According to reports, the United Kingdom could join the historic Quad including four of the world's biggest economic powerhouses, with a new groundbreaking defence and foreign relations.

Reports say UK could join the historic Quad in new alliance

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests.&nbsp;

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Frost again defended Britain's unilateral move to smooth post-Brexit trade between Britain and Northern Ireland, over which the EU has promised to launch legal action for breaching the terms of the Brexit deal.&nbsp;

Since Britain left the EU last year, relations between the two have soured, with both sides accusing the other of acting in bad faith in relation to part of their trade agreement that covers goods movements to Northern Ireland.&nbsp;

Frost, who led Britain's negotiations to secure a trade deal with the bloc, was appointed as a minister and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's main point man for future ties with the EU earlier this year and looks set to take a firmer approach.&nbsp;

"I hope they will shake off any remaining ill will towards us for leaving, and instead build a friendly relationship, between sovereign equals," he wrote in an opinion piece.&nbsp;

"That is what I will be working towards, acting constructively when we can, standing up for our interests when we must – as a sovereign country in full control of our own destiny."&nbsp;

He again defended the British government's extension of a grace period for checks on some food products imported by retailers to Northern Ireland as being 'lawful and consistent with the progressive and good faith implementation' of part of the post-Brexit trade deal called the Northern Ireland protocol.&nbsp;

But he added, "Without this threat of disruption, we can continue our discussions with the EU to resolve difficulties arising from the protocol constructively and we aim to do so."&nbsp;

Northern Ireland's future was bitterly contested during the Brexit negotiations. London ultimately agreed to leave the British-ruled province aligned to the EU's single market for goods to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, fearing it could be detrimental to the 1998 peace agreement that ended decades of conflict in the province.&nbsp;

This has required checks on some items arriving in Northern Ireland from elsewhere in the United Kingdom, which some businesses say has made it difficult to bring in supplies. To address that issue, the British government extended the grace period for some checks until October 1.&nbsp;

The EU disputes that the grace period extension was in line with the agreement, saying London should honour what it signed up to. It has promised to launch legal action, or a so-called 'infringement procedure' against Britain.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests.

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests. Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Frost again defended Britain's unilateral move to smooth post-Brexit trade between Britain and Northern Ireland, over which the EU has promised to launch legal action for breaching the terms of the Brexit deal. Since Britain left the EU last year, relations between the two have soured, with both sides accusing the other of acting in bad faith in relation to part of their trade agreement that covers goods movements to Northern Ireland. Frost, who led Britain's negotiations to secure a trade deal with the bloc, was appointed as a minister and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's main point man for future ties with the EU earlier this year and looks set to take a firmer approach. "I hope they will shake off any remaining ill will towards us for leaving, and instead build a friendly relationship, between sovereign equals," he wrote in an opinion piece. "That is what I will be working towards, acting constructively when we can, standing up for our interests when we must – as a sovereign country in full control of our own destiny." He again defended the British government's extension of a grace period for checks on some food products imported by retailers to Northern Ireland as being 'lawful and consistent with the progressive and good faith implementation' of part of the post-Brexit trade deal called the Northern Ireland protocol. But he added, "Without this threat of disruption, we can continue our discussions with the EU to resolve difficulties arising from the protocol constructively and we aim to do so." Northern Ireland's future was bitterly contested during the Brexit negotiations. London ultimately agreed to leave the British-ruled province aligned to the EU's single market for goods to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, fearing it could be detrimental to the 1998 peace agreement that ended decades of conflict in the province. This has required checks on some items arriving in Northern Ireland from elsewhere in the United Kingdom, which some businesses say has made it difficult to bring in supplies. To address that issue, the British government extended the grace period for some checks until October 1. The EU disputes that the grace period extension was in line with the agreement, saying London should honour what it signed up to. It has promised to launch legal action, or a so-called 'infringement procedure' against Britain. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain asks EU to shake off ill will over post-Brexit trade 

Cyprus will open its doors from May 1 to British tourists who have been vaccinated against Covid.

The Mediterranean island's vital tourism industry had otherwise been devastated due to the coronavirus pandemic -- with arrivals slumping to 631,609 in 2020 from nearly four million in 2019.

Britain is the island's largest market for tourists, making up a third of its arrivals in 2019,

"We informed the British government that as of May 1,&nbsp;we would facilitate the arrival of British citizens immunised with EU-licenced vaccines to enter Cyprus with no negative Covid-19 test and no quarantine," Tourism Minister Savvas Perdios said, quoted by the state-funded Cyprus News Agency.

He added the policy was subject to the British government's Covid-19 restrictions, which currently ban international travel.

The announcement comes after Cyprus and Israel agreed a deal last month allowing vaccinated citizens of the two countries to travel each way without limitations, once passenger flights resume.

"This is a very important development for tourism and follows the arrangement with Israel, as they are two of Cyprus' main tourist markets," said Perdios.

Under the Cypriot government's plan, UK citizens who have received the second dose of a Covid vaccine at least seven days before travelling would be allowed entry, but could still be subject to random testing at airports.

Britons would also still have to comply with health protocols such as mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing.

The Republic of Cyprus has so far recorded 232 coronavirus deaths and 36,004 infections.

Cyprus will open its doors from May 1 to British tourists who have been vaccinated against Covid. The Mediterranean island's vital tourism industry had otherwise been devastated due to the coronavirus pandemic -- with arrivals slumping to 631,609 in 2020 from nearly four million in 2019.

Cyprus will open its doors from May 1 to British tourists who have been vaccinated against Covid. The Mediterranean island's vital tourism industry had otherwise been devastated due to the coronavirus pandemic -- with arrivals slumping to 631,609 in 2020 from nearly four million in 2019. Britain is the island's largest market for tourists, making up a third of its arrivals in 2019, "We informed the British government that as of May 1, we would facilitate the arrival of British citizens immunised with EU-licenced vaccines to enter Cyprus with no negative Covid-19 test and no quarantine," Tourism Minister Savvas Perdios said, quoted by the state-funded Cyprus News Agency. He added the policy was subject to the British government's Covid-19 restrictions, which currently ban international travel. The announcement comes after Cyprus and Israel agreed a deal last month allowing vaccinated citizens of the two countries to travel each way without limitations, once passenger flights resume. "This is a very important development for tourism and follows the arrangement with Israel, as they are two of Cyprus' main tourist markets," said Perdios. Under the Cypriot government's plan, UK citizens who have received the second dose of a Covid vaccine at least seven days before travelling would be allowed entry, but could still be subject to random testing at airports. Britons would also still have to comply with health protocols such as mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing. The Republic of Cyprus has so far recorded 232 coronavirus deaths and 36,004 infections.

Cyprus opens doors to vaccinated British tourists

Britain`s Prince Philip, the 99-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth, underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition on Wednesday, Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Thursday.

Philip was admitted to hospital on Feb. 16 after he felt unwell, to receive treatment for an unspecified, but not COVID-19-related, infection.

On Monday, he was transferred to a different hospital in central London, with the palace saying at the time that he would have heart tests and continue to be treated for the infection.

"The Duke of Edinburgh yesterday underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition at St Bartholomew’s Hospital," the palace said, using Philip`s formal title.

"His Royal Highness will remain in hospital for treatment, rest and recuperation for a number of days," the statement said.

Since being admitted to hospital on Feb. 16, the duke has been publicly visited only by his son and heir Prince Charles.

The queen, 94, has remained at Windsor Castle west of London, where the couple have been staying during the coronavirus pandemic, and last week continued to carry out her official duties by video.

She and Philip have received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose.

Greek-born Philip, who turns 100 in June, has required hospital treatment several times in the last decade for a recurrence of a bladder infection.

At Christmas in 2011 he had an operation to clear a blocked artery in his heart after being rushed to hospital with chest pains.

Britain`s Prince Philip, the 99-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth, underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition on Wednesday, Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Thursday.

Britain`s Prince Philip, the 99-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth, underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition on Wednesday, Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Thursday. Philip was admitted to hospital on Feb. 16 after he felt unwell, to receive treatment for an unspecified, but not COVID-19-related, infection. On Monday, he was transferred to a different hospital in central London, with the palace saying at the time that he would have heart tests and continue to be treated for the infection. "The Duke of Edinburgh yesterday underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition at St Bartholomew’s Hospital," the palace said, using Philip`s formal title. "His Royal Highness will remain in hospital for treatment, rest and recuperation for a number of days," the statement said. Since being admitted to hospital on Feb. 16, the duke has been publicly visited only by his son and heir Prince Charles. The queen, 94, has remained at Windsor Castle west of London, where the couple have been staying during the coronavirus pandemic, and last week continued to carry out her official duties by video. She and Philip have received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose. Greek-born Philip, who turns 100 in June, has required hospital treatment several times in the last decade for a recurrence of a bladder infection. At Christmas in 2011 he had an operation to clear a blocked artery in his heart after being rushed to hospital with chest pains.

Britain's Prince Philip has successful heart procedure, palace says

While reading out Britain's Budget 2021 address, British finance minister Rishi Sunak said that the UK economy is likely to reach its pre-pandemic output level by the middle of next year (2022). WION brings you all you need to know about UK Budget 2021.

World Business Watch: UK economy to reach pre-pandemic size by mid-2022, says Sunak

Post-Brexit life has become difficult for people of Britain residing in Spain. The problems increase after people especially expats are concerned about their duration of stay and livelihood in order to stay longer. WION tells you more.

Spain: Expats selling properties to survive post-Brexit life

According to recently released data, more than 20 million people across the United Kingdom have received their first COVID-19 vaccine shot. With this, the country has successfully rolled out Europe's fastest vaccination program.

Britain: Vaccination hits 20 million mark in Europe's fastest jab rollout

The dream of Life on Spain's Costa Del Sol has become a nightmare now for many British expats. They are adjusting to a post-Brexit reality.

'Spanish Dream' turns into nightmare as Britons faces post-Brexit reality

Britain's highest court has released its verdict on the woman who was stripped of UK's citizenship for joining the Islamic State group in Syria.

WION Dispatch: UK's Supreme Court rejects ISIS bride's Shamima Begum's legal bid

UK: Supreme Court rejects ISIS bride's Shamima Begum's legal bid

Britain's financial watchdog announced five new appointments on Thursday, creating an executive committee dominated by women.

The overhaul also comes as the watchdog aims to show lawmakers it has learned lessons after a damning report that said its executive committee was responsible for not responding fast enough to problems at now defunct London Capital and Finance investment fund.

The Financial Conduct Authority, under CEO Nikhil Rathi who took up the reins last October, said Stephanie Cohen will be its new chief operating officer, with Jessica Rusu becoming its first chief data, information and intelligence officer.

There are now seven women and four men on the FCA's executive committee.

Sarah Pritchard has been appointed executive director for markets, while Emily Shepperd will take up a newly created role of executive director for authorisations.

The FCA also appointed Clare Cole as director of market oversight, and she will lead the watchdog's response to a forthcoming review of UK company listings rules. The review is expected to recommend changes to attract more tech and fintech listings.

Rathi, a former finance ministry and London Stock Exchange official, began an internal shake-up last November with a merger of retail and wholesale supervision units to create a "holistic" view of activities.

The FCA said the new appointments were part of its transformation into a "data-led" regulator of more than 60,000 firms, and were aimed at speeding up decision-making.

Britain's financial watchdog announced five new appointments on Thursday, creating an executive committee dominated by women. The overhaul also comes as the watchdog aims to show lawmakers it has learned lessons after a damning report that said its executive committee was responsible for not responding fast enough to problems at now defunct London Capital and Finance investment fund.

Britain's financial watchdog announced five new appointments on Thursday, creating an executive committee dominated by women. The overhaul also comes as the watchdog aims to show lawmakers it has learned lessons after a damning report that said its executive committee was responsible for not responding fast enough to problems at now defunct London Capital and Finance investment fund. The Financial Conduct Authority, under CEO Nikhil Rathi who took up the reins last October, said Stephanie Cohen will be its new chief operating officer, with Jessica Rusu becoming its first chief data, information and intelligence officer. There are now seven women and four men on the FCA's executive committee. Sarah Pritchard has been appointed executive director for markets, while Emily Shepperd will take up a newly created role of executive director for authorisations. The FCA also appointed Clare Cole as director of market oversight, and she will lead the watchdog's response to a forthcoming review of UK company listings rules. The review is expected to recommend changes to attract more tech and fintech listings. Rathi, a former finance ministry and London Stock Exchange official, began an internal shake-up last November with a merger of retail and wholesale supervision units to create a "holistic" view of activities. The FCA said the new appointments were part of its transformation into a "data-led" regulator of more than 60,000 firms, and were aimed at speeding up decision-making.

Britain's financial watchdog appoints five women to top roles

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson is all set to announce a roadmap to ease lockdown measures. The roadmap falls under Johnson's accelerated plan to cautiously reopen the economy of Britain.

UK PM to announce a roadmap to ease lockdown measures

Britain on Monday will call on United Nations to be granted access to the Xinjiang region of China, where excesses against Uighur Muslims have&nbsp;been reported. 
 
As part of this, the UK will urge UN to have "urgent and unfettered" access to the region to investigate instances of abuses. 
 
Britain is also set to return to the UN Human Rights Council as a voting member. As it begins its journey, Britain is expected to condemn human rights record of fellow members like China and Russia. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab's office said that the country is also expected to raise concerns about Myanmar and Belarus.

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Raab is expected to speak about abuses in Xinjiang. Reports indicate that torture, forced labour, and forced sterilisation of women is undertaken in the area. His office said that he is expected to take up the cause, while alleging that the abuses are taking place "on an industrial scale".

China has faced global backlash for its mistreatment of the Uighur minority in Xinjiang. Many complexes have been set up in the region, which China claims are "vocational traíning centres" to weed out extremism and to equip the people of Xinjiang with new skills.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/chinas-oppression-of-muslims-in-xinjiang-explained-358392" hreflang="en">China's oppression of Muslims in Xinjiang, explained</a>

Many have referred to these buildings as "concentration camps". Raab will take up the issue, and as reported by CNN, will urge UN High Commissioner for Human Rights or another independent body to be given access to these camps.

According to the United Nations, at least 1 million Uighurs, along with other Muslims remain detained in Xinjiang.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-carrying-out-genocide-against-uighurs-in-xinjiang-us-secretary-of-state-pompeo-357819" hreflang="en">China carrying out 'genocide' against Uighurs in Xinjiang: US Secretary of State Pompeo</a>

On January 19, 2021, the United States government said that China was committing genocide in Xinjiang, which former Secretary of State Pompeo described as "the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese-party state".

China, on the other hand, claims that Muslim minorities in the region enjoy a high quality of life.

Britain on Monday will call on United Nations to be granted access to the Xinjiang region of China, where excesses against Uighur Muslims have been reported. As part of this, the UK will urge UN to have "urgent and unfettered" access to the region to investigate instances of abuses.

Britain on Monday will call on United Nations to be granted access to the Xinjiang region of China, where excesses against Uighur Muslims have been reported. As part of this, the UK will urge UN to have "urgent and unfettered" access to the region to investigate instances of abuses. Britain is also set to return to the UN Human Rights Council as a voting member. As it begins its journey, Britain is expected to condemn human rights record of fellow members like China and Russia. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab's office said that the country is also expected to raise concerns about Myanmar and Belarus. Raab is expected to speak about abuses in Xinjiang. Reports indicate that torture, forced labour, and forced sterilisation of women is undertaken in the area. His office said that he is expected to take up the cause, while alleging that the abuses are taking place "on an industrial scale". China has faced global backlash for its mistreatment of the Uighur minority in Xinjiang. Many complexes have been set up in the region, which China claims are "vocational traíning centres" to weed out extremism and to equip the people of Xinjiang with new skills. Also read: China's oppression of Muslims in Xinjiang, explained Many have referred to these buildings as "concentration camps". Raab will take up the issue, and as reported by CNN, will urge UN High Commissioner for Human Rights or another independent body to be given access to these camps. According to the United Nations, at least 1 million Uighurs, along with other Muslims remain detained in Xinjiang. Also read: China carrying out 'genocide' against Uighurs in Xinjiang: US Secretary of State Pompeo On January 19, 2021, the United States government said that China was committing genocide in Xinjiang, which former Secretary of State Pompeo described as "the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese-party state". China, on the other hand, claims that Muslim minorities in the region enjoy a high quality of life.

Britain wants UN to have 'urgent' access to Uighur camps in China's Xinjiang

UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that Britain planned to offer first shot of coronavirus vaccine to all adults by end of July. His comments came ahead of a planned announcement on cautious reopening of the economy. Johnson will set out a roadmap to ease England's third national lockdown on Monday, having met a target to vaccinate 15 million Britons from higher-risk categories by mid-February.

Britain aims now to give first dose of the vaccine to all adults aged 50 and above by April 15. The government had previously said that it planned to achieve this by May.&nbsp;

If all adults receive a dose by the end of July, it will be well ahead of a previous target that they would receive a vaccine by autumn.

UK has suffered fifth-highest COVID death toll in the world. Johnson's government has moved faster than much of the West to secure vaccine supplies, giving it a head start.

Johnson advised against complacency.

"We will now aim to offer a jab to every adult by the end of July, helping us the most vulnerable sooner, and take further steps to ease some of the restrictions in place," Johnson said in a statement. &nbsp;

"But there should be no doubt - the route out of lockdown will be cautious and phased, as we all continue to protect ourselves and those around us."

So far, he United Kingdom has given the first dose of vaccine to 17.2 million people, over a quarter of its 67 million population and behind only Israel and the United Arab Emirates in vaccines per head of population.

Two vaccines - one made by Pfizer and BioNTech, and another developed by the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca - are being rolled out, and UK officials have advised that there can be a 12 week gap between doses.

(With Reuters inputs)

UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that Britain planned to offer first shot of coronavirus vaccine to all adults by end of July. His comments came ahead of a planned announcement on cautious reopening of the economy.

UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that Britain planned to offer first shot of coronavirus vaccine to all adults by end of July. His comments came ahead of a planned announcement on cautious reopening of the economy. Johnson will set out a roadmap to ease England's third national lockdown on Monday, having met a target to vaccinate 15 million Britons from higher-risk categories by mid-February. Britain aims now to give first dose of the vaccine to all adults aged 50 and above by April 15. The government had previously said that it planned to achieve this by May. If all adults receive a dose by the end of July, it will be well ahead of a previous target that they would receive a vaccine by autumn. UK has suffered fifth-highest COVID death toll in the world. Johnson's government has moved faster than much of the West to secure vaccine supplies, giving it a head start. Johnson advised against complacency. "We will now aim to offer a jab to every adult by the end of July, helping us the most vulnerable sooner, and take further steps to ease some of the restrictions in place," Johnson said in a statement. "But there should be no doubt - the route out of lockdown will be cautious and phased, as we all continue to protect ourselves and those around us." So far, he United Kingdom has given the first dose of vaccine to 17.2 million people, over a quarter of its 67 million population and behind only Israel and the United Arab Emirates in vaccines per head of population. Two vaccines - one made by Pfizer and BioNTech, and another developed by the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca - are being rolled out, and UK officials have advised that there can be a 12 week gap between doses. (With Reuters inputs)

COVID-19: Britain aims to vaccinate all adults by July end

All adults in Britain will be offered a first shot of a COVID-19 vaccine by the end of July, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday ahead of a planned announcement on the cautious reopening of the economy from lockdown.

Britain to offer all adults a COVID-19 vaccine by end of July

The UK government will create a second headquarters outside London for its housing ministry in the city of Wolverhampton in central England. This is being dubbed as a historic move.

The new HQ will have at least 500 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) Group roles spread across the region by 2025 -- with further increases planned by 2030.

The new hub will include the presence of ministers -- making it the first such ministerial office outside of the UK capital with a regular ministerial presence. Senior civil servants will also be based in Wolverhampton, ensuring this becomes a centre for policy development and decision making.

The minister said the aim was to have more local voices at the heart of policy development and delivery, supporting communities more effectively, and to develop greater career options in government outside of London.

This move, part of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's manifesto commitment to "level up" different parts of the country, signals a culture change in civil service. It marks a significant increase on the 300 roles currently in the region and is part of plans to have at least 800 roles outside of London by 2030 -- including 50 per cent of the most senior positions.

These moves will help provide an economic boost to these areas, bring a greater variety of voices and experiences into the civil service and provide improved career paths outside of Whitehall, MHCLG said.

Recruitment is already underway, with 40 roles already relocated to the region in the last 12 months.

MHCLG said it would be working in partnership with other government departments to improve collaborative working and develop greater career options outside London to retain talented civil servants based outside of London.

The new building for the headquarters is expected to be unveiled in the coming months.

The UK government will create a second headquarters outside London for its housing ministry in the city of Wolverhampton in central England. This is being dubbed as a historic move.

The UK government will create a second headquarters outside London for its housing ministry in the city of Wolverhampton in central England. This is being dubbed as a historic move. The new HQ will have at least 500 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) Group roles spread across the region by 2025 -- with further increases planned by 2030. The new hub will include the presence of ministers -- making it the first such ministerial office outside of the UK capital with a regular ministerial presence. Senior civil servants will also be based in Wolverhampton, ensuring this becomes a centre for policy development and decision making. The minister said the aim was to have more local voices at the heart of policy development and delivery, supporting communities more effectively, and to develop greater career options in government outside of London. This move, part of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's manifesto commitment to "level up" different parts of the country, signals a culture change in civil service. It marks a significant increase on the 300 roles currently in the region and is part of plans to have at least 800 roles outside of London by 2030 -- including 50 per cent of the most senior positions. These moves will help provide an economic boost to these areas, bring a greater variety of voices and experiences into the civil service and provide improved career paths outside of Whitehall, MHCLG said. Recruitment is already underway, with 40 roles already relocated to the region in the last 12 months. MHCLG said it would be working in partnership with other government departments to improve collaborative working and develop greater career options outside London to retain talented civil servants based outside of London. The new building for the headquarters is expected to be unveiled in the coming months.

UK ministry confirms second HQ outside London

United Kingdom's top court rules in favour of the group of Uber drivers saying that they are entitled to worker rights such as minimum wages and regular breaks.

Uber drivers in UK entitled to worker rights

The UK on Thursday imposed sanctions on three Myanmar generals, accusing them of serious human rights violations following a military coup in the country.

Myanmar's military has arrested civilian leaders, including Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and announced a year-long state of emergency, alleging that an election in November was beset by fraud. The electoral commission dismissed the army's complaints.

The military junta has promised a new election and defended its February 1 seizure of power, denying it was a coup.

"Myanmar’s military and police have committed serious human rights violations, including violating the right to life, the right to freedom of assembly, the right not to be subject to arbitrary arrest or detention, and the right to freedom of expression," the government statement said.

Britain said it would enforce immediate asset freezes and travel bans against the three members of the Myanmar military: the minister of defence, Mya Tun Oo, the minister for home affairs, Soe Htut, and deputy minister for home affairs Than Hlaing.

The UK also said further safeguards were being put in place to prevent British aid indirectly supporting the military-led government and additional measures would prevent British businesses working with Myanmar’s military.

Britain already had sanctions in force against 16 individuals from the Myanmar military.

Washington imposed new sanctions on the Myanmar military last week and has urged other UN members to follow suit.

The UK on Thursday imposed sanctions on three Myanmar generals, accusing them of serious human rights violations following a military coup in the country. Myanmar's military has arrested civilian leaders, including Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and announced a year-long state of emergency, alleging that an election in November was beset by fraud.

The UK on Thursday imposed sanctions on three Myanmar generals, accusing them of serious human rights violations following a military coup in the country. Myanmar's military has arrested civilian leaders, including Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and announced a year-long state of emergency, alleging that an election in November was beset by fraud. The electoral commission dismissed the army's complaints. The military junta has promised a new election and defended its February 1 seizure of power, denying it was a coup. "Myanmar’s military and police have committed serious human rights violations, including violating the right to life, the right to freedom of assembly, the right not to be subject to arbitrary arrest or detention, and the right to freedom of expression," the government statement said. Britain said it would enforce immediate asset freezes and travel bans against the three members of the Myanmar military: the minister of defence, Mya Tun Oo, the minister for home affairs, Soe Htut, and deputy minister for home affairs Than Hlaing. The UK also said further safeguards were being put in place to prevent British aid indirectly supporting the military-led government and additional measures would prevent British businesses working with Myanmar’s military. Britain already had sanctions in force against 16 individuals from the Myanmar military. Washington imposed new sanctions on the Myanmar military last week and has urged other UN members to follow suit.

Britain sanctions three Myanmar generals after military coup

Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth`s 99-year-old husband, was admitted to hospital on Tuesday evening as a precautionary measure with an ailment that is not COVID-related. 
 
The prince, whose official title is the Duke of Edinburgh, walked into hospital unaided after feeling unwell for a short period, a royal source said. 
 
"The Duke`s admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness`s doctor, after feeling unwell," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. 
 
He is at the King Edward VII Hospital in London where he is expected to remain for a few days of observation and rest. 
 
He does not have a COVID-19 related illness, the royal source said. 
 
The queen, 94, remains at Windsor Castle near London, where the pair have been staying during Britain`s coronavirus pandemic. Both received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine earlier in January. 
 
Philip is rarely seen in public after he stepped down from official engagements in August 2017. He was previously admitted to hospital at the end of 2019. 
 
The Greek-born former naval officer has had several stays in hospital over the last decade, including treatment for an infection in 2017 and hip replacement surgery.

Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth`s 99-year-old husband, was admitted to hospital on Tuesday evening as a precautionary measure with an ailment that is not COVID-related.

Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth`s 99-year-old husband, was admitted to hospital on Tuesday evening as a precautionary measure with an ailment that is not COVID-related. The prince, whose official title is the Duke of Edinburgh, walked into hospital unaided after feeling unwell for a short period, a royal source said. "The Duke`s admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness`s doctor, after feeling unwell," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. He is at the King Edward VII Hospital in London where he is expected to remain for a few days of observation and rest. He does not have a COVID-19 related illness, the royal source said. The queen, 94, remains at Windsor Castle near London, where the pair have been staying during Britain`s coronavirus pandemic. Both received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine earlier in January. Philip is rarely seen in public after he stepped down from official engagements in August 2017. He was previously admitted to hospital at the end of 2019. The Greek-born former naval officer has had several stays in hospital over the last decade, including treatment for an infection in 2017 and hip replacement surgery.

Britain's 99-year-old Prince Philip admitted to hospital

United Kingdom hits an early target for the vaccines. Over 15 million got vaccinated within 2 months, "We have reached a significant milestone" said Boris Johnson while addressing to the people. Prime Minister even focused on re-opening of schools and considered as its top priority.

UK hits an early target for vaccine

Britain’s coronavirus-ravaged economy slumped by 9.9% for the year, suffered its biggest crash in output in more than 300 years.

UK coronavirus-ravaged economy slumped by 9.9%

The UK government has refrained from making a statement on the on going farmers protest in India. In the back drop of the protest Britain chose to interfere and said that the agricultural reform is India government's domestic policy issue.

WION Fineprint: UK govt refuses to comment on Indian Farmers' Protest

The united kingdom expelled three Chinese spies who are working as a journalist over the past year. The expelled spies are determined as intelligence officers for the Beijing ministry of state security.

Britain expels Chinese spies posing as Journalists

A group of parish councillors in Britain has been accused of holding "Britain's worst Zoom meeting", after a chaotic and frequently aggressive online session.

For the unversed, parish councils have long been seen as the genteel backbone of local democracy in towns and villages across England, overseeing the upkeep of bus stops, and the maintainance of footpaths and street lighting.

The uploaded footage of an online meeting of Handforth Parish Council saw council chairman Brian Tolver and clerk Jackie Weaver getting into a spat, and the entire con-call descending into chaos.

It so happened that the meeting of the council in northwest England in December was plagued by technical problems.&nbsp;

Members forgot to turn their mics off, following which one councillor interrupted to take a phone call. It also appeared that participants arriving late weren't sure if the meeting has officially started.

But simmering tensions from the start between Tolver and his nemesis Weaver boiled over on an issue of bureaucracy -- whether the meeting was called legally and who was in charge.

"You have no authority here, Jackie Weaver! No authority at all!" Tolver bellowed down the camera after the clerk threatened to eject him from the meeting.

Moments later, Weaver quietly carried out her earlier threat and kicked the chairman out.

After she suggested a vote for a replacement, vice-chairman Aled Brewerton erupted.

"I take charge!" he said before telling Weaver to "read the standing orders".

"Read them and understand them!" Brewerton shouted before he in turn was booted out of the virtual meeting by Weaver.

The footage did not take much time to make its way into the mainstream media.

"I'm not actually sure who was in charge," Weaver told BBC radio on Friday in one of several media appearances.

Tolver also remained steadfast in his own view and called Weaver's actions an "appalling attack on democratic rights".

Actually... Britain's worst-ever!

A group of parish councillors in Britain has been accused of holding "Britain's worst Zoom meeting", after a chaotic and frequently aggressive online session. For the unversed, parish councils have long been seen as the genteel backbone of local democracy in towns and villages across England, overseeing the upkeep of bus stops, and the maintainance of footpaths and street lighting.

A group of parish councillors in Britain has been accused of holding "Britain's worst Zoom meeting", after a chaotic and frequently aggressive online session. For the unversed, parish councils have long been seen as the genteel backbone of local democracy in towns and villages across England, overseeing the upkeep of bus stops, and the maintainance of footpaths and street lighting. The uploaded footage of an online meeting of Handforth Parish Council saw council chairman Brian Tolver and clerk Jackie Weaver getting into a spat, and the entire con-call descending into chaos. It so happened that the meeting of the council in northwest England in December was plagued by technical problems. Members forgot to turn their mics off, following which one councillor interrupted to take a phone call. It also appeared that participants arriving late weren't sure if the meeting has officially started. But simmering tensions from the start between Tolver and his nemesis Weaver boiled over on an issue of bureaucracy -- whether the meeting was called legally and who was in charge. "You have no authority here, Jackie Weaver! No authority at all!" Tolver bellowed down the camera after the clerk threatened to eject him from the meeting. Moments later, Weaver quietly carried out her earlier threat and kicked the chairman out. After she suggested a vote for a replacement, vice-chairman Aled Brewerton erupted. "I take charge!" he said before telling Weaver to "read the standing orders". "Read them and understand them!" Brewerton shouted before he in turn was booted out of the virtual meeting by Weaver. The footage did not take much time to make its way into the mainstream media. "I'm not actually sure who was in charge," Weaver told BBC radio on Friday in one of several media appearances. Tolver also remained steadfast in his own view and called Weaver's actions an "appalling attack on democratic rights". Actually... Britain's worst-ever!

Britain's worst-ever! Parish council meeting descends into chaos, goes viral

China on Friday,&nbsp;made allegations of 'ideological prejudice' as Britain revoked license of Chinese state broadcaster CGTN. British regulator Ofcom revoked CGTN's license on Thursday after finding that CGTN's state-backed ownership structure broke UK law.

This means that UK broadcast providers should stop CGTN broadcast or pay unlimited fine.

Beijing hit out at the ruling on Friday, saying it was "based on ideological prejudice and political reasons."

"China urges the UK to immediately cease political manipulation and correct its mistakes," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, adding that China "reserves the right to make the necessary responses."

He said the news channel had played a role in "enhancing understanding and communication" between the two countries.

Ofcom said CGTN's licence holder, Star China Media Ltd, had failed to show it had editorial oversight over the network and that a proposed transfer to another media group would still keep it tied to the Chinese Communist Party.

According to British law, broadcasters must not be controlled by political bodies.

"We have given CGTN significant time to come into compliance with the statutory rules. Those efforts have now been exhausted," Ofcom said.

The regulator added that an investigation into alleged breaches by CGTN of impartiality, fairness and privacy requirements would be completed "shortly".&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

China on Friday, made allegations of 'ideological prejudice' as Britain revoked license of Chinese state broadcaster CGTN. British regulator Ofcom revoked CGTN's license on Thursday after finding that CGTN's state-backed ownership structure broke UK law.

China on Friday, made allegations of 'ideological prejudice' as Britain revoked license of Chinese state broadcaster CGTN. British regulator Ofcom revoked CGTN's license on Thursday after finding that CGTN's state-backed ownership structure broke UK law. This means that UK broadcast providers should stop CGTN broadcast or pay unlimited fine. Beijing hit out at the ruling on Friday, saying it was "based on ideological prejudice and political reasons." "China urges the UK to immediately cease political manipulation and correct its mistakes," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, adding that China "reserves the right to make the necessary responses." He said the news channel had played a role in "enhancing understanding and communication" between the two countries. Ofcom said CGTN's licence holder, Star China Media Ltd, had failed to show it had editorial oversight over the network and that a proposed transfer to another media group would still keep it tied to the Chinese Communist Party. According to British law, broadcasters must not be controlled by political bodies. "We have given CGTN significant time to come into compliance with the statutory rules. Those efforts have now been exhausted," Ofcom said. The regulator added that an investigation into alleged breaches by CGTN of impartiality, fairness and privacy requirements would be completed "shortly". (With AFP inputs)

China cries 'ideological prejudice' as Britain revokes CGTN license

The UK variant of the deadly Coronavirus has now mutated yet again. Public health officials in the UK are currently investigating the cases of the Coronavirus with some worrying genetic changes.

Your Story: UK COVID-19 variant mutates again, 11 cases of new mutation reported

Britain has opened a visa scheme for Hong Kong residents to become citizens&nbsp;on Sunday after Beijing's imposition of the national security law in the Asian financial hub last year.

From Sunday afternoon, anyone with a British National (Overseas) passport and their dependents will be able to apply online for a visa allowing them to live and work in the United Kingdom. After five years they can then apply for citizenship.

The immigration scheme is a response to Beijing's decision last year to impose a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong to snuff out huge and often violent democracy protests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-no-longer-recognise-uks-bno-passport-for-hong-kongers-china-360066">Will no longer recognise UK's BNO passport for Hong Kongers: China</a>

The move comes as China and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;have said they will no longer recognise the British National Overseas (BNO) passport as a valid travel document from Sunday, January&nbsp;31.

Britain and China have been arguing for months about what London and Washington say is an attempt to silence dissent in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;after pro-democracy protests in 2019 and 2020.

Britain says it is fulfilling a historic and moral commitment to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;people after Beijing imposed the security law on the semi-autonomous city that Britain says breaches the terms of agreements under which the colony was handed back to China in 1997.

"We have honoured our profound ties of history and friendship with the people of Hong Kong, and we have stood up for freedom and autonomy," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said of the scheme this week.

The UK government forecasts the new visa could attract more than 300,000 people and their dependents to Britain. Beijing said it would make them second-class citizens.

The scheme, which was first announced last year, allows those with BNO status to live, study and work in Britain for five years and eventually apply for citizenship.

BNO is a special status created under British law in 1987 that specifically relates to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.

China says the West's views on its actions over&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;are clouded by misinformation and an imperial handover.

Applications soar

It is not clear how many Hong Kongers will take up the offer, especially as the coronavirus restricts global flights and mires much of the world, including Britain, in a painful economic malaise.

But a BN(O) passport is available to a huge number of people about 70 per cent of Hong Kong's 7.5 million population.

Applications for BN(O) passports have skyrocketed more than 300 per cent since the national security law was imposed last July, with 733,000 registered holders as of mid-January.

Britain predicts up to 154,000 Hong Kongers could arrive over the next year and as many as 322,000 over five years, bringing an estimated "net benefit" of up to £2.9 billion ($4 billion).

The BN(O) passport is a legacy of Hong Kong's return to authoritarian China.&nbsp;

Many Hong Kongers at the time wanted Britain to grant them full citizenship but China was opposed to the move.&nbsp;

The BN(O) was a compromise, allowing Hong Kongers born before 1997 the right to stay in Britain for six months at a time, but with no working or settling rights.

Now it has become one of the few ways out for Hong Kongers hoping to start a new life overseas as authorities conduct mass arrests against democracy supporters and move to purge the restless city of dissenting views.

Britain has opened a visa scheme for Hong Kong residents to become citizens on Sunday after Beijing's imposition of the national security law in the Asian financial hub last year.

Britain has opened a visa scheme for Hong Kong residents to become citizens on Sunday after Beijing's imposition of the national security law in the Asian financial hub last year. From Sunday afternoon, anyone with a British National (Overseas) passport and their dependents will be able to apply online for a visa allowing them to live and work in the United Kingdom. After five years they can then apply for citizenship. The immigration scheme is a response to Beijing's decision last year to impose a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong to snuff out huge and often violent democracy protests. Also read: Will no longer recognise UK's BNO passport for Hong Kongers: China The move comes as China and Hong Kong have said they will no longer recognise the British National Overseas (BNO) passport as a valid travel document from Sunday, January 31. Britain and China have been arguing for months about what London and Washington say is an attempt to silence dissent in Hong Kong after pro-democracy protests in 2019 and 2020. Britain says it is fulfilling a historic and moral commitment to Hong Kong people after Beijing imposed the security law on the semi-autonomous city that Britain says breaches the terms of agreements under which the colony was handed back to China in 1997. "We have honoured our profound ties of history and friendship with the people of Hong Kong, and we have stood up for freedom and autonomy," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said of the scheme this week. The UK government forecasts the new visa could attract more than 300,000 people and their dependents to Britain. Beijing said it would make them second-class citizens. The scheme, which was first announced last year, allows those with BNO status to live, study and work in Britain for five years and eventually apply for citizenship. BNO is a special status created under British law in 1987 that specifically relates to Hong Kong. China says the West's views on its actions over Hong Kong are clouded by misinformation and an imperial handover. Applications soar It is not clear how many Hong Kongers will take up the offer, especially as the coronavirus restricts global flights and mires much of the world, including Britain, in a painful economic malaise. But a BN(O) passport is available to a huge number of people about 70 per cent of Hong Kong's 7.5 million population. Applications for BN(O) passports have skyrocketed more than 300 per cent since the national security law was imposed last July, with 733,000 registered holders as of mid-January. Britain predicts up to 154,000 Hong Kongers could arrive over the next year and as many as 322,000 over five years, bringing an estimated "net benefit" of up to £2.9 billion ($4 billion). The BN(O) passport is a legacy of Hong Kong's return to authoritarian China. Many Hong Kongers at the time wanted Britain to grant them full citizenship but China was opposed to the move. The BN(O) was a compromise, allowing Hong Kongers born before 1997 the right to stay in Britain for six months at a time, but with no working or settling rights. Now it has become one of the few ways out for Hong Kongers hoping to start a new life overseas as authorities conduct mass arrests against democracy supporters and move to purge the restless city of dissenting views.

Britain opens visa scheme for millions of Hong Kong residents to become citizens

Britain is set to formally apply to join the 11-nation free-trade bloc of Asia-Pacific countries weeks after leaving the European single market with its departure from the EU.

The partnership represents 11 Pacific Rim nations including Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Mexico and Vietnam.

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss will formally request Monday for Britain to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the UK announced on Saturday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the potential new partnership would "bring enormous economic benefits for the people of Britain".

The CPTPP application will come one year after Britain left the European Union following more than forty years of membership -- and after five years of complex trade discussions.

"Applying to be the first new country to join the CPTPP demonstrates our ambition to do&nbsp;business on the best terms with our friends and partners all over the world and be an&nbsp;enthusiastic champion of global free trade," Johnson said.

Negotiations between the UK and the partnership are expected to start this year, the trade department said.

The CPTPP was launched in 2019 to remove trade barriers among the 11 nations representing nearly 500 million consumers in the Asia-Pacific region in a bid to counter China's growing economic influence.

The partnership is an updated version of a giant deal originally backed by former US president Barack Obama.

The United States pulled out of the agreement under Donald Trump's presidency -- turning away from what he viewed as unfavourable multilateral deals -- but 11 countries eventually agreed to sign the new version.

Following Britain's definitive departure from the European Union after a one year transition period out of the European single market at the end of 2020, the UK has sought to advance the brand of "Global Britain" in 2021.

The UK holds the rotating presidency of the G7 in 2021 and takes over the presidency of the UN Security Council in February.

British trade minister will speak to counterparts in Japan and New Zealand on Monday with a formal request to join CPTPP, the statement added. 
&nbsp;

Britain is set to formally apply to join the 11-nation free-trade bloc of Asia-Pacific countries weeks after leaving the European single market with its departure from the EU.

Britain is set to formally apply to join the 11-nation free-trade bloc of Asia-Pacific countries weeks after leaving the European single market with its departure from the EU. The partnership represents 11 Pacific Rim nations including Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Mexico and Vietnam. International Trade Secretary Liz Truss will formally request Monday for Britain to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the UK announced on Saturday. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the potential new partnership would "bring enormous economic benefits for the people of Britain". The CPTPP application will come one year after Britain left the European Union following more than forty years of membership -- and after five years of complex trade discussions. "Applying to be the first new country to join the CPTPP demonstrates our ambition to do business on the best terms with our friends and partners all over the world and be an enthusiastic champion of global free trade," Johnson said. Negotiations between the UK and the partnership are expected to start this year, the trade department said. The CPTPP was launched in 2019 to remove trade barriers among the 11 nations representing nearly 500 million consumers in the Asia-Pacific region in a bid to counter China's growing economic influence. The partnership is an updated version of a giant deal originally backed by former US president Barack Obama. The United States pulled out of the agreement under Donald Trump's presidency -- turning away from what he viewed as unfavourable multilateral deals -- but 11 countries eventually agreed to sign the new version. Following Britain's definitive departure from the European Union after a one year transition period out of the European single market at the end of 2020, the UK has sought to advance the brand of "Global Britain" in 2021. The UK holds the rotating presidency of the G7 in 2021 and takes over the presidency of the UN Security Council in February. British trade minister will speak to counterparts in Japan and New Zealand on Monday with a formal request to join CPTPP, the statement added.

UK to apply for Asia-Pacific free trade bloc membership

The world’s first urban airport dedicated to electric air-taxis and drones will be opened in Coventry, England later this year after securing UK government backing.

World's first urban airport for drones and flying taxis to start operations by November

A fly-on-the-wall, restricted&nbsp;documentary about the royal family&nbsp;mysteriously resurfaced on YouTube 50 years and was&nbsp;quickly removed from the site

Recently, BBC found itself in a row with Buckingham Palace over the leak on YouTube of a 1969 fly-on-the-wall documentary about the royal family, famously banned by the Queen from ever being shown again.

In 1972, the Queen ordered the BBC's documentary, Royal Family, with intimate scenes of the monarch having breakfast from Tupperware containers and shirtless Prince Charles on a jetski, to be locked away and not aired again because it 'cheapens the royal family'.

The original documentary remained restricted, and although there has been some debate over who owns the copyright, the Queen's former press secretary insists it is retained by the BBC, with researchers having to pay to view it at BBC HQ, only after getting permission from Buckingham Palace first.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/queen-elizabeths-old-masters-go-on-public-show-in-britain-347378" hreflang="en">Queen Elizabeth’s old masters go on public show in Britain</a>

However, weeks ago the full 110-minute footage&nbsp;leaked on YouTube, with thousands of people watching it. The making of the infamous documentary has&nbsp;featured in&nbsp;The Crown season 3.

While speaking to the Telegraph, a royal source noted, "This is a matter for the BBC. We always exercise our copyright where we can. From time to time, things pop up on the internet that should not be there. We will assume it's going to be taken down,"

The Queen's former Press Secretary Dickie Arbiter told MailOnline: "The palace will have a version of it, they have one from every broadcaster as they’re sent down and they're securely locked up, but how this one got out is for the BBC to sort out.

‘Somebody obviously nicked it from the BBC - it was a BBC documentary done with the corporation of the Royal Family, and it's BBC copyright. They made it, their equipment, their people, Antony Jay’s script, so it was their copyright. But how it got out, that's something they'll have to find out." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-crown-7-times-the-netflix-series-was-factually-incorrect-349049" hreflang="en">'The Crown': 7 times the Netflix series was factually incorrect</a>

A BBC source told The Telegraph, "We will approach YouTube to have it removed. We always exercise our copyright where we can. However, it is notoriously difficult to chase these things down on YouTube once they are out there. Anybody can download it and you just end up chasing your tail."

The video appears to have been uploaded to YouTube by a new account in the name of Philip Strangeways, a reference to a mystery organisation called HM Government Public Service Films.&nbsp;

A YouTube spokesperson told FEMAIL, "This video has been removed due to a copyright claim. YouTube has copyright and content management tools to give rights holders control of their content on YouTube. When a copyright claim is filed we remove the content immediately, as is the case with this upload."

The documentary was viewed by 45million people when it was first broadcasted, ahead of Prince Charles' investiture, and was initially created to help the Windsors connect with their subjects. The film was a British phenomenon, watched over two weekends to rave reviews in June 1969, but was last shown three years later after Buckingham Palace feared it 'let the magic out' about the royals.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/finding-freedom-meghan-markle-and-prince-harry-biography-reveals-tensions-in-the-royal-family-316074" hreflang="en">'Finding Freedom': Meghan Markle and Prince Harry biography reveals tensions in the Royal Family</a>

According to DailyMail, even in an exhibition, The Queen: Art And Image, at the National Portrait ­Gallery, Buckingham Palace restricted the organisers to only a 90-­second clip from the film.

The other 104 minutes will remain unseen and off-limits, like the 38 hours of unused footage which is now held in the Royal Archives at Windsor, unavailable to the eyes of even serious historians and researchers

A fly-on-the-wall, restricted documentary about the royal family mysteriously resurfaced on YouTube 50 years and was quickly removed from the site Recently, BBC found itself in a row with Buckingham Palace over the leak on YouTube of a 1969 fly-on-the-wall documentary about the royal family, famously banned by the Queen from ever being shown again.

A fly-on-the-wall, restricted documentary about the royal family mysteriously resurfaced on YouTube 50 years and was quickly removed from the site Recently, BBC found itself in a row with Buckingham Palace over the leak on YouTube of a 1969 fly-on-the-wall documentary about the royal family, famously banned by the Queen from ever being shown again. In 1972, the Queen ordered the BBC's documentary, Royal Family, with intimate scenes of the monarch having breakfast from Tupperware containers and shirtless Prince Charles on a jetski, to be locked away and not aired again because it 'cheapens the royal family'. The original documentary remained restricted, and although there has been some debate over who owns the copyright, the Queen's former press secretary insists it is retained by the BBC, with researchers having to pay to view it at BBC HQ, only after getting permission from Buckingham Palace first. Queen Elizabeth’s old masters go on public show in Britain However, weeks ago the full 110-minute footage leaked on YouTube, with thousands of people watching it. The making of the infamous documentary has featured in The Crown season 3. While speaking to the Telegraph, a royal source noted, "This is a matter for the BBC. We always exercise our copyright where we can. From time to time, things pop up on the internet that should not be there. We will assume it's going to be taken down," The Queen's former Press Secretary Dickie Arbiter told MailOnline: "The palace will have a version of it, they have one from every broadcaster as they’re sent down and they're securely locked up, but how this one got out is for the BBC to sort out. ‘Somebody obviously nicked it from the BBC - it was a BBC documentary done with the corporation of the Royal Family, and it's BBC copyright. They made it, their equipment, their people, Antony Jay’s script, so it was their copyright. But how it got out, that's something they'll have to find out." 'The Crown': 7 times the Netflix series was factually incorrect A BBC source told The Telegraph, "We will approach YouTube to have it removed. We always exercise our copyright where we can. However, it is notoriously difficult to chase these things down on YouTube once they are out there. Anybody can download it and you just end up chasing your tail." The video appears to have been uploaded to YouTube by a new account in the name of Philip Strangeways, a reference to a mystery organisation called HM Government Public Service Films. A YouTube spokesperson told FEMAIL, "This video has been removed due to a copyright claim. YouTube has copyright and content management tools to give rights holders control of their content on YouTube. When a copyright claim is filed we remove the content immediately, as is the case with this upload." The documentary was viewed by 45million people when it was first broadcasted, ahead of Prince Charles' investiture, and was initially created to help the Windsors connect with their subjects. The film was a British phenomenon, watched over two weekends to rave reviews in June 1969, but was last shown three years later after Buckingham Palace feared it 'let the magic out' about the royals. 'Finding Freedom': Meghan Markle and Prince Harry biography reveals tensions in the Royal Family According to DailyMail, even in an exhibition, The Queen: Art And Image, at the National Portrait Gallery, Buckingham Palace restricted the organisers to only a 90-second clip from the film. The other 104 minutes will remain unseen and off-limits, like the 38 hours of unused footage which is now held in the Royal Archives at Windsor, unavailable to the eyes of even serious historians and researchers

Documentary on British royal family resurfaces on YouTube after 50 years

Britain announced new measures to reduce travel in and out of the country on Wednesday, hoping that by tightening its borders it can reduce the risk of new variants of the coronavirus spreading and putting its vaccination programme at risk.

Britain cracks down on travel to stop coronavirus spread

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