British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday he would proceed carefully on making a decision on Huawei because the government did not want any critical infrastructure to be controlled by “potentially hostile state vendors”.

“I don’t want to see our critical national infrastructure at risk of being in any way controlled by potentially hostile state vendors,” Johnson told the Evening Standard when asked about the Chinese telecommunications giant’s possible involvement in Britain’s 5G network. “So we have to think very carefully about how to proceed now.” 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-apps-have-been-banned-in-india-is-huawei-next-309732">Also Read: Chinese apps have been banned in India; Is Huawei next?</a>

British lawmakers have been&nbsp;pushing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to reconsider a January decision to grant Huawei a limited role in Britain’s 5G networks.&nbsp;

Huawei's role in Britain's next-generation 5G network is under heightened scrutiny, with increasing global mistrust of China after the deadly coronavirus outbreak. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-telecom-regulator-designates-chinas-huawei-zte-as-national-security-threats-309822">Also Read: US telecom regulator designates China's Huawei, ZTE as 'national security threats'</a> 
 
Meanwhile, the US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) has formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security.&nbsp;

The declaration bars US tech firms from tapping an $8.3 billion Universal Service Fund to purchase equipment from the companies, effective immediately. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday he would proceed carefully on making a decision on Huawei because the government did not want any critical infrastructure to be controlled by “potentially hostile state vendors”.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday he would proceed carefully on making a decision on Huawei because the government did not want any critical infrastructure to be controlled by “potentially hostile state vendors”. “I don’t want to see our critical national infrastructure at risk of being in any way controlled by potentially hostile state vendors,” Johnson told the Evening Standard when asked about the Chinese telecommunications giant’s possible involvement in Britain’s 5G network. “So we have to think very carefully about how to proceed now.” Also Read: Chinese apps have been banned in India; Is Huawei next? British lawmakers have been pushing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to reconsider a January decision to grant Huawei a limited role in Britain’s 5G networks. Huawei's role in Britain's next-generation 5G network is under heightened scrutiny, with increasing global mistrust of China after the deadly coronavirus outbreak. Also Read: US telecom regulator designates China's Huawei, ZTE as 'national security threats' Meanwhile, the US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) has formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security. The declaration bars US tech firms from tapping an $8.3 billion Universal Service Fund to purchase equipment from the companies, effective immediately. (With inputs from Reuters)

We must proceed carefully on decisions related to Huawei, says UK PM Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson has raises the stakes in a brewing confrontation with China on July 1 promising to allow nearly 3 million people from Hong Kong to live and work in Britain if Beijing moves forward with the new National Security Law. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: UK extends Hong Kong immigration rights, National Security Law

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong.

Even though China claims it will let Hong Kong take care of its affairs, in rare circumstances people could be extradited to mainland China. In essence, this law materialises the goals of the now-panned extradition law while effectively ensuring no dissent against Chinese administration brews in the financial hub.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-of-hong-kongs-struggle-against-chinese-hegemony-309674" hreflang="en">Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony</a>

Even before the law was formalised, the UK had promised assistance to Hong Kongers if China went ahead with the legislation. As per this promise, those in possession of the British National Overseas passport could live in the UK, and work there. This would pave way for citizenship.

"That is precisely what we will do now," Johnson told the parliament.

Earlier, authorities had claimed that the law would be used to weed out “terrorists” from the city, while alluding to the year-long protests in the city which ended in a lot of violence, and only simmered down with the advent of COVID-19.

Activists go MIA

In the backdrop of China passing its controversial national security law in Hong Kong, activist groups in the city have disappeared from social media, and most pro-democracy campaigns shut fearing repercussions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/none-of-your-business-china-slams-foreign-critics-over-hong-kong-law-309907" hreflang="en">'None of your business': China slams foreign critics over Hong Kong law</a>

Fearing jail time, or worse, naysayers of the Chinese government will be put in prison for three-ten years depending on the gravity of crimes. Those who commit “serious crimes” may also face life imprisonment.

What emerged as a protest against China’s now scrapped extradition law for Hong Kongers, turned into a larger demand for democracy and against Chinese influence in the city.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/hong-kongs-handover-anniversary-police-fire-water-cannons-on-protestors-hk-security-law-309899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

23 years of handover

On July 1, Hong Kong marks 23 years since it was returned to China by Britain, as part of the “one country, two systems” deal, which gives special privileges to the people of Hong Kong which are not available elsewhere in the Chinese mainland.

Additionally, the city is judged by its mini-constitution called “Basic law”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-says-national-security-law-wont-undermine-autonomy-309637" hreflang="en">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy</a>

With the goal to stifle anti-government protests, the legislation criminalises subversion, secession, terrorism, and working with foreign forces. The sedition aspect of the law essentially make any critique of the Chinese government illegal.

Any actions by people qualifying as “endangering the state” may be used to arrest people.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong. Even though China claims it will let Hong Kong take care of its affairs, in rare circumstances people could be extradited to mainland China. In essence, this law materialises the goals of the now-panned extradition law while effectively ensuring no dissent against Chinese administration brews in the financial hub. In pictures: Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony Even before the law was formalised, the UK had promised assistance to Hong Kongers if China went ahead with the legislation. As per this promise, those in possession of the British National Overseas passport could live in the UK, and work there. This would pave way for citizenship. "That is precisely what we will do now," Johnson told the parliament. Earlier, authorities had claimed that the law would be used to weed out “terrorists” from the city, while alluding to the year-long protests in the city which ended in a lot of violence, and only simmered down with the advent of COVID-19. Activists go MIA In the backdrop of China passing its controversial national security law in Hong Kong, activist groups in the city have disappeared from social media, and most pro-democracy campaigns shut fearing repercussions. Also read: 'None of your business': China slams foreign critics over Hong Kong law Fearing jail time, or worse, naysayers of the Chinese government will be put in prison for three-ten years depending on the gravity of crimes. Those who commit “serious crimes” may also face life imprisonment. What emerged as a protest against China’s now scrapped extradition law for Hong Kongers, turned into a larger demand for democracy and against Chinese influence in the city. 23 years of handover On July 1, Hong Kong marks 23 years since it was returned to China by Britain, as part of the “one country, two systems” deal, which gives special privileges to the people of Hong Kong which are not available elsewhere in the Chinese mainland. Additionally, the city is judged by its mini-constitution called “Basic law”. Also read: Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy With the goal to stifle anti-government protests, the legislation criminalises subversion, secession, terrorism, and working with foreign forces. The sedition aspect of the law essentially make any critique of the Chinese government illegal. Any actions by people qualifying as “endangering the state” may be used to arrest people.

UK extends immigration rights to Hong Kongers on 23rd anniversary of city's handover

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life.

Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netizens-lash-out-at-british-pm-boris-johnson-after-his-press-ups-309417" hreflang="en">Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups'</a>

"I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue."

The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater.

"HUGELY COSTLY"

Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported.

"I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-pm-to-unveil-new-infrastructure-plan-to-revive-economy-in-face-of-pandemic-309188" hreflang="en">Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic</a>

Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer.

"We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS."

Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes."

"When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know."

"I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life. Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." Also read: Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups' "I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue." The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater. "HUGELY COSTLY" Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported. "I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address." Also read: Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer. "We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS." Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper. Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes." "When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know." "I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are fatter than the rest of Europe, says PM Johnson

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was once infected with coronavirus,&nbsp;said that he is 'fit as a butcher's dog' and boasted his good health by doing some 'press ups'.&nbsp;

On March 27, the British Prime Minister announced that he was infected with the novel coronavirus. After quarantining himself for a week, Johnson was admitted to hospital on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care after his symptoms worsened. Boris Johnson returned his office, earlier in May.&nbsp;

<img alt="l," data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40e04d34-a7a9-4d8e-94ec-71867f9ebf84" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_53.jpg" />

Johnson revealed that he never thought of dying due to the virus&nbsp;during his treatment and his battle with coronavirus has made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal.

During an interview with the Daily Mail, Johnson said: “I’m as fit as a butcher’s dog now. Do you want me to do some press-ups to show you how fit I am?”

The photo of his push-ups made rounds on social media platforms&nbsp;leaving netizens puzzled.

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If, as Boris Johnson proclaims, he is now as “fit as a butcher’s dog”, his illness can no longer be used as an excuse for his incompetence, laziness and detachment from the life of the nation.
— George Monbiot (@GeorgeMonbiot) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeMonbiot/status/1277480436474744834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Downing Street release photo after Boris Johnson does a push up for each avoidable CV-19 death <a href="https://t.co/aOy2atY0pc">pic.twitter.com/aOy2atY0pc</a>
— LCD Views (@LcdViews) <a href="https://twitter.com/LcdViews/status/1277165359078965248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Why has the Mail published a photo of Boris Johnson attempting a press up when it just highlights how embarrassingly unfit he looks? Is the Mail trolling him by humiliating him or the public by treating us like fawning idiots?
— Louise Ashworth 🕷🇪🇺#ForeverEuropean #3Million (@Ashworth101) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashworth101/status/1277153122863980545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was once infected with coronavirus, said that he is 'fit as a butcher's dog' and boasted his good health by doing some 'press ups'.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was once infected with coronavirus, said that he is 'fit as a butcher's dog' and boasted his good health by doing some 'press ups'. On March 27, the British Prime Minister announced that he was infected with the novel coronavirus. After quarantining himself for a week, Johnson was admitted to hospital on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care after his symptoms worsened. Boris Johnson returned his office, earlier in May. Johnson revealed that he never thought of dying due to the virus during his treatment and his battle with coronavirus has made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. During an interview with the Daily Mail, Johnson said: “I’m as fit as a butcher’s dog now. Do you want me to do some press-ups to show you how fit I am?” The photo of his push-ups made rounds on social media platforms leaving netizens puzzled. If, as Boris Johnson proclaims, he is now as “fit as a butcher’s dog”, his illness can no longer be used as an excuse for his incompetence, laziness and detachment from the life of the nation. — George Monbiot (@GeorgeMonbiot) June 29, 2020 × Downing Street release photo after Boris Johnson does a push up for each avoidable CV-19 death pic.twitter.com/aOy2atY0pc — LCD Views (@LcdViews) June 28, 2020 × Why has the Mail published a photo of Boris Johnson attempting a press up when it just highlights how embarrassingly unfit he looks? Is the Mail trolling him by humiliating him or the public by treating us like fawning idiots? — Louise Ashworth 🕷🇪🇺#ForeverEuropean #3Million (@Ashworth101) June 28, 2020 ×

Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups'

Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson will launch a plan this week to get his country “moving again” after the coronavirus lockdown, when the government will set out measures to boost infrastructure construction.

In an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said there would be no return to controversial austerity policies practised by his Conservative Party over the past decade. He said he was going to act fast “to build our way back to health”.

Johnson is expected to outline plans in a speech on Tuesday, already dubbed "Project Speed", with a pledge to fast-track building projects such as hospitals, schools, housing, and road and rail infrastructure, part of efforts to try to stem a fall in support for his government.

The British leader has been criticised for his response to the coronavirus crisis, with opposition parties and some scientists saying the government was too slow to bring in a lockdown, too slow to carry out widespread testing and not clear in its messaging.

But Johnson, who won a large majority at last year’s election, hopes to revive his fortunes by returning to his pledges to “level up” Britain by focusing spending on traditional Labour-supporting areas that backed his Conservative Party.

Some scientists fear that Britain is on course for a second wave of coronavirus, not helped by some people holding parties and large gatherings after Johnson announced a further easing of England’s lockdown in early July, when pubs and restaurants can reopen.

Chancellor (finance minister) Rishi Sunak is expected to make an economic statement next month on spending plans.

(with inputs from agencies)

Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson will launch a plan this week to get his country “moving again” after the coronavirus lockdown, when the government will set out measures to boost infrastructure construction.

Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson will launch a plan this week to get his country “moving again” after the coronavirus lockdown, when the government will set out measures to boost infrastructure construction. In an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said there would be no return to controversial austerity policies practised by his Conservative Party over the past decade. He said he was going to act fast “to build our way back to health”. Johnson is expected to outline plans in a speech on Tuesday, already dubbed "Project Speed", with a pledge to fast-track building projects such as hospitals, schools, housing, and road and rail infrastructure, part of efforts to try to stem a fall in support for his government. The British leader has been criticised for his response to the coronavirus crisis, with opposition parties and some scientists saying the government was too slow to bring in a lockdown, too slow to carry out widespread testing and not clear in its messaging. But Johnson, who won a large majority at last year’s election, hopes to revive his fortunes by returning to his pledges to “level up” Britain by focusing spending on traditional Labour-supporting areas that backed his Conservative Party. Some scientists fear that Britain is on course for a second wave of coronavirus, not helped by some people holding parties and large gatherings after Johnson announced a further easing of England’s lockdown in early July, when pubs and restaurants can reopen. Chancellor (finance minister) Rishi Sunak is expected to make an economic statement next month on spending plans. (with inputs from agencies)

Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that UK will have to accept the consequences of having&nbsp;weaker economic links with the European Union (EU) post Brexit.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iceland-president-set-for-landslide-election-win-309002" hreflang="en">Iceland president set for landslide election win</a>

Merkel said these statements while talking about the future relations between Brussels and London after Britain leaves the union.&nbsp;

In an interview with Europa newspaper alliance, Merkel said that the British PM Boris Johnson "will of course have to accept the consequences -- that is, an economy less tightly linked" with the EU.&nbsp;

Britain left the EU in January and will no longer be required to follow the bloc's financial rules after December, when a transition period ends, whereas, Germany is set &nbsp;to take over the EU's rotating presidency for six months from July 1.

"We must get away from the idea that it is we who define what the United Kingdom may wish," indicated Merkel, who has consistently sought to help bring about an outcome which avoids a hard Brexit.

"The United Kingdom defines and we, as the EU27, make an appropriate response," said Merkel.

"If the United Kingdom does not want regulations comparable to that of Europe in terms of the environment, the labour market or social norms, our relations will lose intensity," she observed.

The European Union has to find a way &nbsp;through tough negotiations on a 750 billion ($800 billion) post-coronavirus euro recovery fund for countries worst hit by the pandemic.&nbsp;

For Merkel, the fund "cannot resolve all of Europe's problems" but the bloc must "act quickly in the face of the pandemic given the huge hit the virus has dealt jobs and the economy."

Merkel feared that the results could have an "explosive political impact" that could threaten democracy.

"For Europe to survive, its economy must also survive," she concluded.

(Inputs from AFP)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that UK will have to accept the consequences of having weaker economic links with the European Union (EU) post Brexit. Also read: Iceland president set for landslide election win Merkel said these statements while talking about the future relations between Brussels and London after Britain leaves the union.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that UK will have to accept the consequences of having weaker economic links with the European Union (EU) post Brexit. Also read: Iceland president set for landslide election win Merkel said these statements while talking about the future relations between Brussels and London after Britain leaves the union. In an interview with Europa newspaper alliance, Merkel said that the British PM Boris Johnson "will of course have to accept the consequences -- that is, an economy less tightly linked" with the EU. Britain left the EU in January and will no longer be required to follow the bloc's financial rules after December, when a transition period ends, whereas, Germany is set to take over the EU's rotating presidency for six months from July 1. "We must get away from the idea that it is we who define what the United Kingdom may wish," indicated Merkel, who has consistently sought to help bring about an outcome which avoids a hard Brexit. "The United Kingdom defines and we, as the EU27, make an appropriate response," said Merkel. "If the United Kingdom does not want regulations comparable to that of Europe in terms of the environment, the labour market or social norms, our relations will lose intensity," she observed. The European Union has to find a way through tough negotiations on a 750 billion ($800 billion) post-coronavirus euro recovery fund for countries worst hit by the pandemic. For Merkel, the fund "cannot resolve all of Europe's problems" but the bloc must "act quickly in the face of the pandemic given the huge hit the virus has dealt jobs and the economy." Merkel feared that the results could have an "explosive political impact" that could threaten democracy. "For Europe to survive, its economy must also survive," she concluded. (Inputs from AFP)

'Britain will have weaker economic ties with EU post Brexit': Angela Merkel

Terming the standoff between Indian and Chinese troops at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) as "very serious and worrying", UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called on Beijing and Delhi to engage in dialogue to resolve the border issue between them.

UK calls on China, India to engage in dialogue to resolve worrying standoff

Easing coronavirus lockdown, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday said pubs, restaurants and hotels could reopen in England from July 4. In other signs of a gradual return to normal life, hairdressers will open again along with tourist attractions like theme parks, but nightclubs, indoor gyms and swimming pools will stay closed, according to Reuters.

Easing coronavirus lockdown, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday said pubs, restaurants and hotels could reopen in England from July 4. In other signs of a gradual return to normal life, hairdressers will open again along with tourist attractions like theme parks, but nightclubs, indoor gyms and swimming pools will stay closed, according to Reuters. The British prime minister has been under pressure from businesses and from members of his governing Conservative Party to ease the lockdown, but until now he had resisted for fear of prompting a second wave. On Tuesday, he said with infection rates falling and little current threat of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, he could reopen swathes of the economy. Also read: COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK By relaxing the rule on social distancing from two metres to one metre-plus, with the 'plus' meaning measures like wearing masks and using protective screens, Johnson said many businesses could reopen from July 4. "Today we can say that our long, national hibernation is beginning to come to an end," he told parliament. "All hospitality indoors will be limited to table service and our guidance will encourage minimal staff and customer contact." Encouraging people to return to pubs, the British PM asked people to act responsibly and that those enjoying the British tradition of a pint should give their names on arrival. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: US and UK governments are losing public trust The changes will allow two households to meet in any setting and all schools will reopen in September, he said, adding that laws specifying social contact would be replaced with the new guidance. Business cautiously welcomed the measures. Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "We are still a long way from business as usual. Broader efforts to boost business and consumer confidence will still be needed." Britain has one of the highest death tolls in the world from COVID-19, but the number of cases has been steadily falling. Health officials on Monday reported just 15 new deaths, the lowest rise since mid-March. The daily tally of deaths peaked in April, when the toll exceeded 1,000 on nine days. Johnson said lockdown measures might need to be reintroduced if there were a second spike. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson dismissed criticism on Wednesday of his government's plans to implement local lockdowns if there are flare-ups of the novel coronavirus and of an app to trace the spread of the virus.

At prime minister's questions in parliament, the opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer suggested both systems were not yet ready before England eases its coronavirus lockdown from July 4.

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In response, Johnson said: "We have a very effective cluster-busting operation which is designed to ensure that we keep those outbreaks under control.

"I am not going to pretend ... that this thing is beaten or that the virus has gone away ... We have to remain vigilant and local councils will be supported in doing their vital work in implementing local lockdowns," he added, challenging Starmer to find any other country that has a functioning tracing app.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-second-wave-of-coronavirus-medics-warn-britain-308318" hreflang="en">Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain</a>

A spokesman for Starmer pointed to Germany, which has had a large number of people downloading its app, and a number of countries "which are far ahead of us in terms of developing their apps", such as Singapore and South Korea.

"We've spent 12 million pounds on an app which hasn't even been launched," the spokesman told reporters. "I think it was another example of a dodgy answer from a prime minister who wasn't on top of the detail."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson dismissed criticism on Wednesday of his government's plans to implement local lockdowns if there are flare-ups of the novel coronavirus and of an app to trace the spread of the virus.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson dismissed criticism on Wednesday of his government's plans to implement local lockdowns if there are flare-ups of the novel coronavirus and of an app to trace the spread of the virus. At prime minister's questions in parliament, the opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer suggested both systems were not yet ready before England eases its coronavirus lockdown from July 4. Also read: UK says no deadline for US trade deal, talks tough on terms In response, Johnson said: "We have a very effective cluster-busting operation which is designed to ensure that we keep those outbreaks under control. "I am not going to pretend ... that this thing is beaten or that the virus has gone away ... We have to remain vigilant and local councils will be supported in doing their vital work in implementing local lockdowns," he added, challenging Starmer to find any other country that has a functioning tracing app. Also read: Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain A spokesman for Starmer pointed to Germany, which has had a large number of people downloading its app, and a number of countries "which are far ahead of us in terms of developing their apps", such as Singapore and South Korea. "We've spent 12 million pounds on an app which hasn't even been launched," the spokesman told reporters. "I think it was another example of a dodgy answer from a prime minister who wasn't on top of the detail."

British PM Johnson dismisses criticism on local lockdowns, coronavirus app

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US&nbsp;administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-second-wave-of-coronavirus-medics-warn-britain-308318" hreflang="en">Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain</a>

"We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee.&nbsp;

"The US&nbsp;talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added.

Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pubs-restaurants-and-hotels-to-reopen-from-july-4-as-england-eases-social-distancing-308116" hreflang="en">Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing</a>

Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US&nbsp;tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US&nbsp;ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism.&nbsp;

"Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access. Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU. Also read: Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain "We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee. "The US talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added. Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which. Also read: Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism. "Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

UK says no deadline for US trade deal, talks tough on terms

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre.

"Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-uk-to-begin-trials-of-no-swab-self-test-kits-307695" hreflang="en">COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits</a>

However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/non-essential-shops-reopen-in-uk-after-3-months-306080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule.

The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278" hreflang="en">UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4.

"Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people. UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre. "Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Also read: COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible. Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule. The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly. Also read: UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4. "Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

UK to denounce two-metre distancing rule starting July; pubs and restaurants to resume service

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police.

According to Thames Valley, officers and emergency services rushed to a park in Forbury Gardens after getting reports of “multiple stabbings”. The assailant is understood to be a Libyan and was arrested after stabbing people in Forbury Gardens, Reading at 7 pm Saturday.

The police have said that several casualties were taken to Royal Berkshire hospital and according to the hospital spokeswoman, two people were in critical condition.&nbsp;

The police called in counter-terrorism investigators to check if terrorism may have been the motive behind stabbing.&nbsp;

Till now, every inquiry conducted by the counter-terrorist investigators is leading to that direction (terrorism). The MI5 will be assisting the counter-terrorism police and the security service.&nbsp;

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and home secretary, Priti Patel are constantly informed of developments.&nbsp;

Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, &nbsp;the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble.&nbsp;

Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.”

Johnson tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.”

Patel said that she was “deeply concerned” by the developments.

The leader of Reading council, Jason Brock, tweeted: “Concerning reports from Reading town centre – please stay clear of the area as Police are dealing with a serious incident.”

“Officers are on the scene and investigating the incident.”

The National Police Chief’s Council tweeted: “Please avoid speculation or sharing of video or images of the serious incident in Reading. An investigation will be ongoing.”

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police.

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police. According to Thames Valley, officers and emergency services rushed to a park in Forbury Gardens after getting reports of “multiple stabbings”. The assailant is understood to be a Libyan and was arrested after stabbing people in Forbury Gardens, Reading at 7 pm Saturday. The police have said that several casualties were taken to Royal Berkshire hospital and according to the hospital spokeswoman, two people were in critical condition. The police called in counter-terrorism investigators to check if terrorism may have been the motive behind stabbing. Till now, every inquiry conducted by the counter-terrorist investigators is leading to that direction (terrorism). The MI5 will be assisting the counter-terrorism police and the security service. The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and home secretary, Priti Patel are constantly informed of developments. Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble. Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.” Johnson tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.” Patel said that she was “deeply concerned” by the developments. The leader of Reading council, Jason Brock, tweeted: “Concerning reports from Reading town centre – please stay clear of the area as Police are dealing with a serious incident.” “Officers are on the scene and investigating the incident.” The National Police Chief’s Council tweeted: “Please avoid speculation or sharing of video or images of the serious incident in Reading. An investigation will be ongoing.”

UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link

Boris Johnson and Emmanuel Macron will meet on Thursday, the UK&nbsp;prime minister’s first bilateral with a European leader since calling for fresh momentum to secure a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU.

The French president is visiting London to commemorate the 80th anniversary of wartime leader Charles de Gaulle's famous broadcast&nbsp;from London during World War II and to honour four men who played significant roles in the French Resistance during the same period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-unhurt-in-car-crash-as-protester-runs-at-convoy-outside-parliament-306576" hreflang="en">UK PM unhurt in car crash as protester runs at convoy outside Parliament</a>

The four men,&nbsp;Edgard Tupet-Thome, 100, Daniel Bouyjou-Cordier, 99, Hubert Germain, 99, and Pierre Simonet, 98, are surviving members of the Order of Liberation, an honour given by France to those who played an outstanding role in setting France free.

Johnson said the men symbolised “the enduring depth and strength” of Franco-British friendship - which has been tested by Brexit turbulence since Britain voted to quit the European Union in a 2016 referendum.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will also meet Macron.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protest-by-french-health-care-workers-turns-violent-306578" hreflang="en">Protest by French health care workers turns violent</a>

Macron, on his first trip outside France since the start of the coronavirus lockdown in March, will also meet Johnson at 10 Downing Street to discuss their governments’ responses to the pandemic.

They are also likely to discuss Brexit, an issue that has been rising back up the political agenda in recent weeks as pressure increases on Britain and the European Union to agree and ratify a trade deal before a December&nbsp;31 deadline.

Macron will take part in a ceremonial event with Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, and his wife Camilla. The French leader will also be treated to a joint flypast by the Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s aerobatic team, and their French counterparts, the Patrouille de France.

A statue of Churchill that stands on Parliament Square was uncovered for Macron’s visit. The statue had been boarded up since last week to prevent it from being damaged by Black Lives Matter protesters.

Boris Johnson and Emmanuel Macron will meet on Thursday, the UK prime minister’s first bilateral with a European leader since calling for fresh momentum to secure a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU.

Boris Johnson and Emmanuel Macron will meet on Thursday, the UK prime minister’s first bilateral with a European leader since calling for fresh momentum to secure a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU. The French president is visiting London to commemorate the 80th anniversary of wartime leader Charles de Gaulle's famous broadcast from London during World War II and to honour four men who played significant roles in the French Resistance during the same period. Also read: UK PM unhurt in car crash as protester runs at convoy outside Parliament The four men, Edgard Tupet-Thome, 100, Daniel Bouyjou-Cordier, 99, Hubert Germain, 99, and Pierre Simonet, 98, are surviving members of the Order of Liberation, an honour given by France to those who played an outstanding role in setting France free. Johnson said the men symbolised “the enduring depth and strength” of Franco-British friendship - which has been tested by Brexit turbulence since Britain voted to quit the European Union in a 2016 referendum. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will also meet Macron. Also read: Protest by French health care workers turns violent Macron, on his first trip outside France since the start of the coronavirus lockdown in March, will also meet Johnson at 10 Downing Street to discuss their governments’ responses to the pandemic. They are also likely to discuss Brexit, an issue that has been rising back up the political agenda in recent weeks as pressure increases on Britain and the European Union to agree and ratify a trade deal before a December 31 deadline. Macron will take part in a ceremonial event with Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, and his wife Camilla. The French leader will also be treated to a joint flypast by the Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s aerobatic team, and their French counterparts, the Patrouille de France. A statue of Churchill that stands on Parliament Square was uncovered for Macron’s visit. The statue had been boarded up since last week to prevent it from being damaged by Black Lives Matter protesters.

Johnson, Macron to discuss Brexit trade talks; honour Resistance fighters

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's car was involved in a crash outside the gates of Parliament in London on Wednesday as a protester rushed towards his convoy.

Downing Street said there are no reports of any injuries after social media images emerged of the incident, which took place shortly after Johnson, 55, left the House of Commons after the weekly Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) session.

One of the security vehicles within his prime ministerial motorcade was seen to have hit the back of the UK PM's silver Jaguar as his driver slammed the brakes, resulting in a major dent.

"I think the video speaks for itself as to what happened. No reports of anybody being injured," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

The protester, believed to be a Kurdish activist, is seen being grabbed by Scotland Yard officers on duty near the Palace of Westminster and has since been arrested.

Johnson's motorcade quickly sped away from the scene following the incident, as security officials were heard shouting "stay back" to members of the public and protesters who regularly gather in and around Parliament Square.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's car was involved in a crash outside the gates of Parliament in London on Wednesday as a protester rushed towards his convoy. Downing Street said there are no reports of any injuries after social media images emerged of the incident, which took place shortly after Johnson, 55, left the House of Commons after the weekly Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) session.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's car was involved in a crash outside the gates of Parliament in London on Wednesday as a protester rushed towards his convoy. Downing Street said there are no reports of any injuries after social media images emerged of the incident, which took place shortly after Johnson, 55, left the House of Commons after the weekly Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) session. One of the security vehicles within his prime ministerial motorcade was seen to have hit the back of the UK PM's silver Jaguar as his driver slammed the brakes, resulting in a major dent. "I think the video speaks for itself as to what happened. No reports of anybody being injured," a Downing Street spokesperson said. The protester, believed to be a Kurdish activist, is seen being grabbed by Scotland Yard officers on duty near the Palace of Westminster and has since been arrested. Johnson's motorcade quickly sped away from the scene following the incident, as security officials were heard shouting "stay back" to members of the public and protesters who regularly gather in and around Parliament Square.

UK PM unhurt in car crash as protester runs at convoy outside Parliament

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag.

The aircraft is slated to have its current grey look refurbished, indicating the UK Prime Minister's intention to use the plane for global Britain trade missions as the UK's transition period before a complete exit from the European Union (EU) concludes at the end of this year.

The plane is being repainted at a specialist secure hangar run by Marshall Aerospace near Cambridge.

The aircraft, often likened to the US President's Air Force One, was commissioned at a cost of GBP 10-million by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and was intended to have a dual civilian and military use.

When Johnson was Foreign Secretary in the Theresa May led government in 2018, he had expressed his wish for a "Brexit plane" to help him travel the world and strike new trade agreements.

The twin-engine A330 Voyager jet is earmarked for use by the UK prime minister, Foreign Secretary and senior members of the Royal Family. It was acquired by the RAF as a troop carrier and air tanker before undergoing the Cameron-led makeover in 2016, lending it an initial reference of 'Cam Force One'.

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag.

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag. The aircraft is slated to have its current grey look refurbished, indicating the UK Prime Minister's intention to use the plane for global Britain trade missions as the UK's transition period before a complete exit from the European Union (EU) concludes at the end of this year. The plane is being repainted at a specialist secure hangar run by Marshall Aerospace near Cambridge. The aircraft, often likened to the US President's Air Force One, was commissioned at a cost of GBP 10-million by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and was intended to have a dual civilian and military use. When Johnson was Foreign Secretary in the Theresa May led government in 2018, he had expressed his wish for a "Brexit plane" to help him travel the world and strike new trade agreements. The twin-engine A330 Voyager jet is earmarked for use by the UK prime minister, Foreign Secretary and senior members of the Royal Family. It was acquired by the RAF as a troop carrier and air tanker before undergoing the Cameron-led makeover in 2016, lending it an initial reference of 'Cam Force One'.

UK PM Boris Johnson's jet to get 'Union Jack' makeover

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will provide a summer food fund for struggling families in England, bowing to pressure from England forward Marcus Rashford and his campaign to prevent children from going hungry during the coronavirus pandemic.

British ministers originally said school food vouchers would not be available over the long summer holiday, prompting the 22-year-old Manchester United forward to take up the cause and reveal how he had relied on such support as a boy.

Before a debate in parliament, and as some lawmakers from the governing Conservative Party called for a change, Johnson’s spokesman said the government would be providing a COVID summer food fund costing around 120 million pounds ($150 million).

“Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the prime minister fully understands that children and parents face an entirely unprecedented situation over the summer. To reflect this we will be providing a COVID summer food fund,” his spokesman said.

Rashford used a column in the Times newspaper on Tuesday to argue that while he may not have the education of a lawmaker in parliament, he did have a social education.

He has already helped to raise around 20 million pounds with charity Fareshare UK to supply meals to struggling families.

“I don’t even know what to say,” he said on Twitter of the change in policy. “Just look at what we can do when we come together, THIS is England in 2020.”

The move by the government was met with widespread praise for Rashford from fellow sports stars, politicians and the mayor of London. “Well played, Marcus. Well played,” said former England captain and pundit Gary Lineker on Twitter.

“Good to see Marcus Rashford keeping up his record of scoring on debut in each new competition,” one comment said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will provide a summer food fund for struggling families in England, bowing to pressure from England forward Marcus Rashford and his campaign to prevent children from going hungry during the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will provide a summer food fund for struggling families in England, bowing to pressure from England forward Marcus Rashford and his campaign to prevent children from going hungry during the coronavirus pandemic. British ministers originally said school food vouchers would not be available over the long summer holiday, prompting the 22-year-old Manchester United forward to take up the cause and reveal how he had relied on such support as a boy. Before a debate in parliament, and as some lawmakers from the governing Conservative Party called for a change, Johnson’s spokesman said the government would be providing a COVID summer food fund costing around 120 million pounds ($150 million). “Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the prime minister fully understands that children and parents face an entirely unprecedented situation over the summer. To reflect this we will be providing a COVID summer food fund,” his spokesman said. Rashford used a column in the Times newspaper on Tuesday to argue that while he may not have the education of a lawmaker in parliament, he did have a social education. He has already helped to raise around 20 million pounds with charity Fareshare UK to supply meals to struggling families. “I don’t even know what to say,” he said on Twitter of the change in policy. “Just look at what we can do when we come together, THIS is England in 2020.” The move by the government was met with widespread praise for Rashford from fellow sports stars, politicians and the mayor of London. “Well played, Marcus. Well played,” said former England captain and pundit Gary Lineker on Twitter. “Good to see Marcus Rashford keeping up his record of scoring on debut in each new competition,” one comment said.

UK PM Johnson bows to footballer Marcus Rashford's pressure to provide summer food fund

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain cannot "photoshop" its cultural landscape and complex history as doing so would be a distortion of its past, amid an ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures.

"If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history,"&nbsp;Johnson said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/churchill-slave-trader-edward-colstons-statues-vandalised-amid-protests-in-uk-304261">Churchill, slave trader Edward Colston's statues vandalised amid protests in UK</a>

Johnson also defended Winston Churchill and said it was "absurd and deplorable" that the former prime minister's monument should have been in any danger.

"He was a hero, and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body any attempt to remove that statue from Parliament Square, and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-dismantles-historical-artefacts-of-racism-monuments-become-sites-of-protest-304777">World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest</a>

Many monuments of historical figures&nbsp;have been boarded up&nbsp;as anti-racism protesters taking to the streets following the death of African-American George Floyd, have put statues at the forefront of their challenge to Britain's imperialist past.

Earlier this month, a statue of Edward Colston, who made a fortune in the 17th century from the slave trade, was&nbsp;torn down in the port city of Bristol&nbsp;and thrown into harbour.

Johnson is an admirer and biographer of Churchill, and some of those close to him say he wants to emulate him.

But Churchill expressed racist and anti-Semitic views and critics blame him for denying food to India during the 1943 famine which killed more than two million people - aspects of his legacy which some say are not scrutinised enough.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain cannot "photoshop" its cultural landscape and complex history as doing so would be a distortion of its past, amid an ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain cannot "photoshop" its cultural landscape and complex history as doing so would be a distortion of its past, amid an ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures. "If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history," Johnson said. Also see: Churchill, slave trader Edward Colston's statues vandalised amid protests in UK Johnson also defended Winston Churchill and said it was "absurd and deplorable" that the former prime minister's monument should have been in any danger. "He was a hero, and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body any attempt to remove that statue from Parliament Square, and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better," he said. Also read: World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest Many monuments of historical figures have been boarded up as anti-racism protesters taking to the streets following the death of African-American George Floyd, have put statues at the forefront of their challenge to Britain's imperialist past. Earlier this month, a statue of Edward Colston, who made a fortune in the 17th century from the slave trade, was torn down in the port city of Bristol and thrown into harbour. Johnson is an admirer and biographer of Churchill, and some of those close to him say he wants to emulate him. But Churchill expressed racist and anti-Semitic views and critics blame him for denying food to India during the 1943 famine which killed more than two million people - aspects of his legacy which some say are not scrutinised enough.

UK PM Boris Johnson defends Churchill, criticises 'distortion of history'

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph".

With a status-quo transition deal set to run out at the end of the year, the two are seeking a free trade agreement. But businesses on both sides are being told to prepare for a no-deal outcome that some fear would complicate trade and hurt jobs.

"I don't think we're actually that far apart but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations," Johnson said, adding that he had told the EU's top representatives that there was a need to "put a tiger in the tank" of the talks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-dairy-firms-causing-more-greenhouse-emissions-than-worlds-sixth-largest-economy-306083" hreflang="en">13 dairy firms causing more greenhouse emissions than world's sixth-largest economy</a>

"The faster we can do this the better, and we see no reason why you shouldn't get this done in July."

Earlier, after a video conference between Johnson, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the leaders of the European Council and European Parliament, the two sides said they "agreed ... that new momentum was required".

Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 and its relationship with the bloc is now governed by a transition arrangement that keeps previous rules in place while the two sides negotiate new terms.

Negotiators have made very little progress towards a trade pact, however, and the talks have all but stalled over issues such as fair-competition guarantees and fishing rights.

London confirmed last week that it had no intention of extending the transition period beyond 2020.

Some fear that, with the two sides so far apart and little time left to negotiate, London's decision not to extend may lead to a cliff edge that could compound the economic damage caused by the coronavirus crisis.

One EU diplomat said that, despite plans to speed up talks, major progress was unlikely until after the summer, when London would "scramble to get something done" at the 11th hour, as it did last year to reach a withdrawal agreement.

Jill Rutter, an expert at the UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, told a Brexit panel discussion on Monday that a "very thin and unambitious deal" was likely, but a no-deal scenario couldn't be ruled out.

"I think it would be totally wrong to think that the UK will be so desperate that it will move heaven and earth to avoid no deal," she said.

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph".

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph". With a status-quo transition deal set to run out at the end of the year, the two are seeking a free trade agreement. But businesses on both sides are being told to prepare for a no-deal outcome that some fear would complicate trade and hurt jobs. "I don't think we're actually that far apart but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations," Johnson said, adding that he had told the EU's top representatives that there was a need to "put a tiger in the tank" of the talks. Also read: 13 dairy firms causing more greenhouse emissions than world's sixth-largest economy "The faster we can do this the better, and we see no reason why you shouldn't get this done in July." Earlier, after a video conference between Johnson, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the leaders of the European Council and European Parliament, the two sides said they "agreed ... that new momentum was required". Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 and its relationship with the bloc is now governed by a transition arrangement that keeps previous rules in place while the two sides negotiate new terms. Negotiators have made very little progress towards a trade pact, however, and the talks have all but stalled over issues such as fair-competition guarantees and fishing rights. London confirmed last week that it had no intention of extending the transition period beyond 2020. Some fear that, with the two sides so far apart and little time left to negotiate, London's decision not to extend may lead to a cliff edge that could compound the economic damage caused by the coronavirus crisis. One EU diplomat said that, despite plans to speed up talks, major progress was unlikely until after the summer, when London would "scramble to get something done" at the 11th hour, as it did last year to reach a withdrawal agreement. Jill Rutter, an expert at the UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, told a Brexit panel discussion on Monday that a "very thin and unambitious deal" was likely, but a no-deal scenario couldn't be ruled out. "I think it would be totally wrong to think that the UK will be so desperate that it will move heaven and earth to avoid no deal," she said.

With a bit of oomph, Brexit deal feasible in July, says UK's Johnson

Gorillas were treated to a mini celebration at London Zoo on Sunday (June 14) as the tourist attraction prepares to reopen on Monday. Staff at the zoo in the centre of the capital hid special treats for the gorillas and decorated their enclosure with colourful bunting ahead of the reopening.

Gorillas grab the limelight as London Zoo gets set for reopening

British &nbsp;Prime Minister Boris Johnson has termed the ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures as a "distortion of our history".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-burn-down-wendys-in-atlanta-after-police-shooting-305850" hreflang="en">Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting</a>

"If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history," Johnson wrote in The Telegraph.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson also defended the former prime minister Winston Churchill and said it was &nbsp;"absurd and deplorable" that the monument was in danger.

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The statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square is a permanent reminder of his achievement in saving this country – and the whole of Europe – from a fascist and racist tyranny. 1/8
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"He was a hero, and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body any attempt to remove that statue from Parliament Square, and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better," he said.

Meanwhile, authorities in London have boarded up the statue ahead of expected rival demonstrations by anti-racism and far-right protestors.

A protective plywood screen has been erected around Churchill's statue outside Parliament. Authorities also fenced off the nearby Cenotaph, a memorial to Britain's war dead.

Monuments have become a major focus of contention in demonstrations sparked by the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer who knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes.

Several other statues have been defaced around the country.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has termed the ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures as a "distortion of our history". Also read: Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting "If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history," Johnson wrote in The Telegraph.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has termed the ongoing row over the removal of statues of historical figures as a "distortion of our history". Also read: Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting "If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history," Johnson wrote in The Telegraph. Boris Johnson also defended the former prime minister Winston Churchill and said it was "absurd and deplorable" that the monument was in danger. The statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square is a permanent reminder of his achievement in saving this country – and the whole of Europe – from a fascist and racist tyranny. 1/8 — Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) June 12, 2020 × "He was a hero, and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body any attempt to remove that statue from Parliament Square, and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better," he said. Meanwhile, authorities in London have boarded up the statue ahead of expected rival demonstrations by anti-racism and far-right protestors. A protective plywood screen has been erected around Churchill's statue outside Parliament. Authorities also fenced off the nearby Cenotaph, a memorial to Britain's war dead. Monuments have become a major focus of contention in demonstrations sparked by the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer who knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes. Several other statues have been defaced around the country.

British PM Boris Johnson defends Churchill and terms removing of statues 'distortion of our history'

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned "racist thuggery" after far-right protesters clashed in&nbsp;London&nbsp;on Saturday with anti-racist demonstrators and police trying to keep the two sides apart.

Fights broke out between groups outside Waterloo station, with fireworks thrown before police cordoned off areas. On a nearby bridge, stones were lobbed at police. Sporadic skirmishes continued in parts of the city centre.

"Racist thuggery has no place on our streets," Johnson said on Twitter. "Anyone attacking our police will be met with the full force of the law."

Earlier in the day, small bands of protesters jostled and tossed bottles and cans in Trafalgar Square. Far-right groups shouted racial slurs at the anti-racism protesters, and some tried to use metal crash barriers to break through police lines.

The Metropolitan Police said they arrested more than 100 people for offences including violent disorder and assault on police, and that six officers had suffered minor injuries. The ambulance service said it had treated 15 people.

"It is clear that far-right groups are causing violence and disorder in central&nbsp;London, I urge people to stay away," Mayor Sadiq Khan said on Twitter.

In a brief respite to the animosity after the clashes near Waterloo, pictures showed a man identified by the crowd as a far-right protester being carried to safety by a Black Lives Matter protester.

The police, who had already imposed a restriction calling for all demonstrations to end by 5 p.m., urged people to disperse.

Police also said they would investigate after images on social media appeared to show a man urinating on PC Keith Palmer's memorial. Palmer, a police officer, was stabbed to death in an attack outside Parliament in 2017.

There have been demonstrations around the world against racism and police abuses since the death of African American George Floyd in Minneapolis last month. In British cities tens of thousands of people have marched peacefully during previous days of protest.

In&nbsp;London&nbsp;the demonstrators numbered fewer on Saturday than in recent days, after announcements by far-right groups that they would converge on the city centre prompted anti-racism activists to cancel a planned march and instead call for scattered protests.

Statues of historical figures including Winston Churchill were boarded up to prevent them from becoming flashpoints or being defaced by protesters who say such monuments celebrate racists.

'My culture under attack'

In and around Parliament Square, hundreds of people wearing football shirts, describing themselves as patriots and chanting "England, England" gathered alongside military veterans to guard the Cenotaph war memorial.

The far-right groups said they wanted to defend British culture, in particular historical monuments, after the toppling of the statue of a 17th century slave trader in the port city of Bristol during an anti-racism protest last weekend sparked calls for others to come down.

"Winston Churchill, he's one of our own," they also chanted, near the statue of the World War Two leader, which last weekend was sprayed with graffiti reading: "Churchill was a racist".

"My culture is under attack. This is my culture and my English history: why should Churchill be boarded up? Why is the Cenotaph attacked? It is not right," said David Allen, one of the protesters.

While Churchill is admired by many for his role in defeating Nazi Germany, some in the anti-racism movement have called for more scrutiny of his overall legacy, noting he expressed racist and anti-Semitic views.

On Friday Johnson called it "absurd and shameful" that the Churchill statue was at risk of attack. "Yes, he sometimes expressed opinions that were and are unacceptable to us today, but he was a hero," he said.

Protests took place in other countries on Saturday, including in several Australian cities, Taipei, Zurich and Paris.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned "racist thuggery" after far-right protesters clashed in London on Saturday with anti-racist demonstrators and police trying to keep the two sides apart.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned "racist thuggery" after far-right protesters clashed in London on Saturday with anti-racist demonstrators and police trying to keep the two sides apart. Fights broke out between groups outside Waterloo station, with fireworks thrown before police cordoned off areas. On a nearby bridge, stones were lobbed at police. Sporadic skirmishes continued in parts of the city centre. "Racist thuggery has no place on our streets," Johnson said on Twitter. "Anyone attacking our police will be met with the full force of the law." Earlier in the day, small bands of protesters jostled and tossed bottles and cans in Trafalgar Square. Far-right groups shouted racial slurs at the anti-racism protesters, and some tried to use metal crash barriers to break through police lines. The Metropolitan Police said they arrested more than 100 people for offences including violent disorder and assault on police, and that six officers had suffered minor injuries. The ambulance service said it had treated 15 people. "It is clear that far-right groups are causing violence and disorder in central London, I urge people to stay away," Mayor Sadiq Khan said on Twitter. In a brief respite to the animosity after the clashes near Waterloo, pictures showed a man identified by the crowd as a far-right protester being carried to safety by a Black Lives Matter protester. The police, who had already imposed a restriction calling for all demonstrations to end by 5 p.m., urged people to disperse. Police also said they would investigate after images on social media appeared to show a man urinating on PC Keith Palmer's memorial. Palmer, a police officer, was stabbed to death in an attack outside Parliament in 2017. There have been demonstrations around the world against racism and police abuses since the death of African American George Floyd in Minneapolis last month. In British cities tens of thousands of people have marched peacefully during previous days of protest. In London the demonstrators numbered fewer on Saturday than in recent days, after announcements by far-right groups that they would converge on the city centre prompted anti-racism activists to cancel a planned march and instead call for scattered protests. Statues of historical figures including Winston Churchill were boarded up to prevent them from becoming flashpoints or being defaced by protesters who say such monuments celebrate racists. 'My culture under attack' In and around Parliament Square, hundreds of people wearing football shirts, describing themselves as patriots and chanting "England, England" gathered alongside military veterans to guard the Cenotaph war memorial. The far-right groups said they wanted to defend British culture, in particular historical monuments, after the toppling of the statue of a 17th century slave trader in the port city of Bristol during an anti-racism protest last weekend sparked calls for others to come down. "Winston Churchill, he's one of our own," they also chanted, near the statue of the World War Two leader, which last weekend was sprayed with graffiti reading: "Churchill was a racist". "My culture is under attack. This is my culture and my English history: why should Churchill be boarded up? Why is the Cenotaph attacked? It is not right," said David Allen, one of the protesters. While Churchill is admired by many for his role in defeating Nazi Germany, some in the anti-racism movement have called for more scrutiny of his overall legacy, noting he expressed racist and anti-Semitic views. On Friday Johnson called it "absurd and shameful" that the Churchill statue was at risk of attack. "Yes, he sometimes expressed opinions that were and are unacceptable to us today, but he was a hero," he said. Protests took place in other countries on Saturday, including in several Australian cities, Taipei, Zurich and Paris.

Johnson condemns 'thuggery' after far-right protests in London

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson is on fire to not impose lockdown in nation one week earlier that could have saved 20,000 lives alleges experts. Though Mr.Boris in his address to media hails his govt's pro-active approach towards fighting pandemic.

WION Dispatch: UK death toll could have been halved, says experts

Imposing UK lockdown one week earlier 'could have saved much more lives': Experts

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.&nbsp;

Initiatives by the British government taken later on have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March.

Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 &nbsp;million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,240,085 people have been infected with the virus, while 411,279 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago, after wreaking havoc in China.

The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,979,850), Brazil (739,503), Russia (484,630), United Kingdom (290,581), followed by India (276,146).

In the US alone, 112,006 deaths have been recorded.

The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it.

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country. Initiatives by the British government taken later on have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March. Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,240,085 people have been infected with the virus, while 411,279 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago, after wreaking havoc in China. The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,979,850), Brazil (739,503), Russia (484,630), United Kingdom (290,581), followed by India (276,146). In the US alone, 112,006 deaths have been recorded. The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it.

Coronavirus: UK reports 245 deaths in last 24 hours taking the toll to 41,128

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world.&nbsp;

Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion.&nbsp;

However, to the outside world, he was hardly better than Hitler, and the West regarded him as a fierce imperialist. &nbsp;

Churchill's racism is well-documented and he once even wrote, "I hate Indians".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-britain-cannot-run-away-from-flames-of-racism-it-once-sowed-304356">Why Britain cannot run away from flames of racism it once sowed?</a>

"They are a beastly people with a beastly religion," he had said.&nbsp;

Not just his words, his actions too are a testimony of his racial mindset.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-protestors-vandalize-churchills-statue-demonstrations-outside-us-embassy-george-floyd-death-304337/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 1943, Churchill engineered the Bengal famine, where wheat was exported from India for allied troops as Indians went to bed hungry.&nbsp;

He stopped all food supplies to India and was a major reason why four million people starved to death in Bengal in the same year.&nbsp;

"It's (Indians) their own fault...for breeding like rabbits," Churchill had said.&nbsp;

He was also a supporter of gas bombs and during the Arab Uprising in 1920, he lamented the 'squeamishness' of his colleagues who were not in favour of using poisoned gas against the so-called "uncivilised tribes".&nbsp;

In the same year, Churchill sent&nbsp;the blacks and tans into Ireland who were&nbsp;tasked with terrorising the Irish rebellion. &nbsp;

In 1949, Churchill also ordered the British Army to fire on the anti-Nazi protesters in Greece and also facilitated Zionism in Palestine.&nbsp;

"Palestinians were 'barbaric hordes' who are little but rabbit dung," he wrote.&nbsp;

"A stronger race, a high-grade race, a more worldly-wise race has come in and taken their place."

Churchill also planted the seed in South Africa to strip black communities from their voting rights.&nbsp;

Despite all of this, Britain is blinded by its excessive admiration of Churchill, who is also a hero of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

Former PM David Cameron believes that Churchill saved "humanity as a whole".&nbsp;

The truth is Winston Churchill was a racist and his prejudice has caused millions of deaths.&nbsp;

Churchill thought that the British were "winners in a social Darwinian hierarchy". This thought is out-of-date, just like imperialism and like racism, which is another legacy of the British, needs to die. &nbsp;

As does the lionisation of Churchill.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world. Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion.

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world. Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion. However, to the outside world, he was hardly better than Hitler, and the West regarded him as a fierce imperialist. Churchill's racism is well-documented and he once even wrote, "I hate Indians". Also read | Why Britain cannot run away from flames of racism it once sowed? "They are a beastly people with a beastly religion," he had said. Not just his words, his actions too are a testimony of his racial mindset. In 1943, Churchill engineered the Bengal famine, where wheat was exported from India for allied troops as Indians went to bed hungry. He stopped all food supplies to India and was a major reason why four million people starved to death in Bengal in the same year. "It's (Indians) their own fault...for breeding like rabbits," Churchill had said. He was also a supporter of gas bombs and during the Arab Uprising in 1920, he lamented the 'squeamishness' of his colleagues who were not in favour of using poisoned gas against the so-called "uncivilised tribes". In the same year, Churchill sent the blacks and tans into Ireland who were tasked with terrorising the Irish rebellion. In 1949, Churchill also ordered the British Army to fire on the anti-Nazi protesters in Greece and also facilitated Zionism in Palestine. "Palestinians were 'barbaric hordes' who are little but rabbit dung," he wrote. "A stronger race, a high-grade race, a more worldly-wise race has come in and taken their place." Churchill also planted the seed in South Africa to strip black communities from their voting rights. Despite all of this, Britain is blinded by its excessive admiration of Churchill, who is also a hero of Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Former PM David Cameron believes that Churchill saved "humanity as a whole". The truth is Winston Churchill was a racist and his prejudice has caused millions of deaths. Churchill thought that the British were "winners in a social Darwinian hierarchy". This thought is out-of-date, just like imperialism and like racism, which is another legacy of the British, needs to die. As does the lionisation of Churchill.

Was 'icon of the free world' Winston Churchill a racist?

In 1619, Britain sent its first batch of black slaves to America, and now after a little over 400 years, George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, US.&nbsp;

This was not the first black national who lost his life in the US because of police brutality, but his killing has triggered a mass movement against racism.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-will-happen-to-the-120-year-old-statue-toppled-by-black-lives-matter-protesters-in-uk-304325">What will happen to the 120-year-old statue toppled by Black Lives Matter protesters in UK?</a>

The protests extended beyond American shores and reached the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

From London to Bristol, Manchester to Nottingham, everybody in the chorus is saying "enough is enough". &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Black Lives Matter campaign gathered thousands in London, where some protesters also clashed with police. Eight policemen were injured and 12 people got arrested.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-black-lives-matter-protests-engulf-the-uk-304377/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

People also protested outside the US Embassy, where they demanded justice for Floyd, with some even chanting 'the UK is not innocent'.&nbsp;

This argument is not wrong as at least 70 per cent ethnic minority workers in the UK say that they have encountered harassment at work, according to a survey on racism at workplace.&nbsp;

As many as 60% say that they have been treated unfairly by their employers.&nbsp;

The UK's situation on racism is no great, on the contrary, worse.&nbsp;

In Westminster, thousands have been protesting against Britain's colonial legacy and on Sunday the protesters defaced the memorial of UK's wartime prime minister Winston Churchill. &nbsp;

Activists surrounded the monument and chanted: 'Churchill was a racist' and sprayed these remarks below Churchill's statue.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Dispersal orders were issued in the city after protesters threw bottles at police officers and by Sunday evening cops in riot gear took position across Westminster.&nbsp;

In Warwickshire county, protesters closed a highway.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Demonstrators brought down a statue of 17th-century slave trader Edward Colston in Bristol. People celebrated by cheering and kneeling on the statue. The statue was rolled through the streets before it found its way in the water.&nbsp;

UK's Home Secretary Priti Patel called the act "utterly disgraceful".&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that people have the right to protest peacefully but those responsible for violence will be held accountable.&nbsp;

The moral of the story is you reap what you sow.&nbsp;

Britain is currently engulfed in the flames of racism, centuries after it set the fire of xenophobia. &nbsp;

In 1619, Britain sent its first batch of black slaves to America, and now after a little over 400 years, George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, US. This was not the first black national who lost his life in the US because of police brutality, but his killing has triggered a mass movement against racism.

In 1619, Britain sent its first batch of black slaves to America, and now after a little over 400 years, George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, US. This was not the first black national who lost his life in the US because of police brutality, but his killing has triggered a mass movement against racism. Also read | What will happen to the 120-year-old statue toppled by Black Lives Matter protesters in UK? The protests extended beyond American shores and reached the United Kingdom. From London to Bristol, Manchester to Nottingham, everybody in the chorus is saying "enough is enough". The Black Lives Matter campaign gathered thousands in London, where some protesters also clashed with police. Eight policemen were injured and 12 people got arrested. People also protested outside the US Embassy, where they demanded justice for Floyd, with some even chanting 'the UK is not innocent'. This argument is not wrong as at least 70 per cent ethnic minority workers in the UK say that they have encountered harassment at work, according to a survey on racism at workplace. As many as 60% say that they have been treated unfairly by their employers. The UK's situation on racism is no great, on the contrary, worse. In Westminster, thousands have been protesting against Britain's colonial legacy and on Sunday the protesters defaced the memorial of UK's wartime prime minister Winston Churchill. Activists surrounded the monument and chanted: 'Churchill was a racist' and sprayed these remarks below Churchill's statue. Dispersal orders were issued in the city after protesters threw bottles at police officers and by Sunday evening cops in riot gear took position across Westminster. In Warwickshire county, protesters closed a highway. Demonstrators brought down a statue of 17th-century slave trader Edward Colston in Bristol. People celebrated by cheering and kneeling on the statue. The statue was rolled through the streets before it found its way in the water. UK's Home Secretary Priti Patel called the act "utterly disgraceful". UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that people have the right to protest peacefully but those responsible for violence will be held accountable. The moral of the story is you reap what you sow. Britain is currently engulfed in the flames of racism, centuries after it set the fire of xenophobia.

Why Britain cannot run away from flames of racism it once sowed?

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources.&nbsp;

According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766. This is the highest in Europe and the second highest globally just behind the United States. More than 400,000 people have been killed worldwide due to the virus.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-increasing-demand-for-puppies-in-the-uk-breeders-fear-many-will-end-up-in-rescue-homes-304522" hreflang="en">Amid increasing demand for puppies in the UK, breeders fear many will end up in rescue homes</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.&nbsp;

The tally comprises of fatalities where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificates in the United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) up to May 29 and Scotland up to May 31.&nbsp;

The tally compiled by Reuters gives more accurate figures as the government's daily death toll numbers don't include suspected cases.&nbsp;

Initiatives by the British government have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March.

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University.

(Inputs by Reuters)

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources. According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766.

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources. According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766. This is the highest in Europe and the second highest globally just behind the United States. More than 400,000 people have been killed worldwide due to the virus. Also read: Amid increasing demand for puppies in the UK, breeders fear many will end up in rescue homes Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country. The tally comprises of fatalities where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificates in the United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) up to May 29 and Scotland up to May 31. The tally compiled by Reuters gives more accurate figures as the government's daily death toll numbers don't include suspected cases. Initiatives by the British government have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. (Inputs by Reuters)

UK nears 52,000 deaths due to coronavirus pandemic: Tally

The United Kingdom has reported 55 new deaths due to coronavirus on Monday, this has been the lowest rise since nationwide lockdown was imposed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in March, as per government data.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-7-million-cases-globally-brazil-and-india-continue-to-report-daily-surge-304112" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: 7 million cases globally, Brazil and India continue to report daily surge</a>

These new deaths have taken the total death toll in the country to 40,597. Last time such a low rise was recorded on March 22, when the country reported 35 deaths and on the very next day, Boris Johnson imposed a lockdown.&nbsp;

According to a Reuters tally based on official data sources, UK is likely to witness over 50,000 deaths which included suspected cases. This makes Britain the second worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic behind the United States.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago.

The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486).

Spain and Italy, the former hotspots of the virus are witnessing a dip in the infections and were overtaken by India on Sunday. Other countries with over 100,000 cases include Peru, France, Germany, Iran, Turkey, Chile, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

The United Kingdom has reported 55 new deaths due to coronavirus on Monday, this has been the lowest rise since nationwide lockdown was imposed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in March, as per government data.

The United Kingdom has reported 55 new deaths due to coronavirus on Monday, this has been the lowest rise since nationwide lockdown was imposed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in March, as per government data. Also read: Coronavirus: 7 million cases globally, Brazil and India continue to report daily surge These new deaths have taken the total death toll in the country to 40,597. Last time such a low rise was recorded on March 22, when the country reported 35 deaths and on the very next day, Boris Johnson imposed a lockdown. According to a Reuters tally based on official data sources, UK is likely to witness over 50,000 deaths which included suspected cases. This makes Britain the second worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic behind the United States. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago. The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486). Spain and Italy, the former hotspots of the virus are witnessing a dip in the infections and were overtaken by India on Sunday. Other countries with over 100,000 cases include Peru, France, Germany, Iran, Turkey, Chile, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

UK witnesses lowest rise in new deaths due to coronavirus since lockdown

Anti-racism protestors in the UK clashed with mounted police on Saturday after thousands gathered in central London to voice their anger at police brutality after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, US.

Saturday's protests reflect global anger over police treatment of ethnic minorities, sparked by the May 25 killing of Floyd, a black American, when a white police officer detaining him knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as fellow officers stood by.

In London, after a largely peaceful day, small numbers of protestors near Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence threw bottles at police, and mounted officers charged to push them back.

One officer required hospital treatment after falling from her horse, and nine others were injured.

A group of protestors attacked a dummy resembling US President Donald Trump, while others threw flares.

Thousands of protestors also crowded into the square outside Parliament, holding "Black Lives Matter" placards and ignoring government advice to avoid large gatherings due to the risk from coronavirus.

Reclusive street artist Banksy published a new artwork online showing the U.S. flag being set alight by a candle that formed part of a memorial to an anonymous, black silhouetted figure.

Earlier in the day, more than a thousand protestors marched past the US Embassy on the south bank of the River Thames.

Before Saturday's protest in London, the US ambassador to Britain condemned Floyd's death and said the United States needed to do more to fight racism and injustice.

"It is through peaceful protests that injustice is most successfully addressed," said Ambassador Woody Johnson.

Demonstrations also took place in other British, European and Asian cities on Saturday, after tens of thousands of people chanting "No justice, no peace, no racist police" marched through central London on Wednesday.

Anti-racism protestors in the UK clashed with mounted police on Saturday after thousands gathered in central London to voice their anger at police brutality after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, US.

Anti-racism protestors in the UK clashed with mounted police on Saturday after thousands gathered in central London to voice their anger at police brutality after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, US. Saturday's protests reflect global anger over police treatment of ethnic minorities, sparked by the May 25 killing of Floyd, a black American, when a white police officer detaining him knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as fellow officers stood by. In London, after a largely peaceful day, small numbers of protestors near Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence threw bottles at police, and mounted officers charged to push them back. One officer required hospital treatment after falling from her horse, and nine others were injured. A group of protestors attacked a dummy resembling US President Donald Trump, while others threw flares. Thousands of protestors also crowded into the square outside Parliament, holding "Black Lives Matter" placards and ignoring government advice to avoid large gatherings due to the risk from coronavirus. Reclusive street artist Banksy published a new artwork online showing the U.S. flag being set alight by a candle that formed part of a memorial to an anonymous, black silhouetted figure. Earlier in the day, more than a thousand protestors marched past the US Embassy on the south bank of the River Thames. Before Saturday's protest in London, the US ambassador to Britain condemned Floyd's death and said the United States needed to do more to fight racism and injustice. "It is through peaceful protests that injustice is most successfully addressed," said Ambassador Woody Johnson. Demonstrations also took place in other British, European and Asian cities on Saturday, after tens of thousands of people chanting "No justice, no peace, no racist police" marched through central London on Wednesday.

Anti-racism protestors clash with mounted police in Britain

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/masks-and-gloves-clad-lebanese-join-anti-government-protests-303982" hreflang="en">Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests</a>

Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus. According to them, the government delayed in imposing crucial restrictions that led to an outbreak in the country.&nbsp;

The UK is one of the worst-hit countries in terms of the coronavirus pandemic with more than 50,000 deaths, as per the Reuters tally.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-3593-new-coronavirus-cases-registered-actual-figures-much-higher-303987" hreflang="en">Mexico: 3,593 new coronavirus cases registered; actual figures much higher</a>

During an interview with John Edmund, a member of the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), said: "We should have gone into lockdown earlier."

"The data we were dealing with in the early part of March and our situational awareness was really quite poor so I think it would have been very hard to pull the trigger at that point but I wish we had ... I think that has cost a lot of lives."

British health minister Matt Hancock disagreed with Edmund's statements on the BBC, he said: &nbsp;"No. I think we took the right decisions at the right time and there is a broad range on SAGE of scientific opinion and we were guided by the science."

According to Edmund, the coronavirus pandemic "is not all over, there is an awful long way to go."

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives. Also read: Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus.

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives. Also read: Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus. According to them, the government delayed in imposing crucial restrictions that led to an outbreak in the country. The UK is one of the worst-hit countries in terms of the coronavirus pandemic with more than 50,000 deaths, as per the Reuters tally. Also read: Mexico: 3,593 new coronavirus cases registered; actual figures much higher During an interview with John Edmund, a member of the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), said: "We should have gone into lockdown earlier." "The data we were dealing with in the early part of March and our situational awareness was really quite poor so I think it would have been very hard to pull the trigger at that point but I wish we had ... I think that has cost a lot of lives." British health minister Matt Hancock disagreed with Edmund's statements on the BBC, he said: "No. I think we took the right decisions at the right time and there is a broad range on SAGE of scientific opinion and we were guided by the science." According to Edmund, the coronavirus pandemic "is not all over, there is an awful long way to go."

UK's situational awareness was quite poor, it cost many lives: Government scientific advisor

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