<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-heads-to-scotland-as-local-leader-attacks-no-deal-brexit-239153">Boris Johnson</a> and his girlfriend Carrie Symonds moved into Downing Street on Monday, becoming the first unmarried couple to occupy the British prime minister's official residence.

The change of guard at the famous address was prompted by Theresa May's forced resignation under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ditch-backstop-or-face-no-deal-brexit-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-tells-european-union-238918">pressures of the Brexit crisis</a>.

The British tabloids have been preoccupied ever since by the new mop-topped leader and his girlfriend -- who worked on Johnson's successful 2012 re-election campaign as London mayor.

"The PM is officially moving in today and, yes, his partner will be living there," a Downing Street spokeswoman said, ending weeks of speculation about the couple's living arrangements.

In fact, Johnson, 55, and Symonds, 31, will not be living behind the famous black door at No 10 Downing Street.

The prestigious address will belong to new finance minister Sajid Javid, whose office is next door at No 11.

But No 11 also has a more spacious four-bedroom flat.

Former Labour prime minister Tony Blair was the first to arrange this apartment swap, and the tradition has stuck ever since, with May and her husband Philip also living at No 11.

Watch:&nbsp;Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-boris-johnson-the-british-trump-238488/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Symonds, a former Conservative party spin doctor dubbed Britain's "first girlfriend", has been rarely seen in public since she and Johnson had a loud argument that saw one of their neighbours call the police last month.

The resulting media uproar forced the couple to move out.

Downing Street was at pains to stress that Symonds, who works for an environmental charity, will not have any publicly-funded staff.

"There won't be any additional cost to the taxpayer," the spokeswoman said.

Boris Johnson and his girlfriend Carrie Symonds moved into Downing Street on Monday, becoming the first unmarried couple to occupy the British prime minister's official residence.

Boris Johnson and his girlfriend Carrie Symonds moved into Downing Street on Monday, becoming the first unmarried couple to occupy the British prime minister's official residence. The change of guard at the famous address was prompted by Theresa May's forced resignation under the pressures of the Brexit crisis. The British tabloids have been preoccupied ever since by the new mop-topped leader and his girlfriend -- who worked on Johnson's successful 2012 re-election campaign as London mayor. "The PM is officially moving in today and, yes, his partner will be living there," a Downing Street spokeswoman said, ending weeks of speculation about the couple's living arrangements. In fact, Johnson, 55, and Symonds, 31, will not be living behind the famous black door at No 10 Downing Street. The prestigious address will belong to new finance minister Sajid Javid, whose office is next door at No 11. But No 11 also has a more spacious four-bedroom flat. Former Labour prime minister Tony Blair was the first to arrange this apartment swap, and the tradition has stuck ever since, with May and her husband Philip also living at No 11. Watch: Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump? Symonds, a former Conservative party spin doctor dubbed Britain's "first girlfriend", has been rarely seen in public since she and Johnson had a loud argument that saw one of their neighbours call the police last month. The resulting media uproar forced the couple to move out. Downing Street was at pains to stress that Symonds, who works for an environmental charity, will not have any publicly-funded staff. "There won't be any additional cost to the taxpayer," the spokeswoman said.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and girlfriend Carrie Symonds move into Downing Street

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-had-become-a-serious-possibility-cbi-chief-carolyn-fairbairn-239206&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi9xcXFitrjAhVO7mEKHQlcAkYQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw07JQut3Vw9Gy2-8QTnDxFn">no-deal Brexit</a> because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017.

Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament.

The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely.

"There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-should-respect-international-laws-britains-foreign-minister-239218">Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab</a> said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations.

Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening."

Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high.

Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday.

Our&nbsp;Union

Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave.

The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said.

Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom.

Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit.

"Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit.

"So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom."

Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson.

Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists.

Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce. Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre. The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017. Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament. The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely. "There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations. Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening." Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high. Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday. Our Union Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave. The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said. Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom. Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit. "Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit. "So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom." Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson. Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists. Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

UK plays hardball with 'stubborn' European Union, pound tumbles to a 28-month low on Brexit woes

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

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

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

Stormy sterling sinks again, stocks wilt before Fed

Former British prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-iraq-war-report-due-to-be-published-former-british-pm-tony-blair-comes-under-spotlight-1830">Tony Blair's</a> right-hand man said Tuesday he was quitting the Labour Party for good and urged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-united-kingdom-prime-minister-must-put-brexit-plan-to-second-referendum-labours-corbyn-234413">Jeremy Corbyn</a> to make way for a more effective leader to fight Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

In an open letter to Corbyn, Alastair Campbell said the party "no longer truly represents my values, or the hopes I have for Britain" and urged the veteran leftist Corbyn to consider standing down.

"With some sadness but absolute certainty, I have concluded that I no longer wish to stay in the party," he wrote in the letter published in The New European magazine.

Anti-Brexit crusader Campbell had begun appealing against his expulsion as a Labour member for voting for the Liberal Democrats in May's European elections.

But Campbell said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-conservative-party-leadership-race-set-to-become-uk-pm-237941">Johnson</a> becoming Conservative prime minister and adopting a "crash and burn strategy deliberately aimed at creating the circumstances for a general election" had altered his outlook.

"I see no sign that you and your office have grasped the seriousness of what is happening, let alone devised or begun to execute a strategy to respond and defeat it," Campbell wrote.

"Has the time not come for you to ask yourself, honestly, whether you have the capacity, the plan, and the reach into the British public, to rise to the new challenge, and to win in the country.&nbsp;

"If you have doubt, then there is no doubt you should make way for someone who can provide the leadership, the strategy, and the energy required."

The ruling Conservatives have been boosted by a so-called "Boris bounce" since Johnson became Britain's new leader last Wednesday, according to weekend polls.

One showed a 10-point gain, putting the Tories on 30 per cent, five points ahead of Labour.

Campbell, who served as Blair's chief press secretary and was heavily criticised for his involvement in drawing up Britain's Iraq War policy, emerged back into the political arena after the 2016 Brexit vote.

He has become a leading figure in the campaign to hold another referendum on European Union membership and has been a persistent critic of Corbyn's leadership, particularly over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-means-a-better-deal-for-farmers-pm-johnson-tells-wales-239337">Brexit</a>.

Former British prime minister Tony Blair's right-hand man said Tuesday he was quitting the Labour Party for good and urged Jeremy Corbyn to make way for a more effective leader to fight Boris Johnson.

Former British prime minister Tony Blair's right-hand man said Tuesday he was quitting the Labour Party for good and urged Jeremy Corbyn to make way for a more effective leader to fight Boris Johnson. In an open letter to Corbyn, Alastair Campbell said the party "no longer truly represents my values, or the hopes I have for Britain" and urged the veteran leftist Corbyn to consider standing down. "With some sadness but absolute certainty, I have concluded that I no longer wish to stay in the party," he wrote in the letter published in The New European magazine. Anti-Brexit crusader Campbell had begun appealing against his expulsion as a Labour member for voting for the Liberal Democrats in May's European elections. But Campbell said Johnson becoming Conservative prime minister and adopting a "crash and burn strategy deliberately aimed at creating the circumstances for a general election" had altered his outlook. "I see no sign that you and your office have grasped the seriousness of what is happening, let alone devised or begun to execute a strategy to respond and defeat it," Campbell wrote. "Has the time not come for you to ask yourself, honestly, whether you have the capacity, the plan, and the reach into the British public, to rise to the new challenge, and to win in the country. "If you have doubt, then there is no doubt you should make way for someone who can provide the leadership, the strategy, and the energy required." The ruling Conservatives have been boosted by a so-called "Boris bounce" since Johnson became Britain's new leader last Wednesday, according to weekend polls. One showed a 10-point gain, putting the Tories on 30 per cent, five points ahead of Labour. Campbell, who served as Blair's chief press secretary and was heavily criticised for his involvement in drawing up Britain's Iraq War policy, emerged back into the political arena after the 2016 Brexit vote. He has become a leading figure in the campaign to hold another referendum on European Union membership and has been a persistent critic of Corbyn's leadership, particularly over Brexit.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair's right-hand Alastair Campbell quits Labour party amid 'Boris bounce'

Who is Boris Johnson? Brexit warrior, Trump's friend & China's frenemy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ditch-backstop-or-face-no-deal-brexit-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-tells-european-union-238918">Britain's Boris Johnson</a> will make his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, his office said, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit.

Johnson took office on Wednesday with a pledge to deliver Britain's exit from the European Union by October 31 "no ifs or buts" and the government is ramping up preparations for "no-deal" -- something some senior politicians have warned could make the break up of the United Kingdom more likely.

Scotland rejected independence by a 55-45% majority in 2014 but then voted to stay in the EU at the 2016 Brexit referendum, fuelling calls for a second independence vote from those who argue it is being taken out of the bloc against its wishes.

On Monday Johnson will visit a military base in Scotland as part of a tour of the United Kingdom to announce extra funding for local communities.

His office said he was also planning a trip to Wales to meet local farmers and to Northern Ireland to discuss ongoing talks to restore its devolved executive.

"Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit.

"So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom."

Watch:&nbsp;UK's New PM Boris Johnson - A Genius or A Joker?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uks-new-pm-boris-johnson-a-genius-or-a-joker-238930/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson. His office did not say whether he would meet Davidson on Monday.

"When I was debating against the pro-Brexit side in 2016, I don't remember anybody saying we should crash out of the EU with no arrangements in place to help maintain the vital trade that flows uninterrupted between Britain and the European Union," Davidson wrote in the Scottish Mail on Sunday newspaper.

"I don’t think the government should pursue a no-deal Brexit and, if it comes to it, I won’t support it."

Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

Johnson will use the visit to announce 300 million pounds of new funding for so-called "Growth Deals" across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which provide investment for local businesses and projects.

It follows a trip to the north of England over the weekend to set out plans to boost investment in local services in a push to address frustrations among voters that led to the vote to leave the EU.

Britain's Boris Johnson will make his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, his office said, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit.

Britain's Boris Johnson will make his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, his office said, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit. Johnson took office on Wednesday with a pledge to deliver Britain's exit from the European Union by October 31 "no ifs or buts" and the government is ramping up preparations for "no-deal" -- something some senior politicians have warned could make the break up of the United Kingdom more likely. Scotland rejected independence by a 55-45% majority in 2014 but then voted to stay in the EU at the 2016 Brexit referendum, fuelling calls for a second independence vote from those who argue it is being taken out of the bloc against its wishes. On Monday Johnson will visit a military base in Scotland as part of a tour of the United Kingdom to announce extra funding for local communities. His office said he was also planning a trip to Wales to meet local farmers and to Northern Ireland to discuss ongoing talks to restore its devolved executive. "Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit. "So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom." Watch: UK's New PM Boris Johnson - A Genius or A Joker? Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson. His office did not say whether he would meet Davidson on Monday. "When I was debating against the pro-Brexit side in 2016, I don't remember anybody saying we should crash out of the EU with no arrangements in place to help maintain the vital trade that flows uninterrupted between Britain and the European Union," Davidson wrote in the Scottish Mail on Sunday newspaper. "I don’t think the government should pursue a no-deal Brexit and, if it comes to it, I won’t support it." Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum. Johnson will use the visit to announce 300 million pounds of new funding for so-called "Growth Deals" across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which provide investment for local businesses and projects. It follows a trip to the north of England over the weekend to set out plans to boost investment in local services in a push to address frustrations among voters that led to the vote to leave the EU.

UK PM Boris Johnson heads to Scotland as local leader attacks no-deal Brexit

Global shares steadied on Monday and the dollar hit a two-month high against a basket of currencies as markets counted down to a likely cut in US interest rates this week, with much riding on whether the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-drift-into-trade-talks-fed-test-239118&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiskeK2ktrjAhVFsY8KHaKRDH0QFjABegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw007h4SGYlL7z1dT2b0Kwqf">Federal Reserve</a>&nbsp;signals more cuts will follow.

After opening lower, European shares began to gain. Deal-making and a rally in defensive sectors pushed the pan-European STOXX 600 index up 0.3%.

The dollar index - which measures it against a basket of peers - was higher by 0.1% and at its highest since May 31.

A stronger-than-expected US gross domestic product report on Friday gave the dollar wings, leading some investors to doubt whether the Fed will continue easing this year after its Wednesday meeting.

Interest rate futures are fully priced for a quarter-point rate cut from the Fed on Wednesday, with only a small chance of a half-point move.

More important will be what the central bank flags for the future, given the market implies 100 basis points of easing over the next year or so.

MSCI's All-Country World Index of stocks, down by as much as 0.2% on the day, erased some losses to trade 0.02% lower. Wall Street futures were flat.

"Central banks are very much the focus of attention for markets at the moment," said Rupert Thompson, head of research at Kingswood.

Investors were also keeping an eye on US-China trade talks. US and Chinese negotiators meet in Shanghai this week for their first in-person talks since a G20 truce last month, but expectations for a breakthrough are low.

Data on the weekend showed profits earned by China's industrial firms contracted in June, fuelling concerns that the trade war will drag on economic growth.

"Both parties know they are running out of time to prevent a sharper slowdown in the global economy. However, given the past experiences, investor sentiment isn’t too high," said Hussein Sayed, chief market strategist at FXTM.

"While resolving their core issues seems far from reach at this stage, especially when it comes to China's subsidies and technology transfers, markets need at least a sign of goodwill to prevent a sharp, volatile reaction..."

In Asia, MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares was half a per cent lower. Japan's Nikkei dipped 0.2% and Shanghai blue chips 0.1%.

In bonds, eurozone bond yields dipped as jittery investors eyed the trade talks and waited for the likely Fed rate cut after the European Central Bank's dovish signalling last week disappointed some.

The benchmark German 10-year Bund yield fell more than 1 basis point to -0.3920%, not far from last week's record low of -0.422%.

Elsewhere in currencies, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-plays-brexit-hardball-with-stubborn-european-union-pound-falls-to-a-two-year-low-239235">sterling fell</a> over half a per cent to a 28-month low of $1.2301 amid reports the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson was preparing the ground for a "no-deal" Brexit.

Global shares steadied on Monday and the dollar hit a two-month high against a basket of currencies as markets counted down to a likely cut in US interest rates this week, with much riding on whether the Federal Reserve signals more cuts will follow.

Global shares steadied on Monday and the dollar hit a two-month high against a basket of currencies as markets counted down to a likely cut in US interest rates this week, with much riding on whether the Federal Reserve signals more cuts will follow. After opening lower, European shares began to gain. Deal-making and a rally in defensive sectors pushed the pan-European STOXX 600 index up 0.3%. The dollar index - which measures it against a basket of peers - was higher by 0.1% and at its highest since May 31. A stronger-than-expected US gross domestic product report on Friday gave the dollar wings, leading some investors to doubt whether the Fed will continue easing this year after its Wednesday meeting. Interest rate futures are fully priced for a quarter-point rate cut from the Fed on Wednesday, with only a small chance of a half-point move. More important will be what the central bank flags for the future, given the market implies 100 basis points of easing over the next year or so. MSCI's All-Country World Index of stocks, down by as much as 0.2% on the day, erased some losses to trade 0.02% lower. Wall Street futures were flat. "Central banks are very much the focus of attention for markets at the moment," said Rupert Thompson, head of research at Kingswood. Investors were also keeping an eye on US-China trade talks. US and Chinese negotiators meet in Shanghai this week for their first in-person talks since a G20 truce last month, but expectations for a breakthrough are low. Data on the weekend showed profits earned by China's industrial firms contracted in June, fuelling concerns that the trade war will drag on economic growth. "Both parties know they are running out of time to prevent a sharper slowdown in the global economy. However, given the past experiences, investor sentiment isn’t too high," said Hussein Sayed, chief market strategist at FXTM. "While resolving their core issues seems far from reach at this stage, especially when it comes to China's subsidies and technology transfers, markets need at least a sign of goodwill to prevent a sharp, volatile reaction..." In Asia, MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares was half a per cent lower. Japan's Nikkei dipped 0.2% and Shanghai blue chips 0.1%. In bonds, eurozone bond yields dipped as jittery investors eyed the trade talks and waited for the likely Fed rate cut after the European Central Bank's dovish signalling last week disappointed some. The benchmark German 10-year Bund yield fell more than 1 basis point to -0.3920%, not far from last week's record low of -0.422%. Elsewhere in currencies, sterling fell over half a per cent to a 28-month low of $1.2301 amid reports the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson was preparing the ground for a "no-deal" Brexit.

Shares steady as Fed comes into focus; dollar at two-month high

Former British finance minister&nbsp;Philip Hammond, who quit the government as finance minister last week before Boris Johnson became UK's prime minister, has reportedly held secret talks with the opposition Labour Party to work out a strategy&nbsp;to stop a no-deal Brexit, news agency Reuters reported quoting a newspaper report.

Hammond, who has long opposed leaving the European Union without a transition deal, met Labour's top Brexit official, Kier Starmer, shortly after he quit the government, the report said quoting UK's Observer.

The newspaper said Hammond and Starmer agreed to work with other senior lawmakers including former Conservative minister Oliver Letwin to discuss how best use parliamentary votes to stop a no-deal outcome, the report said.

"The political direction of travel under Boris Johnson is clear," Starmer told the newspaper. "And so it is more important than ever that we build a strong cross-party alliance to stop a no-deal Brexit."

Johnson has said he wants to strike a new Brexit deal with the EU but is prepared to take Britain out of the bloc without one on Oct. 31, if necessary.

He has also said he would not take off the table the possibility of suspending parliament if lawmakers threatened to block a no-deal Brexit.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Former British finance minister Philip Hammond, who quit the government as finance minister last week before Boris Johnson became UK's prime minister, has reportedly held secret talks with the opposition Labour Party to work out a strategy to stop a no-deal Brexit, news agency Reuters reported quoting a newspaper report.

Former British finance minister Philip Hammond, who quit the government as finance minister last week before Boris Johnson became UK's prime minister, has reportedly held secret talks with the opposition Labour Party to work out a strategy to stop a no-deal Brexit, news agency Reuters reported quoting a newspaper report. Hammond, who has long opposed leaving the European Union without a transition deal, met Labour's top Brexit official, Kier Starmer, shortly after he quit the government, the report said quoting UK's Observer. The newspaper said Hammond and Starmer agreed to work with other senior lawmakers including former Conservative minister Oliver Letwin to discuss how best use parliamentary votes to stop a no-deal outcome, the report said. "The political direction of travel under Boris Johnson is clear," Starmer told the newspaper. "And so it is more important than ever that we build a strong cross-party alliance to stop a no-deal Brexit." Johnson has said he wants to strike a new Brexit deal with the EU but is prepared to take Britain out of the bloc without one on Oct. 31, if necessary. He has also said he would not take off the table the possibility of suspending parliament if lawmakers threatened to block a no-deal Brexit. (With inputs from Reuters)

Former UK finance minister, Labour to work out ways to block no-deal Brexit: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northkorean-boat-crosses-into-southkorean-waters-report-238917">North Korean boat crosses into South Korean waters: Report</a>

A North Korean boat with three crewmen crossed the de facto maritime border with South Korean and has been towed to a port, Yonhap news agency reported on Sunday, citing the South's Joint Chiefs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ditch-backstop-or-face-no-deal-brexit-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-tells-european-union-238918">Ditch backstop or face no-deal Brexit: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson tells European Union</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union on Saturday that the "anti-democratic" Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/senior-congress-leader-jaipal-reddy-passes-away-238923">Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy passes away</a>

Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister S Jaipal Reddy passed away at 1.30am. on Sunday in Hyderabad. He was 77.

Reddy had been unwell for the last few days and had been undergoing treatment at a hospital here.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-pledges-to-complete-rail-link-with-france-eu-official-says-238925">Italy pledges to complete rail link with France, EU official says</a>

Italy has written to the European Union pledging to complete a rail link with France, according to the European Parliament president David Sassoli.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-moves-supreme-court-seeking-stay-on-confiscation-of-properties-238928">Vijay Mallya moves Supreme Court seeking stay on confiscation of properties</a>

Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya on Saturday moved the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the confiscation of properties owned by him and his relatives.

In his plea, Mallya has said that he wanted attachment of only those properties related to Kingfisher Airlines facing cases of alleged irregularities.

North Korean boat crosses into South Korean waters: Report A North Korean boat with three crewmen crossed the de facto maritime border with South Korean and has been towed to a port, Yonhap news agency reported on Sunday, citing the South's Joint Chiefs.

North Korean boat crosses into South Korean waters: Report A North Korean boat with three crewmen crossed the de facto maritime border with South Korean and has been towed to a port, Yonhap news agency reported on Sunday, citing the South's Joint Chiefs. Ditch backstop or face no-deal Brexit: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson tells European Union British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union on Saturday that the "anti-democratic" Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal. Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy passes away Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister S Jaipal Reddy passed away at 1.30am. on Sunday in Hyderabad. He was 77. Reddy had been unwell for the last few days and had been undergoing treatment at a hospital here. Italy pledges to complete rail link with France, EU official says Italy has written to the European Union pledging to complete a rail link with France, according to the European Parliament president David Sassoli. Vijay Mallya moves Supreme Court seeking stay on confiscation of properties Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya on Saturday moved the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the confiscation of properties owned by him and his relatives. In his plea, Mallya has said that he wanted attachment of only those properties related to Kingfisher Airlines facing cases of alleged irregularities.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Boris Johnson was born in New York City. Johnson studied at the prestigious Oxford University. Boris worked at Times of London until he was fired. Boris was fired from Times over a fabricated quote. In 2001, Boris became a conservative member of Parliament. In 2004, he sacked for lying about an extra-marital affair. Watch this complete video to know more.

UK's New PM Boris Johnson: A Genius or A Joker?

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-is-a-massive-economic-opportunity-uk-prime-minister-johnson-238855">Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union</a> on Saturday that the "anti-democratic" Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal.

Johnson, since taking office on Wednesday, has repeatedly said that if the EU continues to refuse to renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement agreed by his predecessor Theresa May, then he will take Britain out on October&nbsp;31 without a deal.

His biggest demand is that the most hotly-contested element of the Brexit divorce agreement, the Irish border backstop, be struck out of the Withdrawal Agreement, a demand that has angered Ireland and perturbed other EU capitals.

"If we get rid of the backstop, whole and entire, then we are making a lot of progress," Johnson said, when asked if it was only the Irish border backstop that he wanted changed.

Speaking before a Stephenson's Rocket, a 19th-century steam locomotive, in the northern England city of Manchester, Johnson dedicated most of his speech to improving public services, transport and the internet and driving up economic growth.

"Our post-industrial towns have a proud, great heritage but an even greater future. Their best years lie ahead of them," he said, announcing new long-term rail links and promising immediate improvements to bus services.

That message, aimed at what Johnson called "left behind" towns, is seen as the early stages of an election campaign, even though Britain is not due a parliamentary election until 2022 and Johnson is adamant he will not hold one before Brexit.

His Conservative Party does not have a majority in parliament, is divided over how to deliver Brexit and under threat of a no-confidence vote when parliament returns in September.

Anti-Democratic

European leaders are prepared to talk with Britain's new leader over Brexit but have so far insisted they will not reopen the Withdrawal Agreement. Many EU diplomats think the United Kingdom will hold a snap election soon.

Johnson, who discussed Brexit with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Friday, brushed aside those concerns.

"My friends, I do not want a no-deal Brexit, that is not where we're aiming, but we have to face the fact that at the moment we're being told, as we have been told for the last three year 'rien ne va plus' - 'the deal is fixed' - and can't be changed. I doubt that," he said.

Nevertheless, investors fear a no-deal exit would send shock waves through global markets and hurt the world's economy.

Ireland is crucial to any Brexit solution.

Watch:&nbsp;Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-boris-johnson-the-british-trump-238488/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The backstop is an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of border controls along the 500-km (300-mile) land border between Ireland and Britain's province of Northern Ireland that were ended by the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the question of the unification of Ireland and Northern Ireland would inevitably arise if Britain leaves the EU without a divorce deal on October&nbsp;31.

"The approach of the UK government is not going to be disengaged or aloof or waiting for them to come to us: we are going to try to solve this problem and we are going to do it in a spirit of friendship and cooperation," Johnson said.

"But we can't do it as long as that anti-democratic backstop, that backstop that seeks to divide our country, divide the UK, remains in place," he said. "We need to get it out and then we can make progress, I think."

The Withdrawal Agreement that May struck in November with the EU says the United Kingdom will remain in a customs union "unless and until" alternative arrangements are found to avoid a hard border.

Many British lawmakers oppose the prospect of being bound to EU rules and customs duties that would prevent Britain doing its own trade deals and leave it overseen by EU judges.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union on Saturday that the "anti-democratic" Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union on Saturday that the "anti-democratic" Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal. Johnson, since taking office on Wednesday, has repeatedly said that if the EU continues to refuse to renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement agreed by his predecessor Theresa May, then he will take Britain out on October 31 without a deal. His biggest demand is that the most hotly-contested element of the Brexit divorce agreement, the Irish border backstop, be struck out of the Withdrawal Agreement, a demand that has angered Ireland and perturbed other EU capitals. "If we get rid of the backstop, whole and entire, then we are making a lot of progress," Johnson said, when asked if it was only the Irish border backstop that he wanted changed. Speaking before a Stephenson's Rocket, a 19th-century steam locomotive, in the northern England city of Manchester, Johnson dedicated most of his speech to improving public services, transport and the internet and driving up economic growth. "Our post-industrial towns have a proud, great heritage but an even greater future. Their best years lie ahead of them," he said, announcing new long-term rail links and promising immediate improvements to bus services. That message, aimed at what Johnson called "left behind" towns, is seen as the early stages of an election campaign, even though Britain is not due a parliamentary election until 2022 and Johnson is adamant he will not hold one before Brexit. His Conservative Party does not have a majority in parliament, is divided over how to deliver Brexit and under threat of a no-confidence vote when parliament returns in September. Anti-Democratic European leaders are prepared to talk with Britain's new leader over Brexit but have so far insisted they will not reopen the Withdrawal Agreement. Many EU diplomats think the United Kingdom will hold a snap election soon. Johnson, who discussed Brexit with US President Donald Trump on Friday, brushed aside those concerns. "My friends, I do not want a no-deal Brexit, that is not where we're aiming, but we have to face the fact that at the moment we're being told, as we have been told for the last three year 'rien ne va plus' - 'the deal is fixed' - and can't be changed. I doubt that," he said. Nevertheless, investors fear a no-deal exit would send shock waves through global markets and hurt the world's economy. Ireland is crucial to any Brexit solution. Watch: Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump? The backstop is an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of border controls along the 500-km (300-mile) land border between Ireland and Britain's province of Northern Ireland that were ended by the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the question of the unification of Ireland and Northern Ireland would inevitably arise if Britain leaves the EU without a divorce deal on October 31. "The approach of the UK government is not going to be disengaged or aloof or waiting for them to come to us: we are going to try to solve this problem and we are going to do it in a spirit of friendship and cooperation," Johnson said. "But we can't do it as long as that anti-democratic backstop, that backstop that seeks to divide our country, divide the UK, remains in place," he said. "We need to get it out and then we can make progress, I think." The Withdrawal Agreement that May struck in November with the EU says the United Kingdom will remain in a customs union "unless and until" alternative arrangements are found to avoid a hard border. Many British lawmakers oppose the prospect of being bound to EU rules and customs duties that would prevent Britain doing its own trade deals and leave it overseen by EU judges.

Ditch backstop or face no-deal Brexit: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson tells European Union

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-intends-to-restart-activities-at-arak-heavy-water-nuclear-reactor-report-238974">Iran</a> on Sunday slammed as "provocative" a British proposal for a European-led naval mission to escort tankers in the Gulf, amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-ships-stranded-in-brazil-are-set-to-depart-officials-238954">soaring tensions over the seizure of ships</a>.

"We heard that they intend to send a European fleet to the Persian Gulf which naturally carries a hostile message, is provocative and will increase tensions," government spokesman Ali Rabiei said, quoted by ISNA news agency.

Britain said on Monday it was planning a European-led force to escort tankers through the world's busiest oil shipping lane in response to Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged vessel on July 19.

The seizure of the Stena Impero came two weeks after British authorities detained an Iranian tanker the Grace 1 off its overseas territory Gibraltar on allegations it was breaching EU sanctions on Syria.

In his comments on Sunday, the government spokesman said Iran believed the security of the oil-rich Gulf had to be maintained by countries in the region.

"We are the biggest agent of maritime security in the Persian Gulf," said Rabiei.

Britain on Thursday ordered its navy to escort <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-calls-for-prudence-and-foresight-as-tensions-mount-with-uk-237486">UK-flagged ships </a>through the Strait of Hormuz, where the Stena Impero was seized by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

But it has so far only received a cool response from the continent to its proposal for a multi-national escort fleet that would exclude the United States.

France said on Thursday it was not willing to send extra military assets to the Gulf, but would share information and coordinate its currently deployed assets.

The US military has said it is already monitoring the strait, and that it is developing a "multinational maritime effort" dubbed Operation Sentinel to increase surveillance and security in key Middle East waterways.

The 33-kilometre (22-mile) wide Strait of Hormuz provides the eastern entrance and exit point into the Gulf and runs between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

Iran's high-seas standoff with Britain comes amid rising hostilities between the Islamic republic and the UK ally the United States.

The arch-enemies have been locked in a battle of nerves since President Donald Trump withdrew the US from a landmark 2015 deal aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear programme and began reimposing sanctions.

The situation has worsened since the Trump administration began a campaign of "maximum pressure" against Iran this year, with drones downed and tankers mysteriously attacked in Gulf waters.

Iran on Sunday slammed as "provocative" a British proposal for a European-led naval mission to escort tankers in the Gulf, amid soaring tensions over the seizure of ships.

Iran on Sunday slammed as "provocative" a British proposal for a European-led naval mission to escort tankers in the Gulf, amid soaring tensions over the seizure of ships. "We heard that they intend to send a European fleet to the Persian Gulf which naturally carries a hostile message, is provocative and will increase tensions," government spokesman Ali Rabiei said, quoted by ISNA news agency. Britain said on Monday it was planning a European-led force to escort tankers through the world's busiest oil shipping lane in response to Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged vessel on July 19. The seizure of the Stena Impero came two weeks after British authorities detained an Iranian tanker the Grace 1 off its overseas territory Gibraltar on allegations it was breaching EU sanctions on Syria. In his comments on Sunday, the government spokesman said Iran believed the security of the oil-rich Gulf had to be maintained by countries in the region. "We are the biggest agent of maritime security in the Persian Gulf," said Rabiei. Britain on Thursday ordered its navy to escort UK-flagged ships through the Strait of Hormuz, where the Stena Impero was seized by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. But it has so far only received a cool response from the continent to its proposal for a multi-national escort fleet that would exclude the United States. France said on Thursday it was not willing to send extra military assets to the Gulf, but would share information and coordinate its currently deployed assets. The US military has said it is already monitoring the strait, and that it is developing a "multinational maritime effort" dubbed Operation Sentinel to increase surveillance and security in key Middle East waterways. The 33-kilometre (22-mile) wide Strait of Hormuz provides the eastern entrance and exit point into the Gulf and runs between the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Iran's high-seas standoff with Britain comes amid rising hostilities between the Islamic republic and the UK ally the United States. The arch-enemies have been locked in a battle of nerves since President Donald Trump withdrew the US from a landmark 2015 deal aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear programme and began reimposing sanctions. The situation has worsened since the Trump administration began a campaign of "maximum pressure" against Iran this year, with drones downed and tankers mysteriously attacked in Gulf waters.

Iran says European naval mission in Gulf would be 'provocative'

U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Boris Johnson on becoming British prime minister in a phone call on Friday (July 26) and said work had already begun on a U.S.-British free trade agreement. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office he had just gotten off the phone with Johnson. "I congratulated him and he's all set to go," said Trump. Johnson succeeded Theresa May as prime minister earlier this week and made clear to the European Union he will be taking a tougher approach to negotiating a revision of the Brexit divorce deal that May failed to deliver. Trump said their two governments were already working on a free trade agreement seen as crucial to helping Britain once a Brexit deal takes place.

Trump says U.S and UK already working on free trade agreement

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-is-a-massive-economic-opportunity-uk-prime-minister-johnson-238855">Brexit is a 'massive economic opportunity': UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-at-anti-triad-rally-report-238816">Hong Kong unrest: Police fire tear gas at protesters defying ban on 'anti-triad' rally</a>

Hong Kong police fired tear gas Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-arrested-at-moscow-protest-after-opposition-crackdown-238830">Dozens arrested at Moscow protest after opposition crackdown</a>

Russian police arrested dozens of people as they gathered at Moscow city hall Saturday to demand free and fair elections, an AFP journalist said, following a crackdown on the opposition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-500-passengers-rescued-from-mahalaxmi-express-238833">Maharashtra: All passengers rescued safely from stranded Mahalaxmi Express</a>

All passengers of stranded Mahalaxmi Express train in Badlapur, Maharashtra have been safely evacuated. The train was stranded due to a heavy downpour that has lashed parts of Maharashtra. As many as 700 passengers who were aboard the train have been rescued, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-says-87-killed-when-security-forces-broke-up-protest-in-june-238850">Sudan says 87 killed when security forces broke up protest in June</a>

The head of a Sudanese investigative committee said on Saturday that 87 people were killed and 168 wounded on June 3 when a sit-in protest was violently broken up by security forces.

Brexit is a 'massive economic opportunity': UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event".

Brexit is a 'massive economic opportunity': UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event". Hong Kong unrest: Police fire tear gas at protesters defying ban on 'anti-triad' rally Hong Kong police fired tear gas Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos. Dozens arrested at Moscow protest after opposition crackdown Russian police arrested dozens of people as they gathered at Moscow city hall Saturday to demand free and fair elections, an AFP journalist said, following a crackdown on the opposition. Maharashtra: All passengers rescued safely from stranded Mahalaxmi Express All passengers of stranded Mahalaxmi Express train in Badlapur, Maharashtra have been safely evacuated. The train was stranded due to a heavy downpour that has lashed parts of Maharashtra. As many as 700 passengers who were aboard the train have been rescued, news agency ANI reported. Sudan says 87 killed when security forces broke up protest in June The head of a Sudanese investigative committee said on Saturday that 87 people were killed and 168 wounded on June 3 when a sit-in protest was violently broken up by security forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/will-new-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-call-an-early-election-238331">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event".

In a speech in Manchester where he pledged new investment in Leave-voting areas,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-britain-gets-a-new-prime-minister-boris-johnson-238036"> Johnson </a>promised to step up negotiations on post-Brexit trade deals and set up free ports to boost the economy.

"When people voted to leave the European Union, they were not just voting against Brussels, they were voting against London too," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-boris-johnson-brexit-warrior-trumps-friend-chinas-frenemy-237975">Johnson</a> promised to give more powers to local communities, as well as boost broadband and transport infrastructure in a speech focused on domestic issues.

"Taking back control doesn't just apply to Westminster regaining sovereignty from the EU, it means our cities and counties and towns becoming more self governing," he said.

"Leaving the EU is a massive economic opportunity to do things we've not been allowed to do for decades," he said.

Asked about the prospect of Brexit negotiations, Johnson said he was willing to engage with EU partners but only if the backstop clause was removed from the current divorce agreement struck by May.

The backstop seeks to ensure a free-flowing post-Brexit border between British Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, an EU member state, in all eventualities.

"The approach of the UK government is not going to be disengaged or aloof or waiting for them to come to us, we are going to try to solve this problem," he said.

"We can't do it as long as that anti-democratic backstop, that backstop that seeks to divide our country, divide the UK, remains in place. We need to get it out and then we can make progress."

Watch: Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump?

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'Absolutely' rules out election

The new leader earlier tried to dampen speculation he could call an early election.

The former mayor of London, who only took charge on Wednesday, has promised to take Britain out of the EU by the latest deadline of October 31 -- deal or no deal.

But he has focused on domestic priorities in his first few days in office, including a pledge on Friday to reverse drastic cuts to the police force made under May.

Commentators have speculated that he could be preparing to call a general election, hoping to regain the Conservative majority that May lost at the polls in 2017.

Johnson on Friday "absolutely" ruled out initiating such a poll before Britain leaves the bloc.

"The British people voted in 2015, in 2016, in 2017," he said during a visit to the central English city of Birmingham.

"What they want us to do is deliver on their mandate, come out of the EU on October 31.

"They don't want another electoral event, they don't want a referendum, they don't want a general election."

However, Britons could be headed to the polls if MPs bring down Johnson's new government in a no confidence vote in order to try and prevent a no-deal Brexit from happening.

Britain voted 52 percent in favour of leaving the European Union in a shock 2016 referendum that partially reflected deep resentment over economic inequality.

Johnson said Saturday's speech intended to "set out his vision to rebalance power, growth and productivity across the UK".

May also came to power promising to fight Britain's "burning injustices" but her domestic agenda was overwhelmed by Brexit negotiations and her failed attempts to persuade parliament to vote in favour of her exit deal.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday said Brexit was a "massive economic opportunity" but had been treated under his predecessor Theresa May as "an impending adverse weather event". In a speech in Manchester where he pledged new investment in Leave-voting areas, Johnson promised to step up negotiations on post-Brexit trade deals and set up free ports to boost the economy. "When people voted to leave the European Union, they were not just voting against Brussels, they were voting against London too," he said. Johnson promised to give more powers to local communities, as well as boost broadband and transport infrastructure in a speech focused on domestic issues. "Taking back control doesn't just apply to Westminster regaining sovereignty from the EU, it means our cities and counties and towns becoming more self governing," he said. "Leaving the EU is a massive economic opportunity to do things we've not been allowed to do for decades," he said. Asked about the prospect of Brexit negotiations, Johnson said he was willing to engage with EU partners but only if the backstop clause was removed from the current divorce agreement struck by May. The backstop seeks to ensure a free-flowing post-Brexit border between British Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, an EU member state, in all eventualities. "The approach of the UK government is not going to be disengaged or aloof or waiting for them to come to us, we are going to try to solve this problem," he said. "We can't do it as long as that anti-democratic backstop, that backstop that seeks to divide our country, divide the UK, remains in place. We need to get it out and then we can make progress." Watch: Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump? × 'Absolutely' rules out election The new leader earlier tried to dampen speculation he could call an early election. The former mayor of London, who only took charge on Wednesday, has promised to take Britain out of the EU by the latest deadline of October 31 -- deal or no deal. But he has focused on domestic priorities in his first few days in office, including a pledge on Friday to reverse drastic cuts to the police force made under May. Commentators have speculated that he could be preparing to call a general election, hoping to regain the Conservative majority that May lost at the polls in 2017. Johnson on Friday "absolutely" ruled out initiating such a poll before Britain leaves the bloc. "The British people voted in 2015, in 2016, in 2017," he said during a visit to the central English city of Birmingham. "What they want us to do is deliver on their mandate, come out of the EU on October 31. "They don't want another electoral event, they don't want a referendum, they don't want a general election." However, Britons could be headed to the polls if MPs bring down Johnson's new government in a no confidence vote in order to try and prevent a no-deal Brexit from happening. Britain voted 52 percent in favour of leaving the European Union in a shock 2016 referendum that partially reflected deep resentment over economic inequality. Johnson said Saturday's speech intended to "set out his vision to rebalance power, growth and productivity across the UK". May also came to power promising to fight Britain's "burning injustices" but her domestic agenda was overwhelmed by Brexit negotiations and her failed attempts to persuade parliament to vote in favour of her exit deal.

Brexit is a 'massive economic opportunity': UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

President Emmanuel Macron has invited new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to see him in France "in the next few weeks," an official at the Elysee palace said.

Macron extended the invitation in a call late Thursday to Johnson from his official summer vacation residence in the south of France.

In the call, Macron congratulated Johnson on becoming prime minister and emphasised Franco-British cooperation on bilateral, European and international issues, the official said.

Brexit looms over those cross-Channel ties.&nbsp;

Johnson on Thursday told British lawmakers he has urged the EU to "rethink" its opposition to renegotiating a deal worked out with his predecessor Theresa May that he has called unacceptable.

If it did not, he warned, he would withdraw Britain from the EU without a deal, and spoke of plans to "turbo-charge" preparations to do so on the latest Brexit deadline of October 31.

The European Union has rejected Johnson's push.&nbsp;

Macron has emerged as one of the EU leaders most willing to see Britain leave soon, without a deal if it chooses, so as not to threaten EU stability and unity.

Separately from Macron's invitation, Johnson is expected to go to France in a month to attend a G7 summit in the oceanside city of Biarritz on August 24-26.

President Emmanuel Macron has invited new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to see him in France "in the next few weeks," an official at the Elysee palace said.

President Emmanuel Macron has invited new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to see him in France "in the next few weeks," an official at the Elysee palace said. Macron extended the invitation in a call late Thursday to Johnson from his official summer vacation residence in the south of France. In the call, Macron congratulated Johnson on becoming prime minister and emphasised Franco-British cooperation on bilateral, European and international issues, the official said. Brexit looms over those cross-Channel ties. Johnson on Thursday told British lawmakers he has urged the EU to "rethink" its opposition to renegotiating a deal worked out with his predecessor Theresa May that he has called unacceptable. If it did not, he warned, he would withdraw Britain from the EU without a deal, and spoke of plans to "turbo-charge" preparations to do so on the latest Brexit deadline of October 31. The European Union has rejected Johnson's push. Macron has emerged as one of the EU leaders most willing to see Britain leave soon, without a deal if it chooses, so as not to threaten EU stability and unity. Separately from Macron's invitation, Johnson is expected to go to France in a month to attend a G7 summit in the oceanside city of Biarritz on August 24-26.

French President Macron invites British PM Johnson to France

Three Politicians Of Indian Origin Get Significant Position In Boris Johnson's Cabinet UK's new Prime Minister Boris Johnson is hoping to deliver his promises with a brand new team. And that team comprises of many members of Indian origin. Palki brings a profile of the three Indian-origin British cabinet members.

Gravitas: 3 Indians in Boris Johnson's Cabinet

Similarities & Differences Between U.S. President Donald Trump & U.K.'s Prime Minister Boris Johnson. A dodgy reputation with facts, controversies, allegations of adultery, stance against immigration, protectionism, even 'striking' hair colours; the U.S. President Trump & U.K.'s Prime Minister Johnson have striking similarities. But there are sharp dissimilarities too. Palki compares & contrasts Trump and Johnson

Gravitas: Is Boris Johnson 'The British' Trump?

Johnson Says That Britain Will Be The Greatest Country In The World After Brexit New Prime Minister of the UK Boris Johnson takes charge, says that Britain will be the greatest country in the planet after Brexit. But there is no clarity on crucial issues like Irish backstop and the customs union. He hasn't ruled out the no-deal brexit as well. Palki summarises

Gravitas: Britain's new PM takes charge

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 26th, 2019

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnson-reshuffles-cabinet-brexit-loyalists-take-front-seats-238303&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7mczc2NLjAhUWiXAKHVLAAMMQFjAIegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rfEjC6AIX2EX6UwLc2YxP">Boris Johnson</a>'s approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to.

Johnson told the British parliament on Thursday he wanted to abolish the backstop, an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland in the event of longer-term trade talks collapsing.

Many Brexit supporters dislike the backstop - which would require Northern Ireland or the United Kingdom as a whole to stay in the European Union's customs union - as it would make it hard for Britain to negotiate free trade deals with other countries.

"The statements of the British prime minister yesterday in the House of Commons were very unhelpful to this process," Coveney told reporters on Friday after meeting Britain's new secretary of state for Northern Ireland in Belfast.

"He seems to have made a deliberate decision to set Britain on a collision course with the European Union and with Ireland in relation to the Brexit negotiations," Coveney added.

The backstop forms a part of a Brexit Withdrawal Agreement which Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, negotiated with Brussels last year. Britain's parliament rejected the agreement three times, ultimately forcing May to resign.

The EU has said the backstop is essential for any transition deal and a precondition for talks on a longer-term trade agreement.

WATCH:

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"The approach that the British prime minister seems to now be taking is not going to be the basis of an agreement, and that's worrying for everybody," Coveney said.

Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU on October&nbsp;31, even if it means leaving without a transition deal.

A no-deal Brexit risk bringing chaos at Britain's borders with Ireland and France if the EU reimposes customs checks.

Ireland's prime minister, Leo Varadkar, said on Thursday it was not yet clear whether Johnson had chosen to leave the EU without a deal, and that he hoped to meet Johnson soon.

Coveney said his meeting with Britain's new Northern Ireland secretary, Julian Smith, had been positive, and that he was optimistic political parties in the province would agree to form a government in the coming weeks.

Northern Ireland has been without a government since January 2017 following a rift between its two major parties.

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to.

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to. Johnson told the British parliament on Thursday he wanted to abolish the backstop, an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland in the event of longer-term trade talks collapsing. Many Brexit supporters dislike the backstop - which would require Northern Ireland or the United Kingdom as a whole to stay in the European Union's customs union - as it would make it hard for Britain to negotiate free trade deals with other countries. "The statements of the British prime minister yesterday in the House of Commons were very unhelpful to this process," Coveney told reporters on Friday after meeting Britain's new secretary of state for Northern Ireland in Belfast. "He seems to have made a deliberate decision to set Britain on a collision course with the European Union and with Ireland in relation to the Brexit negotiations," Coveney added. The backstop forms a part of a Brexit Withdrawal Agreement which Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, negotiated with Brussels last year. Britain's parliament rejected the agreement three times, ultimately forcing May to resign. The EU has said the backstop is essential for any transition deal and a precondition for talks on a longer-term trade agreement. WATCH: × "The approach that the British prime minister seems to now be taking is not going to be the basis of an agreement, and that's worrying for everybody," Coveney said. Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, even if it means leaving without a transition deal. A no-deal Brexit risk bringing chaos at Britain's borders with Ireland and France if the EU reimposes customs checks. Ireland's prime minister, Leo Varadkar, said on Thursday it was not yet clear whether Johnson had chosen to leave the EU without a deal, and that he hoped to meet Johnson soon. Coveney said his meeting with Britain's new Northern Ireland secretary, Julian Smith, had been positive, and that he was optimistic political parties in the province would agree to form a government in the coming weeks. Northern Ireland has been without a government since January 2017 following a rift between its two major parties.

Johnson 'very unhelpful' on Brexit, risks no deal: Ireland

Britain on Friday denied it was preparing an emergency budget just hours after a junior minister said a stimulatory spending plan was due in the autumn as Prime Minister Boris Johnson braces for a potential no-deal Brexit.

Johnson took office on Wednesday pledging to do a new Brexit deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-macron-invites-british-pm-johnson-to-visit-238559">European Union </a>but also to ramp up no-deal preparations. He has announced a raft of spending pledges including increasing police numbers by 20,000 to help cut crime.

After a junior interior minister responsible for policing, Kit Malthouse, said Johnson had announced there was to be an emergency budget in the autumn, the prime minister's spokesman said there were no plans for one.

"There are no plans to do so," PM Johnson's spokesman said when asked if Britain would be holding an emergency budget. "Fiscal events, as you know, are announced by the Treasury."

Johnson has not announced an emergency budget. The finance ministry, known as the Treasury, said it was up to Sajid Javid, the finance minister whose official title is Chancellor of the Exchequer, to announce fiscal events.

Typically an autumn budget takes place between late October and early December.

If Johnson is unable to convince the European Union to do a new Brexit deal and lawmakers try to prevent a no-deal exit then there is speculation that he could call an election.

Johnson, who made more than 30 billion pounds ($37 billion) worth of spending commitments during his leadership campaign, said on Thursday his pledges had been modest "so far".

He has said spending could be financed using the 27 billion pound "fiscal headroom", an amount of extra borrowing possible without breaking a budget deficit cap of 2% of GDP introduced by former finance minister Philip Hammond.

TAX CUTS

Javid said during his failed bid to lead the Conservative Party that he would prepare for a no-deal Brexit with an emergency budget that would include tax cuts for businesses and individuals.

Before he was appointed to the post, Javid said he wanted to cut tax for the lowest earners but would also consider scrapping the top rate of income tax, if he thought it would inject more dynamism into the economy.

"The prime minister has also announced there's going to be an emergency budget in the autumn which will be designed to stimulate the economy," Malthouse told Sky News.

"What you hope is that a more strongly growing economy will produce greater tax revenue which we can pay for some of the things that we want to do," he said.

Malthouse said a pledge to boost police numbers would cost about 500 million pounds ($622 million) in the first year.

Malthouse said: "There's certainly headroom in the finances."

"We've gone from a situation at the start of 2010 where we were borrowing one pound in every four that the government spent to now borrowing one pound in every thirty-four so we've got a bit of room for manoeuvre."

Britain on Friday denied it was preparing an emergency budget just hours after a junior minister said a stimulatory spending plan was due in the autumn as Prime Minister Boris Johnson braces for a potential no-deal Brexit.

Britain on Friday denied it was preparing an emergency budget just hours after a junior minister said a stimulatory spending plan was due in the autumn as Prime Minister Boris Johnson braces for a potential no-deal Brexit. Johnson took office on Wednesday pledging to do a new Brexit deal with the European Union but also to ramp up no-deal preparations. He has announced a raft of spending pledges including increasing police numbers by 20,000 to help cut crime. After a junior interior minister responsible for policing, Kit Malthouse, said Johnson had announced there was to be an emergency budget in the autumn, the prime minister's spokesman said there were no plans for one. "There are no plans to do so," PM Johnson's spokesman said when asked if Britain would be holding an emergency budget. "Fiscal events, as you know, are announced by the Treasury." Johnson has not announced an emergency budget. The finance ministry, known as the Treasury, said it was up to Sajid Javid, the finance minister whose official title is Chancellor of the Exchequer, to announce fiscal events. Typically an autumn budget takes place between late October and early December. If Johnson is unable to convince the European Union to do a new Brexit deal and lawmakers try to prevent a no-deal exit then there is speculation that he could call an election. Johnson, who made more than 30 billion pounds ($37 billion) worth of spending commitments during his leadership campaign, said on Thursday his pledges had been modest "so far". He has said spending could be financed using the 27 billion pound "fiscal headroom", an amount of extra borrowing possible without breaking a budget deficit cap of 2% of GDP introduced by former finance minister Philip Hammond. TAX CUTS Javid said during his failed bid to lead the Conservative Party that he would prepare for a no-deal Brexit with an emergency budget that would include tax cuts for businesses and individuals. Before he was appointed to the post, Javid said he wanted to cut tax for the lowest earners but would also consider scrapping the top rate of income tax, if he thought it would inject more dynamism into the economy. "The prime minister has also announced there's going to be an emergency budget in the autumn which will be designed to stimulate the economy," Malthouse told Sky News. "What you hope is that a more strongly growing economy will produce greater tax revenue which we can pay for some of the things that we want to do," he said. Malthouse said a pledge to boost police numbers would cost about 500 million pounds ($622 million) in the first year. Malthouse said: "There's certainly headroom in the finances." "We've gone from a situation at the start of 2010 where we were borrowing one pound in every four that the government spent to now borrowing one pound in every thirty-four so we've got a bit of room for manoeuvre."

UK denies emergency budget, after junior minister touts stimulatory plan

By Nicholas Allen

Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister.

Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament. The other eight premierships in that period began with victory in a general election.

There is nothing unusual in the mode of Johnson’s accession. The United Kingdom is a parliamentary system and governments derive their authority from being able to command the confidence of the House of Commons. There is no constitutional requirement for a new prime minister to have won an election.

Under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, the next election is not due until May 2022. Everyone at Westminster knows this. But constitutional reality will not prevent demands for an early general election and for Johnson to win the backing of the country.

The arguments are well rehearsed. Voters at the last election were choosing a different prime minister and expecting them to serve a full term. The new man wants to do things that were not set out in the party’s manifesto. There should be an election without delay.

Oddly enough, the new Conservative leader made exactly this argument in 2007, when Gordon Brown succeeded Tony Blair. Johnson was seemingly indignant about Brown’s apparent belief that he could “just trample on the democratic will of the British people”.

He is likely to be reminded of this repeatedly. But could he yet avoid similar criticisms by, like Theresa May in April 2017, suprisingly calling a snap election?

Of the seven post-war prime ministers before Johnson who took office midway through a parliament, almost all toyed with going straight to the country. But only one, Anthony Eden, went ahead and did so. He succeeded Winston Churchill in early April 1955 and won a comfortable parliamentary majority the following month.

Among the remaining six, only Theresa May sought an election very much sooner than was strictly necessary. Her decision to do so, nine months after succeeding David Cameron, caught everyone by surprise. Unfortunately for May, the Conservatives increased their share of the vote but squandered their majority.

The outcome of the June 2017 election is likely to weigh heavy on Johnson’s mind. But so too will the fate of other prime ministers who, having taken office, deferred their chance of going to the country.

Damned if you don’t?

Alec Douglas-Home, prime minister for just short of a year, lost the 1964 general election. James Callaghan, who could have called an election in the autumn of 1978 when Labour was ahead in the polls, ducked the chance. A no confidence vote in the House of Commons triggered the 1979 election, which was won by the Conservatives and Margaret Thatcher.

Brown similarly ducked an early election in the autumn of 2007. Having encouraged speculation, his decision not to go ahead contributed to a collapse in his authority. He went on to lose in 2010.

John Major fared better. He hoped that the passage of time would enable the Tories to recover from the Poll Tax debacle and Thatcher’s personal unpopularity. His strategy paid off with victory in 1992, albeit with a much reduced majority.

A summer vote? 
 
Recent newspaper reports suggest Johnson is gearing up for an election in the summer of 2020. The arguments for waiting at least a year are clear.

From his point of view, waiting will give him a chance to get a feel for the job. It will also give him a chance to experience the trappings of power. Becoming prime minister has been a lifelong ambition and Johnson will want to enjoy his prize.

From his party’s point of view, the polls currently don’t look good. Waiting would give the Tories time to see off the threat posed by the Brexit Party. Johnson has promised that the UK will leave the European Union at the end of October, with or without a deal. Once Britain is out, the Brexit Party will be redundant. Pro-Brexit voters, and their donations, might return in droves.

The time of year is a further argument against an immediate election. Party activists have planned their summer holidays. Many voters will be away. The disruption could be immense.

There is also the practical matter of securing an early election. Before the Fixed-term Parliaments Act, prime ministers could simply ask the Queen to dissolve parliament. Now they must secure the backing of at least two-thirds of all MPs or else engineer a successful vote of no confidence, ensuring there is no viable alternative government. Johnson will become prime minister on the day before parliament rises for its summer recess. There would be little time to act.

But there are also arguments for not waiting. Seeking an immediate election would enable Johnson to define himself as a leader with “gumption”, someone who is willing to take chances to break the present deadlock over Brexit. It would enable him to fend off talk of missing mandates and to avoid the charge of hypocrisy given his criticism of Brown back in 2007.

Seeking an immediate election could even counter the threat of a no confidence vote in the House of Commons. If only a handful of Tory MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit defect to the Liberal Democrats, Johnson will have no majority, even with the DUP’s support.

Moreover, the arrival of a new prime minister tends to give his or her party a bounce in the polls. Labour, which has its own troubles, would be caught on the hop. And Johnson would start an election off the back of his leadership campaign. He would be warmed up for the fight.

If the Conservatives were to win a snap election, Johnson would have a mandate for his vision of Brexit. His personal authority would be very great. This would matter enormously if it were necessary for him to accept some kind of compromise with the EU before October. It would be equally important if Britain were to leave the EU without a deal.

Of course, any prospect of winning would hinge on Johnson being able to persuade a large number of people presently backing the Brexit Party to support him. Like so much in British politics at present, Johnson’s confidence in his ability to persuade is a matter of pure speculation.

Indeed, any talk of early elections is necessarily speculative. As Thatcher wrote in her memoirs: “Calling an election is a big decision, and by constitutional convention is a matter for the prime minister alone.” Only Johnson knows his own mind – and maybe not even he. 
 
(Nicholas Allen is Reader in Politics, Royal Holloway) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/will-boris-johnson-call-an-early-election-what-new-prime-minister-will-be-thinking-as-he-weighs-up-whether-to-take-the-plunge-120702">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 Nicholas Allen Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister. Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament.

By Nicholas Allen Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister. Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament. The other eight premierships in that period began with victory in a general election. There is nothing unusual in the mode of Johnson’s accession. The United Kingdom is a parliamentary system and governments derive their authority from being able to command the confidence of the House of Commons. There is no constitutional requirement for a new prime minister to have won an election. Under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, the next election is not due until May 2022. Everyone at Westminster knows this. But constitutional reality will not prevent demands for an early general election and for Johnson to win the backing of the country. The arguments are well rehearsed. Voters at the last election were choosing a different prime minister and expecting them to serve a full term. The new man wants to do things that were not set out in the party’s manifesto. There should be an election without delay. Oddly enough, the new Conservative leader made exactly this argument in 2007, when Gordon Brown succeeded Tony Blair. Johnson was seemingly indignant about Brown’s apparent belief that he could “just trample on the democratic will of the British people”. He is likely to be reminded of this repeatedly. But could he yet avoid similar criticisms by, like Theresa May in April 2017, suprisingly calling a snap election? Of the seven post-war prime ministers before Johnson who took office midway through a parliament, almost all toyed with going straight to the country. But only one, Anthony Eden, went ahead and did so. He succeeded Winston Churchill in early April 1955 and won a comfortable parliamentary majority the following month. Among the remaining six, only Theresa May sought an election very much sooner than was strictly necessary. Her decision to do so, nine months after succeeding David Cameron, caught everyone by surprise. Unfortunately for May, the Conservatives increased their share of the vote but squandered their majority. The outcome of the June 2017 election is likely to weigh heavy on Johnson’s mind. But so too will the fate of other prime ministers who, having taken office, deferred their chance of going to the country. Damned if you don’t? Alec Douglas-Home, prime minister for just short of a year, lost the 1964 general election. James Callaghan, who could have called an election in the autumn of 1978 when Labour was ahead in the polls, ducked the chance. A no confidence vote in the House of Commons triggered the 1979 election, which was won by the Conservatives and Margaret Thatcher. Brown similarly ducked an early election in the autumn of 2007. Having encouraged speculation, his decision not to go ahead contributed to a collapse in his authority. He went on to lose in 2010. John Major fared better. He hoped that the passage of time would enable the Tories to recover from the Poll Tax debacle and Thatcher’s personal unpopularity. His strategy paid off with victory in 1992, albeit with a much reduced majority. A summer vote? Recent newspaper reports suggest Johnson is gearing up for an election in the summer of 2020. The arguments for waiting at least a year are clear. From his point of view, waiting will give him a chance to get a feel for the job. It will also give him a chance to experience the trappings of power. Becoming prime minister has been a lifelong ambition and Johnson will want to enjoy his prize. From his party’s point of view, the polls currently don’t look good. Waiting would give the Tories time to see off the threat posed by the Brexit Party. Johnson has promised that the UK will leave the European Union at the end of October, with or without a deal. Once Britain is out, the Brexit Party will be redundant. Pro-Brexit voters, and their donations, might return in droves. The time of year is a further argument against an immediate election. Party activists have planned their summer holidays. Many voters will be away. The disruption could be immense. There is also the practical matter of securing an early election. Before the Fixed-term Parliaments Act, prime ministers could simply ask the Queen to dissolve parliament. Now they must secure the backing of at least two-thirds of all MPs or else engineer a successful vote of no confidence, ensuring there is no viable alternative government. Johnson will become prime minister on the day before parliament rises for its summer recess. There would be little time to act. But there are also arguments for not waiting. Seeking an immediate election would enable Johnson to define himself as a leader with “gumption”, someone who is willing to take chances to break the present deadlock over Brexit. It would enable him to fend off talk of missing mandates and to avoid the charge of hypocrisy given his criticism of Brown back in 2007. Seeking an immediate election could even counter the threat of a no confidence vote in the House of Commons. If only a handful of Tory MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit defect to the Liberal Democrats, Johnson will have no majority, even with the DUP’s support. Moreover, the arrival of a new prime minister tends to give his or her party a bounce in the polls. Labour, which has its own troubles, would be caught on the hop. And Johnson would start an election off the back of his leadership campaign. He would be warmed up for the fight. If the Conservatives were to win a snap election, Johnson would have a mandate for his vision of Brexit. His personal authority would be very great. This would matter enormously if it were necessary for him to accept some kind of compromise with the EU before October. It would be equally important if Britain were to leave the EU without a deal. Of course, any prospect of winning would hinge on Johnson being able to persuade a large number of people presently backing the Brexit Party to support him. Like so much in British politics at present, Johnson’s confidence in his ability to persuade is a matter of pure speculation. Indeed, any talk of early elections is necessarily speculative. As Thatcher wrote in her memoirs: “Calling an election is a big decision, and by constitutional convention is a matter for the prime minister alone.” Only Johnson knows his own mind – and maybe not even he. (Nicholas Allen is Reader in Politics, Royal Holloway) (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.)

Will new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson call an early election?

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in central London on July 24 to protest against Britain's newly appointed Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Watch this video to know more.

Protests against UK PM Boris Johnson, protesters reject new UK PM

How Will Boris Johnson's Elevation Impact UK's Ties With India, U.S. & The E.U. Inking trade deals and ensuring strong ties with India and the U.S. would be top priority for the new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. But before that, he also has to ensure a safe exit from the European Union. And that Brexit process could leave the advantage in the hands of the U.S. and India. On #WionEdit, Palki analyses the immediate future of UK under Johnson

WION Edit: Johnson as PM: What future holds for the UK?

The newly-elected Conservative Party leader Boris Johnson took office as the British prime minister on Wednesday. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson appointed a band of Brexiteers into key cabinet positions. Watch this video to know more.

Boris Johnson reshuffles cabinet, Brexit loyalists take front seats

Boris Johnson, Brexit campaigner and former foreign secretary, took over as the U.K.’s prime minister. Described as a political chameleon, will he be able to deliver the divorce deal that has propelled him into office?

Gravitas: Boris Johnson: genius or joker?

Johnson’s first foray into journalism was in 1987 when he acquired a job at The Times through a family connection. He was fired shortly thereafter for making up a quote in a story about Edward II.

Gravitas: From sacked journalist to UK PM

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 25th, 2019

Boris Johnson has appointed three Indian-origin leaders, including Priti Patel as Home Secretary, in his top ministerial team in what has been dubbed as Britain's most diverse Cabinet, after he took over as the new prime minister with a pledge.

Boris Johnson reshuffles Cabinet, 3 Indian-origin ministers in UK Cabinet

Britain’s new Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-johnson-overhauls-cabinet-with-brexit-hardliners-238286">Boris Johnson</a> named Priti Patel as interior minister, marking a political comeback for the former international development minister.

Priti Patel replaces Pakistani-origin Sajid Javid, who moves to the Treasury department as the first ethnic minority Chancellor of the Exchequer.

"I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Home Secretary by our new Prime Minister @borisjohnson. Looking forward to working @ukhomeoffice to prepare our Country for leaving the EU, leading on matters of national security &amp; public safety &amp; keeping our borders secure," Patel tweeted, in reference to her new job at the helm of the UK Home Office.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Home Secretary by our new Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@borisjohnson</a>. Looking forward to working <a href="https://twitter.com/ukhomeoffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ukhomeoffice</a> to prepare our Country for leaving the EU, leading on matters of national security &amp; public safety &amp; keeping our borders secure.
— Priti Patel MP (@patel4witham) <a href="https://twitter.com/patel4witham/status/1154140566294335488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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1: Patel, 47, resigned as International Development minister in November 2017 over undisclosed meetings with Israeli officials that breached diplomatic protocol.

2: She campaigned to leave the European Union in 2016, and since leaving government has been an outspoken critic of former Prime Minister Theresa May’s approach to Brexit.

3: Earlier this week, Patel, who also served as a junior Treasury minister, released a report on the British economy arguing for lower taxes and for a new Bank of England mandate more focused on asset price inflation and financial imbalances.

4: Patel is English-born to Indian parents. In the EU referendum campaign, she launched an appeal to “Save the British Curry” which argued that a post-Brexit immigration system would be fairer to those from outside the EU and ease a shortage of chefs for Indian restaurants in Britain.

5: Former British leader David Cameron touted Patel as Britain’s first Indian-heritage prime minister during a huge rally at Wembley stadium in 2015 to mark the visit of Indian leader Narendra Modi.

Britain’s new Prime Minister Boris Johnson named Priti Patel as interior minister, marking a political comeback for the former international development minister.

Britain’s new Prime Minister Boris Johnson named Priti Patel as interior minister, marking a political comeback for the former international development minister. Priti Patel replaces Pakistani-origin Sajid Javid, who moves to the Treasury department as the first ethnic minority Chancellor of the Exchequer. "I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Home Secretary by our new Prime Minister @borisjohnson. Looking forward to working @ukhomeoffice to prepare our Country for leaving the EU, leading on matters of national security & public safety & keeping our borders secure," Patel tweeted, in reference to her new job at the helm of the UK Home Office. I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Home Secretary by our new Prime Minister @borisjohnson. Looking forward to working @ukhomeoffice to prepare our Country for leaving the EU, leading on matters of national security & public safety & keeping our borders secure. — Priti Patel MP (@patel4witham) July 24, 2019 × 1: Patel, 47, resigned as International Development minister in November 2017 over undisclosed meetings with Israeli officials that breached diplomatic protocol. 2: She campaigned to leave the European Union in 2016, and since leaving government has been an outspoken critic of former Prime Minister Theresa May’s approach to Brexit. 3: Earlier this week, Patel, who also served as a junior Treasury minister, released a report on the British economy arguing for lower taxes and for a new Bank of England mandate more focused on asset price inflation and financial imbalances. 4: Patel is English-born to Indian parents. In the EU referendum campaign, she launched an appeal to “Save the British Curry” which argued that a post-Brexit immigration system would be fairer to those from outside the EU and ease a shortage of chefs for Indian restaurants in Britain. 5: Former British leader David Cameron touted Patel as Britain’s first Indian-heritage prime minister during a huge rally at Wembley stadium in 2015 to mark the visit of Indian leader Narendra Modi.

Five facts about Priti Patel, UK's first Indian-origin home secretary

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