Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit.

The prime minister, who is attending his Conservative party's conference in Manchester, northwest England, is accused of giving a female journalist's leg "a squeeze" while at a private lunch 20 years ago.

Johnson never comments on his personal life but his spokesman issued a clear denial -- an acknowledgement that the claim is more serious than gossip about his affairs.

It follows accusations that Johnson gave special access to a US businesswoman with whom he is alleged to have had a relationship when he was mayor of London.

He denies any impropriety, but it is yet another headache after his defeats in parliament and the courts over his pledge to leave the EU on October 31, come what may.

Powerful men

In an article published in The Sunday Times, journalist Charlotte Edwardes described a boozy lunch in the offices of The Spectator magazine around two decades ago, when Johnson was editor.

She was sitting next to him and wrote that "under the table I feel Johnson's hand on my thigh. He gives it a squeeze".

"His hand is high up my leg and he has enough inner flesh beneath his fingers to make me sit suddenly upright."

She said a woman she spoke with after the dinner, who was sitting on Johnson's other side, said the same thing happened to her.

Johnson was married at the time to his second wife. They are now divorced and he currently lives with his girlfriend Carrie Symonds.

Downing Street said Edwardes' claim was "untrue", and the prime minister himself denied it in a television interview, while refusing to comment further.

But health minister Matt Hancock said he knew Edwardes well, and "I entirely trust what she has to say".

Former Conservative minister Justine Greening, who is now an independent MP, said the claim was "deeply concerning".

It went "to the heart of this question about character and integrity of people in public life and what standards the electorate have a right to expect," she told BBC radio.

The allegation comes two years after defence minister Michael Fallon quit following revelations he tried to kiss a journalist.

Opposition Labour lawmaker Dawn Butler added: "What is it about powerful men feeling entitled to harass women? Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer."

A feminist

Yet at the party conference in Manchester, many delegates were sanguine -- while a number of female Conservatives offered their support for Johnson.

"He's a decent person. I think he cares a great deal about women and girls," former defence minister Penny Mordaunt told a fringe meeting.

MP Rachel Maclean highlighted Johnson's campaigning against female genital mutilation, declaring him "a feminist".

Fleur Butler, national chairman of the Conservative Women's Organisation, told AFP the claim related to a time when "the world was a different place".

She said she did not know if the claim was true but added: "It's really important though for the party to say that we do not accept this type of behaviour moving forward."

Brexit first 

Johnson is no stranger to personal scandal, most recently over a noisy row with Symonds that resulted in police being called to their flat in south London.

There are concerns that the latest claims could damage Johnson's standing with women, who are already less likely to support him.

A YouGov survey this week found 44 per cent of men thought Johnson was likeable, compared to 34 per cent of women.

One female Conservative member in her 20s, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP: "I think it's a really big issue.

"There are still some older members of the Conservative party who don't treat women as they should."

But for many in Manchester, the biggest issue remains Brexit -- and they believe Johnson is the man who can deliver that, regardless of anything else.

"We need to get somebody to get Brexit done," Margaret Dane, a retired Tory party member, told AFP.

As for the squeezing allegation, she added: "I'll just have to discount the fact that it might be the truth."

Others dismissed it as yet another story "dredged up" to discredit the prime minister.

"It should be looked into. But so much is coming out, I think people are getting immune to it," said 48-year-old councillor Julian Goodrich. 
&nbsp;

Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit.

Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit. The prime minister, who is attending his Conservative party's conference in Manchester, northwest England, is accused of giving a female journalist's leg "a squeeze" while at a private lunch 20 years ago. Johnson never comments on his personal life but his spokesman issued a clear denial -- an acknowledgement that the claim is more serious than gossip about his affairs. It follows accusations that Johnson gave special access to a US businesswoman with whom he is alleged to have had a relationship when he was mayor of London. He denies any impropriety, but it is yet another headache after his defeats in parliament and the courts over his pledge to leave the EU on October 31, come what may. Powerful men In an article published in The Sunday Times, journalist Charlotte Edwardes described a boozy lunch in the offices of The Spectator magazine around two decades ago, when Johnson was editor. She was sitting next to him and wrote that "under the table I feel Johnson's hand on my thigh. He gives it a squeeze". "His hand is high up my leg and he has enough inner flesh beneath his fingers to make me sit suddenly upright." She said a woman she spoke with after the dinner, who was sitting on Johnson's other side, said the same thing happened to her. Johnson was married at the time to his second wife. They are now divorced and he currently lives with his girlfriend Carrie Symonds. Downing Street said Edwardes' claim was "untrue", and the prime minister himself denied it in a television interview, while refusing to comment further. But health minister Matt Hancock said he knew Edwardes well, and "I entirely trust what she has to say". Former Conservative minister Justine Greening, who is now an independent MP, said the claim was "deeply concerning". It went "to the heart of this question about character and integrity of people in public life and what standards the electorate have a right to expect," she told BBC radio. The allegation comes two years after defence minister Michael Fallon quit following revelations he tried to kiss a journalist. Opposition Labour lawmaker Dawn Butler added: "What is it about powerful men feeling entitled to harass women? Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer." A feminist Yet at the party conference in Manchester, many delegates were sanguine -- while a number of female Conservatives offered their support for Johnson. "He's a decent person. I think he cares a great deal about women and girls," former defence minister Penny Mordaunt told a fringe meeting. MP Rachel Maclean highlighted Johnson's campaigning against female genital mutilation, declaring him "a feminist". Fleur Butler, national chairman of the Conservative Women's Organisation, told AFP the claim related to a time when "the world was a different place". She said she did not know if the claim was true but added: "It's really important though for the party to say that we do not accept this type of behaviour moving forward." Brexit first Johnson is no stranger to personal scandal, most recently over a noisy row with Symonds that resulted in police being called to their flat in south London. There are concerns that the latest claims could damage Johnson's standing with women, who are already less likely to support him. A YouGov survey this week found 44 per cent of men thought Johnson was likeable, compared to 34 per cent of women. One female Conservative member in her 20s, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP: "I think it's a really big issue. "There are still some older members of the Conservative party who don't treat women as they should." But for many in Manchester, the biggest issue remains Brexit -- and they believe Johnson is the man who can deliver that, regardless of anything else. "We need to get somebody to get Brexit done," Margaret Dane, a retired Tory party member, told AFP. As for the squeezing allegation, she added: "I'll just have to discount the fact that it might be the truth." Others dismissed it as yet another story "dredged up" to discredit the prime minister. "It should be looked into. But so much is coming out, I think people are getting immune to it," said 48-year-old councillor Julian Goodrich.

British PM Boris Johnson on defensive again over groping claim

Boris Johnson vowed on Sunday he would not quit as Britain's prime minister even if he fails to secure a deal to leave the European Union, saying only his Conservative government can deliver Brexit on Oct. 31.

At the beginning of his party's annual conference in the northern city of Manchester, Johnson wants to rally his party with the "do or die" message that he will deliver Brexit by the end of October, with or without a deal.

But there are hurdles to clear, not least of which is what Johnson calls "the surrender act" - the law parliament passed to force the prime minister to request a Brexit delay if he has not secured a deal with Brussels by an October&nbsp;17-18 EU summit.

Johnson again declined to explain how he plans to circumvent that law and deliver on his Brexit promise, deepening uncertainty around Britain's biggest trade and foreign policy shift for more than 40 years.

"People can feel that this country is approaching an important moment of choice and we have to get on and we have to deliver Brexit on October the 31st ... I'm going to get on and do it," he told BBC television.

Asked if he would resign to avoid having to ask for a delay, Johnson said: "No, I have undertaken to lead the party and my country at a difficult time and I am going to continue to do that. I believe it is my responsibility."

Opposition lawmakers have been highly critical of Johnson's reference to "the surrender bill", saying his language is stirring even more division in a country that has remained split since the 2016 referendum on EU membership.

Election fever

More than three years after Britain voted to leave the EU, both the governing Conservative Party and others are getting ready for an early election, widely expected to be held before the end of the year to break the Brexit deadlock.

Polling firm Opinium said the main opposition Labour Party gained 2 percentage points after its conference in Brighton last week, but the Conservatives still held a 12-point lead.

Matt Hancock, health minister, used the start of the Conservative conference to announce billions of pounds in spending for hospital projects across England - part of a plan by the ruling party to make good on some of the pledges made during the referendum campaign which Johnson helped lead.

Labour also used its conference to launch new policies, including plans for a four-day working week, but has yet to back Johnson's calls for an election, fearful he will lead Britain out of the EU without an agreement before any such poll is held.

Though the option of bringing a vote of no confidence in Johnson has been mooted in some quarters, Labour's education policy chief Angela Rayner said on Sunday the party wanted to "get no deal off the table" before it did anything else.

But time is running out on efforts to avoid a potentially chaotic departure from the EU, which many businesses say could hurt the economy and tip the country into recession.

The government is expected this week to present proposals aimed at overcoming the main stumbling block in talks - the border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. So far the two sides have failed to agree how to prevent the return to a hard border if any future UK/EU deal fails to maintain frictionless trade.

Johnson said he is still hopeful of securing a "good deal" but added that he would not pretend it will be easy.

"It is certainly true that other EU countries also don't want this thing to keep dragging on, and they don't want the UK to remain in the EU truculent and mutinous and in a limbo and not wishing to cooperate in the way that they would like," he said.

"There is a strong view across the EU that it is time to move on." 
&nbsp;

Boris Johnson vowed on Sunday he would not quit as Britain's prime minister even if he fails to secure a deal to leave the European Union, saying only his Conservative government can deliver Brexit on Oct.

Boris Johnson vowed on Sunday he would not quit as Britain's prime minister even if he fails to secure a deal to leave the European Union, saying only his Conservative government can deliver Brexit on Oct. 31. At the beginning of his party's annual conference in the northern city of Manchester, Johnson wants to rally his party with the "do or die" message that he will deliver Brexit by the end of October, with or without a deal. But there are hurdles to clear, not least of which is what Johnson calls "the surrender act" - the law parliament passed to force the prime minister to request a Brexit delay if he has not secured a deal with Brussels by an October 17-18 EU summit. Johnson again declined to explain how he plans to circumvent that law and deliver on his Brexit promise, deepening uncertainty around Britain's biggest trade and foreign policy shift for more than 40 years. "People can feel that this country is approaching an important moment of choice and we have to get on and we have to deliver Brexit on October the 31st ... I'm going to get on and do it," he told BBC television. Asked if he would resign to avoid having to ask for a delay, Johnson said: "No, I have undertaken to lead the party and my country at a difficult time and I am going to continue to do that. I believe it is my responsibility." Opposition lawmakers have been highly critical of Johnson's reference to "the surrender bill", saying his language is stirring even more division in a country that has remained split since the 2016 referendum on EU membership. Election fever More than three years after Britain voted to leave the EU, both the governing Conservative Party and others are getting ready for an early election, widely expected to be held before the end of the year to break the Brexit deadlock. Polling firm Opinium said the main opposition Labour Party gained 2 percentage points after its conference in Brighton last week, but the Conservatives still held a 12-point lead. Matt Hancock, health minister, used the start of the Conservative conference to announce billions of pounds in spending for hospital projects across England - part of a plan by the ruling party to make good on some of the pledges made during the referendum campaign which Johnson helped lead. Labour also used its conference to launch new policies, including plans for a four-day working week, but has yet to back Johnson's calls for an election, fearful he will lead Britain out of the EU without an agreement before any such poll is held. Though the option of bringing a vote of no confidence in Johnson has been mooted in some quarters, Labour's education policy chief Angela Rayner said on Sunday the party wanted to "get no deal off the table" before it did anything else. But time is running out on efforts to avoid a potentially chaotic departure from the EU, which many businesses say could hurt the economy and tip the country into recession. The government is expected this week to present proposals aimed at overcoming the main stumbling block in talks - the border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. So far the two sides have failed to agree how to prevent the return to a hard border if any future UK/EU deal fails to maintain frictionless trade. Johnson said he is still hopeful of securing a "good deal" but added that he would not pretend it will be easy. "It is certainly true that other EU countries also don't want this thing to keep dragging on, and they don't want the UK to remain in the EU truculent and mutinous and in a limbo and not wishing to cooperate in the way that they would like," he said. "There is a strong view across the EU that it is time to move on."

British PM Boris Johnson vows to stay put to hit October 31 Brexit deadline

Boris Johnson said that he won't resign to avoid having to delay Brexit. To know more watch the video

Johnson vows to take Britain out of EU

The government of London said that it had referred&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outrage-at-johnsons-rhetoric-in-brexit-impasse-252210">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> to Britain’s police watchdog for potential investigation over allegations of misconduct involving a US&nbsp;businesswoman while he was mayor of London.

The Greater London Authority (GLA) said on Friday it had referred a "conduct matter" concerning Johnson to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which investigates complaints connected to the police.

The referral follows allegations, first reported by The Sunday Times, that when Johnson was mayor, he failed to declare close personal links to tech entrepreneur Jennifer Arcuri who received thousands of pounds in public business funding and places on official trade trips.

Asked about the referral, Johnson's spokesman told Reuters: "The prime minister as mayor of London did a huge amount of work when selling our capital city around the world, beating the drum for London and the UK".

"Everything was done with propriety and in the normal way," he added.

Arcuri did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.

The matter has been referred to the police watchdog because <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-flies-back-to-face-uk-parliament-as-brexit-chaos-deepens-251977">Johnson was head of the Mayor's Office</a> for Policing and Crime, a role equivalent to a police commissioner, during his 2008-2016 term as mayor.

Under the referral, the authority will try to determine whether there are grounds for a full investigation that could lead to criminal charges of misconduct in public office.

The GLA said in a statement: "The Monitoring Officer of the GLA has today recorded a ‘conduct matter’ against Boris Johnson and referred him to the Independent Office for Police Conduct so it can assess whether or not it is necessary to investigate the former Mayor of London for the criminal offence of misconduct in public office."

It said the action had been taken in accordance with the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.

In a letter to Johnson, the GLA said: “Subject to any explanation provided by you, these matters give rise to a suggestion that there has been a failure to safeguard the public purse and if so that amounts to a significant breach of public trust.

“These are the ingredients of the offence of misconduct in a public office,” said the letter from the office of the authority’s monitoring officer, which was made public.

The letter said Innotech, Arcuri’s then-company, received $14,000&nbsp;from London &amp; Partners, the mayor’s promotional agency, for two events in 2013 and 2014. She was able to attend a trade mission to Singapore and Malaysia in 2014 through Playbox, one of her companies, even though an initial application through Innotech had been declined.

The letter said the Monitoring Officer was also aware "from media reports and elsewhere" that Arcuri also had been allowed to participate in events around two other trade missions — to New York and Israel in 2015 — although she had not qualified for the New York mission and had been rejected for the mission to Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brexit-row-boris-johnson-defeated-by-uk-supreme-court-but-he-could-still-emerge-as-a-winner-251957">Johnson has vowed to take Britain out of the European Union by October 31</a>. British opposition parties are discussing tabling a vote of no-confidence in Johnson as early as next week over his handling of Brexit, the Telegraph newspaper reported on Friday.

The government of London said that it had referred Prime Minister Boris Johnson to Britain’s police watchdog for potential investigation over allegations of misconduct involving a US businesswoman while he was mayor of London.

The government of London said that it had referred Prime Minister Boris Johnson to Britain’s police watchdog for potential investigation over allegations of misconduct involving a US businesswoman while he was mayor of London. The Greater London Authority (GLA) said on Friday it had referred a "conduct matter" concerning Johnson to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which investigates complaints connected to the police. The referral follows allegations, first reported by The Sunday Times, that when Johnson was mayor, he failed to declare close personal links to tech entrepreneur Jennifer Arcuri who received thousands of pounds in public business funding and places on official trade trips. Asked about the referral, Johnson's spokesman told Reuters: "The prime minister as mayor of London did a huge amount of work when selling our capital city around the world, beating the drum for London and the UK". "Everything was done with propriety and in the normal way," he added. Arcuri did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. The matter has been referred to the police watchdog because Johnson was head of the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime, a role equivalent to a police commissioner, during his 2008-2016 term as mayor. Under the referral, the authority will try to determine whether there are grounds for a full investigation that could lead to criminal charges of misconduct in public office. The GLA said in a statement: "The Monitoring Officer of the GLA has today recorded a ‘conduct matter’ against Boris Johnson and referred him to the Independent Office for Police Conduct so it can assess whether or not it is necessary to investigate the former Mayor of London for the criminal offence of misconduct in public office." It said the action had been taken in accordance with the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011. In a letter to Johnson, the GLA said: “Subject to any explanation provided by you, these matters give rise to a suggestion that there has been a failure to safeguard the public purse and if so that amounts to a significant breach of public trust. “These are the ingredients of the offence of misconduct in a public office,” said the letter from the office of the authority’s monitoring officer, which was made public. The letter said Innotech, Arcuri’s then-company, received $14,000 from London & Partners, the mayor’s promotional agency, for two events in 2013 and 2014. She was able to attend a trade mission to Singapore and Malaysia in 2014 through Playbox, one of her companies, even though an initial application through Innotech had been declined. The letter said the Monitoring Officer was also aware "from media reports and elsewhere" that Arcuri also had been allowed to participate in events around two other trade missions — to New York and Israel in 2015 — although she had not qualified for the New York mission and had been rejected for the mission to Israel. Johnson has vowed to take Britain out of the European Union by October 31. British opposition parties are discussing tabling a vote of no-confidence in Johnson as early as next week over his handling of Brexit, the Telegraph newspaper reported on Friday.

British PM Johnson referred to police watchdog over businesswoman links

Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Commission, said that he&nbsp;and the European Union`s Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier were doing all that they could to get a Brexit deal and if they failed it would be Britain`s responsibility.

In an interview with a German newspaper, Juncker said he and Barnier were working intensively for a deal because it would be a catastrophe for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outrage-at-johnsons-rhetoric-in-brexit-impasse-252210">Britain and Europe</a> if Britain left the EU without an organised withdrawal process.

"Our chief negotiator Michel Barnier and I are doing everything possible to get an agreement," he told the Augsburger Allgemeine newspaper. "But if we don`t succeed in the end, the responsibility would lie exclusively on the British side", he said.

Britain is scheduled to leave the EU on October&nbsp;31. Officials in Brussels say <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-flies-back-to-face-uk-parliament-as-brexit-chaos-deepens-251977">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> has made little progress in negotiating a new exit deal to replace the one agreed by his predecessor Theresa May, but which was rejected three times by the British parliament.

Juncker added that negotiations on a future trade relationship between Britain and the EU would be greatly complicated by a disorderly Brexit.

"We will want to and need to seal a free trade agreement," he said. "But that won`t happen just like that, as some in Britain imagine. Some of the trade deals we sealed in my term of office took many years to reach", he added.

Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Commission, said that he and the European Union`s Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier were doing all that they could to get a Brexit deal and if they failed it would be Britain`s responsibility.

Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Commission, said that he and the European Union`s Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier were doing all that they could to get a Brexit deal and if they failed it would be Britain`s responsibility. In an interview with a German newspaper, Juncker said he and Barnier were working intensively for a deal because it would be a catastrophe for Britain and Europe if Britain left the EU without an organised withdrawal process. "Our chief negotiator Michel Barnier and I are doing everything possible to get an agreement," he told the Augsburger Allgemeine newspaper. "But if we don`t succeed in the end, the responsibility would lie exclusively on the British side", he said. Britain is scheduled to leave the EU on October 31. Officials in Brussels say Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made little progress in negotiating a new exit deal to replace the one agreed by his predecessor Theresa May, but which was rejected three times by the British parliament. Juncker added that negotiations on a future trade relationship between Britain and the EU would be greatly complicated by a disorderly Brexit. "We will want to and need to seal a free trade agreement," he said. "But that won`t happen just like that, as some in Britain imagine. Some of the trade deals we sealed in my term of office took many years to reach", he added.

European Commission's Juncker says Britain will be responsible if no Brexit deal

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit.

Tensions boiled over on Wednesday when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-they-scared-of-uk-pm-johnson-challenges-opposition-to-call-confidence-vote-252076">Johnson </a>went on the offensive after MPs returned to work following a Supreme Court ruling calling parliament suspension unlawful.

He refused to apologize and repeatedly slammed parliament for passing a "surrender act" requiring him to seek a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-flies-back-to-face-uk-parliament-as-brexit-chaos-deepens-251977">Brexit </a>delay past the October 31 deadline if he fails to reach an exit agreement with the EU.

Britain has been bitterly divided over the issue ever since the 2016 EU referendum campaign and the government has delayed Brexit twice because parliament has failed to approve its draft deal with EU leaders.

Watch Video:&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson braces for Brexit battle

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The real uproar on Wednesday came when Johnson said the best way to honour Jo Cox an anti-Brexit Labour MP who was fatally shot and stabbed by a Nazi sympathizer during the referendum campaign would be "to get Brexit done".

"Feel a bit sick at Jo's name being used this way," her husband Brendan tweeted.

"The best way to honour Jo is for all of us (no matter our views) to stand up for what we believe in &nbsp;but never to demonize the other side."

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn accused Johnson of using language that was "indistinguishable from (that of) the far-right".

'Toxic' atmosphere

Even some members of Johnson's Conservatives appeared taken aback.

"At a time of strong feelings, we all need to remind ourselves of the effect of everything we say on those watching," Culture and Media Minister Nicky Morgan said.

And Jacob Rees-Mogg a strong Brexit and Johnson supporter who represents the government in parliament noted that everyone "had a responsibility to be mild in our language".

Parliamentary speaker John Bercow said the atmosphere in parliament was "toxic" and announced a special debate later on Thursday on the language used by MPs.

"Treat each other as opponents, not as enemies," Bercow said.

Security has been stepped up around a number of MPs who reported receiving death threats over their Brexit positions online.

Johnson was due to meet Thursday with his party's policymakers as he plots strategy over the crisis with just a month to go before Britain is due to leave the EU.

He was expected to try to pass a motion allowing parliament to be suspended for three days next week during the Conservatives' annual conference.

The House of Commons traditionally does not sit on party conference days.

But the opposition argues that the rules should be changed this time around to let MPs handle Brexit, which could mean the party conference has to be cancelled or shortened.

Johnson has said he is aiming to reach a deal with Brussels ahead of October 31 but is ready to take Britain out of the EU without a deal if necessary.

He has called for an election to resolve the current impasse with MPs, who have rejected the current version of the deal struck by his predecessor Theresa May last year.

The opposition warns a no-deal Brexit would be highly disruptive for Britain's economy and has said Johnson should first delay Brexit before an election is held.

The EU says it has not received any comprehensive proposals from Britain for a new deal.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told reporters: "We are still ready to work on any legal and operational proposal with the UK".

"We are still waiting," he said.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit. Tensions boiled over on Wednesday when Johnson went on the offensive after MPs returned to work following a Supreme Court ruling calling parliament suspension unlawful. He refused to apologize and repeatedly slammed parliament for passing a "surrender act" requiring him to seek a Brexit delay past the October 31 deadline if he fails to reach an exit agreement with the EU. Britain has been bitterly divided over the issue ever since the 2016 EU referendum campaign and the government has delayed Brexit twice because parliament has failed to approve its draft deal with EU leaders. Watch Video: UK PM Boris Johnson braces for Brexit battle × The real uproar on Wednesday came when Johnson said the best way to honour Jo Cox an anti-Brexit Labour MP who was fatally shot and stabbed by a Nazi sympathizer during the referendum campaign would be "to get Brexit done". "Feel a bit sick at Jo's name being used this way," her husband Brendan tweeted. "The best way to honour Jo is for all of us (no matter our views) to stand up for what we believe in but never to demonize the other side." Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn accused Johnson of using language that was "indistinguishable from (that of) the far-right". 'Toxic' atmosphere Even some members of Johnson's Conservatives appeared taken aback. "At a time of strong feelings, we all need to remind ourselves of the effect of everything we say on those watching," Culture and Media Minister Nicky Morgan said. And Jacob Rees-Mogg a strong Brexit and Johnson supporter who represents the government in parliament noted that everyone "had a responsibility to be mild in our language". Parliamentary speaker John Bercow said the atmosphere in parliament was "toxic" and announced a special debate later on Thursday on the language used by MPs. "Treat each other as opponents, not as enemies," Bercow said. Security has been stepped up around a number of MPs who reported receiving death threats over their Brexit positions online. Johnson was due to meet Thursday with his party's policymakers as he plots strategy over the crisis with just a month to go before Britain is due to leave the EU. He was expected to try to pass a motion allowing parliament to be suspended for three days next week during the Conservatives' annual conference. The House of Commons traditionally does not sit on party conference days. But the opposition argues that the rules should be changed this time around to let MPs handle Brexit, which could mean the party conference has to be cancelled or shortened. Johnson has said he is aiming to reach a deal with Brussels ahead of October 31 but is ready to take Britain out of the EU without a deal if necessary. He has called for an election to resolve the current impasse with MPs, who have rejected the current version of the deal struck by his predecessor Theresa May last year. The opposition warns a no-deal Brexit would be highly disruptive for Britain's economy and has said Johnson should first delay Brexit before an election is held. The EU says it has not received any comprehensive proposals from Britain for a new deal. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told reporters: "We are still ready to work on any legal and operational proposal with the UK". "We are still waiting," he said.

Outrage at UK PM Boris Johnson's rhetoric in Brexit impasse

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he would not seek an extension to Brexit even if the conditions of a recently passed bill were met, forcing him to do so.

UK PM Boris Johnson braces for Brexit battle

US President Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;threw his weight Tuesday behind&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson's plan to exit the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">European Union</a> as the British leader suffered a major setback in court.

Trump said it took a man such as Johnson to get Brexit done and that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-vows-to-pursue-brexit-plan-despite-supreme-court-blow-251822">Brexit had to be done</a>.

"It takes a man like this to get it done,"&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;said of Johnson, adding, "I think he is going to get it done."

"It would be a terrible thing to do it any other way," Trump added as the&nbsp;pair met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

Trump also dismissed&nbsp;British opposition demands that Johnson should resign after the&nbsp;Supreme Court ruled he had acted unlawfully.

Asked by reporters about calls for Johnson to resign, Trump said, "I'll tell you, I know him well, he’s not going anywhere."

Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes!

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Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plan for Brexit on October 31, despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful.

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The American president told reporters that he had "no reaction" when he heard that Britain's highest court had ruled against Johnson.

"He's a professional. It's just another day in the office,"&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;said of his British counterpart.

The ruling came after a series of defeats in parliament that had curbed Johnson's plans to leave the EU at the end of next month even without a divorce deal with Brussels.

Three years after the 2016 Brexit referendum, Johnson has insisted Britain must leave the EU without further delays, but lawmakers fear the disruptive impact of exiting without a deal with Brussels.

Johnson told reporters in New York that he "strongly disagreed" with the court decision but said he would respect it.

He also renewed his calls for Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britain's main opposition Labour party, to back a general election.

Corbyn said Johnson should resign after the court judgement.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight Tuesday behind Boris Johnson's plan to exit the European Union as the British leader suffered a major setback in court.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight Tuesday behind Boris Johnson's plan to exit the European Union as the British leader suffered a major setback in court. Trump said it took a man such as Johnson to get Brexit done and that Brexit had to be done. "It takes a man like this to get it done," Trump said of Johnson, adding, "I think he is going to get it done." "It would be a terrible thing to do it any other way," Trump added as the pair met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Trump also dismissed British opposition demands that Johnson should resign after the Supreme Court ruled he had acted unlawfully. Asked by reporters about calls for Johnson to resign, Trump said, "I'll tell you, I know him well, he’s not going anywhere." Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes! × Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plan for Brexit on October 31, despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful. The American president told reporters that he had "no reaction" when he heard that Britain's highest court had ruled against Johnson. "He's a professional. It's just another day in the office," Trump said of his British counterpart. The ruling came after a series of defeats in parliament that had curbed Johnson's plans to leave the EU at the end of next month even without a divorce deal with Brussels. Three years after the 2016 Brexit referendum, Johnson has insisted Britain must leave the EU without further delays, but lawmakers fear the disruptive impact of exiting without a deal with Brussels. Johnson told reporters in New York that he "strongly disagreed" with the court decision but said he would respect it. He also renewed his calls for Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britain's main opposition Labour party, to back a general election. Corbyn said Johnson should resign after the court judgement.

Should PM Boris Johnson resign? Donald Trump says, 'he's not going anywhere'

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mps-return-to-parliament-after-supreme-court-ruling-251945">Boris Johnson</a> on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?"

As he faced MPs for the first time since the Supreme Court quashed his suspension of parliament, Johnson asked, "Will they have the courage to act?... Come on, then."

Johnson was reaction follows the Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn calling on Johnson to resign while also adding that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated.

"Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn was quoted as saying by local media.

Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes!

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Reacting on Supreme Court's ruling, Johnson said the top court was "wrong" to get involved in "what is essentially a political question at a time of great national controversy".

The court's judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels.

The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?" As he faced MPs for the first time since the Supreme Court quashed his suspension of parliament, Johnson asked, "Will they have the courage to act?... Come on, then." Johnson was reaction follows the Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn calling on Johnson to resign while also adding that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated. "Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn was quoted as saying by local media. Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes! × Reacting on Supreme Court's ruling, Johnson said the top court was "wrong" to get involved in "what is essentially a political question at a time of great national controversy". The court's judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31. The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

'What are they scared of?': UK PM Johnson challenges opposition to call confidence vote

By Matthew Flinders

It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere.

And the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the process by which prime minister prorogued parliament for five weeks in the run-up the October 31 date when Brexit is now due was not lawful. What happens now in terms of process is unclear but what appears to have been almost completely overlooked in the generally turgid and jargon-rich commentaries that have surrounded the case is that the result is unlikely to matter.

In fact, despite losing this specific trial of strength, Johnson may still come out the winner.

The goal of the teams taking on the government in court was to stop executive overreach. They argued that the government had devised a lengthy prorogation to limit the time available for parliament to hold the government to account over Brexit ahead of the October 31 deadline. The government insisted that the break was needed to organise a new parliamentary session. The courts have decided this was not the case.

But judicial bravery in highly contested constitutional waters may have the unintended consequence of delivering a major “Boris boost” in terms of public support. Whether through serendipity or strategy (probably the former) the prime minister has created a win-win situation that nobody seems to have noticed.

The Supreme Court upheld campaigner Gina Miller’s appeal and overturned a ruling by the English High Court that suspending parliament was “not a matter” for the judiciary.

In so doing, the court is, in effect, siding with the highest court in Scotland, which ruled earlier this month that the prorogation of parliament was unlawful as “it had the purpose of stymieing parliament”.

This decision is certain to spark the political equivalent of a volcanic eruption with claims and counter-claims of judicial activism and political incompetence. Academics will undoubtedly scuttle off to the library in an attempt to somehow reconcile the Supreme Court’s decision with legal scholar JAG Griffith’s classic account of “the political constitution” in the United Kingdom (Modern Law Review, 1979 and still well worth reading).

In reality, such matters are relatively simple. The court’s decision is constitutionally legitimate on the basis that it was upholding the basic tenet of parliamentary sovereignty. Far from undermining the political constitution, the Supreme Court would from this position be protecting it, while retaining a politically subservient position.

But what no one seems to have considered is that Johnson is an explicitly populist politician. He will live to whiff-whaff another day. His whole approach to gaining the keys to No.10 has revolved around constantly responding to – and to some extent amplifying – the populist signal, not least over Brexit. In this context, a Supreme Court defeat risks simply playing into Johnson’s gameplan. It will not stop Brexit. But for Johnson and, especially for his shady apparatchiks, it will be yet another example of “them” (that is, the elite, the experts, the untouchables that wield power without responsibility) against “us” (the Great British public).

The rules of political engagement have already been altered almost beyond recognition, and Johnson’s entire brand is based on being an unconventional politician.

The great risk of the Supreme Court ruling is that it will add fuel to a populist fire that is already raging about the need for a strong leader. Indeed, one of the few similarities between all the different manifestations of populism that have emerged around the world over the past decade is the existence of a charismatic and strong leader who can mobilise the masses and manipulate how dominant issues are framed. In the UK it is Johnson who seems to be staking the greatest claim to this role – and his popularity amongst Conservative Party members provides a powerful platform.

Britain’s threadbare constitutional framework makes it particularly vulnerable to the wrath of a strong leader. Where other countries have adopted a codified constitution, clear rules of engagement and an explicit role for the courts in curbing executive power, the British constitution operates through what the eminent constitutional historian Peter Hennessy has called “the good chaps theory of government”, which presumes that all politicians will exercise a high degree of self-restraint, respecting the unwritten rules of the constitution.

What’s worrying is that the words “Boris Johnson” and “self-restraint” have rarely – if ever – been used in the same sentence. He is not a man to play by the rules and the power of populism appears far too tempting. This is reflected in his refusal to rule out simply suspending parliament again. This tendency to pander to populism is exactly why a judicial loss risks boosting rather than wounding the prime minister.

(Matthew Flinders is Founding Director of the Sir Bernard Crick Centre for the Public Understanding of Politics, University of Sheffield)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-boris-johnson-defeated-by-uk-supreme-court-but-he-could-still-emerge-as-a-winner-123819"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

By Matthew Flinders It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere.

By Matthew Flinders It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere. And the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the process by which prime minister prorogued parliament for five weeks in the run-up the October 31 date when Brexit is now due was not lawful. What happens now in terms of process is unclear but what appears to have been almost completely overlooked in the generally turgid and jargon-rich commentaries that have surrounded the case is that the result is unlikely to matter. In fact, despite losing this specific trial of strength, Johnson may still come out the winner. The goal of the teams taking on the government in court was to stop executive overreach. They argued that the government had devised a lengthy prorogation to limit the time available for parliament to hold the government to account over Brexit ahead of the October 31 deadline. The government insisted that the break was needed to organise a new parliamentary session. The courts have decided this was not the case. But judicial bravery in highly contested constitutional waters may have the unintended consequence of delivering a major “Boris boost” in terms of public support. Whether through serendipity or strategy (probably the former) the prime minister has created a win-win situation that nobody seems to have noticed. The Supreme Court upheld campaigner Gina Miller’s appeal and overturned a ruling by the English High Court that suspending parliament was “not a matter” for the judiciary. In so doing, the court is, in effect, siding with the highest court in Scotland, which ruled earlier this month that the prorogation of parliament was unlawful as “it had the purpose of stymieing parliament”. This decision is certain to spark the political equivalent of a volcanic eruption with claims and counter-claims of judicial activism and political incompetence. Academics will undoubtedly scuttle off to the library in an attempt to somehow reconcile the Supreme Court’s decision with legal scholar JAG Griffith’s classic account of “the political constitution” in the United Kingdom (Modern Law Review, 1979 and still well worth reading). In reality, such matters are relatively simple. The court’s decision is constitutionally legitimate on the basis that it was upholding the basic tenet of parliamentary sovereignty. Far from undermining the political constitution, the Supreme Court would from this position be protecting it, while retaining a politically subservient position. But what no one seems to have considered is that Johnson is an explicitly populist politician. He will live to whiff-whaff another day. His whole approach to gaining the keys to No.10 has revolved around constantly responding to – and to some extent amplifying – the populist signal, not least over Brexit. In this context, a Supreme Court defeat risks simply playing into Johnson’s gameplan. It will not stop Brexit. But for Johnson and, especially for his shady apparatchiks, it will be yet another example of “them” (that is, the elite, the experts, the untouchables that wield power without responsibility) against “us” (the Great British public). The rules of political engagement have already been altered almost beyond recognition, and Johnson’s entire brand is based on being an unconventional politician. The great risk of the Supreme Court ruling is that it will add fuel to a populist fire that is already raging about the need for a strong leader. Indeed, one of the few similarities between all the different manifestations of populism that have emerged around the world over the past decade is the existence of a charismatic and strong leader who can mobilise the masses and manipulate how dominant issues are framed. In the UK it is Johnson who seems to be staking the greatest claim to this role – and his popularity amongst Conservative Party members provides a powerful platform. Britain’s threadbare constitutional framework makes it particularly vulnerable to the wrath of a strong leader. Where other countries have adopted a codified constitution, clear rules of engagement and an explicit role for the courts in curbing executive power, the British constitution operates through what the eminent constitutional historian Peter Hennessy has called “the good chaps theory of government”, which presumes that all politicians will exercise a high degree of self-restraint, respecting the unwritten rules of the constitution. What’s worrying is that the words “Boris Johnson” and “self-restraint” have rarely – if ever – been used in the same sentence. He is not a man to play by the rules and the power of populism appears far too tempting. This is reflected in his refusal to rule out simply suspending parliament again. This tendency to pander to populism is exactly why a judicial loss risks boosting rather than wounding the prime minister. (Matthew Flinders is Founding Director of the Sir Bernard Crick Centre for the Public Understanding of Politics, University of Sheffield) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit row: Boris Johnson defeated by UK Supreme Court – but he could still emerge as a winner

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs)&nbsp;return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful.

The judgement has challenged&nbsp;Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-pm-boris-johnson-resign-donald-trump-says-hes-not-going-anywhere-251837">resignation</a> and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

The Conservative leader was due to arrive back from New York, heading straight into a political maelstrom triggered by Tuesday's damning court ruling that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks was unlawful.

Britain's right-wing tabloids reacted angrily to the ruling, with The Sun saying it had been bombarded with letters from readers expressing "fury".

The Daily Telegraph said Johnson was "seen as the champion of the people against an establishment determined to stop Brexit", while for the Daily Mail, "The real political vandals are the out of touch MPs blocking Brexit".&nbsp;

The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, announced that MPs would reconvene at 1030 GMT&nbsp;on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return later the same day.

Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn called on Johnson to resign but said that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated.

"Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn told BBC radio.

Bercow said there would be no Prime Minister's Questions - a weekly session held on Wednesdays - but there would be "full scope for urgent questions, for ministerial statements, and for applications for emergency debates".

Cabinet member Michael Gove said that&nbsp;the government would outline its next steps in parliament later on Wednesday.

"I don't think that the government should apologise for having a strong domestic agenda. I don't think we should apologise also for seeking to advance our exit from the European Union," Gove told the BBC.

Hammer blows for Johnson

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">ruling</a> throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels.

Johnson told British media that&nbsp;he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but would respect it.

The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

Despite the series of hammer blows in the House of Commons and the courts as well as losing his parliamentary majority, Johnson is still riding high in the polls and keen for an election to try and win enough seats to push through Brexit.

But he requires the consent of opposition parties to hold a snap election and they are so far reluctant, preferring to use their working majority to keep a tight leash on Johnson as the EU departure deadline of October 31 looms.

Dead in a ditch

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/decision-to-suspend-uk-parliament-was-unlawful-supreme-court-251746">11 Supreme Court judges ruled on Tuesday</a> that the parliamentary suspension, which came into effect this month, was "unlawful, void and of no effect".

Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme.

But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs.

Johnson is likely to resist resignation calls, insisting that he must take Britain out of the EU next month regardless of the circumstances.

In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal".

It obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17 and 18.

But the Prime Minister has said he would rather "be dead in a ditch" than ask for another extension, setting up a potential showdown.

Johnson said Tuesday that he hoped to amend the divorce deal struck between the EU and his predecessor Theresa May, which has been rejected by MPs three times.

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs) return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful.

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs) return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful. The judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31. The Conservative leader was due to arrive back from New York, heading straight into a political maelstrom triggered by Tuesday's damning court ruling that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks was unlawful. Britain's right-wing tabloids reacted angrily to the ruling, with The Sun saying it had been bombarded with letters from readers expressing "fury". The Daily Telegraph said Johnson was "seen as the champion of the people against an establishment determined to stop Brexit", while for the Daily Mail, "The real political vandals are the out of touch MPs blocking Brexit". The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, announced that MPs would reconvene at 1030 GMT on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return later the same day. Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn called on Johnson to resign but said that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated. "Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn told BBC radio. Bercow said there would be no Prime Minister's Questions - a weekly session held on Wednesdays - but there would be "full scope for urgent questions, for ministerial statements, and for applications for emergency debates". Cabinet member Michael Gove said that the government would outline its next steps in parliament later on Wednesday. "I don't think that the government should apologise for having a strong domestic agenda. I don't think we should apologise also for seeking to advance our exit from the European Union," Gove told the BBC. Hammer blows for Johnson The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. Johnson told British media that he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but would respect it. The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do". Despite the series of hammer blows in the House of Commons and the courts as well as losing his parliamentary majority, Johnson is still riding high in the polls and keen for an election to try and win enough seats to push through Brexit. But he requires the consent of opposition parties to hold a snap election and they are so far reluctant, preferring to use their working majority to keep a tight leash on Johnson as the EU departure deadline of October 31 looms. Dead in a ditch The 11 Supreme Court judges ruled on Tuesday that the parliamentary suspension, which came into effect this month, was "unlawful, void and of no effect". Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme. But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs. Johnson is likely to resist resignation calls, insisting that he must take Britain out of the EU next month regardless of the circumstances. In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal". It obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17 and 18. But the Prime Minister has said he would rather "be dead in a ditch" than ask for another extension, setting up a potential showdown. Johnson said Tuesday that he hoped to amend the divorce deal struck between the EU and his predecessor Theresa May, which has been rejected by MPs three times.

UK MPs return to parliament after Supreme Court ruling

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plans for Brexit on October 31 despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plans for Brexit on October 31 despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful. The judgement dealt a huge blow to Johnson's authority, coming after a series of defeats in parliament that have curbed his plans to leave the European Union even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, immediately announced MPs would reconvene on Wednesday. The Conservative leader, who is currently in New York, told British media he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but said he would respect it. Johnson also renewed his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament. He said it was "the obvious thing to do". 'Void and of no effect' Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme. But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs. Delivering the unanimous verdict of 11 judges, Supreme Court president Brenda Hale said "the decision to advise Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth II) to prorogue was unlawful". She said this was "because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions". As a result, the suspension was "void and of no effect", Hale said, adding: "Parliament has not been prorogued." Bercow subsequently announced he would reconvene the Commons at 11.30 am (1030 GMT) on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return the same day. The judges "have vindicated the right and duty of parliament to meet at this crucial time to scrutinise the executive", Bercow said. A small group of protesters outside the court hailed the decision, with one, Gareth Daniels, telling AFP: "This is a great day for democracy." Resignation calls Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the main opposition Labour party, led calls for the prime minister to step down. "I invite Boris Johnson, in the historic words, to consider his position, and become the shortest serving prime minister there has ever been," he told his party's annual conference. He brought forward his concluding speech to the meeting in Brighton, southern England, from Wednesday to Tuesday to allow him to return to parliament. Some opposition MPs called for a confidence vote in Johnson, and Bercow indicated he would allow time for this if a formal request were made. But Corbyn indicated he would only table a motion of no-confidence once he was sure the Brexit October 31 deadline was delayed should no compromise agreement with Brussels come through. "This crisis can only be settled with a general election," he told a party conference. "That election needs to take place as soon as this government's threat of a disastrous no-deal (Brexit) is taken off the table." Meeting the British leader on the sidelines of a United Nations meeting in New York, US President Donald Trump, a strong Johnson and Brexit supporter, said it would be "terrible" if his plan for getting out of the EU was blocked. "It takes a man like this to get it done," Trump said of Johnson, adding: "I think he is going to get it done." Torrid time in office Opinion polls suggest Johnson's battles with MPs over Brexit are actually making him more popular with voters. Johnson only took office on July 24 but has endured a torrid few weeks in office as he fights a hostile parliament over Brexit. Three years after the 2016 referendum, he insists Britain must leave the EU next month whatever the circumstances. But lawmakers fear the disruptive impact of leaving without a deal, which the government itself has admitted could cause food and medicine shortages, and civil unrest. In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal". The law obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal by an EU summit on October 17 and 18. Johnson said Tuesday he hoped he can agree new exit terms to replace those struck by his predecessor Theresa May, which was rejected by MPs. But EU leaders are not as hopeful, accusing London of failing to come up with serious alternatives to the current agreement.

UK PM vows to pursue Brexit plan despite Supreme Court blow

The UK <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">Supreme Court</a> will say on Tuesday whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson acted unlawfully when he suspended parliament just weeks before Brexit, a ruling that may further complicate his plans to lead his country out of the European Union next month.

A decision against him could lead to parliament reconvening earlier than scheduled, giving it extra time to thwart his Brexit-or-bust agenda to depart the EU by Oct. 31, with or without an exit deal agreed with the bloc.

His foes allege that Johnson suspended the assembly, where he lacks a majority, to sidestep opposition to his plan. Most lawmakers are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, fearing that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains.

He says the suspension was necessary to give the government time to prepare a new legislative agenda.

The Supreme Court's ruling is due to be delivered at&nbsp;09.30 GMT. With a constitutional crisis engulfing Britain, there is a high degree of uncertainty on exactly what it might say, and what the ramifications will be for Johnson and for parliament.

On one end of the spectrum, the justices could say that the suspension was a political matter on which they cannot pass judgment. On&nbsp;the other end, they could say that Johnson acted unlawfully and give instructions as to how and when parliament should be recalled. Other outcomes in between the two extremes are possible too.

Striking a defiant tone ahead of the ruling, Johnson rejected criticism from his opponents that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks at such a crucial time was to prevent it from challenging his Brexit policies.

"Parliament will have bags of time to scrutinise the deal that I hope I will be able to do (with the EU's 27 other members)," he told reporters on Monday during a flight to New York, where he was due to attend the UN General Assembly.

"'Donnez-moi un break (give me a break)&nbsp;is my message to those who say there will be no parliamentary scrutiny. Absolute nonsense," he said.

The Queen Mislead?

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-he-loses-in-court-pm-boris-johnson-could-suspend-parliament-again-250663">parliament was suspended</a>, or prorogued in the British jargon, from September 10 to October&nbsp;14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral Head of State, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister as she is required to do under the country's complex, uncodified constitution.

Johnson told the monarch that the suspension was required to give him time to prepare a Queen's Speech, another term of jargon referring to a new legislative agenda. The legal challenge hinges on whether he gave a false pretext and abused the power of prorogation.

Prior to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-for-courts-to-decide-parliament-suspension-uk-pm-boris-johnsons-lawyer-250441"> suspension</a>, he had lost&nbsp;a series of crucial votes on how and when Britain should execute its exit from the EU, decided in a 2016 referendum that split the nation bitterly.

Asked on the flight to New York whether a ruling by the Supreme Court that he had deliberately misled the queen would make his position as Prime Minister untenable, he replied: "No. I think that the reasons for wanting a Queen's Speech are extremely good."

Before the prorogation, a cross-party rebel alliance of lawmakers managed to force through a law aimed at stopping a no-deal Brexit by requiring Johnson to ask for a three-month extension if he has not been able to strike a deal by October&nbsp;19.

Johnson and other government ministers have maintained that Britain will exit on October&nbsp;31 and will not accept any further delays, indicating that they might seek to ignore the legislation and possibly bring about further court battles.

The UK Supreme Court will say on Tuesday whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson acted unlawfully when he suspended parliament just weeks before Brexit, a ruling that may further complicate his plans to lead his country out of the European Union next month.

The UK Supreme Court will say on Tuesday whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson acted unlawfully when he suspended parliament just weeks before Brexit, a ruling that may further complicate his plans to lead his country out of the European Union next month. A decision against him could lead to parliament reconvening earlier than scheduled, giving it extra time to thwart his Brexit-or-bust agenda to depart the EU by Oct. 31, with or without an exit deal agreed with the bloc. His foes allege that Johnson suspended the assembly, where he lacks a majority, to sidestep opposition to his plan. Most lawmakers are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, fearing that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains. He says the suspension was necessary to give the government time to prepare a new legislative agenda. The Supreme Court's ruling is due to be delivered at 09.30 GMT. With a constitutional crisis engulfing Britain, there is a high degree of uncertainty on exactly what it might say, and what the ramifications will be for Johnson and for parliament. On one end of the spectrum, the justices could say that the suspension was a political matter on which they cannot pass judgment. On the other end, they could say that Johnson acted unlawfully and give instructions as to how and when parliament should be recalled. Other outcomes in between the two extremes are possible too. Striking a defiant tone ahead of the ruling, Johnson rejected criticism from his opponents that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks at such a crucial time was to prevent it from challenging his Brexit policies. "Parliament will have bags of time to scrutinise the deal that I hope I will be able to do (with the EU's 27 other members)," he told reporters on Monday during a flight to New York, where he was due to attend the UN General Assembly. "'Donnez-moi un break (give me a break) is my message to those who say there will be no parliamentary scrutiny. Absolute nonsense," he said. The Queen Mislead? The parliament was suspended, or prorogued in the British jargon, from September 10 to October 14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral Head of State, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister as she is required to do under the country's complex, uncodified constitution. Johnson told the monarch that the suspension was required to give him time to prepare a Queen's Speech, another term of jargon referring to a new legislative agenda. The legal challenge hinges on whether he gave a false pretext and abused the power of prorogation. Prior to the suspension, he had lost a series of crucial votes on how and when Britain should execute its exit from the EU, decided in a 2016 referendum that split the nation bitterly. Asked on the flight to New York whether a ruling by the Supreme Court that he had deliberately misled the queen would make his position as Prime Minister untenable, he replied: "No. I think that the reasons for wanting a Queen's Speech are extremely good." Before the prorogation, a cross-party rebel alliance of lawmakers managed to force through a law aimed at stopping a no-deal Brexit by requiring Johnson to ask for a three-month extension if he has not been able to strike a deal by October 19. Johnson and other government ministers have maintained that Britain will exit on October 31 and will not accept any further delays, indicating that they might seek to ignore the legislation and possibly bring about further court battles.

UK Supreme Court ruling could throw Boris Johnson's Brexit plan into more disarray

The United Kingdom <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">Supreme Court</a> ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-uk-will-invest-125-billion-to-save-endangered-species-251653">Johnson </a>told to reporters in New York where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly that he would "respect the judicial process" but that the UK would still leave the EU on October 31.

Britain's lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, is set to sit on Wednesday (September 25) after the Supreme Court ruled Johnson's suspension of parliament was unlawful, Commons Speaker John Bercow said.

The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil.

The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil. Johnson told to reporters in New York where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly that he would "respect the judicial process" but that the UK would still leave the EU on October 31. Britain's lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, is set to sit on Wednesday (September 25) after the Supreme Court ruled Johnson's suspension of parliament was unlawful, Commons Speaker John Bercow said.

UK PM says will respect Supreme Court verdict, still leaving EU on October 31

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough.

Johnson and Tusk met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly as Britain races towards its October 31 departure without an exit agreement and the prospect of economic disruption.

The British prime minister underlined to Tusk that his preference is for an exit agreement, a Downing Street spokesperson said, adding that the pair discussed finding an alternative to the so-called "Irish backstop."

They also discussed three papers recently submitted by London with ideas on replacing the backstop provisions in the Brexit deal struck last year but rejected by British lawmakers.

"The Prime Minister emphasized that in order to secure a deal we will now need to see movement and flexibility from the EU," said the spokesman.

"The leaders agreed to keep in touch over the coming weeks," they added.

Tusk tweeted that there had been, "No breakthrough. No breakdown," adding that there was "no time to lose."

The meeting came as the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said Monday that London's current position did not offer any "basis to find an agreement" on leaving the bloc.

He said it was "difficult to see how we can arrive at a legally operative solution which fulfils all the objectives of the backstop."

The "backstop" is intended to guarantee that there is no hard border between EU member Ireland and the UK's province of Northern Ireland and to protect the EU's single market.

The British government has admitted leaving without an exit agreement could cause food shortages and spark civil unrest.

Johnson also held a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Charles Michel of Belgium, in which Brexit was discussed, the spokesperson for the British prime minister said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough. Johnson and Tusk met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly as Britain races towards its October 31 departure without an exit agreement and the prospect of economic disruption. The British prime minister underlined to Tusk that his preference is for an exit agreement, a Downing Street spokesperson said, adding that the pair discussed finding an alternative to the so-called "Irish backstop." They also discussed three papers recently submitted by London with ideas on replacing the backstop provisions in the Brexit deal struck last year but rejected by British lawmakers. "The Prime Minister emphasized that in order to secure a deal we will now need to see movement and flexibility from the EU," said the spokesman. "The leaders agreed to keep in touch over the coming weeks," they added. Tusk tweeted that there had been, "No breakthrough. No breakdown," adding that there was "no time to lose." The meeting came as the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said Monday that London's current position did not offer any "basis to find an agreement" on leaving the bloc. He said it was "difficult to see how we can arrive at a legally operative solution which fulfils all the objectives of the backstop." The "backstop" is intended to guarantee that there is no hard border between EU member Ireland and the UK's province of Northern Ireland and to protect the EU's single market. The British government has admitted leaving without an exit agreement could cause food shortages and spark civil unrest. Johnson also held a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Charles Michel of Belgium, in which Brexit was discussed, the spokesperson for the British prime minister said.

No breakthrough as EU's Donald Tusk, Britain's Boris Johnson meet in New York

Britain's main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn called Tuesday on Boris Johnson to resign as prime minister and call an early election after the Supreme Court ruled his suspension of parliament "unlawful".

Britain's main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn called Tuesday on Boris Johnson to resign as prime minister and call an early election after the Supreme Court ruled his suspension of parliament "unlawful". "I invite Boris Johnson... to consider his position, and become the shortest-serving prime minister there has ever been," Corbyn told Labour's party conference, calling on the Conservative party leader to "have an election to elect a government that respects democracy". Corbyn called for Johnson's resignation after UK Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that prime minister had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

UK Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn calls on PM Johnson to resign

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

The ruling paves the way for legislators to return to parliament, where Johnson has no majority. It could give lawmakers, most of whom are opposed to leaving without the EU without a divorce agreement as he has threatened to do, further opportunity to impede his strategy.

"The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification," Supreme Court President Brenda Hale said.

"Parliament has not been prorogued. This is the unanimous judgment of all 11 justices," she added. "It is for parliament, and in particular the speaker and the (House of) Lords speaker, to decide what to do next."

Parliament was suspended, or prorogued in the British jargon, from Sept. 10 to Oct. 14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral head of state, on the advice of the prime minister.

"I welcome the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">Supreme Cour</a>t's judgment that the prorogation of Parliament was unlawful," said the speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow.

"As the embodiment of our Parliamentary democracy, the House of Commons must convene without delay. To this end, I will now consult the party leaders as a matter of urgency."

Some lawmakers, including those thrown out of Johnson's Conservative Party for rebelling against his Brexit plans, had said he should resign if he was found to have misled the queen.

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void. The ruling paves the way for legislators to return to parliament, where Johnson has no majority. It could give lawmakers, most of whom are opposed to leaving without the EU without a divorce agreement as he has threatened to do, further opportunity to impede his strategy. "The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification," Supreme Court President Brenda Hale said. "Parliament has not been prorogued. This is the unanimous judgment of all 11 justices," she added. "It is for parliament, and in particular the speaker and the (House of) Lords speaker, to decide what to do next." Parliament was suspended, or prorogued in the British jargon, from Sept. 10 to Oct. 14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral head of state, on the advice of the prime minister. "I welcome the Supreme Court's judgment that the prorogation of Parliament was unlawful," said the speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow. "As the embodiment of our Parliamentary democracy, the House of Commons must convene without delay. To this end, I will now consult the party leaders as a matter of urgency." Some lawmakers, including those thrown out of Johnson's Conservative Party for rebelling against his Brexit plans, had said he should resign if he was found to have misled the queen.

Decision to suspend UK parliament was 'unlawful': Supreme Court

The European auto industry on Monday warned of catastrophic effects of a no-deal Brexit saying it would have a "seismic" impact on car-making. &nbsp;

In a rare joint statement, chiefs from 23 auto business associations across Europe joined forces to caution against a brutal exit from the bloc by Britain, where giants BMW, Peugeot PSA, and Japan's Nissan have factories.

"Brexit is not just a British problem, we are all concerned in the European automotive industry, and even further," said Christian Peugeot, head of French automotive industry association CCFA in the statement.

Thanks to the EU's single market, automakers have supply chains that criss-cross the Channel and Britain is the destination of around 10 percent of vehicles assembled on the continent, according to industry data.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has rattled nerves with his vow to leave the European Union on October 31 come what may -- with or without a trade deal with Brussels.

"The UK's departure from the EU without a deal would trigger a seismic shift in trading conditions, with billions of euros of tariffs threatening to impact consumer choice and affordability on both sides of the Channel," the joint statement said.

A chaotic Brexit would land a "severe" blow against the industry's just-in-time supply chains that stretch across international borders and depend on zero administrative hassle, the associations warned.

"The EU and UK automotive industries need frictionless trade and would be harmed significantly by additional duties and administrative burden on automotive parts and vehicles," said Bernhard &nbsp;Mattes, the head of German auto lobby VDA.&nbsp;

"Consequently, the UK and the EU should undertake all necessary steps to avoid a no-deal Brexit," he said.

Britain's largely foreign-owned car sector is already reeling from Brexit shocks, with French manufacturer PSA warning in July that it could shut down a key plant in northwest England if it becomes unprofitable.

Carmakers are also slamming the brakes on investment in Britain, which fell 70 percent to £90 million ($109 million, 98 million euros) in the six months to June, the UK's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said in July.

The SMMT has also warned that the cost to auto companies of one minute of stopped production time in Britain would amount to 54,700 euros (£50,000).

A spokesman for the UK government's Department for Business told AFP the government was still working hard towards a deal and was aiding businesses.&nbsp;

"We have turbocharged preparations for Brexit across all sectors, including automotive, with £108 million of funding to promote and support businesses," the government spokesman said.

This would, he said, "ensure they are ready for Brexit and can take advantage of the opportunities of our future outside of the EU."

The European auto industry on Monday warned of catastrophic effects of a no-deal Brexit saying it would have a "seismic" impact on car-making. In a rare joint statement, chiefs from 23 auto business associations across Europe joined forces to caution against a brutal exit from the bloc by Britain, where giants BMW, Peugeot PSA, and Japan's Nissan have factories.

The European auto industry on Monday warned of catastrophic effects of a no-deal Brexit saying it would have a "seismic" impact on car-making. In a rare joint statement, chiefs from 23 auto business associations across Europe joined forces to caution against a brutal exit from the bloc by Britain, where giants BMW, Peugeot PSA, and Japan's Nissan have factories. "Brexit is not just a British problem, we are all concerned in the European automotive industry, and even further," said Christian Peugeot, head of French automotive industry association CCFA in the statement. Thanks to the EU's single market, automakers have supply chains that criss-cross the Channel and Britain is the destination of around 10 percent of vehicles assembled on the continent, according to industry data. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has rattled nerves with his vow to leave the European Union on October 31 come what may -- with or without a trade deal with Brussels. "The UK's departure from the EU without a deal would trigger a seismic shift in trading conditions, with billions of euros of tariffs threatening to impact consumer choice and affordability on both sides of the Channel," the joint statement said. A chaotic Brexit would land a "severe" blow against the industry's just-in-time supply chains that stretch across international borders and depend on zero administrative hassle, the associations warned. "The EU and UK automotive industries need frictionless trade and would be harmed significantly by additional duties and administrative burden on automotive parts and vehicles," said Bernhard Mattes, the head of German auto lobby VDA. "Consequently, the UK and the EU should undertake all necessary steps to avoid a no-deal Brexit," he said. Britain's largely foreign-owned car sector is already reeling from Brexit shocks, with French manufacturer PSA warning in July that it could shut down a key plant in northwest England if it becomes unprofitable. Carmakers are also slamming the brakes on investment in Britain, which fell 70 percent to £90 million ($109 million, 98 million euros) in the six months to June, the UK's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said in July. The SMMT has also warned that the cost to auto companies of one minute of stopped production time in Britain would amount to 54,700 euros (£50,000). A spokesman for the UK government's Department for Business told AFP the government was still working hard towards a deal and was aiding businesses. "We have turbocharged preparations for Brexit across all sectors, including automotive, with £108 million of funding to promote and support businesses," the government spokesman said. This would, he said, "ensure they are ready for Brexit and can take advantage of the opportunities of our future outside of the EU."

Auto industry warns of 'seismic' no-deal Brexit shock

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet&nbsp;Iran's president.

"I can tell you that the UK is attributing responsibility with a very high degree of probability to Iran for the Aramco attacks," he said, cited by Britain's Press Association news agency on Monday.

He is due to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN General Assembly in New York.

He will also discuss the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-says-abundantly-clear-iran-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-250674">attacks </a>at a joint meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

"We think it very likely indeed that Iran was indeed responsible for using both UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), both drones and cruise missiles," Johnson told reporters.

"Clearly the difficulty is, how do we organise a global response? What is the way forward? And we will be working with our American friends and our European friends to construct a response that tries to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region", he added.

The United States has accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-release-british-flagged-tanker-within-hours-swedish-owner-251217">Tehran</a> of carrying out air attacks on Saudi Arabia's Abqaiq plant and the Khurais oil field on September 14, knocking out half the kingdom's oil production.

Iran denies responsibility for the attacks which were claimed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-present-plan-for-gulf-security-at-un-this-week-251202">Iranian-backed </a>Huthi rebels in Yemen.

Johnson said,&nbsp;"clearly if we are asked either by the Saudis or the Americans to have a role then we would consider in what way we could be useful."

The British premier also said he would raise the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian mother held in Tehran since 2016, when he meets with Rouhani.

Johnson has been accused of making her plight worse when, in a previous job as foreign minister, he said she had been training journalists in Iran before she was arrested for sedition.

Her family strongly denies this and he swiftly backtracked. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the media group's philanthropic arm, denies all charges.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet Iran's president.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet Iran's president. "I can tell you that the UK is attributing responsibility with a very high degree of probability to Iran for the Aramco attacks," he said, cited by Britain's Press Association news agency on Monday. He is due to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN General Assembly in New York. He will also discuss the attacks at a joint meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. "We think it very likely indeed that Iran was indeed responsible for using both UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), both drones and cruise missiles," Johnson told reporters. "Clearly the difficulty is, how do we organise a global response? What is the way forward? And we will be working with our American friends and our European friends to construct a response that tries to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region", he added. The United States has accused Tehran of carrying out air attacks on Saudi Arabia's Abqaiq plant and the Khurais oil field on September 14, knocking out half the kingdom's oil production. Iran denies responsibility for the attacks which were claimed by Iranian-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen. Johnson said, "clearly if we are asked either by the Saudis or the Americans to have a role then we would consider in what way we could be useful." The British premier also said he would raise the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian mother held in Tehran since 2016, when he meets with Rouhani. Johnson has been accused of making her plight worse when, in a previous job as foreign minister, he said she had been training journalists in Iran before she was arrested for sedition. Her family strongly denies this and he swiftly backtracked. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the media group's philanthropic arm, denies all charges.

Iran behind attacks on Saudi oil sites: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Britain's main opposition Labour Party begins its annual conference on Sunday desperately searching for a coherent Brexit plan to stem a potential drubbing in a looming election.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's moment of truth comes with the crisis-torn country hurtling toward an October 31 exit from the European Union without a plan for future trade.

Yet the same divisions over Europe that saw Boris Johnson's right-wing Conservatives lose their working majority are also tearing apart Labour on the left.

The 119-year-old party's support base consists of cosmopolitan city-dwelling europhiles and traditional working-class communities that rejected Brussels in the 2016 referendum.

Polls show these views have become even more entrenched today a polarisation that further complicates Corbyn's bid to find a unifying stance.

The strongly anti-European Brexit Party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats are eroding Labour's support on both flanks, according to recent polls.

Labour officials will hunker down in a swanky hotel on England's south coast Sunday night to whittle down their Brexit options to a single position that will be either rejected or approved Monday.

Corbyn has given every indication that he wants Labour to stay neutral on the defining issue of UK politics.

"No, I am not sitting on the fence," he insisted in a testy ITV interview Friday.

He has promised to negotiate a new divorce deal that maintains closer EU relations and then hold another referendum in which remaining in the bloc is the other option.

But he would not say which of the two he would campaign for or whether he actually wants to stay or go.

"The British people will make that final decision," Corbyn told ITV.

'Ugly polls'

Efforts to keep the peace by appeasing both wings of his party are not sitting well with voters ahead of an early election that most expect to happen within months.

A September YouGov survey showed that just half of self-identifying Labour supporters trust Corbyn's ability to "make the right decisions on Brexit".

The same poll said that fewer than 10 per cent believed the 2016 Brexit decision was "right".

And an Ipsos MORI analysis found Corbyn's net satisfaction rating at 60. No opposition leader has fared worse in more than forty years.

"This strategy of being all things to all people on Brexit it paid off partly in 2017 (elections), but it's not clear that it's going to pay off again," said London School of Economics analyst Sara Hobolt.

"I think it wouldn't be right for Labour to have no opinion on such a big decision," Labour's foreign affairs spokeswoman Emily Thornberry agreed.

"Labour should campaign for remain," she told The Guardian.

'Party discipline'

The push for Labour to reject Brexit is being resisted by a eurosceptic core of socialist Corbyn supporters who include his closest aides.

The rise of the veteran leftist followed a 2015 change in Labour leadership election rules that gave equal weight to the votes of both rank-and-file members and MPs.

Corbyn's left-wing views resonated with members and young people disillusioned by the New Labour approach of Tony Blair's more centrist government.

Tens of thousands joined the party and transformed its platform.

A group called Momentum that helped Corbyn become the leader that year unsuccessfully tried Saturday to abolish the post of the party's pro-European deputy leader Tom Watson.

Corbyn intervened and the second vote scheduled for Sunday was called off.

But Momentum boss Jon Lansman said it was time to instill party discipline and for everyone to adopt Corbyn's neutrality in Europe.

"We need to make sure the deputy leader role is properly accountable to the membership," he said.

'Radical transformation'

Corbyn has sought to move past Brexit and campaign on a more traditionally Labour agenda of workers' rights and clean climate policies.

Some of the proposals that could come up for a vote at the conference include a plan to give 10 per cent of UK companies' shares to workers over the next 10 years.

The Financial Times called this "one of the biggest state expropriations of assets seen in a western democracy".

Momentum also wants Labour to commit to a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2030 and to "abolish private schools" in a "radical and transformational" election platform.

The various motions will be put for a vote before Corbyn concludes the conference with a keynote address Wednesday.

Britain's main opposition Labour Party begins its annual conference on Sunday desperately searching for a coherent Brexit plan to stem a potential drubbing in a looming election.

Britain's main opposition Labour Party begins its annual conference on Sunday desperately searching for a coherent Brexit plan to stem a potential drubbing in a looming election. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's moment of truth comes with the crisis-torn country hurtling toward an October 31 exit from the European Union without a plan for future trade. Yet the same divisions over Europe that saw Boris Johnson's right-wing Conservatives lose their working majority are also tearing apart Labour on the left. The 119-year-old party's support base consists of cosmopolitan city-dwelling europhiles and traditional working-class communities that rejected Brussels in the 2016 referendum. Polls show these views have become even more entrenched today a polarisation that further complicates Corbyn's bid to find a unifying stance. The strongly anti-European Brexit Party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats are eroding Labour's support on both flanks, according to recent polls. Labour officials will hunker down in a swanky hotel on England's south coast Sunday night to whittle down their Brexit options to a single position that will be either rejected or approved Monday. Corbyn has given every indication that he wants Labour to stay neutral on the defining issue of UK politics. "No, I am not sitting on the fence," he insisted in a testy ITV interview Friday. He has promised to negotiate a new divorce deal that maintains closer EU relations and then hold another referendum in which remaining in the bloc is the other option. But he would not say which of the two he would campaign for or whether he actually wants to stay or go. "The British people will make that final decision," Corbyn told ITV. 'Ugly polls' Efforts to keep the peace by appeasing both wings of his party are not sitting well with voters ahead of an early election that most expect to happen within months. A September YouGov survey showed that just half of self-identifying Labour supporters trust Corbyn's ability to "make the right decisions on Brexit". The same poll said that fewer than 10 per cent believed the 2016 Brexit decision was "right". And an Ipsos MORI analysis found Corbyn's net satisfaction rating at 60. No opposition leader has fared worse in more than forty years. "This strategy of being all things to all people on Brexit it paid off partly in 2017 (elections), but it's not clear that it's going to pay off again," said London School of Economics analyst Sara Hobolt. "I think it wouldn't be right for Labour to have no opinion on such a big decision," Labour's foreign affairs spokeswoman Emily Thornberry agreed. "Labour should campaign for remain," she told The Guardian. 'Party discipline' The push for Labour to reject Brexit is being resisted by a eurosceptic core of socialist Corbyn supporters who include his closest aides. The rise of the veteran leftist followed a 2015 change in Labour leadership election rules that gave equal weight to the votes of both rank-and-file members and MPs. Corbyn's left-wing views resonated with members and young people disillusioned by the New Labour approach of Tony Blair's more centrist government. Tens of thousands joined the party and transformed its platform. A group called Momentum that helped Corbyn become the leader that year unsuccessfully tried Saturday to abolish the post of the party's pro-European deputy leader Tom Watson. Corbyn intervened and the second vote scheduled for Sunday was called off. But Momentum boss Jon Lansman said it was time to instill party discipline and for everyone to adopt Corbyn's neutrality in Europe. "We need to make sure the deputy leader role is properly accountable to the membership," he said. 'Radical transformation' Corbyn has sought to move past Brexit and campaign on a more traditionally Labour agenda of workers' rights and clean climate policies. Some of the proposals that could come up for a vote at the conference include a plan to give 10 per cent of UK companies' shares to workers over the next 10 years. The Financial Times called this "one of the biggest state expropriations of assets seen in a western democracy". Momentum also wants Labour to commit to a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2030 and to "abolish private schools" in a "radical and transformational" election platform. The various motions will be put for a vote before Corbyn concludes the conference with a keynote address Wednesday.

Split by Brexit, Labour Party kicks off conference showdown

In This Past Fortnight, Boris Johnson Has Been Confronted By People In London, Leeds & Duncaster!

Gravitas: Trouble Follows Boris Johnson, Wherever he goes!

UK Parliament Suspension Case: Verdict on UK Parliament suspension next week

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">Supreme Court</a> rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday.

The document, submitted to the court by Johnson's lawyers, was disclosed as Britain's top judicial body was hearing a third and final day of legal arguments on whether the prime minister's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-for-courts-to-decide-parliament-suspension-uk-pm-boris-johnsons-lawyer-250441">decision to suspend parliament</a> from September&nbsp;10 to October&nbsp;14 was lawful.

On Tuesday, one of Johnson's lawyers had told the court that if the prime minister lost the case, he could recall parliament earlier than scheduled.

This would give more time for legislators to scrutinise and oppose his plans to lead Britain out of the European Union, with or without a divorce deal, on October&nbsp;31.

But in the new document, not disclosed to media but published by lawyer Jo Maugham - one of those involved in the legal challenge - Johnson's legal team appeared to say there would still be a way for him to keep parliament from sitting, depending on the exact wording of the court's judgment.

"Depending on the court's reasoning it would still either be open or not open to the PM to consider a further prorogation," two senior lawyers representing Johnson said in a written submission to the court.

Johnson's lawyers had been asked by the judges to explain what he would do if it ruled against him. The document tweeted by Maugham was their response, he said.

"The (submissions from Johnson's lawyers) contemplate a world where the Supreme Court rules this prorogation unlawful and the government is plainly contemplating, in that world, continuing the prorogation until October 14," Maugham said on Sky News.

"So they are very delicate, very careful submissions, seeking to persuade the Supreme Court to leave that door open to the government. That is striking stuff."

Countdown to Brexit

The reason given by Johnson for suspending parliament for five weeks was that he needed time to prepare a new legislative agenda. His opponents say the real reason why he sought the suspension was to prevent parliament from interfering with his Brexit strategy.

Before the suspension, Johnson suffered one defeat after another in parliament, where he has no majority.

Most members of the House of Commons are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, predicting that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains.

A ruling could come late on Thursday at the earliest, but is more likely to be delivered in the following days. The 11 justices have given no indication of how long they would take.

Among Johnson's opponents in the Supreme Court hearing is one of his predecessors as prime minister and Conservative Party leader, John Major, who has submitted a written witness statement saying that the evidence showed that the reason given by Johnson for the suspension was not true.

"The inescapable inference to be drawn (from the evidence) is that the prorogation is to prevent parliament from exercising its right to disagree with the government and legislate as it sees fit," Major said in the witness statement, according to an excerpt read out in court by his lawyer.

Major's years in office between 1990 and 1997 were marked by bitter divisions and conflict within his party and government over Britain's relations with the EU. He described some of his own anti-EU cabinet members as "bastards".

The Conservatives are more divided than ever over the EU issue. Using his authority as an elder statesman, Major has said Britain should remain in the EU, and has warned that a no-deal Brexit would be disastrous for the nation.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the Supreme Court rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the Supreme Court rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday. The document, submitted to the court by Johnson's lawyers, was disclosed as Britain's top judicial body was hearing a third and final day of legal arguments on whether the prime minister's decision to suspend parliament from September 10 to October 14 was lawful. On Tuesday, one of Johnson's lawyers had told the court that if the prime minister lost the case, he could recall parliament earlier than scheduled. This would give more time for legislators to scrutinise and oppose his plans to lead Britain out of the European Union, with or without a divorce deal, on October 31. But in the new document, not disclosed to media but published by lawyer Jo Maugham - one of those involved in the legal challenge - Johnson's legal team appeared to say there would still be a way for him to keep parliament from sitting, depending on the exact wording of the court's judgment. "Depending on the court's reasoning it would still either be open or not open to the PM to consider a further prorogation," two senior lawyers representing Johnson said in a written submission to the court. Johnson's lawyers had been asked by the judges to explain what he would do if it ruled against him. The document tweeted by Maugham was their response, he said. "The (submissions from Johnson's lawyers) contemplate a world where the Supreme Court rules this prorogation unlawful and the government is plainly contemplating, in that world, continuing the prorogation until October 14," Maugham said on Sky News. "So they are very delicate, very careful submissions, seeking to persuade the Supreme Court to leave that door open to the government. That is striking stuff." Countdown to Brexit The reason given by Johnson for suspending parliament for five weeks was that he needed time to prepare a new legislative agenda. His opponents say the real reason why he sought the suspension was to prevent parliament from interfering with his Brexit strategy. Before the suspension, Johnson suffered one defeat after another in parliament, where he has no majority. Most members of the House of Commons are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, predicting that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains. A ruling could come late on Thursday at the earliest, but is more likely to be delivered in the following days. The 11 justices have given no indication of how long they would take. Among Johnson's opponents in the Supreme Court hearing is one of his predecessors as prime minister and Conservative Party leader, John Major, who has submitted a written witness statement saying that the evidence showed that the reason given by Johnson for the suspension was not true. "The inescapable inference to be drawn (from the evidence) is that the prorogation is to prevent parliament from exercising its right to disagree with the government and legislate as it sees fit," Major said in the witness statement, according to an excerpt read out in court by his lawyer. Major's years in office between 1990 and 1997 were marked by bitter divisions and conflict within his party and government over Britain's relations with the EU. He described some of his own anti-EU cabinet members as "bastards". The Conservatives are more divided than ever over the EU issue. Using his authority as an elder statesman, Major has said Britain should remain in the EU, and has warned that a no-deal Brexit would be disastrous for the nation.

If he loses in court, PM Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again: Report

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was confronted at a London hospital on Wednesday by the father of a sick child who said the care his child received had not been acceptable and that the nation’s health service had been destroyed.

Boris Johnson confronted at a hospital by parent of sick child

Britain's Trade Minister Liz Truss&nbsp;said on Wednesday she expects to complete a wide-ranging trade deal with Australia within months of exiting the European Union.

In efforts to reduce the economic impact of Brexit, Britain is looking to line-up a series of trade deals with smaller, non-EU countries.

Truss, who is in the middle of a three-nation tour that includes Australia, New Zealand and Japan, said she expects a quick conclusion to trade talks that will begin when Britain leaves the EU.

"The reason that I have chosen to make Australia one of the first countries I have visited as trade secretary is because it is an absolute priority to get on with this trade deal," Truss told reporters in Canberra.

"I would say months rather than years for it to be completed."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underfire-pm-calls-up-hulk-claims-huge-brexit-progress-249824">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> has said he will take the country out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cautiously-optimistic-on-brexit-deal-says-pm-boris-johnson-ahead-of-eu-meeting-249472">EU</a> on October 31 with or without a deal with Brussels.

But the British parliament this month passed a law that requires Johnson to ask the EU for a three-month delay to Brexit if a deal is not approved by October 19.

Two-way trade between Australia and Britain is worth A$26.6 billion ($18.22 billion), Australian data shows.

Britain is Australia's seventh-largest trading partner, the data shows.

Australia's Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham said a trade deal with Britain will particularly benefit the country's agricultural sector, worth around A$60 billion.

"As part of the EU, market access to Britain in terms of agricultural products has been limited," Birmingham told reporters. "This is something we will look to address."

Britain's Trade Minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday she expects to complete a wide-ranging trade deal with Australia within months of exiting the European Union.

Britain's Trade Minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday she expects to complete a wide-ranging trade deal with Australia within months of exiting the European Union. In efforts to reduce the economic impact of Brexit, Britain is looking to line-up a series of trade deals with smaller, non-EU countries. Truss, who is in the middle of a three-nation tour that includes Australia, New Zealand and Japan, said she expects a quick conclusion to trade talks that will begin when Britain leaves the EU. "The reason that I have chosen to make Australia one of the first countries I have visited as trade secretary is because it is an absolute priority to get on with this trade deal," Truss told reporters in Canberra. "I would say months rather than years for it to be completed." British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he will take the country out of the EU on October 31 with or without a deal with Brussels. But the British parliament this month passed a law that requires Johnson to ask the EU for a three-month delay to Brexit if a deal is not approved by October 19. Two-way trade between Australia and Britain is worth A$26.6 billion ($18.22 billion), Australian data shows. Britain is Australia's seventh-largest trading partner, the data shows. Australia's Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham said a trade deal with Britain will particularly benefit the country's agricultural sector, worth around A$60 billion. "As part of the EU, market access to Britain in terms of agricultural products has been limited," Birmingham told reporters. "This is something we will look to address."

Britain hopes for trade deal with Australia within months of Brexit

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is the "father of lies" who shut down the mother of parliaments in the run-up to Brexit, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-for-courts-to-decide-parliament-suspension-uk-pm-boris-johnsons-lawyer-250441">Britain's Supreme Court</a> heard Wednesday.

In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments over whether Johnson's advice to Queen Elizabeth II to suspend the legislature was unlawful, Britain's highest court was told that his move was destroying parliamentary democracy.

The lawyer representing around 75 parliamentarians who challenged Johnson's actions said the premier had unlawfully abused his power by closing parliament for five weeks until October 14 -- with Britain due to leave the EU on October 31.

One might think that a government "would engage solely in high politics as opposed to low, dishonest dirty tricks but I'm not sure we can assume that of this government," lawyer Aidan O'Neill said.

"The mother of parliaments is being shut down by the father of lies. The rule that this prorogation is an unlawful abuse of power," O'Neill told judges.

"Enough is enough."

Johnson, who took office in July, says he prorogued, or suspended, parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda.

His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels.

'Stymie parliament' claim 'unsustainable'&nbsp;

The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions.

Scotland's highest civil court found the suspension was unlawful, but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges to intervene in.

The government's lawyer told the Supreme Court that parliament had been debating Britain's exit from the European Union for three years since the 2016 referendum vote to leave.

James Eadie argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to legislate before Johnson suspended their sitting on September 10.

"If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable," Eadie said.

He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so England's High Court was right that prorogation was not something the judiciary could intervene in.

Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting.

"This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said.

'True reasons'

Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister.

"Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked.

Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda.

But O'Neill said the few documents offered could not be taken as the "whole truth", adding: "We cannot have a situation... where prorogation can be used with impunity to close down parliament whenever it becomes inconvenient."

A maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case.

They have not said when they intend to make a ruling following Thursday's closing hearings, during whihch lawyers for the Scottish government and for 1990s prime minister John Major are due to intervene. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is the "father of lies" who shut down the mother of parliaments in the run-up to Brexit, Britain's Supreme Court heard Wednesday. In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments over whether Johnson's advice to Queen Elizabeth II to suspend the legislature was unlawful, Britain's highest court was told that his move was destroying parliamentary democracy.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is the "father of lies" who shut down the mother of parliaments in the run-up to Brexit, Britain's Supreme Court heard Wednesday. In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments over whether Johnson's advice to Queen Elizabeth II to suspend the legislature was unlawful, Britain's highest court was told that his move was destroying parliamentary democracy. The lawyer representing around 75 parliamentarians who challenged Johnson's actions said the premier had unlawfully abused his power by closing parliament for five weeks until October 14 -- with Britain due to leave the EU on October 31. One might think that a government "would engage solely in high politics as opposed to low, dishonest dirty tricks but I'm not sure we can assume that of this government," lawyer Aidan O'Neill said. "The mother of parliaments is being shut down by the father of lies. The rule that this prorogation is an unlawful abuse of power," O'Neill told judges. "Enough is enough." Johnson, who took office in July, says he prorogued, or suspended, parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda. His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels. 'Stymie parliament' claim 'unsustainable' The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions. Scotland's highest civil court found the suspension was unlawful, but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges to intervene in. The government's lawyer told the Supreme Court that parliament had been debating Britain's exit from the European Union for three years since the 2016 referendum vote to leave. James Eadie argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to legislate before Johnson suspended their sitting on September 10. "If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable," Eadie said. He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so England's High Court was right that prorogation was not something the judiciary could intervene in. Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting. "This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said. 'True reasons' Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister. "Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked. Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda. But O'Neill said the few documents offered could not be taken as the "whole truth", adding: "We cannot have a situation... where prorogation can be used with impunity to close down parliament whenever it becomes inconvenient." A maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case. They have not said when they intend to make a ruling following Thursday's closing hearings, during whihch lawyers for the Scottish government and for 1990s prime minister John Major are due to intervene.

UK Supreme Court told Boris Johnson is 'father of lies'

On recent Sunday, UK PM Boris Johnson compared himself with incredible Hulk promising that the UK will break free from European Union. But then why next day this self-proclaimed hulk went missing from a press-conference?

Gravitas: UK PM Johnson's 'Comparison With Hulk'

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/uk-needs-inspiring-leadership-to-break-brexit-impasse-250360"> Boris Johnson</a>'s lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit.

In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments, James Eadie told the country's top court that parliament had been considering Britain's exit from the European Union for years.

He argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to say before Johnson suspended their sitting earlier this month, barely weeks before Brexit is due to take place on October 31.

Eadie said that any suggestion that Johnson's motives were improper in proroguing, or suspending parliament, were "unsustainable".

Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering

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The Supreme Court is deliberating the legality of the advice Johnson gave Queen Elizabeth II to suspend parliament for five weeks until October 14, after two lower courts made conflicting rulings.

Johnson, who took office in July, says he suspended parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda.

His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on time, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels.

Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting.

"This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said.

"If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable."

He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so it was not for the court to decide upon.

'True reasons'

The maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case, which began on Tuesday and will end on Thursday, although a decision may be deferred.

Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister.

"Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked.

Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda.

The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions.

Scotland's highest civil court called the suspension of parliament "unlawful", but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges.

The Supreme Court must rule on whether they even have the right to adjudicate on the politically contentious issue, before considering Johnson's motivations.

Unlike Tuesday's chaotic scenes, there were few protesters outside the court on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit. In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments, James Eadie told the country's top court that parliament had been considering Britain's exit from the European Union for years. He argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to say before Johnson suspended their sitting earlier this month, barely weeks before Brexit is due to take place on October 31. Eadie said that any suggestion that Johnson's motives were improper in proroguing, or suspending parliament, were "unsustainable". Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering × The Supreme Court is deliberating the legality of the advice Johnson gave Queen Elizabeth II to suspend parliament for five weeks until October 14, after two lower courts made conflicting rulings. Johnson, who took office in July, says he suspended parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda. His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on time, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels. Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting. "This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said. "If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable." He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so it was not for the court to decide upon. 'True reasons' The maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case, which began on Tuesday and will end on Thursday, although a decision may be deferred. Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister. "Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked. Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda. The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions. Scotland's highest civil court called the suspension of parliament "unlawful", but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges. The Supreme Court must rule on whether they even have the right to adjudicate on the politically contentious issue, before considering Johnson's motivations. Unlike Tuesday's chaotic scenes, there were few protesters outside the court on Wednesday.

Not for courts to decide parliament suspension: UK PM Boris Johnson's lawyer

UK PM Boris Johnson compares himself to 'The Hulk'. Watch video to know more.

UK PM Boris Johnson compares himself to 'The Hulk'

By Jon Stokes and Stefan Stern

Britain’s destiny is uncertain. The country is in the middle of a political and, arguably, an identity crisis as well. At such a challenging moment it is understandable if people might long for a charismatic figure to lead them out of it. Indeed, that is probably one of the evolutionary functions of charismatic leadership: when a degree of mindlessness may be helpful for the survival of the group. But the complexities of negotiating a successful Brexit require something less intoxicating and more thoughtful.

As we’ve argued before, people fall in love with charismatic leaders because we believe they represent our ideal version of ourselves. A version we would, sometimes unconsciously, like to be. But no human being is ever ideal. When we expect perfection from a leader we set ourselves up for severe disappointment.

Boris Johnson’s undoubted charisma, although a mystery to some, is much remarked upon. But apart from an instant sugar rush of ephemeral optimism what can his charisma provide? Not managerial competence or a serious grasp of detail; nor, equally importantly, the genuine and lasting inspiration that a truly capable leader might bring.

In response to the timeless challenge made by leadership gurus Gareth Jones and Rob Goffee, “Why should anyone be led by you?”, we suggest that inspiring, as opposed to merely charismatic, leadership is what’s needed right now. Inspiring leaders help people build and sustain strength and long-term improvement, in an organisation or in society. While charisma is based on an instant and uncritical falling in love, inspiring leadership arises out of a more mature form of discerning love between leader and followers.

Grading Johnson’s performance

We’ve asked more than 500 managers the question, “Who have you personally known in your real life that has been inspiring to you?” in workshops over the years. Their answers reveal six key elements necessary for a leader to inspire. Let’s measure the UK’s current prime minister against them and see how he scores.

1. Being the exemplar: inspiring leaders demonstrate a clear set of strong values through their behaviour. These provide a role model that empowers their followers to take sometimes difficult decisions and actions.

Boris Johnson’s values are much questioned and seemingly shifting. There is a strong suspicion (shared, apparently, by former prime minister David Cameron) that his primary driver is to attain power for himself. Score: 2/10

2. Articulating a future: Effective leaders create a clear picture of a future state that provides followers with direction. By taking them there first in their imagination they provide a pull factor for changing current behaviour.

Boris Johnson’s picture of a future Britain is hyperbolically optimistic but lacking in detail and a route map to get there. Score: 4/10

3. Reading the situation: Leaders use their intuition to gauge the appropriate timing and course of their actions through reading people, gauging their likely reactions to a situation and identifying future trends and dynamics that will drive behaviour.

Boris Johnson may be quite a good reader of people but apparently he is a poor reader of the likely impact of his behaviour on them. He seems to have no detailed analysis of Britain’s likely future but is driven by what he believes most people want. Score: 3/10

4. Affirmation: Inspiring leaders provide people with an accurate sense of their actual and potential contribution and worth. They enable people to feel good about themselves by making them feel appropriately valued.

Boris Johnson is very positive about people as long as they support him. He seems to lose patience quickly when they don’t, as he did with the 21 Tory “rebels”, who lost the whip as soon as they refused to support him. Score: 2/10

5. Having the difficult conversations: Inspiring leaders do not avoid difficult conversations – they are prepared to provide constructive critical feedback that enables people to develop. They give people what they need rather than necessarily what they want.

Boris Johnson bumbling style is unlikely to provide those who work for him with clear, constructively critical feedback. When frustrated he seems quick to break off relationships as he did with Luxembourg prime minister, Xavier Bettel, preferring to abandon their press conference rather than discuss how Brexit negotiations were going. Score: 1/10

6. Being authentic: Inspiring leaders are able to be true to themselves in a skillful way, authentic both to themselves and to the requirements of the situation in which they find themselves. By acknowledging inevitable imperfections and vulnerability they create a climate in which others can do the same.

This is an area where Britain’s prime minister scores quite highly for some people. By acknowledging he is far from perfect, he creates a sense that he is a human not a robot. Yet doubts remain about how authentic the persona he presents truly is. Maybe it is all just a bit of an act. Score: 5/10

So as far as being an inspiring leader is concerned the prime minister, sadly, has to be considered a failure (17 points out of 60, or 28%). He needs to make a better effort next term – if given another chance.

(Jon Stokes is Senior Fellow in Management Practice, University of Oxford; Stefan Stern is Visiting Professor of Management Practice, Cass Business School, City, University of London) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/uk-needs-inspiring-not-just-charismatic-leadership-to-break-brexit-impasse-123629">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

By Jon Stokes and Stefan Stern Britain’s destiny is uncertain. The country is in the middle of a political and, arguably, an identity crisis as well. At such a challenging moment it is understandable if people might long for a charismatic figure to lead them out of it.

By Jon Stokes and Stefan Stern Britain’s destiny is uncertain. The country is in the middle of a political and, arguably, an identity crisis as well. At such a challenging moment it is understandable if people might long for a charismatic figure to lead them out of it. Indeed, that is probably one of the evolutionary functions of charismatic leadership: when a degree of mindlessness may be helpful for the survival of the group. But the complexities of negotiating a successful Brexit require something less intoxicating and more thoughtful. As we’ve argued before, people fall in love with charismatic leaders because we believe they represent our ideal version of ourselves. A version we would, sometimes unconsciously, like to be. But no human being is ever ideal. When we expect perfection from a leader we set ourselves up for severe disappointment. Boris Johnson’s undoubted charisma, although a mystery to some, is much remarked upon. But apart from an instant sugar rush of ephemeral optimism what can his charisma provide? Not managerial competence or a serious grasp of detail; nor, equally importantly, the genuine and lasting inspiration that a truly capable leader might bring. In response to the timeless challenge made by leadership gurus Gareth Jones and Rob Goffee, “Why should anyone be led by you?”, we suggest that inspiring, as opposed to merely charismatic, leadership is what’s needed right now. Inspiring leaders help people build and sustain strength and long-term improvement, in an organisation or in society. While charisma is based on an instant and uncritical falling in love, inspiring leadership arises out of a more mature form of discerning love between leader and followers. Grading Johnson’s performance We’ve asked more than 500 managers the question, “Who have you personally known in your real life that has been inspiring to you?” in workshops over the years. Their answers reveal six key elements necessary for a leader to inspire. Let’s measure the UK’s current prime minister against them and see how he scores. 1. Being the exemplar: inspiring leaders demonstrate a clear set of strong values through their behaviour. These provide a role model that empowers their followers to take sometimes difficult decisions and actions. Boris Johnson’s values are much questioned and seemingly shifting. There is a strong suspicion (shared, apparently, by former prime minister David Cameron) that his primary driver is to attain power for himself. Score: 2/10 2. Articulating a future: Effective leaders create a clear picture of a future state that provides followers with direction. By taking them there first in their imagination they provide a pull factor for changing current behaviour. Boris Johnson’s picture of a future Britain is hyperbolically optimistic but lacking in detail and a route map to get there. Score: 4/10 3. Reading the situation: Leaders use their intuition to gauge the appropriate timing and course of their actions through reading people, gauging their likely reactions to a situation and identifying future trends and dynamics that will drive behaviour. Boris Johnson may be quite a good reader of people but apparently he is a poor reader of the likely impact of his behaviour on them. He seems to have no detailed analysis of Britain’s likely future but is driven by what he believes most people want. Score: 3/10 4. Affirmation: Inspiring leaders provide people with an accurate sense of their actual and potential contribution and worth. They enable people to feel good about themselves by making them feel appropriately valued. Boris Johnson is very positive about people as long as they support him. He seems to lose patience quickly when they don’t, as he did with the 21 Tory “rebels”, who lost the whip as soon as they refused to support him. Score: 2/10 5. Having the difficult conversations: Inspiring leaders do not avoid difficult conversations – they are prepared to provide constructive critical feedback that enables people to develop. They give people what they need rather than necessarily what they want. Boris Johnson bumbling style is unlikely to provide those who work for him with clear, constructively critical feedback. When frustrated he seems quick to break off relationships as he did with Luxembourg prime minister, Xavier Bettel, preferring to abandon their press conference rather than discuss how Brexit negotiations were going. Score: 1/10 6. Being authentic: Inspiring leaders are able to be true to themselves in a skillful way, authentic both to themselves and to the requirements of the situation in which they find themselves. By acknowledging inevitable imperfections and vulnerability they create a climate in which others can do the same. This is an area where Britain’s prime minister scores quite highly for some people. By acknowledging he is far from perfect, he creates a sense that he is a human not a robot. Yet doubts remain about how authentic the persona he presents truly is. Maybe it is all just a bit of an act. Score: 5/10 So as far as being an inspiring leader is concerned the prime minister, sadly, has to be considered a failure (17 points out of 60, or 28%). He needs to make a better effort next term – if given another chance. (Jon Stokes is Senior Fellow in Management Practice, University of Oxford; Stefan Stern is Visiting Professor of Management Practice, Cass Business School, City, University of London) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

UK needs inspiring leadership to break Brexit impasse

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson skipped a joint media conference with his Luxembourg counterpart Monday after holding Brexit talks with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/still-no-workable-alternative-from-uk-on-northern-ireland-backstop-provision-eu-250007">European Commission chief</a> that offered no breakthrough.

Luxembourg's premier, Xavier Bettel, went ahead with the briefing in front of flags from his country and the UK and an empty podium where Johnson was meant to have stood, telling the absent prime minister,&nbsp;"The time is ticking. So stop speaking and act."

Bettel, who had a meeting with Johnson following the British leader's working lunch with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in Luxembourg, was scathing about Johnson's efforts to rewrite a withdrawal agreement the UK had struck with the EU under his predecessor Theresa May.

He echoed the EU's message that the UK had offered up no viable alternative to the safeguards in that agreement to protect peace in Northern Ireland while respecting London's intent to break free of EU institutions.

Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering

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"For me I have just one withdrawal agreement on the table and it’s the one from last year," Bettel said.

"There are no changes, there are no concrete proposals for the moment on the table and I won't give an agreement to ideas," he said, urging Britain to come up with "written proposals".

Johnson's absence from what was planned to be a joint media conference was highlighted on social media, where pictures of the empty British podium were relayed.&nbsp;

A small anti-Johnson protest, with demonstrators holding up signs saying "Bog off Boris" and other slogans, was held next to the spot where the media conference took place.

Bettel appeared to align with Johnson on one point: a reluctance to give Britain another extension to the October 31 date it is due to leave the EU.&nbsp;

The UK parliament has passed a law requiring Johnson to ask for such an extension -- a third prolongation -- by October 19 if no new deal is struck. But the British prime minister has indicated he will not do so.&nbsp;

In his lunch with Juncker, Johnson said, "he would not request an extension".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson skipped a joint media conference with his Luxembourg counterpart Monday after holding Brexit talks with the European Commission chief that offered no breakthrough.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson skipped a joint media conference with his Luxembourg counterpart Monday after holding Brexit talks with the European Commission chief that offered no breakthrough. Luxembourg's premier, Xavier Bettel, went ahead with the briefing in front of flags from his country and the UK and an empty podium where Johnson was meant to have stood, telling the absent prime minister, "The time is ticking. So stop speaking and act." Bettel, who had a meeting with Johnson following the British leader's working lunch with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in Luxembourg, was scathing about Johnson's efforts to rewrite a withdrawal agreement the UK had struck with the EU under his predecessor Theresa May. He echoed the EU's message that the UK had offered up no viable alternative to the safeguards in that agreement to protect peace in Northern Ireland while respecting London's intent to break free of EU institutions. Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering × "For me I have just one withdrawal agreement on the table and it’s the one from last year," Bettel said. "There are no changes, there are no concrete proposals for the moment on the table and I won't give an agreement to ideas," he said, urging Britain to come up with "written proposals". Johnson's absence from what was planned to be a joint media conference was highlighted on social media, where pictures of the empty British podium were relayed. A small anti-Johnson protest, with demonstrators holding up signs saying "Bog off Boris" and other slogans, was held next to the spot where the media conference took place. Bettel appeared to align with Johnson on one point: a reluctance to give Britain another extension to the October 31 date it is due to leave the EU. The UK parliament has passed a law requiring Johnson to ask for such an extension -- a third prolongation -- by October 19 if no new deal is struck. But the British prime minister has indicated he will not do so. In his lunch with Juncker, Johnson said, "he would not request an extension".

UK PM Boris Johnson snubs news conference with Luxembourg counterpart

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