China hits back at Vietnam and Australia. Watch video to know more.

China hits back at Vietnam and Australia

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-england-post-lowest-total-against-australia-since-1948-245161">woeful batting display from the hosts</a> on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes.

Trailing 1-0 in the series and replying to Australia’s far from daunting first-innings total of 179, England’s key batsmen fell cheaply, several chasing aggressive shots, as the hosts were bowled out for 67 at Headingley.

That total was their 12th lowest of all time in tests and lowest against Australia since 1948.

Joe Denly was the only player to reach double figures, top-scoring with 12 runs -- the lowest top score for an England batsman in test history.

Australia, who as holders need one more win to retain the Ashes, lost six wickets themselves on a remarkable second day in Leeds, but Marnus Labuschagne (53 not out) steered them to a lead of 283, which seems beyond a woefully out-of-form England.

"The game is not over from this position," Thorpe said. "If we can knock them over in the morning we are in with a chance.

"There have been scores of over 300 chased down here before. We have to believe."

One-day focus

In the one-day format, England won the World Cup on home soil last month, with many of the same players who have played in the Ashes.

Yet England's euphoric fans were brought crashing down to earth in the first test innings following that triumph, after they were bowled out for 85 by Ireland, who were playing only their third-ever test match.

Six of the top seven who took to the field in that first innings capitulation, started at Headingley in the third Ashes Test.

"The Australian bowlers did well but our batsmen helped them," former England great Ian Botham said. "There were some woeful shots.

Jason Roy averaged over 63 in the World Cup, firing four half-centuries and one 100, including 85 against Australia in the semi-final, but was again out attacking a ball he did not need to at Headingley.

Stokes, England’s World Cup final hero, was another guilty of a wild, needless shot when being dismissed.

England’s batsmen still seem to be playing with a one-day format focus. Forty of their 67 runs came as boundaries and nine batsmen hit at least one four.

Stokes was out for eight off 13 balls and Roy nine of 15. In comparison, Australia's Labuschagne played much more test-like innings, leaving the balls he needed to, making an unbeaten 53 off 139 balls.

Batting order uncertainty

England's issue may not be with personnel, but more where their batsmen are playing in the order.

Roy has opened the batting in six of his seven test knocks so far, averaging nine in those innings. In the one innings when he batted at three, he scored 72.

Root is another who has suffered from a move up the order to accommodate others. The England captain averages 48 from 60 innings at number four, but just 19.80 in this Ashes series batting at three, including back-to-back ducks in his last two innings.

"I don't like Joe Root at three, he's a number four," former England opener Michael Vaughan told the BBC. "You know he's going to be in so early in this team, he's basically an opener.

"Root is England's best player. Put him at four. Virat Kohli - where does he bat? Steve Smith - where does he bat?

"It's only one position but it is a huge difference."

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a woeful batting display from the hosts on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes.

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a woeful batting display from the hosts on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes. Trailing 1-0 in the series and replying to Australia’s far from daunting first-innings total of 179, England’s key batsmen fell cheaply, several chasing aggressive shots, as the hosts were bowled out for 67 at Headingley. That total was their 12th lowest of all time in tests and lowest against Australia since 1948. Joe Denly was the only player to reach double figures, top-scoring with 12 runs -- the lowest top score for an England batsman in test history. Australia, who as holders need one more win to retain the Ashes, lost six wickets themselves on a remarkable second day in Leeds, but Marnus Labuschagne (53 not out) steered them to a lead of 283, which seems beyond a woefully out-of-form England. "The game is not over from this position," Thorpe said. "If we can knock them over in the morning we are in with a chance. "There have been scores of over 300 chased down here before. We have to believe." One-day focus In the one-day format, England won the World Cup on home soil last month, with many of the same players who have played in the Ashes. Yet England's euphoric fans were brought crashing down to earth in the first test innings following that triumph, after they were bowled out for 85 by Ireland, who were playing only their third-ever test match. Six of the top seven who took to the field in that first innings capitulation, started at Headingley in the third Ashes Test. "The Australian bowlers did well but our batsmen helped them," former England great Ian Botham said. "There were some woeful shots. Jason Roy averaged over 63 in the World Cup, firing four half-centuries and one 100, including 85 against Australia in the semi-final, but was again out attacking a ball he did not need to at Headingley. Stokes, England’s World Cup final hero, was another guilty of a wild, needless shot when being dismissed. England’s batsmen still seem to be playing with a one-day format focus. Forty of their 67 runs came as boundaries and nine batsmen hit at least one four. Stokes was out for eight off 13 balls and Roy nine of 15. In comparison, Australia's Labuschagne played much more test-like innings, leaving the balls he needed to, making an unbeaten 53 off 139 balls. Batting order uncertainty England's issue may not be with personnel, but more where their batsmen are playing in the order. Roy has opened the batting in six of his seven test knocks so far, averaging nine in those innings. In the one innings when he batted at three, he scored 72. Root is another who has suffered from a move up the order to accommodate others. The England captain averages 48 from 60 innings at number four, but just 19.80 in this Ashes series batting at three, including back-to-back ducks in his last two innings. "I don't like Joe Root at three, he's a number four," former England opener Michael Vaughan told the BBC. "You know he's going to be in so early in this team, he's basically an opener. "Root is England's best player. Put him at four. Virat Kohli - where does he bat? Steve Smith - where does he bat? "It's only one position but it is a huge difference."

Ashes 2019: England defiant but test batting woes leave hosts on the brink

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little.

The pre-World Cup showdown, on Thursday evening at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium, was played in front of 51,000 fans — the biggest crowd ever to watch a game of hoops in Australia.

But in a venue that usually hosts Australian Rules and football, a raised basketball court was dropped in meaning those on white plastic seats at ground level had restricted viewing, including Crowe.

"$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA. Jokes on me," tweeted the Hollywood star after Australia were beaten 102-86. "If you weren't among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision."

He later added, "The only thing achieved by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well-meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA . 
Jokes on me. 
If you weren’t among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision . <a href="https://t.co/VlNuXWp6iI">pic.twitter.com/VlNuXWp6iI</a>
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) <a href="https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1164514917241651200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The only thing achieved tonight by <a href="https://twitter.com/BasketballAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BasketballAus</a> was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce. <a href="https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm">https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm</a>
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) <a href="https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1164535345095958529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lots of talk already about the view from ground level at Marvel Stadium where ticket holders paid hundreds of dollars to see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoomersUSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoomersUSA</a>. This is the view... <a href="https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM">https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM</a> <a href="https://t.co/m8Zh3mMPxa">pic.twitter.com/m8Zh3mMPxa</a>
— Rohan Smith (@Ro_Smith) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ro_Smith/status/1164429343155576833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Plenty of other fans agreed.

"It's called greed! There is a stadium across town which is purpose built for this kind of event called Rod Laver Arena capacity of 15,000. Play 2-3 games there everyone goes home happy," said one Twitter user.

The visit of Team USA was already embroiled in controversy, with Australia's consumer watchdog launching a probe into the use of absent NBA superstars to promote their exhibition games.

While the USA boast a host of top young talent guided by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, they lack top names used to sell the event after a series of player withdrawals.

A change.org petition for refunds attracted more than 2,700 supporters claiming they had been ripped off, with a fresh flood of complaints about the seating fiasco.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chief Rod Sims said it was investigating whether people had been misled.

"We did&nbsp;have discussions with the promoters,&nbsp;and out of those discussions there&nbsp;was a suggestion from them of&nbsp;refunds," he told reporters, referring to the pre-game advertising.

"We've now added to that&nbsp;investigation whether or not&nbsp;consumers have been misled over the seating and the quality of the&nbsp;seating."

He added that the commission takes such allegations "very seriously" with the potential penalties "significant".

The promoters, TEG Live, and Basketball Australia had no immediate comment.

Australia and the United States play a second game at the same venue on Saturday.

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little.

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little. The pre-World Cup showdown, on Thursday evening at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium, was played in front of 51,000 fans — the biggest crowd ever to watch a game of hoops in Australia. But in a venue that usually hosts Australian Rules and football, a raised basketball court was dropped in meaning those on white plastic seats at ground level had restricted viewing, including Crowe. "$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA. Jokes on me," tweeted the Hollywood star after Australia were beaten 102-86. "If you weren't among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision." He later added, "The only thing achieved by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well-meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce." $1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA . Jokes on me. If you weren’t among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision . pic.twitter.com/VlNuXWp6iI — Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 22, 2019 × The only thing achieved tonight by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce. https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm — Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 22, 2019 × Lots of talk already about the view from ground level at Marvel Stadium where ticket holders paid hundreds of dollars to see #BoomersUSA. This is the view... https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM pic.twitter.com/m8Zh3mMPxa — Rohan Smith (@Ro_Smith) August 22, 2019 × Plenty of other fans agreed. "It's called greed! There is a stadium across town which is purpose built for this kind of event called Rod Laver Arena capacity of 15,000. Play 2-3 games there everyone goes home happy," said one Twitter user. The visit of Team USA was already embroiled in controversy, with Australia's consumer watchdog launching a probe into the use of absent NBA superstars to promote their exhibition games. While the USA boast a host of top young talent guided by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, they lack top names used to sell the event after a series of player withdrawals. A change.org petition for refunds attracted more than 2,700 supporters claiming they had been ripped off, with a fresh flood of complaints about the seating fiasco. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chief Rod Sims said it was investigating whether people had been misled. "We did have discussions with the promoters, and out of those discussions there was a suggestion from them of refunds," he told reporters, referring to the pre-game advertising. "We've now added to that investigation whether or not consumers have been misled over the seating and the quality of the seating." He added that the commission takes such allegations "very seriously" with the potential penalties "significant". The promoters, TEG Live, and Basketball Australia had no immediate comment. Australia and the United States play a second game at the same venue on Saturday.

Russell Crowe slams 'joke' seating at USA-Australia basketball

Jofra Archer's first five-wicket haul in Test cricket put England in command on a weather-affected opening day of the third Ashes Test at Headingley on Thursday as they bowled Australia out for 179.

Archer completed figures of 6-45 in his second Test, Australia collapsing from 136-2 in the final session to give England a good start as they bid to level the series.

"I didn't do too much differently from Lord's," Archer said. "It was a bit bowler-friendly today, at times it did go flat and the ball stopped swinging but it started again.

"I'll more than take 6-45 but I can be tidier in the future," he added. "It's been really good so far, from the moment I've put the badge on, it's been the happiest days of cricket so far and hopefully plenty more ahead."

David Warner made 61 and Marnus Labuschagne 74 in the only substantial innings for the touring side, Labuschagne making his second fifty in a row since replacing Steve Smith who was struck by an Archer bouncer in the second Test and ruled out of the third match due to concussion symptoms.

"It's disappointing it happened like that but they won the toss, bowled and had the conditions in their favour," Warner said.

"They were patient and our top order got out to good balls, with a couple of strangles as well," he added.

"It was very challenging in that first half-hour. I probably played and missed 35 times but that happens and a little bit of luck comes into it. You just have to work out how to survive."

England captain Joe Root put Australia in to bat on a wet morning in Leeds.

Stuart Broad and Archer bowled well and after Warner had survived a few scares, Marcus Harris, replacing Cameron Bancroft in the side, edged Archer to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow for eight.

The weather cleared up briefly early in the afternoon session and Broad had Usman Khawaja caught down the leg-side by Bairstow.

After further rain delays, Warner started to find his timing and the left-hander brought up his first half-century of the series with another boundary.

Labuschagne, as he did at Lord’s when he was Smith’s concussion substitute, batted with great composure and reached his half-century from 72 balls.

Archer ended Warner’s resistance, Bairstow taking another catch, and Broad bowled Travis Head for nought with a perfect delivery that hit the top of off stump.

Matthew Wade also fell for a duck off the bowling of Archer when the ball rolled on to the stumps around his legs.

Tim Paine became Chris Woakes’s first victim, given out lbw after a review, and James Pattinson was caught by Root at first slip off Archer for two.

Archer found the edge of Pat Cummins’s bat, his dismissal confirmed after a review, and Ben Stokes ended Labuschagne’s innings, trapping him lbw with a full toss.

Nathan Lyon was last to go in the final over, lbw to Archer to complete a memorable day for the Barbados-born fast bowler.

Jofra Archer's first five-wicket haul in Test cricket put England in command on a weather-affected opening day of the third Ashes Test at Headingley on Thursday as they bowled Australia out for 179.

Jofra Archer's first five-wicket haul in Test cricket put England in command on a weather-affected opening day of the third Ashes Test at Headingley on Thursday as they bowled Australia out for 179. Archer completed figures of 6-45 in his second Test, Australia collapsing from 136-2 in the final session to give England a good start as they bid to level the series. "I didn't do too much differently from Lord's," Archer said. "It was a bit bowler-friendly today, at times it did go flat and the ball stopped swinging but it started again. "I'll more than take 6-45 but I can be tidier in the future," he added. "It's been really good so far, from the moment I've put the badge on, it's been the happiest days of cricket so far and hopefully plenty more ahead." David Warner made 61 and Marnus Labuschagne 74 in the only substantial innings for the touring side, Labuschagne making his second fifty in a row since replacing Steve Smith who was struck by an Archer bouncer in the second Test and ruled out of the third match due to concussion symptoms. "It's disappointing it happened like that but they won the toss, bowled and had the conditions in their favour," Warner said. "They were patient and our top order got out to good balls, with a couple of strangles as well," he added. "It was very challenging in that first half-hour. I probably played and missed 35 times but that happens and a little bit of luck comes into it. You just have to work out how to survive." England captain Joe Root put Australia in to bat on a wet morning in Leeds. Stuart Broad and Archer bowled well and after Warner had survived a few scares, Marcus Harris, replacing Cameron Bancroft in the side, edged Archer to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow for eight. The weather cleared up briefly early in the afternoon session and Broad had Usman Khawaja caught down the leg-side by Bairstow. After further rain delays, Warner started to find his timing and the left-hander brought up his first half-century of the series with another boundary. Labuschagne, as he did at Lord’s when he was Smith’s concussion substitute, batted with great composure and reached his half-century from 72 balls. Archer ended Warner’s resistance, Bairstow taking another catch, and Broad bowled Travis Head for nought with a perfect delivery that hit the top of off stump. Matthew Wade also fell for a duck off the bowling of Archer when the ball rolled on to the stumps around his legs. Tim Paine became Chris Woakes’s first victim, given out lbw after a review, and James Pattinson was caught by Root at first slip off Archer for two. Archer found the edge of Pat Cummins’s bat, his dismissal confirmed after a review, and Ben Stokes ended Labuschagne’s innings, trapping him lbw with a full toss. Nathan Lyon was last to go in the final over, lbw to Archer to complete a memorable day for the Barbados-born fast bowler.

Jofra Archer gives England advantage in third Ashes Test, Australia 179 all out

Australian beekeeper Paul Wood removed a treasure trove of honeycombs in the form of a massive bee hive hidden in a woman's home in suburban Brisbane, Australia.

Australian bee whisperer extracts 50kg trove of honey hidden in ceiling

Australia will join the United States in a coalition of countries protecting oil tankers and cargo ships from threats posed by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday.

Australia will join the United States in a coalition of countries protecting oil tankers and cargo ships from threats posed by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday. "This destabilising behaviour is a threat to Australia's interests in the region," Morrison told a news conference in Canberra. "The government has decided that it is in Australia's national interest to work with our international partners to contribute. Our contribution will be limited in scope and it will be time-bound," he said. Morrison said Australia will send a P-8A Poseidon surveillance plane to the Middle East for one month before the end of 2019, while an Australian frigate will be deployed in January 2020 for six months. Australia's deployment will expand U.S-led efforts to secure the strait, which lies between Oman and Iran and through which almost a fifth of the world's oil passes, after tensions spiked between Iran and Britain. Washington, which has by far the strongest Western naval contingent in the Gulf, has been calling for its allies to join it in an operation to guard shipping. However, European countries, which disagree with a U.S. decision to impose sanctions on Iran, have been reluctant to sign up to a U.S.-led mission for fear of adding to tension in the region.

Australia says it will join US-led defence effort in Strait of Hormuz

US intermediate-range&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;will not be deployed in&nbsp;Australia,&nbsp;Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Scott Morrison said on Monday, after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-not-stand-idly-if-us-deploys-missiles-in-asia-warns-china-240969"> the United States revealed ambitions to site&nbsp;missiles</a>&nbsp;in the Asia-Pacific region.

Officials from both governments held talks in Sydney over the weekend that ended with a joint statement in which the two allies pledged to strengthen opposition to Chinese activities in Asia-Pacific, as both sides have become increasingly concerned about China's spreading influence.

During the talks,&nbsp;US Defense Secretary Mark Esper spoke of hopes to deploy&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;in the Asia-Pacific region in the coming months following Washington's withdrawal from a landmark arms control treaty last week.

Esper's comments prompted speculation that&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;had been asked to&nbsp;host&nbsp;the&nbsp;missiles, but Morrison denied that any request had been made and said&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;would decline if it was asked in the future.

"It's not been asked to us, not being considered, not been put to us. I think I the rule a line under that," Morrison told reporters in Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland.

A recent increase in tensions between Washington and Beijing, both over trade and rights of navigation in both the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, has put&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;in an awkward spot, as the United States is its biggest ally, while China is its biggest export market.

Beijing last week described&nbsp;Australian efforts to improve the bilateral relationship as "unsatisfactory".

Australia&nbsp;worries China is using foreign aid to secure greater influence over small Pacific countries which control vast swathes of resource-rich ocean.

Australia, traditionally the major power in the South Pacific, has promised up to A$3 billion ($2.03 billion) in grants and cheap loans to counter what Washington describes as China's "payday loan diplomacy".

US intermediate-range missiles will not be deployed in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, after the United States revealed ambitions to site missiles in the Asia-Pacific region.

US intermediate-range missiles will not be deployed in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, after the United States revealed ambitions to site missiles in the Asia-Pacific region. Officials from both governments held talks in Sydney over the weekend that ended with a joint statement in which the two allies pledged to strengthen opposition to Chinese activities in Asia-Pacific, as both sides have become increasingly concerned about China's spreading influence. During the talks, US Defense Secretary Mark Esper spoke of hopes to deploy missiles in the Asia-Pacific region in the coming months following Washington's withdrawal from a landmark arms control treaty last week. Esper's comments prompted speculation that Australia had been asked to host the missiles, but Morrison denied that any request had been made and said Australia would decline if it was asked in the future. "It's not been asked to us, not being considered, not been put to us. I think I the rule a line under that," Morrison told reporters in Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland. A recent increase in tensions between Washington and Beijing, both over trade and rights of navigation in both the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, has put Australia in an awkward spot, as the United States is its biggest ally, while China is its biggest export market. Beijing last week described Australian efforts to improve the bilateral relationship as "unsatisfactory". Australia worries China is using foreign aid to secure greater influence over small Pacific countries which control vast swathes of resource-rich ocean. Australia, traditionally the major power in the South Pacific, has promised up to A$3 billion ($2.03 billion) in grants and cheap loans to counter what Washington describes as China's "payday loan diplomacy".

Australia won't host US missiles: PM Scott Morrison

Pro and Anti-Hong Kong rallies across Australia. Watch video to know more.

Pro and Anti-Hong Kong rallies across Australia

A major police operation was undertaken in Sydney when a man went on a random stabbing spree. Watch this video to know more.

Australia: Man goes on random stabbing spree

After a man went on a stabbing attack in downtown Sydney killing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-injured-in-knife-attack-in-sydneys-central-business-district-242683">one woman and wounding</a> another, police said he was carrying a knife and a computer thumb drive containing information about deadly attacks in North America and New Zealand when he went on the frenzy as a "lone actor".

"Our counter-terrorist command immediately stood up and the joint counter-terrorist team, that includes New South Wales Police, state and federal agencies have assessed all the available information in relation to this crime and it is not currently classed as a terrorist incident," Mick Fuller, commissioner of New South Wales police, said.

"Obviously as the investigation continues we will reassess that," Fuller added.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-sydney-attacker-was-restrained-by-locals-with-milk-crates-and-chairs-242643/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The incident brought mid-afternoon traffic in Sydney to a standstill and sparked a police investigation into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-accused-of-sydney-knife-attack-retrained-by-brave-bystanders-242629">how the accused man</a>, aged 21, went from living with his parents to what police said was a terrible crime.

"He is by definition at the moment a lone actor. Information was found on him that would suggest he has some ideologies in relation to terrorism but he has no links to terrorism," the police commissioner said, adding, "there is no current intelligence on this individual and he has no apparent links to other terrorist organisations."

As far as the death toll was concerned, the police did not say how the first woman died but said the man was responsible for both attacks. The unidentified man had also tried unsuccessfully to stab other people, police said which was termed as an "unprovoked attack". 
&nbsp;

After a man went on a stabbing attack in downtown Sydney killing one woman and wounding another, police said he was carrying a knife and a computer thumb drive containing information about deadly attacks in North America and New Zealand when he went on the frenzy as a "lone actor".

After a man went on a stabbing attack in downtown Sydney killing one woman and wounding another, police said he was carrying a knife and a computer thumb drive containing information about deadly attacks in North America and New Zealand when he went on the frenzy as a "lone actor". "Our counter-terrorist command immediately stood up and the joint counter-terrorist team, that includes New South Wales Police, state and federal agencies have assessed all the available information in relation to this crime and it is not currently classed as a terrorist incident," Mick Fuller, commissioner of New South Wales police, said. "Obviously as the investigation continues we will reassess that," Fuller added. Watch Video: The incident brought mid-afternoon traffic in Sydney to a standstill and sparked a police investigation into how the accused man, aged 21, went from living with his parents to what police said was a terrible crime. "He is by definition at the moment a lone actor. Information was found on him that would suggest he has some ideologies in relation to terrorism but he has no links to terrorism," the police commissioner said, adding, "there is no current intelligence on this individual and he has no apparent links to other terrorist organisations." As far as the death toll was concerned, the police did not say how the first woman died but said the man was responsible for both attacks. The unidentified man had also tried unsuccessfully to stab other people, police said which was termed as an "unprovoked attack".

Sydney knife attack currently not classed as a terrorist incident: Police

Cricket Australia unveiled new guidelines on Thursday to ensure transgender players can take part in the game at the highest levels. The policy sets out a testosterone limit for transgender and gender-diverse players who want to play for state and national women's teams.

Cricket Australia unveiled new guidelines on Thursday to ensure transgender players can take part in the game at the highest levels. The policy sets out a testosterone limit for transgender and gender-diverse players who want to play for state and national women's teams. "It doesn't make any sense that today, people are discriminated against, harassed or excluded, because of who they are," Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said in a statement. To be eligible for elite women's teams, the players must show a testosterone concentration of fewer than 10 nanomoles per litre over at least 12 months. They must also be able to demonstrate their elected gender is consistent with how they are living their lives daily. The move more closely aligns Australia to the International Cricket Council's gender diversity guidelines. Cricket Australia's policy also guides community clubs, supporting grassroots cricketers to compete as the gender with which they identify. The guidelines cover everything from victimisation to privacy and providing suitable facilities, as well as the collection of personal information. Transgender participation in sport has proved a thorny issue with some prominent stars, including tennis great Martina Navratilova, voicing disquiet.

Cricket Australia sets testosterone limit for transgender players

US intermediate range missiles will not be deployed in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, after the United States revealed ambitions to site missiles in the Asia Pacific region.

US intermediate range missiles will not be deployed in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, after the United States revealed ambitions to site missiles in the Asia Pacific region. Officials from both governments held talks in Sydney over the weekend that ended with a joint statement in which the two allies pledged to strengthen opposition to Chinese activities in Asia-Pacific, as both sides have become increasingly concerned about China's spreading influence. During the talks, US Defence Secretary Mark Esper spoke of hopes to deploy missiles in the Asia Pacific region in the coming months following Washington's withdrawal from a landmark arms control treaty last week. Esper's comments prompted speculation that Australia had been asked to host the missiles, but Morrison denied that any request had been made and said Australia would decline if it was asked in the future. "It's not been asked to us, not being considered, not been put to us. I think I the rule a line under that," Morrison told reporters in Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland. A recent increase in tensions between Washington and Beijing, both over trade and rights of navigation in both the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, has put Australia in an awkward spot, as the United States is its biggest ally, while China is its biggest export market. Beijing last week described Australian efforts to improve the bilateral relationship as "unsatisfactory". Australia worries China is using foreign aid to secure greater influence over small Pacific countries which control vast swathes of resource rich ocean. Australia, traditionally the major power in the South Pacific, has promised up to A$3 billion ($2.03 billion) in grants and cheap loans to counter what Washington describes as China's "payday loan diplomacy".

Australia won't host US missiles, prime minister says

Australia were left hoping for another major inning from Steve Smith as England took charge of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

When bad light cut short the third day's play, Australia were 124-3 in their second innings -- a lead of just 34 runs.

Former captain Smith, who had made a superb 144 in the first innings of his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, was 46 not out.

Travis Head was 21 not out, with the pair's stand worth 49 runs. &nbsp;

Ashes-holders Australia, looking to win their first series away to England in 18 years, were struggling at 27-2 after openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft -- also returning to Test duty after the ball-tampering scandal -- both fell in single figures.

In a match full of overturned decisions, England had to review umpire Joel Wilson's original not out verdict when Warner feathered a catch behind to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow on eight to give Stuart Broad his 450th Test wicket.

Warner walked off to raucous chants of "same old Aussies, always cheating" from England fans.&nbsp;

It was an important blow for Broad, who took 5-86 in Australia's first innings of 284 as new-ball partner James Anderson was absent with a calf injury that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs first time around.&nbsp;

Birmingham-born off-spinner Moeen Ali then had Bancroft lob a simple bat and pad catch to Jos Buttler at short leg.

Smith's arrival at the crease prompted a huge chorus of boos from England fans who earlier in the day had taunted him with chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the star batsman's emotional press conference in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa.

Usman Khawaja might have been out for 11 but Buttler, now in the slips, failed to hold a tough chance off Moeen.

The left-hander made an attractive 40 but Khawaja was undone by Ben Stokes's second ball, a superb delivery that cut back sharply to have him caught behind.

Struck on head

Australia were now 75-3, still 15 runs behind. &nbsp;

Smith, on 41, was struck on the side of the head after missing an intended pull off a Stokes bouncer but was passed fit to bat on by the Australia team doctor.

Soon afterwards, although the floodlights were on, the umpires decided it was too dark to continue and halted play shortly before heavy rain fell.

Earlier, England opener Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours for 133 -- his maiden Test hundred -- in an innings of 374 featuring half-centuries from captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Stokes (50).

England lost three wickets for four runs to slump to 300-8 -- a lead of just 16 runs.

But a ninth-wicket partnership of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Broad (29) boosted their total.

Australia fast bowler Pat Cummins took 3-84 in 33 overs on a placid but wearing pitch and off-spinner Nathan Lyon 3-112 in 43.5 overs.&nbsp;

England resumed on 267-4, 17 runs adrift, with Burns 125 not out and Stokes 38 not out.

Stokes was out for exactly 50 when he a loose cut off Cummins was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine.

Lyon then finally ended left-hander Burns's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounced took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine.&nbsp;

Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours.

By contrast, new batsman Moeen lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck.

Woakes and Broad's stand started with both batsmen on nought.

But Woakes hoisted Lyon for six and the pair accumulated runs steadily before Broad, who batted for nearly two hours, turned Cummins straight to long leg.

Australia were left hoping for another major inning from Steve Smith as England took charge of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. When bad light cut short the third day's play, Australia were 124-3 in their second innings -- a lead of just 34 runs.

Australia were left hoping for another major inning from Steve Smith as England took charge of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. When bad light cut short the third day's play, Australia were 124-3 in their second innings -- a lead of just 34 runs. Former captain Smith, who had made a superb 144 in the first innings of his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, was 46 not out. Travis Head was 21 not out, with the pair's stand worth 49 runs. Ashes-holders Australia, looking to win their first series away to England in 18 years, were struggling at 27-2 after openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft -- also returning to Test duty after the ball-tampering scandal -- both fell in single figures. In a match full of overturned decisions, England had to review umpire Joel Wilson's original not out verdict when Warner feathered a catch behind to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow on eight to give Stuart Broad his 450th Test wicket. Warner walked off to raucous chants of "same old Aussies, always cheating" from England fans. It was an important blow for Broad, who took 5-86 in Australia's first innings of 284 as new-ball partner James Anderson was absent with a calf injury that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs first time around. Birmingham-born off-spinner Moeen Ali then had Bancroft lob a simple bat and pad catch to Jos Buttler at short leg. Smith's arrival at the crease prompted a huge chorus of boos from England fans who earlier in the day had taunted him with chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the star batsman's emotional press conference in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa. Usman Khawaja might have been out for 11 but Buttler, now in the slips, failed to hold a tough chance off Moeen. The left-hander made an attractive 40 but Khawaja was undone by Ben Stokes's second ball, a superb delivery that cut back sharply to have him caught behind. Struck on head Australia were now 75-3, still 15 runs behind. Smith, on 41, was struck on the side of the head after missing an intended pull off a Stokes bouncer but was passed fit to bat on by the Australia team doctor. Soon afterwards, although the floodlights were on, the umpires decided it was too dark to continue and halted play shortly before heavy rain fell. Earlier, England opener Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours for 133 -- his maiden Test hundred -- in an innings of 374 featuring half-centuries from captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Stokes (50). England lost three wickets for four runs to slump to 300-8 -- a lead of just 16 runs. But a ninth-wicket partnership of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Broad (29) boosted their total. Australia fast bowler Pat Cummins took 3-84 in 33 overs on a placid but wearing pitch and off-spinner Nathan Lyon 3-112 in 43.5 overs. England resumed on 267-4, 17 runs adrift, with Burns 125 not out and Stokes 38 not out. Stokes was out for exactly 50 when he a loose cut off Cummins was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine. Lyon then finally ended left-hander Burns's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounced took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine. Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours. By contrast, new batsman Moeen lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck. Woakes and Broad's stand started with both batsmen on nought. But Woakes hoisted Lyon for six and the pair accumulated runs steadily before Broad, who batted for nearly two hours, turned Cummins straight to long leg.

Australia look to Smith again as England take charge of first Ashes Test

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out.

They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8.

Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease.

England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering.

But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38.

In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon.

Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review.

Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket.

A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours.

But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine.

Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5.

New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket.

Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point.

But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine.&nbsp;

Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours.

By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings.

Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner.

England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought.

But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out. They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8. Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease. England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering. But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38. In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon. Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review. Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket. A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours. But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine. Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5. New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket. Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point. But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine. Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours. By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings. Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner. England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought. But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Ashes - 1st Test, Day 3: Australia's Lyon sparks England collapse

A new opposition party backed by the estranged brother of Singapore's prime minister was launched Saturday in a fresh challenge to the government as speculation mounts elections could be called soon.

The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) aiming to contest an election due by 2021 but widely expected earlier is led by Tan Cheng Bock, a medical doctor and former government stalwart who once ran for president and nearly defeated the establishment candidate.

The group has received the support of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's brother, the latest sign of a bitter falling out within the city state's first family over their father's legacy.

The rare row within <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-pm-lee-hsien-loongs-brother-backs-new-opposition-party-239046">Singapore's</a> elite erupted following the 2015 death of the men's father, revered founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, who led the country for three decades.

Under his People's Action Party (PAP), Singapore transformed from a gritty port into one of Asia's most advanced economies although authorities also faced criticism for curtailing civil liberties and free speech.

Speaking to hundreds of supporters at a hotel ballroom and live on social media, the 79 year old Tan decried what he said was a climate of fear preventing people from speaking up.

He also claimed there was an "erosion of trust" between the government and citizens due to lack of transparency, independence, and accountability.

Beneath Singapore's gleaming skyscrapers "is an underlying tale of disquiet," he said, adding, "we cannot allow this current style of managing the country to go unchallenged".

The group joins a handful of other parties seeking to take on the dominant PAP, but the fractious opposition which has just six out of 89 elected seats in parliament is not viewed as a serious threat.

However, backing from the premier's sibling, Lee Hsien Yang could provide a boost to Tan.

In January, a 62 year old business executive Lee, who did not attend the PSP launch, said in a Facebook post that Tan was "the leader Singapore deserves".

In a separate post, he wrote PAP had lost its way and was no longer the party of his father.

During a press conference last week, Tan said he may be willing to take Lee into the party formally.

Lee's&nbsp;association with the party can boost Tan's profile as "one of the 'nice' people to have represented the PAP during its glory days," said Michael Barr, a Singapore politics specialist at Flinders University in Australia.

"The presence of the prime minister's brother in, or at least on the fringes of an opposition party, is a reminder that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is not his father... and that this family is fractured over Lee Kuan Yew's legacy," Barr told AFP.

A Lee Hsien Yang candidacy under the PSP would be a "game changer" as it would "do immense damage to the brand of Lee Hsien Loong's branch of the family".

However, Singapore Management University law lecturer Eugene Tan said Lee Hsien Yang's support for the party is a "double-edged sword" as it could overshadow the PSP's agenda and focus attention on the family feud.

"The vision that Dr. Tan may have will become a sideshow. So it is a card that needs to be played very, very carefully," political analyst Tan told AFP.

The Lee family row centers on allegations made by the premier's siblings that he is seeking to block the demolition of a family bungalow to capitalize on their father's legacy something he has denied.

A new opposition party backed by the estranged brother of Singapore's prime minister was launched Saturday in a fresh challenge to the government as speculation mounts elections could be called soon.

A new opposition party backed by the estranged brother of Singapore's prime minister was launched Saturday in a fresh challenge to the government as speculation mounts elections could be called soon. The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) aiming to contest an election due by 2021 but widely expected earlier is led by Tan Cheng Bock, a medical doctor and former government stalwart who once ran for president and nearly defeated the establishment candidate. The group has received the support of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's brother, the latest sign of a bitter falling out within the city state's first family over their father's legacy. The rare row within Singapore's elite erupted following the 2015 death of the men's father, revered founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, who led the country for three decades. Under his People's Action Party (PAP), Singapore transformed from a gritty port into one of Asia's most advanced economies although authorities also faced criticism for curtailing civil liberties and free speech. Speaking to hundreds of supporters at a hotel ballroom and live on social media, the 79 year old Tan decried what he said was a climate of fear preventing people from speaking up. He also claimed there was an "erosion of trust" between the government and citizens due to lack of transparency, independence, and accountability. Beneath Singapore's gleaming skyscrapers "is an underlying tale of disquiet," he said, adding, "we cannot allow this current style of managing the country to go unchallenged". The group joins a handful of other parties seeking to take on the dominant PAP, but the fractious opposition which has just six out of 89 elected seats in parliament is not viewed as a serious threat. However, backing from the premier's sibling, Lee Hsien Yang could provide a boost to Tan. In January, a 62 year old business executive Lee, who did not attend the PSP launch, said in a Facebook post that Tan was "the leader Singapore deserves". In a separate post, he wrote PAP had lost its way and was no longer the party of his father. During a press conference last week, Tan said he may be willing to take Lee into the party formally. Lee's association with the party can boost Tan's profile as "one of the 'nice' people to have represented the PAP during its glory days," said Michael Barr, a Singapore politics specialist at Flinders University in Australia. "The presence of the prime minister's brother in, or at least on the fringes of an opposition party, is a reminder that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is not his father... and that this family is fractured over Lee Kuan Yew's legacy," Barr told AFP. A Lee Hsien Yang candidacy under the PSP would be a "game changer" as it would "do immense damage to the brand of Lee Hsien Loong's branch of the family". However, Singapore Management University law lecturer Eugene Tan said Lee Hsien Yang's support for the party is a "double-edged sword" as it could overshadow the PSP's agenda and focus attention on the family feud. "The vision that Dr. Tan may have will become a sideshow. So it is a card that needs to be played very, very carefully," political analyst Tan told AFP. The Lee family row centers on allegations made by the premier's siblings that he is seeking to block the demolition of a family bungalow to capitalize on their father's legacy something he has denied.

New Singapore opposition party launched as polls loom

Tariff wars, duties imposed by Donald Trump and US trading partners

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-eng-v-aus-first-test-day-one-smith-ton-takes-australia-to-284-all-out-in-first-ashes-test-240025">century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes</a>.

The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8.

But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0.

Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England.

"There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps.

"I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation.&nbsp;

"It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again.&nbsp;

"I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'.

There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot.

Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score.

Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review.

'Shivers down my spine'

Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders.&nbsp;

The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering.

"I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries.&nbsp;

"They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine."

When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86.

Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury.&nbsp;

"He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague.&nbsp;

"He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling."

Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts.

"It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket.&nbsp;

"Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes.

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes. The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8. But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0. Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England. "There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps. "I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation. "It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again. "I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'. There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot. Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score. Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review. 'Shivers down my spine' Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders. The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering. "I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries. "They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine." When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86. Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury. "He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague. "He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling." Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts. "It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket. "Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

I lost bit of love for cricket at one point, says Steve Smith after Ashes comeback century

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

The former captain was playing his first match at this level since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

Australia were struggling at 17-2 when Smith walked in to bat after current captain Tim Paine won the toss.

And they were in dire straits at 122-8.

But their last two wickets more than doubled the score before Smith was last man out for 144 -- his 24th Test century.

Stuart Broad, who eventually bowled Smith, led England's attack with 5-86 in an innings in which 37-year-old spearhead James Anderson only managed four overs before leaving the field with a calf injury.

Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England for 18 years.

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. The former captain was playing his first match at this level since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Australia were struggling at 17-2 when Smith walked in to bat after current captain Tim Paine won the toss. And they were in dire straits at 122-8. But their last two wickets more than doubled the score before Smith was last man out for 144 -- his 24th Test century. Stuart Broad, who eventually bowled Smith, led England's attack with 5-86 in an innings in which 37-year-old spearhead James Anderson only managed four overs before leaving the field with a calf injury. Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England for 18 years.

Smith ton takes Australia to 284 all out on day one of first Ashes Test

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees.

The funding is part of a 10-year scheme that includes training for police and judges to probe criminal networks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-planning-additional-military-infrastructure-in-australia-foreign-minister-marise-payne-239432">Australia's foreign affairs minister Marise Payne</a> said at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Bangkok.

"The initiative will also support joint international investigations to help rescue victims and ensure traffickers are charged," she said.&nbsp;

Rising demand for cheap labour, especially in the fishing and construction industries, has spurred trafficking networks across Southeast Asia where porous borders allow for the easy movement of people.&nbsp;

China's thirst for brides from the Mekong region has also fuelled an illicit trade of mostly young women, thanks to Beijing's decades-long one-child policy and preference for boys.&nbsp;

"There are many deep-rooted factors that enable transnational crime, from corruption through to the unequal status of children and other vulnerable groups," Payne added.

The persecution of Rohingya Muslims in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-ngo-worker-shot-in-restive-rakhine-state-239511">Myanmar's restive Rakhine state</a> is also prompting new and dangerous networks to form.

Some 740,000 of the stateless Rohingya fled Myanmar for Bangladesh, following a brutal military crackdown in 2017 but many are leaving the squalid refugee camps in an attempt to reach Malaysia and Indonesia for work, where they are vulnerable to exploitation.

The sophisticated and lucrative trafficking trade in Southeast Asia was exposed in 2015 when Thailand tried to shut down a million-dollar people-smuggling route for Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar.&nbsp;

The route came to light after the discovery of the migrants' mass graves in southern Thailand.&nbsp;

Payne highlighted the Rohingya's plight on Thursday.

"We are also concerned about the situation in Rakhine State. We're committed to working with Myanmar, with Bangladesh, with ASEAN, and other partners towards a long term and durable solution," she said.&nbsp;

John Quinley from Fortify Rights, which documents trafficking cases in the region, called on ASEAN countries to boost cooperation and punish perpetrators.&nbsp;

"Human trafficking is a transnational crime that needs a transnational solution," he said.

In 2016, there were an estimated 25 million people trapped in modern slavery across Asia-Pacific, according to the Global Slavery Index.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees.

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees. The funding is part of a 10-year scheme that includes training for police and judges to probe criminal networks, Australia's foreign affairs minister Marise Payne said at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Bangkok. "The initiative will also support joint international investigations to help rescue victims and ensure traffickers are charged," she said. Rising demand for cheap labour, especially in the fishing and construction industries, has spurred trafficking networks across Southeast Asia where porous borders allow for the easy movement of people. China's thirst for brides from the Mekong region has also fuelled an illicit trade of mostly young women, thanks to Beijing's decades-long one-child policy and preference for boys. "There are many deep-rooted factors that enable transnational crime, from corruption through to the unequal status of children and other vulnerable groups," Payne added. The persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar's restive Rakhine state is also prompting new and dangerous networks to form. Some 740,000 of the stateless Rohingya fled Myanmar for Bangladesh, following a brutal military crackdown in 2017 but many are leaving the squalid refugee camps in an attempt to reach Malaysia and Indonesia for work, where they are vulnerable to exploitation. The sophisticated and lucrative trafficking trade in Southeast Asia was exposed in 2015 when Thailand tried to shut down a million-dollar people-smuggling route for Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar. The route came to light after the discovery of the migrants' mass graves in southern Thailand. Payne highlighted the Rohingya's plight on Thursday. "We are also concerned about the situation in Rakhine State. We're committed to working with Myanmar, with Bangladesh, with ASEAN, and other partners towards a long term and durable solution," she said. John Quinley from Fortify Rights, which documents trafficking cases in the region, called on ASEAN countries to boost cooperation and punish perpetrators. "Human trafficking is a transnational crime that needs a transnational solution," he said. In 2016, there were an estimated 25 million people trapped in modern slavery across Asia-Pacific, according to the Global Slavery Index.

Australia pledges US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia

Raids on jungle drug labs have been met with heavy artillery fire, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-ngo-worker-shot-in-restive-rakhine-state-239511">Myanmar</a> narcotics police said Thursday, in an area riddled with armed groups accused of pumping out much of the world's methamphetamine.

Myanmar is under increasingly intense pressure from its neighbours to close down the meth labs festooning lawless parts of Shan State, the heart of the notorious "Golden Triangle".

A major crackdown kicked off last month in Kutkai Township, northern Shan, the army has said, where an entwined network of drug lords, ethnic rebel groups and security forces are accused of running a shadow drug economy worth billions of dollars.

Huge stockpiles of chemicals as well as millions of dollars of ice the highly addictive crystalised form of meth were seized in one raid on homespun labs buried deep in the jungle.&nbsp;

"The crackdown is ongoing," a senior police officer from the anti-drugs squad told AFP, requesting anonymity.

The army and drug police initially conducted raids in the area on July 21 but were repelled by "heavy artillery" at the site, the officer said.&nbsp;

They returned several days later, busting a massive production site of nearly 100 huts.&nbsp;

Police seized 750 kilograms (1,650 pounds) of ice worth an estimated $10.5 million along with 9,000 yaba pills caffeine-laced meth tablets the army said.

They also found thousands of acid barrels and bottles, stoves, fridges, power generators and tea bags, which are often used to disguise drugs for smuggling.&nbsp;

Rare photos of the cook houses showed rudimentary huts made from tree trunks and tarps.

The country's largest-ever drug bust was in the same area last year where police seized 30 million yaba pills, 1,750 kilograms of crystal meth and 500 kilograms of heroin with a domestic value of around $54 million.&nbsp;

The "Golden Triangle" a lawless wedge of land intersecting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-tears-into-china-on-twitter-as-trade-talks-resume-239492">China</a>, Myanmar, Thailand and Laos has long served as a base for opium and heroin production.

But methamphetamine production from Myanmar has risen to "alarming levels", according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).&nbsp;

The country is now believed to be the world's biggest producer of meth.

Drugs fan out across Southeast Asia thanks to porous borders, weak law enforcement and sophisticated money laundering networks often run out of casinos.

Made-in-Myanmar meth is being trafficked as far afield as Australia, where its price surges.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Raids on jungle drug labs have been met with heavy artillery fire, Myanmar narcotics police said Thursday, in an area riddled with armed groups accused of pumping out much of the world's methamphetamine.

Raids on jungle drug labs have been met with heavy artillery fire, Myanmar narcotics police said Thursday, in an area riddled with armed groups accused of pumping out much of the world's methamphetamine. Myanmar is under increasingly intense pressure from its neighbours to close down the meth labs festooning lawless parts of Shan State, the heart of the notorious "Golden Triangle". A major crackdown kicked off last month in Kutkai Township, northern Shan, the army has said, where an entwined network of drug lords, ethnic rebel groups and security forces are accused of running a shadow drug economy worth billions of dollars. Huge stockpiles of chemicals as well as millions of dollars of ice the highly addictive crystalised form of meth were seized in one raid on homespun labs buried deep in the jungle. "The crackdown is ongoing," a senior police officer from the anti-drugs squad told AFP, requesting anonymity. The army and drug police initially conducted raids in the area on July 21 but were repelled by "heavy artillery" at the site, the officer said. They returned several days later, busting a massive production site of nearly 100 huts. Police seized 750 kilograms (1,650 pounds) of ice worth an estimated $10.5 million along with 9,000 yaba pills caffeine-laced meth tablets the army said. They also found thousands of acid barrels and bottles, stoves, fridges, power generators and tea bags, which are often used to disguise drugs for smuggling. Rare photos of the cook houses showed rudimentary huts made from tree trunks and tarps. The country's largest-ever drug bust was in the same area last year where police seized 30 million yaba pills, 1,750 kilograms of crystal meth and 500 kilograms of heroin with a domestic value of around $54 million. The "Golden Triangle" a lawless wedge of land intersecting China, Myanmar, Thailand and Laos has long served as a base for opium and heroin production. But methamphetamine production from Myanmar has risen to "alarming levels", according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The country is now believed to be the world's biggest producer of meth. Drugs fan out across Southeast Asia thanks to porous borders, weak law enforcement and sophisticated money laundering networks often run out of casinos. Made-in-Myanmar meth is being trafficked as far afield as Australia, where its price surges.

Drug lab raids in Myanmar's meth capital met with artillery fire

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia is looking for their first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-contest-too-close-to-call-says-former-australia-captain-steve-waugh-238960">Ashes series win</a> in England in 18 years.

"The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game."

As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith.

Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales.

They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England.

Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England.&nbsp;

Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final.

Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins.

"He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely."

But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. &nbsp;

England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday.

James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's.

But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury.

Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland.

Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start.

"We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that.&nbsp;

"We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting."

The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.&nbsp;

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground. Australia is looking for their first Ashes series win in England in 18 years. "The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game." As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith. Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales. They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England. Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England. Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final. Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins. "He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely." But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday. James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's. But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury. Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland. Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start. "We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that. "We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting." The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.

Australia win toss and bat against England in first Ashes Test

Asian countries turning back wealthy world's waste

How Dilip Jajodia is helping swing king Anderson with his weapon of choice in Ashes

A phone call on the afternoon of June 26, 2019, changed the life of Indian origin Australian Deepak Raj Gupta. Deepak was the runner-up in the 2016 Gungahlin constituency elections. After the winner, Meegan Fitzharris, who is also from the Labour Party resigned, Deepak was nominated to the Parliament.

Deepak created ripples across the India media when he took the oath of his office holding Bhagwat Gita in his hand. A soon as the video surfaced it went viral on the internet.&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Deepak mentions that he sought special permission from the Chief Justice for the same. In Australia, one can only take an oath in the assembly either in the name of the Queen or the Bible.

"Considering I am a Hindu and I come from India and also represent a lot of people in my constituency who are from the same sect. It was something unique as it had never happened before. Being a Hindu I thought it would be good if I could take oath on Bhagwat Gita. This is the reason the Chief Justice allowed me to take oath on Gita," Deepak added.

Brought up in a middle-class family in Chandigarh, Deepak used to wash cars and work in restaurants to supports his studies when he migrated to Australia in 1989; however, he was granted PR in the year 1991.

On being asked about the challenges for migrants, Indians in particular while moving to a different country; he said, "It is a struggle coming from your own country to a different country. I would advise people who are planning to shift anywhere in the world should first do their homework well about what they are going to face. As people may give you a rosy picture but it is not the same."

Deepak further added that it is hard to settle in a very different environment. One should have a proper skill set to settle in a different nation it would then be easy to find a job and work in a profession that one knows best.

"People with higher degrees come here and then they do not fit into the system and that becomes a cause of frustration for them," said Deepak.

However, the Indian origin MLA also believes that there are a lot of benefits for the country where people have migrated to. They bring in a lot of skills, their culture and heritage to the new country and they also contribute to the economy.

"I am proud to say that Indians in Australia is a very progressive community. They bring a lot of skills, they are a part of the economy they are part of the business system that is good for any country to have those skilled migrants," Deepak added.

At the same time, Deepak also mentioned that people should understand if they have come to a new country and they are calling it home then they will have to follow the rules of the land.

"You just can't say that this is my belief and I want you to change all the system for it. That is not possible," he concluded.

Deepak is an active leader of the Australian-Indian community, who also has awards like excellence in community service awards and Community Advocate Award by the Government of ACT in his kitty.

A phone call on the afternoon of June 26, 2019, changed the life of Indian origin Australian Deepak Raj Gupta. Deepak was the runner-up in the 2016 Gungahlin constituency elections.

A phone call on the afternoon of June 26, 2019, changed the life of Indian origin Australian Deepak Raj Gupta. Deepak was the runner-up in the 2016 Gungahlin constituency elections. After the winner, Meegan Fitzharris, who is also from the Labour Party resigned, Deepak was nominated to the Parliament. Deepak created ripples across the India media when he took the oath of his office holding Bhagwat Gita in his hand. A soon as the video surfaced it went viral on the internet. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Deepak mentions that he sought special permission from the Chief Justice for the same. In Australia, one can only take an oath in the assembly either in the name of the Queen or the Bible. "Considering I am a Hindu and I come from India and also represent a lot of people in my constituency who are from the same sect. It was something unique as it had never happened before. Being a Hindu I thought it would be good if I could take oath on Bhagwat Gita. This is the reason the Chief Justice allowed me to take oath on Gita," Deepak added. Brought up in a middle-class family in Chandigarh, Deepak used to wash cars and work in restaurants to supports his studies when he migrated to Australia in 1989; however, he was granted PR in the year 1991. On being asked about the challenges for migrants, Indians in particular while moving to a different country; he said, "It is a struggle coming from your own country to a different country. I would advise people who are planning to shift anywhere in the world should first do their homework well about what they are going to face. As people may give you a rosy picture but it is not the same." Deepak further added that it is hard to settle in a very different environment. One should have a proper skill set to settle in a different nation it would then be easy to find a job and work in a profession that one knows best. "People with higher degrees come here and then they do not fit into the system and that becomes a cause of frustration for them," said Deepak. However, the Indian origin MLA also believes that there are a lot of benefits for the country where people have migrated to. They bring in a lot of skills, their culture and heritage to the new country and they also contribute to the economy. "I am proud to say that Indians in Australia is a very progressive community. They bring a lot of skills, they are a part of the economy they are part of the business system that is good for any country to have those skilled migrants," Deepak added. At the same time, Deepak also mentioned that people should understand if they have come to a new country and they are calling it home then they will have to follow the rules of the land. "You just can't say that this is my belief and I want you to change all the system for it. That is not possible," he concluded. Deepak is an active leader of the Australian-Indian community, who also has awards like excellence in community service awards and Community Advocate Award by the Government of ACT in his kitty.

Once washed cars, India born Deepak Raj Gupta takes oath as MLA in Australia with Bhagwad Gita in hand

WION Fineprint: First Indian born MLA in Australia Deepak Raj Gupta talks to WION. Watch video to know more.

WION Fineprint: First Indian born MLA in Australia Deepak Raj Gupta talks to WION

Australian universities are being investigated over their contracts with Chinese-state run Confucius Institutes, officials said Thursday, amid fresh revelations over the scope of Beijing's control of teaching in the centres.

Attorney-General Christian Porter said the government was looking at whether deals between thirteen Australian universities and the Confucius Institutes breach new foreign interference laws.

The organisation - which has been likened to France's Alliance Francaise, Spain's Instituto Cervantes and the British Council - teaches students about Chinese language and culture.

However, critics say the classes ofter a selective view of Chinese life - purposely avoiding sensitive topics such as the Tiananmen Square crackdown or Tibet.

A 2018 study by German academic Falk Hartig found that 50 Confucius Institutes in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas had a "clear agenda to present an apolitical version of China".

Australia's government has pressed universities to register the institutes - run by China's ministry of education - under new laws to track foreign actors seeking to influence Australian politics and governance.

Porter said his office has been "undertaking inquiries with a number of universities over recent months to ascertain whether certain arrangements should be registered" and meeting Confucius Institutes' representatives.&nbsp;

"I have now asked my department to specifically examine the arrangements between all Confucius Institutes and universities in order to ensure compliance with the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme."

- Careful attention - 
In a statement Thursday, Universities Australia said they were "giving careful attention" to the rules, introduced last year.

So far none of the institutes features on the foreign influence registry, which is public.

"Our nation's universities are looking carefully at their agreements with foreign entities to ensure they comply with the new laws," said Chief Executive Catriona Jackson.&nbsp;

Her comments came as the Sydney Morning Herald published 11 of the 13 contracts between Confucius Institutes and Australian universities.

Four contracts featured clauses that gave the Chinese institutes final say on "teaching quality" and stated activities must respect "cultural custom". &nbsp;

In return, the universities received minimum funding of Aus$100,000-$150,000 upfront and 3,000 Chinese books and other materials.

The four schools are the University of Queensland, La Trobe University, Griffith University and Charles Darwin University.

In separate statements, the universities stressed the institutes' classes were not part of degree programmes and were conceived as a service to the local community.

The University of Queensland said it was in the process of renegotiating the contract, with legal obligations "front of mind."

Griffith University indicated this contract -&nbsp;like others -&nbsp;would be reviewed "when they are considered for renewal."

The deals have helped boost educational ties between China and Australia. An estimated 190,000 Chinese students study at Australian universities, bringing in much-needed revenue.

But the links have also created tensions as the two very different political cultures meet.

On Wednesday there was a violent standoff between pro-Hong Kong democracy protestors and a group of students backing Beijing at the University of Queensland.

The university was recently put in the spotlight for making the Chinese consul-general in Brisbane a guest professor at the school of languages and culture.

&nbsp;

Australian universities are being investigated over their contracts with Chinese-state run Confucius Institutes, officials said Thursday, amid fresh revelations over the scope of Beijing's control of teaching in the centres.

Australian universities are being investigated over their contracts with Chinese-state run Confucius Institutes, officials said Thursday, amid fresh revelations over the scope of Beijing's control of teaching in the centres. Attorney-General Christian Porter said the government was looking at whether deals between thirteen Australian universities and the Confucius Institutes breach new foreign interference laws. The organisation - which has been likened to France's Alliance Francaise, Spain's Instituto Cervantes and the British Council - teaches students about Chinese language and culture. However, critics say the classes ofter a selective view of Chinese life - purposely avoiding sensitive topics such as the Tiananmen Square crackdown or Tibet. A 2018 study by German academic Falk Hartig found that 50 Confucius Institutes in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas had a "clear agenda to present an apolitical version of China". Australia's government has pressed universities to register the institutes - run by China's ministry of education - under new laws to track foreign actors seeking to influence Australian politics and governance. Porter said his office has been "undertaking inquiries with a number of universities over recent months to ascertain whether certain arrangements should be registered" and meeting Confucius Institutes' representatives. "I have now asked my department to specifically examine the arrangements between all Confucius Institutes and universities in order to ensure compliance with the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme." - Careful attention - In a statement Thursday, Universities Australia said they were "giving careful attention" to the rules, introduced last year. So far none of the institutes features on the foreign influence registry, which is public. "Our nation's universities are looking carefully at their agreements with foreign entities to ensure they comply with the new laws," said Chief Executive Catriona Jackson. Her comments came as the Sydney Morning Herald published 11 of the 13 contracts between Confucius Institutes and Australian universities. Four contracts featured clauses that gave the Chinese institutes final say on "teaching quality" and stated activities must respect "cultural custom". In return, the universities received minimum funding of Aus$100,000-$150,000 upfront and 3,000 Chinese books and other materials. The four schools are the University of Queensland, La Trobe University, Griffith University and Charles Darwin University. In separate statements, the universities stressed the institutes' classes were not part of degree programmes and were conceived as a service to the local community. The University of Queensland said it was in the process of renegotiating the contract, with legal obligations "front of mind." Griffith University indicated this contract - like others - would be reviewed "when they are considered for renewal." The deals have helped boost educational ties between China and Australia. An estimated 190,000 Chinese students study at Australian universities, bringing in much-needed revenue. But the links have also created tensions as the two very different political cultures meet. On Wednesday there was a violent standoff between pro-Hong Kong democracy protestors and a group of students backing Beijing at the University of Queensland. The university was recently put in the spotlight for making the Chinese consul-general in Brisbane a guest professor at the school of languages and culture.

Australian universities face probe over China deals

Canada's air force has been called into a tiny community in northern Manitoba, where two teens suspected of three murders were thought to have been last seen, police said on Monday, as the chase entered a second week.

Kam McLeod, 19, and Bryer Schmegelsky, 18, were believed to have been seen on Sunday outside York Landing, a First Nations community of less than 500 people, 90 km (56 miles) south of Gillam, Manitoba, where search efforts were previously concentrated.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Manitoba posted on Twitter that they have not been able to substantiate the tip "after a thorough &amp; exhaustive search," but that resources will remain in the York Landing and Gillum areas.

The sighting is believed to be the first one in several days of Schmegelsky and McLeod, who were first reported missing on July 19 in British Columbia, but were later described as suspects in the killing of Chynna Deese, a 24-year-old American, and her Australian boyfriend, Lucas Fowler, 23.

Police charged McLeod and Schmegelsky last week with second-degree murder in the death of Leonard Dyck, 64, a Vancouver botany professor.

The RCMP said in a briefing on Monday that they could not confirm the identities of the individuals spotted near a town landfill in York Landing, but are deploying significant resources to the area.

The town is accessible only by air or a two-hour ferry from Gillam in the summer; a rail line runs 20 km (12 miles) to the south.

The suspected sighting was made near the landfill by members of the Bear Clan Patrol, an Aboriginal community watch group based in Winnipeg, James Favel, executive director of the patrol, said. Members of the Bear Clan were patrolling the area when they spotted two individuals who met the descriptions of the fugitives near the garbage dump. They were initially suspicious because the individuals appeared to be without a car, he said.

"Nobody goes to the dump without a vehicle for refuge just in case bears appear, and they do quite frequently," Favel told Reuters.

Upon realizing they had been spotted, the two individuals bolted and disappeared into the tree line, Favel said. He called the area surrounding York Landing "unforgiving territory."

Favel said he was optimistic that Schmegelsky and McLeod would soon be caught, pointing to the level of resources from the RCMP and Canadian military concentrated in the area.

The community of York Landing remains on high alert, with community leaders asking residents to keep their doors locked and remain inside as much as possible.

Canada's air force has been called into a tiny community in northern Manitoba, where two teens suspected of three murders were thought to have been last seen, police said on Monday, as the chase entered a second week.

Canada's air force has been called into a tiny community in northern Manitoba, where two teens suspected of three murders were thought to have been last seen, police said on Monday, as the chase entered a second week. Kam McLeod, 19, and Bryer Schmegelsky, 18, were believed to have been seen on Sunday outside York Landing, a First Nations community of less than 500 people, 90 km (56 miles) south of Gillam, Manitoba, where search efforts were previously concentrated. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Manitoba posted on Twitter that they have not been able to substantiate the tip "after a thorough & exhaustive search," but that resources will remain in the York Landing and Gillum areas. The sighting is believed to be the first one in several days of Schmegelsky and McLeod, who were first reported missing on July 19 in British Columbia, but were later described as suspects in the killing of Chynna Deese, a 24-year-old American, and her Australian boyfriend, Lucas Fowler, 23. Police charged McLeod and Schmegelsky last week with second-degree murder in the death of Leonard Dyck, 64, a Vancouver botany professor. The RCMP said in a briefing on Monday that they could not confirm the identities of the individuals spotted near a town landfill in York Landing, but are deploying significant resources to the area. The town is accessible only by air or a two-hour ferry from Gillam in the summer; a rail line runs 20 km (12 miles) to the south. The suspected sighting was made near the landfill by members of the Bear Clan Patrol, an Aboriginal community watch group based in Winnipeg, James Favel, executive director of the patrol, said. Members of the Bear Clan were patrolling the area when they spotted two individuals who met the descriptions of the fugitives near the garbage dump. They were initially suspicious because the individuals appeared to be without a car, he said. "Nobody goes to the dump without a vehicle for refuge just in case bears appear, and they do quite frequently," Favel told Reuters. Upon realizing they had been spotted, the two individuals bolted and disappeared into the tree line, Favel said. He called the area surrounding York Landing "unforgiving territory." Favel said he was optimistic that Schmegelsky and McLeod would soon be caught, pointing to the level of resources from the RCMP and Canadian military concentrated in the area. The community of York Landing remains on high alert, with community leaders asking residents to keep their doors locked and remain inside as much as possible.

Canadian air force joins search for fugitive murder suspects in remote area

Australia coach Justin Langer says an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-joins-steve-smith-and-david-warner-in-australias-ashes-squad-238644&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlgs2W3tzjAhWL7nMBHW9qDEUQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EAcaSZ4lNdf3iTyI_At_Y">David Warner and Steve Smith.</a>

If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI.

Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup.

Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook.

"It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

"His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary."

Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out.

"He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal."

Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series.

"He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said.

Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack.&nbsp;

"There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer.

Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban. Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature David Warner and Steve Smith. If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI. Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup. Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook. "It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday. "His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary." Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out. "He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal." Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series. "He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said. Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack. "There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer. Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Langer predicts hostile Ashes reception for Bancroft from England fans

Brewing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asia-stocks-higher-ahead-of-fed-pound-pressured-by-fresh-brexit-pain-239341">no-deal Brexit</a> worries sent the pound sinking towards a two-year low versus the euro and roughed up Irish bonds on Tuesday, while stock markets wilted before what is expected to be the first cut in rates since the financial crisis.

Europe's markets suffered a stormy start as the pound followed its worst day of the year with another 0.5% swoon against all the major currencies.

A blizzard of fiery talk on Monday that included the new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson called his predecessor's Brexit plans dead and its new foreign minister labelling the European Union "stubborn" kept the slide intact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-plays-brexit-hardball-with-stubborn-european-union-pound-falls-to-a-two-year-low-239235">Sterling fell</a> as far as $1.2120, which was its lowest against the dollar since March 2017, and to 91.85 pence per euro, the weakest since September 2017.

Options markets were pointing to more pain too. Three-month implied volatility, a contract that expires just before the October&nbsp;31 Brexit deadline, jumped to over 11 vols, the highest since before March 29, the original date for Britain to leave the European Union.

"The pound is in a very precarious state, it is as simple as that," said TD Securities' European head of currency strategy Ned Rumpeltin.

"We are now in a different regime," he said, referring to Johnson's explicit agenda of taking Britain out of the EU, whether or not transitional trading agreements are in place.

It was not just sterling reeling either.

Irish government bond yield spreads over Germany hit their widest levels in over a month at 24 basis points, on worries about the damage a no-deal Brexit would do to Ireland's economy.

Other eurozone government bond yields were holding near recent lows ahead of the Federal Reserve meeting which is expected to deliver a 25 basis point rate cut on Wednesday and potentially signal more on the way.

Germany's 10-year government bond yield was hovering near the minus 0.40% mark.

European shares slipped as grim forecasts from German chemicals and drugs giant Bayer and airline Lufthansa soured sentiment, although the weakness of the pound kept London's blue-chip FTSE index just about out of the red.

With concerns about global growth still bubbling among investors, a GfK survey also showed German consumer morale worsening for the third month in a row heading into August as trade disputes bit in Europe's biggest exporter.

"Most markets are down this morning," said Simona Gambarini, a markets economist at Capital Economics. "The S&amp;P closed lower yesterday. We have a few data releases regarding the eurozone that could push equity prices down but I think everyone is waiting for the Fed meeting."

Aussie Gold

Asia had been a bit more positive overnight.

Japan's Nikkei rose 0.4%, showing a limited reaction to the Bank of Japan's widely anticipated decision to stand pat on monetary policy. Shanghai rose 0.3% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng edged up 0.2%.

Australian stocks stole the glory again though with another record high, as buoyant mining shares added to tech-driven gains the previous day.

The BOJ added that it would ease policy again "without hesitation" if the economy loses momentum for achieving the central bank's 2% inflation target.

Also drawing some attention were US-China trade negotiations which begin in Shanghai on Tuesday, although expectations for progress during the two-day meeting are low with the markets hoping the two sides can at least detail commitments for "goodwill" gestures.

Among commodities, crude oil prices extended the previous day's gains, with the Fed's expected easing fuelling optimism that it would boost the economy and fuel demand in the world's biggest oil consumer.

US crude futures were up 0.65% at $57.24 per barrel and Brent crude added 0.6% to $64.09. Gold was down 0.1% at $1,425 per ounce.

Brewing no-deal Brexit worries sent the pound sinking towards a two-year low versus the euro and roughed up Irish bonds on Tuesday, while stock markets wilted before what is expected to be the first cut in rates since the financial crisis.

Brewing no-deal Brexit worries sent the pound sinking towards a two-year low versus the euro and roughed up Irish bonds on Tuesday, while stock markets wilted before what is expected to be the first cut in rates since the financial crisis. Europe's markets suffered a stormy start as the pound followed its worst day of the year with another 0.5% swoon against all the major currencies. A blizzard of fiery talk on Monday that included the new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson called his predecessor's Brexit plans dead and its new foreign minister labelling the European Union "stubborn" kept the slide intact. Sterling fell as far as $1.2120, which was its lowest against the dollar since March 2017, and to 91.85 pence per euro, the weakest since September 2017. Options markets were pointing to more pain too. Three-month implied volatility, a contract that expires just before the October 31 Brexit deadline, jumped to over 11 vols, the highest since before March 29, the original date for Britain to leave the European Union. "The pound is in a very precarious state, it is as simple as that," said TD Securities' European head of currency strategy Ned Rumpeltin. "We are now in a different regime," he said, referring to Johnson's explicit agenda of taking Britain out of the EU, whether or not transitional trading agreements are in place. It was not just sterling reeling either. Irish government bond yield spreads over Germany hit their widest levels in over a month at 24 basis points, on worries about the damage a no-deal Brexit would do to Ireland's economy. Other eurozone government bond yields were holding near recent lows ahead of the Federal Reserve meeting which is expected to deliver a 25 basis point rate cut on Wednesday and potentially signal more on the way. Germany's 10-year government bond yield was hovering near the minus 0.40% mark. European shares slipped as grim forecasts from German chemicals and drugs giant Bayer and airline Lufthansa soured sentiment, although the weakness of the pound kept London's blue-chip FTSE index just about out of the red. With concerns about global growth still bubbling among investors, a GfK survey also showed German consumer morale worsening for the third month in a row heading into August as trade disputes bit in Europe's biggest exporter. "Most markets are down this morning," said Simona Gambarini, a markets economist at Capital Economics. "The S&P closed lower yesterday. We have a few data releases regarding the eurozone that could push equity prices down but I think everyone is waiting for the Fed meeting." Aussie Gold Asia had been a bit more positive overnight. Japan's Nikkei rose 0.4%, showing a limited reaction to the Bank of Japan's widely anticipated decision to stand pat on monetary policy. Shanghai rose 0.3% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng edged up 0.2%. Australian stocks stole the glory again though with another record high, as buoyant mining shares added to tech-driven gains the previous day. The BOJ added that it would ease policy again "without hesitation" if the economy loses momentum for achieving the central bank's 2% inflation target. Also drawing some attention were US-China trade negotiations which begin in Shanghai on Tuesday, although expectations for progress during the two-day meeting are low with the markets hoping the two sides can at least detail commitments for "goodwill" gestures. Among commodities, crude oil prices extended the previous day's gains, with the Fed's expected easing fuelling optimism that it would boost the economy and fuel demand in the world's biggest oil consumer. US crude futures were up 0.65% at $57.24 per barrel and Brent crude added 0.6% to $64.09. Gold was down 0.1% at $1,425 per ounce.

Stormy sterling sinks again, stocks wilt before Fed

Australia's government on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into allegations that police, customs and immigration officials illegally smoothed the way for a prominent casino group to attract Chinese high rollers.

Crown casinos have been in the spotlight since Sunday when a series of media reports alleged it used junket operators with links to Asian triad gangs, that drug traffickers laundered money through the company, and that government employees gave special treatment to wealthy Chinese gamblers.

Attorney-General Christian Porter said on Tuesday he had referred the allegations raised by the Nine News investigation to the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity.

"It's my view that there are sufficient concerns raised at least to warrant further investigations," he told the Australian parliament.

Officials are accused of waving Chinese VIP gamblers through customs, issuing fast-track visas to high rollers and moonlighting for a VIP visitor to the casino.

Independent MP Andrew Wilkie told parliament that in one instance some gamblers stepped off a plane and travelled directly to the casino, stopping only to pick up a sex worker en route.

The high rollers who are alleged to have visited the casino on junkets from China include Ming Chai - the cousin of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying rejected the allegations against Ming.

"I don't know where these media outlets dig out these rumours from to make such groundless accusations," Hua said at a regular briefing.

"These sensational claims are an attempt to discredit China. I think such tactics are despicable."

Porter stressed that beyond the media reports he did not have "any other obvious evidence otherwise available that supports allegations against law enforcement, immigration or customs authorities".

The commission would now decide whether or not to launch a full investigation, Porter said.

Crown said it would work with any investigation and denied wrongdoing.

"Crown absolutely rejects allegations of illegality made in Parliament today and in recent media reporting. We believe these allegations are ill-informed and an attempt to smear the company," a statement said.

The Department of Home Affairs told AFP it has a series of arrangements with large international organisations to quickly process short-stay visas.

Such an agreement existed with Crown between 2003 and 2016.

The department said there was "no reduced vetting in certain locations or for certain applicants" and there was "no discretion" to waive legislative requirements for such visas.

Crown has casinos in Melbourne and Perth and is building another in Sydney.

Australia's government on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into allegations that police, customs and immigration officials illegally smoothed the way for a prominent casino group to attract Chinese high rollers.

Australia's government on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into allegations that police, customs and immigration officials illegally smoothed the way for a prominent casino group to attract Chinese high rollers. Crown casinos have been in the spotlight since Sunday when a series of media reports alleged it used junket operators with links to Asian triad gangs, that drug traffickers laundered money through the company, and that government employees gave special treatment to wealthy Chinese gamblers. Attorney-General Christian Porter said on Tuesday he had referred the allegations raised by the Nine News investigation to the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity. "It's my view that there are sufficient concerns raised at least to warrant further investigations," he told the Australian parliament. Officials are accused of waving Chinese VIP gamblers through customs, issuing fast-track visas to high rollers and moonlighting for a VIP visitor to the casino. Independent MP Andrew Wilkie told parliament that in one instance some gamblers stepped off a plane and travelled directly to the casino, stopping only to pick up a sex worker en route. The high rollers who are alleged to have visited the casino on junkets from China include Ming Chai - the cousin of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying rejected the allegations against Ming. "I don't know where these media outlets dig out these rumours from to make such groundless accusations," Hua said at a regular briefing. "These sensational claims are an attempt to discredit China. I think such tactics are despicable." Porter stressed that beyond the media reports he did not have "any other obvious evidence otherwise available that supports allegations against law enforcement, immigration or customs authorities". The commission would now decide whether or not to launch a full investigation, Porter said. Crown said it would work with any investigation and denied wrongdoing. "Crown absolutely rejects allegations of illegality made in Parliament today and in recent media reporting. We believe these allegations are ill-informed and an attempt to smear the company," a statement said. The Department of Home Affairs told AFP it has a series of arrangements with large international organisations to quickly process short-stay visas. Such an agreement existed with Crown between 2003 and 2016. The department said there was "no reduced vetting in certain locations or for certain applicants" and there was "no discretion" to waive legislative requirements for such visas. Crown has casinos in Melbourne and Perth and is building another in Sydney.

Australia orders probe into treatment of Chinese high rollers

Australia's parliament voted Monday to implement a maritime border treaty with East Timor, potentially unlocking billions in offshore oil and gas revenue after a bitter decade-long dispute.

The treaty is expected to provide a major boost to East Timor, one of Asia's poorest countries, by establishing new arrangements for sharing revenue from the Greater Sunrise gas fields in the Timor Sea.

It comes just days after East Timor's parliament voted in favour of ratifying the treaty, which the two countries signed at the United Nations in March 2018 and was the first-ever reached under a special conciliation mechanism of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Discovered in 1974, the lucrative Greater Sunrise fields - located 150 kilometres (93 miles) southeast of East Timor and 450 kilometres northwest of Darwin - are estimated to be worth between US$40 and $50 billion.

East Timor plans to develop the gas fields through a pipeline that would reach the country's south coast, with hopes it would provide much-needed employment opportunities, though Australia has cast doubt on the smaller nation's capacity to do so.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in the Senate Monday that the treaty "settled a long-running dispute over our maritime boundaries, agreed upon a pathway for the development of Greater Sunrise and laid the foundation for a new chapter in our bilateral relations".

Australia has seen its international reputation damaged by the dispute with its less powerful neighbour, with Dili dragging Canberra to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague after contesting a previous deal signed in 2006.

East Timor wanted that treaty, which also covered the vast Greater Sunrise fields, torn up after Australia was accused of spying to gain a commercial advantage during the negotiations.

As the dispute escalated, a group of energy companies including Australia's Woodside, ConocoPhillips, Shell, and Osaka Gas decided to mothball plans to develop the fields.

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said during the House of Representatives debate on Friday that the lengthy dispute "has not done a great deal for Australia's standing as good neighbours to one of the newest nations on the planet".

Australia has continued to profit from an oil field stake that is set to be handed to East Timor under the treaty, taking an estimated AUS$60 million in the 12 months after the treaty was signed but not ratified, national broadcaster ABC reported.

East Timor was invaded by Indonesia in 1975 before it gained independence in 2002 after a UN-sponsored referendum in 1999, which will be marked by 20th-anniversary celebrations on August 30.

Australia's parliament voted Monday to implement a maritime border treaty with East Timor, potentially unlocking billions in offshore oil and gas revenue after a bitter decade-long dispute.

Australia's parliament voted Monday to implement a maritime border treaty with East Timor, potentially unlocking billions in offshore oil and gas revenue after a bitter decade-long dispute. The treaty is expected to provide a major boost to East Timor, one of Asia's poorest countries, by establishing new arrangements for sharing revenue from the Greater Sunrise gas fields in the Timor Sea. It comes just days after East Timor's parliament voted in favour of ratifying the treaty, which the two countries signed at the United Nations in March 2018 and was the first-ever reached under a special conciliation mechanism of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Discovered in 1974, the lucrative Greater Sunrise fields - located 150 kilometres (93 miles) southeast of East Timor and 450 kilometres northwest of Darwin - are estimated to be worth between US$40 and $50 billion. East Timor plans to develop the gas fields through a pipeline that would reach the country's south coast, with hopes it would provide much-needed employment opportunities, though Australia has cast doubt on the smaller nation's capacity to do so. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in the Senate Monday that the treaty "settled a long-running dispute over our maritime boundaries, agreed upon a pathway for the development of Greater Sunrise and laid the foundation for a new chapter in our bilateral relations". Australia has seen its international reputation damaged by the dispute with its less powerful neighbour, with Dili dragging Canberra to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague after contesting a previous deal signed in 2006. East Timor wanted that treaty, which also covered the vast Greater Sunrise fields, torn up after Australia was accused of spying to gain a commercial advantage during the negotiations. As the dispute escalated, a group of energy companies including Australia's Woodside, ConocoPhillips, Shell, and Osaka Gas decided to mothball plans to develop the fields. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said during the House of Representatives debate on Friday that the lengthy dispute "has not done a great deal for Australia's standing as good neighbours to one of the newest nations on the planet". Australia has continued to profit from an oil field stake that is set to be handed to East Timor under the treaty, taking an estimated AUS$60 million in the 12 months after the treaty was signed but not ratified, national broadcaster ABC reported. East Timor was invaded by Indonesia in 1975 before it gained independence in 2002 after a UN-sponsored referendum in 1999, which will be marked by 20th-anniversary celebrations on August 30.

Australia ratifies maritime boundaries with East Timor

australia

Australia, News on Australia, stories on Australia, articles on Australia, Australia stories at Wion, Australia news, Australia latest news