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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 31st, 2019

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday his priority was to try to restore the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland on a visit when he will meet local parties.

The power-sharing administration was suspended two-and-a-half years ago because of differences between the parties representing mainly Protestant pro-British unionists and mainly Catholic nationalists who favour a united Ireland.

"It's great to be here in Northern Ireland and clearly the people of Northern Ireland have been without a government, without Stormont for two years and six months so my prime focus this morning is to do everything I can to help that get up and running again," Johnson told journalists, adding that he expected Brexit would also come up in talks. 
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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday his priority was to try to restore the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland on a visit when he will meet local parties.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday his priority was to try to restore the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland on a visit when he will meet local parties. The power-sharing administration was suspended two-and-a-half years ago because of differences between the parties representing mainly Protestant pro-British unionists and mainly Catholic nationalists who favour a united Ireland. "It's great to be here in Northern Ireland and clearly the people of Northern Ireland have been without a government, without Stormont for two years and six months so my prime focus this morning is to do everything I can to help that get up and running again," Johnson told journalists, adding that he expected Brexit would also come up in talks.

My focus is restoring power-sharing in Northern Ireland: UK PM Boris Johnson

Britain will never impose physical checks on its border with Ireland, Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised his Irish counterpart on Tuesday, while repeating that current plans for the frontier after Brexit were unacceptable.

The land border between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland will become part of the bloc's external frontier once Britain leaves the European Union, and how it is managed is hugely controversial.

In his first phone call with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar since taking office last week, Johnson said he emphasised that "the UK under no circumstances will have checks at the border in Northern Ireland".

But speaking to the media afterwards, he warned that unless Brussels dropped its commitment to the current "backstop" plan to keep open the frontier, Britain would leave the EU without a deal on October 31.

"If they really can't do it then clearly we have to get ready for a no-deal exit," Johnson said on a trip to Wales, adding: "It's up to the EU, this is their call."

Removing checks on the border was considered a key factor in bringing peace to Northern Ireland, after years of violence over British control.

But after Brexit, it is expected to be policed as an external frontier unless new arrangements are found.

The backstop is included in a divorce deal the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which parliament has rejected three times.

In their phone call, Varadkar repeated the EU position that the backstop was "necessary" and that the deal could not be renegotiated, his office said.

He "explained that the EU was united in its view that the withdrawal agreement could not be reopened", it said.

The backstop would keep Britain aligned with EU trade rules to keep the frontier open and free-flowing, but Johnson believes there is an alternative.

"We have all the sorts of technological solutions that are necessary to do it," he said in Wales but added that this should be dealt with after Britain leaves the EU.

Varadkar conceded that alternative arrangements could replace the backstop in the future but "thus far satisfactory options have yet to be identified and demonstrated", his office said.

He invited Johnson to Dublin and the two men agreed to stay in touch, both offices said.

They also discussed the need to restore the devolved government in Northern Ireland, which has been suspended since January 2017 in a dispute between the two main parties that share power.

Britain will never impose physical checks on its border with Ireland, Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised his Irish counterpart on Tuesday, while repeating that current plans for the frontier after Brexit were unacceptable.

Britain will never impose physical checks on its border with Ireland, Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised his Irish counterpart on Tuesday, while repeating that current plans for the frontier after Brexit were unacceptable. The land border between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland will become part of the bloc's external frontier once Britain leaves the European Union, and how it is managed is hugely controversial. In his first phone call with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar since taking office last week, Johnson said he emphasised that "the UK under no circumstances will have checks at the border in Northern Ireland". But speaking to the media afterwards, he warned that unless Brussels dropped its commitment to the current "backstop" plan to keep open the frontier, Britain would leave the EU without a deal on October 31. "If they really can't do it then clearly we have to get ready for a no-deal exit," Johnson said on a trip to Wales, adding: "It's up to the EU, this is their call." Removing checks on the border was considered a key factor in bringing peace to Northern Ireland, after years of violence over British control. But after Brexit, it is expected to be policed as an external frontier unless new arrangements are found. The backstop is included in a divorce deal the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which parliament has rejected three times. In their phone call, Varadkar repeated the EU position that the backstop was "necessary" and that the deal could not be renegotiated, his office said. He "explained that the EU was united in its view that the withdrawal agreement could not be reopened", it said. The backstop would keep Britain aligned with EU trade rules to keep the frontier open and free-flowing, but Johnson believes there is an alternative. "We have all the sorts of technological solutions that are necessary to do it," he said in Wales but added that this should be dealt with after Britain leaves the EU. Varadkar conceded that alternative arrangements could replace the backstop in the future but "thus far satisfactory options have yet to be identified and demonstrated", his office said. He invited Johnson to Dublin and the two men agreed to stay in touch, both offices said. They also discussed the need to restore the devolved government in Northern Ireland, which has been suspended since January 2017 in a dispute between the two main parties that share power.

UK's Boris Johnson promises Irish PM Leo Varadkar no physical border checks

Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised on Tuesday to lead Britain out of the European Union on October 31 "no matter what" as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/stormy-sterling-sinks-again-stocks-wilt-before-fed-239448">sterling tumbled</a> and Ireland warned that the bloc would not be renegotiating the thrice defeated divorce deal.

The British pound fell on Tuesday as investors bet Johnson's Brexit brinkmanship could trigger a messy divorce that would sow chaos through the world economy and financial markets.

Sterling crashed through trading barriers, falling to an intraday low of $1.2120 in shallower overnight Asian trade, the lowest since March 2017. The pound has lost 3.6 cents since Johnson was named Britain's new prime minister a week ago.

"The prime minister made clear that the UK will be leaving the EU on October 31, no matter what," Johnson's Downing Street office said in a statement about a phone call with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar.

Johnson demanded again that one of the most hotly contested elements of the Brexit divorce agreement - the Irish border backstop - would have to be struck out if there was to be a deal.

"The prime minister made clear that the government will approach any negotiations which take place with determination and energy and in a spirit of friendship, and that his clear preference is to leave the EU with a deal, but it must be one that abolishes the backstop," Downing Street said.

The backstop is a provision in the deal that would require Britain to obey some EU rules if no other way can be found to keep the land border open between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. Johnson rejects it as "undemocratic".

Ireland said the backstop was necessary because of the positions Britain had taken in earlier talks, and that the EU would not renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement struck by former Prime Minister Theresa May.

"The Taoiseach explained that the EU was united in its view that the Withdrawal Agreement could not be reopened," the Irish government said.

"Alternative arrangements could replace the backstop in the future... but thus far satisfactory options have yet to be identified and demonstrated," the Irish government said.

Ever since the 2016 EU referendum, the pound has gyrated to the rhetoric of the Brexit divorce: after the result was announced, it had the biggest one-day fall since the era of free-floating exchange rates was introduced in the early 1970s.

Since the 2016 vote, sterling has now lost 28 cents. It was trading at $1.2177 at 1230 GMT. It also fell sharply against the euro and the Japanese yen.

"We see little chance of Brexit fears calming in the near-term, and if anything will likely escalate further as we head closer to the October 31st deadline," said Mohammed Kazmi, a portfolio manager at UBP which has $136 billion of assets under management.

Brexit Crisis

Sterling briefly shot as low as $1.1450 on October 7, 2016, during a so-called 'flash crash' in Asian trading that lasted only for a few minutes. But otherwise, the fall under Johnson has brought it close to the 32-year lows struck in late 2016 and early 2017.

On entering Downing Street on Wednesday, Johnson set up a showdown with the EU by vowing to negotiate a new deal and threatening that, if the bloc refused, he would take Britain out on October 31 without a deal to limit economic dislocation.

Irish government bond yield spreads over Germany hit their widest levels in over a month on Tuesday, as worries grow over the potential impact of a no-deal Brexit on Ireland.

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.

Supporters of Brexit say that while there would be some short-term difficulties, the disruption of a no-deal Brexit has been overplayed and that in the long-term, the United Kingdom would thrive if it left the European Union.

Johnson was expected to tell Welsh farmers on Tuesday they will get a better deal after Brexit, part of a countrywide tour to win support for his "do or die" pledge to leave the European Union by October 31.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised on Tuesday to lead Britain out of the European Union on October 31 "no matter what" as sterling tumbled and Ireland warned that the bloc would not be renegotiating the thrice defeated divorce deal.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised on Tuesday to lead Britain out of the European Union on October 31 "no matter what" as sterling tumbled and Ireland warned that the bloc would not be renegotiating the thrice defeated divorce deal. The British pound fell on Tuesday as investors bet Johnson's Brexit brinkmanship could trigger a messy divorce that would sow chaos through the world economy and financial markets. Sterling crashed through trading barriers, falling to an intraday low of $1.2120 in shallower overnight Asian trade, the lowest since March 2017. The pound has lost 3.6 cents since Johnson was named Britain's new prime minister a week ago. "The prime minister made clear that the UK will be leaving the EU on October 31, no matter what," Johnson's Downing Street office said in a statement about a phone call with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar. Johnson demanded again that one of the most hotly contested elements of the Brexit divorce agreement - the Irish border backstop - would have to be struck out if there was to be a deal. "The prime minister made clear that the government will approach any negotiations which take place with determination and energy and in a spirit of friendship, and that his clear preference is to leave the EU with a deal, but it must be one that abolishes the backstop," Downing Street said. The backstop is a provision in the deal that would require Britain to obey some EU rules if no other way can be found to keep the land border open between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. Johnson rejects it as "undemocratic". Ireland said the backstop was necessary because of the positions Britain had taken in earlier talks, and that the EU would not renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement struck by former Prime Minister Theresa May. "The Taoiseach explained that the EU was united in its view that the Withdrawal Agreement could not be reopened," the Irish government said. "Alternative arrangements could replace the backstop in the future... but thus far satisfactory options have yet to be identified and demonstrated," the Irish government said. Ever since the 2016 EU referendum, the pound has gyrated to the rhetoric of the Brexit divorce: after the result was announced, it had the biggest one-day fall since the era of free-floating exchange rates was introduced in the early 1970s. Since the 2016 vote, sterling has now lost 28 cents. It was trading at $1.2177 at 1230 GMT. It also fell sharply against the euro and the Japanese yen. "We see little chance of Brexit fears calming in the near-term, and if anything will likely escalate further as we head closer to the October 31st deadline," said Mohammed Kazmi, a portfolio manager at UBP which has $136 billion of assets under management. Brexit Crisis Sterling briefly shot as low as $1.1450 on October 7, 2016, during a so-called 'flash crash' in Asian trading that lasted only for a few minutes. But otherwise, the fall under Johnson has brought it close to the 32-year lows struck in late 2016 and early 2017. On entering Downing Street on Wednesday, Johnson set up a showdown with the EU by vowing to negotiate a new deal and threatening that, if the bloc refused, he would take Britain out on October 31 without a deal to limit economic dislocation. Irish government bond yield spreads over Germany hit their widest levels in over a month on Tuesday, as worries grow over the potential impact of a no-deal Brexit on Ireland. 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. Supporters of Brexit say that while there would be some short-term difficulties, the disruption of a no-deal Brexit has been overplayed and that in the long-term, the United Kingdom would thrive if it left the European Union. Johnson was expected to tell Welsh farmers on Tuesday they will get a better deal after Brexit, part of a countrywide tour to win support for his "do or die" pledge to leave the European Union by October 31.

Brexit 'no matter what', Prime Minister Johnson promises as sterling falls

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-is-a-massive-economic-opportunity-uk-prime-minister-johnson-238855">Prime Minister Boris Johnson </a>will tell Welsh farmers on Tuesday they will get a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-heads-to-scotland-as-local-leader-attacks-no-deal-brexit-239153"> better deal after Brexit</a>, part of a countrywide tour to win support for his "do or die" pledge to leave the European Union by October 31.

Just days after taking office as prime minister, Johnson kicked off the domestic tour, underlining his desire to win Britain over rather than courting EU leaders to try to persuade them to change their minds on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ditch-backstop-or-face-no-deal-brexit-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-tells-european-union-238918">divorce deal </a>he says is dead.

His reluctance to engage with EU leaders until they signal a willingness to renegotiate the agreement Britain`s parliament rejected three times has increased the possibility of a no-deal Brexit, sending the pound to its lowest level since early 2017.

He hopes that the threat of Britain leaving without a deal, which would send shocks waves through the world economy, will persuade the EU`s biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the Withdrawal Agreement.

"I will always back Britain`s great farmers and as we leave the EU we need to make sure that Brexit works for them," Johnson said before arriving in Wales.

"Once we leave the EU on 31st October, we will have a historic opportunity to introduce new schemes to support farming – and we will make sure that farmers get a better deal. Brexit presents enormous opportunities for our country and it`s time we looked to the future with pride and optimism."

Many farmers fear a no-deal Brexit could threaten their livelihoods by suddenly removing subsidies, blocking their access to European markets and leaving them vulnerable to competition from lower-cost producers like the United States that do not match European animal welfare standards.

Johnson said leaving the EU would allow the government to scrap the Common Agricultural Policy -- a system of farm subsidies unpopular in Britain which contributes more than it receives -- and sign new trade deals to expand the market.

Johnson`s visit to Wales is part of a country-wide charm offensive, with the new prime minister trying to sell Brexit, something he has said his predecessor, Theresa May, and her government failed to do while in office. 
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A figurehead for the successful "Leave" campaign in the 2016 referendum, Johnson has repeated daily that Britain will leave on the latest deadline of Oct. 31, with or without a deal, and will thrive afterwards.&nbsp;

But by playing hardball with the EU by telling its leaders that he will only talk when they drop their insistence on not renegotiating the deal, he has increased the likelihood of a no-deal exit, which he says he does not want.

On Monday, the pound tumbled to its lowest against the dollar since early 2017 on the strengthened rhetoric.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell Welsh farmers on Tuesday they will get a better deal after Brexit, part of a countrywide tour to win support for his "do or die" pledge to leave the European Union by October 31.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell Welsh farmers on Tuesday they will get a better deal after Brexit, part of a countrywide tour to win support for his "do or die" pledge to leave the European Union by October 31. Just days after taking office as prime minister, Johnson kicked off the domestic tour, underlining his desire to win Britain over rather than courting EU leaders to try to persuade them to change their minds on a divorce deal he says is dead. His reluctance to engage with EU leaders until they signal a willingness to renegotiate the agreement Britain`s parliament rejected three times has increased the possibility of a no-deal Brexit, sending the pound to its lowest level since early 2017. He hopes that the threat of Britain leaving without a deal, which would send shocks waves through the world economy, will persuade the EU`s biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the Withdrawal Agreement. "I will always back Britain`s great farmers and as we leave the EU we need to make sure that Brexit works for them," Johnson said before arriving in Wales. "Once we leave the EU on 31st October, we will have a historic opportunity to introduce new schemes to support farming – and we will make sure that farmers get a better deal. Brexit presents enormous opportunities for our country and it`s time we looked to the future with pride and optimism." Many farmers fear a no-deal Brexit could threaten their livelihoods by suddenly removing subsidies, blocking their access to European markets and leaving them vulnerable to competition from lower-cost producers like the United States that do not match European animal welfare standards. Johnson said leaving the EU would allow the government to scrap the Common Agricultural Policy -- a system of farm subsidies unpopular in Britain which contributes more than it receives -- and sign new trade deals to expand the market. Johnson`s visit to Wales is part of a country-wide charm offensive, with the new prime minister trying to sell Brexit, something he has said his predecessor, Theresa May, and her government failed to do while in office. A figurehead for the successful "Leave" campaign in the 2016 referendum, Johnson has repeated daily that Britain will leave on the latest deadline of Oct. 31, with or without a deal, and will thrive afterwards. But by playing hardball with the EU by telling its leaders that he will only talk when they drop their insistence on not renegotiating the deal, he has increased the likelihood of a no-deal exit, which he says he does not want. On Monday, the pound tumbled to its lowest against the dollar since early 2017 on the strengthened rhetoric.

Brexit means a 'better deal' for farmers, PM Johnson tells Wales

<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

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 31st, 2019

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