of any opposition, arresting more than 23,000 people, according to a local watchdog. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

6,000 Myanmar civilians killed in 20 months post coup: Report

The United States said it has updated its travel warning for Uganda following the adoption of draconian anti-gay legislation last month, a move Kampala branded "blackmail".

President Yoweri Museveni signed the bill into law on May 29, triggering outrage among human rights groups, the United Nations and LGBTQ activists as well as Western powers.

"Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, and anti-LGBTQI+ legislation," the US State Department said in a new advisory issued late Monday.

It said the Anti-Homosexuality Act "raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law".

The law – considered one of the harshest of its kind in the world – contains provisions making "aggravated homosexuality" a capital offence and penalties for consensual same-sex relations of up to life in prison.

"LGBTQI+ persons, or persons perceived to be LGBTQI+, could face harassment, imprisonment, blackmail, and violence," the State Department said, warning also of the risk of attacks by "vigilantes".

"Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal."

Uganda's Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi told AFP the updated travel advisory "was expected and we are not surprised".&nbsp;

"However, (the) US should understand that Uganda is a sovereign state which legislates for its people, not for the Western world," he added.&nbsp;

"They can issue travel advisories as it is within their rights but should be reminded blackmail has no place in (the) modern world."&nbsp;

In May, US President Joe Biden called for the immediate repeal of the measures he slammed as "a tragic violation of universal human rights", and threatened to cut aid and investment in the East African country.

But earlier this month Museveni defied international calls to rescind the law, saying "no one will move us".

The legislation has broad support in the conservative majority Christian country, where lawmakers have defended the measures as a necessary bulwark against Western immorality.

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The United States said it has updated its travel warning for Uganda following the adoption of draconian anti-gay legislation last month, a move Kampala branded "blackmail".

The United States said it has updated its travel warning for Uganda following the adoption of draconian anti-gay legislation last month, a move Kampala branded "blackmail". President Yoweri Museveni signed the bill into law on May 29, triggering outrage among human rights groups, the United Nations and LGBTQ activists as well as Western powers. "Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, and anti-LGBTQI+ legislation," the US State Department said in a new advisory issued late Monday. It said the Anti-Homosexuality Act "raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law". The law – considered one of the harshest of its kind in the world – contains provisions making "aggravated homosexuality" a capital offence and penalties for consensual same-sex relations of up to life in prison. "LGBTQI+ persons, or persons perceived to be LGBTQI+, could face harassment, imprisonment, blackmail, and violence," the State Department said, warning also of the risk of attacks by "vigilantes". "Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal." Uganda's Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi told AFP the updated travel advisory "was expected and we are not surprised". "However, (the) US should understand that Uganda is a sovereign state which legislates for its people, not for the Western world," he added. "They can issue travel advisories as it is within their rights but should be reminded blackmail has no place in (the) modern world." In May, US President Joe Biden called for the immediate repeal of the measures he slammed as "a tragic violation of universal human rights", and threatened to cut aid and investment in the East African country. But earlier this month Museveni defied international calls to rescind the law, saying "no one will move us". The legislation has broad support in the conservative majority Christian country, where lawmakers have defended the measures as a necessary bulwark against Western immorality. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US updates Uganda travel warning over anti-gay law

Some of the workers at a Tata Steel Ltd plant in the west-Indian state of Odisha were "affected" after an industrial accident, the company said in a statement on Tuesday (June 13). The incident reportedly happened because a steam pipe burst due to gas leakage at Tata Steel's Meramandali plant. &nbsp;

The company said that those who were impacted were immediately rushed to a hospital in Cuttack in the company's ambulance, accompanied by doctors and paramedics as a precautionary measure. Two are reportedly in critical condition and admitted to the ICU.&nbsp;

Indian media outlets reported quoting official sources that the mishap occurred due to the escape of hot steam from a pipe. The engineers and labourers sustained injuries after hot water fell on them when they were inspecting the blast furnace.&nbsp;

In a statement, Tata Steel said, "We are saddened to report an accident at the BFPP2 power plant due to escape of steam at Tata Steel Meramandali Works in Dhenkanal, Odisha."&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-kills-mom-takes-uber-to-reach-police-station-with-body-stuffed-in-suitcase-603947">Indian woman kills mom, takes Uber to reach police station with body stuffed in suitcase</a>&nbsp;

The statement added, "The accident took place at 1 pm during inspection work. The workers were shifted to the occupational health centre inside the plant premises and then to Cuttack for further treatment."&nbsp;

Reports mentioned that to inspect the site and assess the situation, Dhenkanal collector Saroj Kumar Sethi, superintendent of police Gyana Ranjan Mohapatra and some senior officials were at the site.&nbsp;

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Tata Steel Statement on Accident at BFPP2 Power Plant, Tata Steel Meramandali <a href="https://t.co/sISjI2Wlaa">pic.twitter.com/sISjI2Wlaa</a>
— Tata Steel (@TataSteelLtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TataSteelLtd/status/1668567873546240001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-online-food-delivery-aggregator-zomato-pulled-up-for-controversial-ad-603929">Indian online food delivery aggregator Zomato pulled up for controversial ad</a>&nbsp;

As per local media outlets, Dhenkanal SP Gyanaranjan Mohapatra said that "around 19 persons were injured when a valve carrying hot water opened." Mohapatra added that a team from the district administration will also visit the spot for an investigation.&nbsp;

Tata Steel said in its statement that all the emergency protocol services were activated immediately after the accident and the area has been cordoned off.&nbsp;

The statement also noted that the company is ensuring all necessary information and support to the families of the affected personnel. "We are working closely with relevant authorities on the ground and have initiated an internal investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident," the statement read.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Some of the workers at a Tata Steel Ltd plant in the west-Indian state of Odisha were "affected" after an industrial accident, the company said in a statement on Tuesday (June 13).

Some of the workers at a Tata Steel Ltd plant in the west-Indian state of Odisha were "affected" after an industrial accident, the company said in a statement on Tuesday (June 13). The incident reportedly happened because a steam pipe burst due to gas leakage at Tata Steel's Meramandali plant. The company said that those who were impacted were immediately rushed to a hospital in Cuttack in the company's ambulance, accompanied by doctors and paramedics as a precautionary measure. Two are reportedly in critical condition and admitted to the ICU. Indian media outlets reported quoting official sources that the mishap occurred due to the escape of hot steam from a pipe. The engineers and labourers sustained injuries after hot water fell on them when they were inspecting the blast furnace. In a statement, Tata Steel said, "We are saddened to report an accident at the BFPP2 power plant due to escape of steam at Tata Steel Meramandali Works in Dhenkanal, Odisha." Also read: Indian woman kills mom, takes Uber to reach police station with body stuffed in suitcase The statement added, "The accident took place at 1 pm during inspection work. The workers were shifted to the occupational health centre inside the plant premises and then to Cuttack for further treatment." Reports mentioned that to inspect the site and assess the situation, Dhenkanal collector Saroj Kumar Sethi, superintendent of police Gyana Ranjan Mohapatra and some senior officials were at the site. Tata Steel Statement on Accident at BFPP2 Power Plant, Tata Steel Meramandali pic.twitter.com/sISjI2Wlaa — Tata Steel (@TataSteelLtd) June 13, 2023 × Also read: Indian online food delivery aggregator Zomato pulled up for controversial ad As per local media outlets, Dhenkanal SP Gyanaranjan Mohapatra said that "around 19 persons were injured when a valve carrying hot water opened." Mohapatra added that a team from the district administration will also visit the spot for an investigation. Tata Steel said in its statement that all the emergency protocol services were activated immediately after the accident and the area has been cordoned off. The statement also noted that the company is ensuring all necessary information and support to the families of the affected personnel. "We are working closely with relevant authorities on the ground and have initiated an internal investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident," the statement read. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Nine Tata Steel workers hospitalised after steam leak in Odisha plant

Scientists are busy trying to find answers to the questions - is Mars habitable... is there a potential for life beneath the Martian crust? Mars is the fourth planet and the furthest terrestrial planet from the Sun. It is known as the "Red Planet" because the reddish colour of its surface is due to finely-grained iron (III) oxide dust in the soil.&nbsp;

But a new image of Mars is raising questions over its redness. It looks like Mars isn't as red as we might have thought.&nbsp;

The new mosaic of Mars has been released to mark 20 years since the launch of the European Space Agency (ESA)'s Mars Express, which is a spacecraft that has been orbiting the planet for two decades.&nbsp;

Mars Express's High-Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC)'s data was used to create the mosaic. The image reveals the planet's colour and composition in spectacular detail... not so red.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-share-of-photo-new-supernova-shining-brightly-in-pinwheel-galaxy-603496">Astronomers share photo of new supernova shining brightly in Pinwheel Galaxy</a>&nbsp;

Look at the image:&nbsp;

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Say cheese! 📸 Over the past 20 years, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarsExpress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarsExpress</a> has orbited Mars 24,510 times, during which our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HRSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HRSC</a> has acquired 6916 images. 😲 We couldn’t quite fit all of them into this video, but you can find the best ones on our Flickr gallery: <a href="https://t.co/ey8vXRxlmM">https://t.co/ey8vXRxlmM</a> <a href="https://t.co/rFzxzqOUrT">pic.twitter.com/rFzxzqOUrT</a>
— DLR - English (@DLR_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/DLR_en/status/1664624837841518592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Happy Birthday, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarsExpress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarsExpress</a>!🎂🛰️ 
 
Planned for two years, 'MEX' enters its 3rd decade. 
 
During its lifetime it's re-written our view of a planet that perhaps once looked more like our own home, and where we plan to soon set foot 👉<a href="https://t.co/BFBo9RA3Tc">https://t.co/BFBo9RA3Tc</a> 
 
📸New mosaic, MEX's HRSC <a href="https://t.co/1rbz9rIcrn">pic.twitter.com/1rbz9rIcrn</a>
— ESA Operations (@esaoperations) <a href="https://twitter.com/esaoperations/status/1664575298124251136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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On its website, ESA said that Mars appears in the night sky different from all the other gleaming dots in the darkness. Notably, the changing atmosphere of Mars has made it difficult to see all the colours on the planet from space in the past.&nbsp;

In a post, ESA said that the "dust scatters and reflects light, causing colours to shift between images". The space agency said that when the mismatched pieces are put together, the result is usually patchy looking.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-body-to-stretch-like-a-long-pasta-if-earth-falls-into-black-hole-claim-scientists-603408">Human body will stretch like a 'long pasta' if Earth ever falls into black hole, claim scientists</a>&nbsp;

The images reveal unprecedented colour variations and the planet’s diverse composition. The mosaic by ESA highlights reddish oxidized iron, dark volcanic basaltic sands, and bright areas. It suggests the past presence of liquid water.&nbsp;

The mosaic produced here by HRSC gathered 90 images at higher altitudes of 4000 to 10,000 km. It is capturing areas around 2500 km wide and when these images were then put together to form a full global view. The process helped to produce a richer colour view of Mars than has been seen before.&nbsp;

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Scientists are busy trying to find answers to the questions - is Mars habitable... is there a potential for life beneath the Martian crust? Mars is the fourth planet and the furthest terrestrial planet from the Sun.

Scientists are busy trying to find answers to the questions - is Mars habitable... is there a potential for life beneath the Martian crust? Mars is the fourth planet and the furthest terrestrial planet from the Sun. It is known as the "Red Planet" because the reddish colour of its surface is due to finely-grained iron (III) oxide dust in the soil. But a new image of Mars is raising questions over its redness. It looks like Mars isn't as red as we might have thought. The new mosaic of Mars has been released to mark 20 years since the launch of the European Space Agency (ESA)'s Mars Express, which is a spacecraft that has been orbiting the planet for two decades. Mars Express's High-Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC)'s data was used to create the mosaic. The image reveals the planet's colour and composition in spectacular detail... not so red. Also read | Astronomers share photo of new supernova shining brightly in Pinwheel Galaxy Look at the image: Say cheese! 📸 Over the past 20 years, #MarsExpress has orbited Mars 24,510 times, during which our #HRSC has acquired 6916 images. 😲 We couldn’t quite fit all of them into this video, but you can find the best ones on our Flickr gallery: https://t.co/ey8vXRxlmM pic.twitter.com/rFzxzqOUrT — DLR - English (@DLR_en) June 2, 2023 × Happy Birthday, #MarsExpress!🎂🛰️ Planned for two years, 'MEX' enters its 3rd decade. During its lifetime it's re-written our view of a planet that perhaps once looked more like our own home, and where we plan to soon set foot 👉https://t.co/BFBo9RA3Tc 📸New mosaic, MEX's HRSC pic.twitter.com/1rbz9rIcrn — ESA Operations (@esaoperations) June 2, 2023 × On its website, ESA said that Mars appears in the night sky different from all the other gleaming dots in the darkness. Notably, the changing atmosphere of Mars has made it difficult to see all the colours on the planet from space in the past. In a post, ESA said that the "dust scatters and reflects light, causing colours to shift between images". The space agency said that when the mismatched pieces are put together, the result is usually patchy looking. Also read | Human body will stretch like a 'long pasta' if Earth ever falls into black hole, claim scientists The images reveal unprecedented colour variations and the planet’s diverse composition. The mosaic by ESA highlights reddish oxidized iron, dark volcanic basaltic sands, and bright areas. It suggests the past presence of liquid water. The mosaic produced here by HRSC gathered 90 images at higher altitudes of 4000 to 10,000 km. It is capturing areas around 2500 km wide and when these images were then put together to form a full global view. The process helped to produce a richer colour view of Mars than has been seen before. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

It's not so red. Never-before-seen images of Mars are absolutely stunning

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Monday (June 12) formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament. UK-based media outlets mentioned that a source close to the former prime minister has said Johnson has written to Jeremy Hunt to formally resign. However, reports have mentioned that his resignation does not take effect until an announcement from the Treasury is made.&nbsp;

During his time in office, Johnson faced massive backlash from the opposition party and common people when reports emerged that parties were held at 10, Downing Street when such gatherings and festivities were banned in the country owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown in 2020.&nbsp;

Currently, Johnson is being probed to understand whether or not he misled the House of Commons about lockdown-breaking parties in Downing Street, an accusation he denies.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/boris-johnson-ally-resigns-triggering-byelections-puts-rishi-sunaks-leadership-to-test-602979">Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test</a>&nbsp;

But in the latest, he has accused lawmakers investigating him of acting like a "kangaroo court" and being determined to end his political career. This came after he received a confidential letter from the committee.&nbsp;

Johnson wrote in his resignation statement that it had not found "a shred of evidence" against him. He also took aim at current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who landed in hot water and must now fight three by-elections in constituencies recently vacated.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On Friday, Johnson and his ally Nadine Dorries, and on Saturday by Nigel Adams, a former minister in the Johnson government, resigned from their post.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>An opportunity for the Labour Party?&nbsp;</h2>

The opposition Labour Party, which has a roughly 16-point lead over Sunak's Conservatives in opinion polls, said it relished the prospect of fighting the by-elections in Conservative-held constituencies.&nbsp;

Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner told the BBC on Saturday, "We will be fighting to win in those constituencies. They've created a by-election because both of them (Johnson and Dorries) have thrown their toys out of the pram."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Monday (June 12) formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament. UK-based media outlets mentioned that a source close to the former prime minister has said Johnson has written to Jeremy Hunt to formally resign.

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Monday (June 12) formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament. UK-based media outlets mentioned that a source close to the former prime minister has said Johnson has written to Jeremy Hunt to formally resign. However, reports have mentioned that his resignation does not take effect until an announcement from the Treasury is made. During his time in office, Johnson faced massive backlash from the opposition party and common people when reports emerged that parties were held at 10, Downing Street when such gatherings and festivities were banned in the country owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown in 2020. Currently, Johnson is being probed to understand whether or not he misled the House of Commons about lockdown-breaking parties in Downing Street, an accusation he denies. Also read | Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test But in the latest, he has accused lawmakers investigating him of acting like a "kangaroo court" and being determined to end his political career. This came after he received a confidential letter from the committee. Johnson wrote in his resignation statement that it had not found "a shred of evidence" against him. He also took aim at current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who landed in hot water and must now fight three by-elections in constituencies recently vacated. On Friday, Johnson and his ally Nadine Dorries, and on Saturday by Nigel Adams, a former minister in the Johnson government, resigned from their post. Watch this report: × Also read | Sunak vs Johnson: The spat takes new turn with latest war of words An opportunity for the Labour Party? The opposition Labour Party, which has a roughly 16-point lead over Sunak's Conservatives in opinion polls, said it relished the prospect of fighting the by-elections in Conservative-held constituencies. Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner told the BBC on Saturday, "We will be fighting to win in those constituencies. They've created a by-election because both of them (Johnson and Dorries) have thrown their toys out of the pram." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson formally resigns as Conservative MP

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, once an ally of Boris Johnson, said on Monday (June 12) that the former prime minister asked him to do something he "didn't think was right" with his honours list.&nbsp;

The fresh war of words comes as Johnson's political honours list was published on Friday, which includes the names that are being rewarded — the Brexit die-hards, and even those implicated in the 'Partygate' scandal.&nbsp;

However, the list does not include some prominent and obvious names. Some reports mentioned that the reason behind this was the so-called meddling from Sunak and Downing Street.&nbsp;

While responding to the same, Sunak's spokesman told reporters it was "entirely untrue" that the prime minister or officials removed names from Johnson's list.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/boris-johnson-ally-resigns-triggering-byelections-puts-rishi-sunaks-leadership-to-test-602979">Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test</a>

Meanwhile, what Sunak said has become the latest controversy. He accused Johnson of asking him to either overrule the House of Lords appointments committee or to make promises to the MPs offered peerages by Johnson.

While speaking at a tech conference in London, Sunak said, "Boris Johnson asked me to do something that I wasn't prepared to do, because I didn't think it was right."&nbsp;

"That was to either overrule the Holac committee (House of Lords Appointments Commission) or to make promises to people. I wasn't prepared to do that. As I said I didn't think it was right, and if people don't like that then tough," he said.&nbsp;

"As I said, I didn't think it was right. And if people don't like that, then tough. When I got this job, I said I was going to do things differently because I wanted to change politics. And that's what I'm doing," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ai-risks-need-to-be-addressed-says-biden-in-joint-news-conference-with-sunak-602347">AI risks need to be addressed, says Biden in joint news conference with Sunak</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Johnson hits back&nbsp;</h2>

Johnson said that Sunak is talking "rubbish".&nbsp;

"To honour these peerages it was not necessary to overrule HOLAC - but simply to ask them to renew their vetting, which was a mere formality," the former prime minister added.&nbsp;

According to some political observers, the resignations are seen as Johnson's revenge on Sunak for forcing him out of office last July after a string of scandals.&nbsp;

Two Johnson allies who were not rewarded, former culture secretary Nadine Dorries and fellow Conservative MP Nigel Adams, have&nbsp;resigned as MPs.

The resignations mean Sunak's Tories have to contest three by-elections when they trail in the polls to the main opposition Labour Party and with a general election looming next year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, once an ally of Boris Johnson, said on Monday (June 12) that the former prime minister asked him to do something he "didn't think was right" with his honours list.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, once an ally of Boris Johnson, said on Monday (June 12) that the former prime minister asked him to do something he "didn't think was right" with his honours list. The fresh war of words comes as Johnson's political honours list was published on Friday, which includes the names that are being rewarded — the Brexit die-hards, and even those implicated in the 'Partygate' scandal. However, the list does not include some prominent and obvious names. Some reports mentioned that the reason behind this was the so-called meddling from Sunak and Downing Street. While responding to the same, Sunak's spokesman told reporters it was "entirely untrue" that the prime minister or officials removed names from Johnson's list. Also read | Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test Meanwhile, what Sunak said has become the latest controversy. He accused Johnson of asking him to either overrule the House of Lords appointments committee or to make promises to the MPs offered peerages by Johnson. While speaking at a tech conference in London, Sunak said, "Boris Johnson asked me to do something that I wasn't prepared to do, because I didn't think it was right." "That was to either overrule the Holac committee (House of Lords Appointments Commission) or to make promises to people. I wasn't prepared to do that. As I said I didn't think it was right, and if people don't like that then tough," he said. "As I said, I didn't think it was right. And if people don't like that, then tough. When I got this job, I said I was going to do things differently because I wanted to change politics. And that's what I'm doing," he added. Also read | AI risks need to be addressed, says Biden in joint news conference with Sunak Watch this report: × Johnson hits back Johnson said that Sunak is talking "rubbish". "To honour these peerages it was not necessary to overrule HOLAC - but simply to ask them to renew their vetting, which was a mere formality," the former prime minister added. According to some political observers, the resignations are seen as Johnson's revenge on Sunak for forcing him out of office last July after a string of scandals. Two Johnson allies who were not rewarded, former culture secretary Nadine Dorries and fellow Conservative MP Nigel Adams, have resigned as MPs. The resignations mean Sunak's Tories have to contest three by-elections when they trail in the polls to the main opposition Labour Party and with a general election looming next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sunak vs Johnson: The spat takes new turn with latest war of words

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