Porch Piracy has ruined many festive plans, causing three in 10 Brits to be without a gift for their loved one on Christmas Day - experts are warning residents to be on their guard. Watch this report for more details!

Porch Piracy Ruined Holiday of Many in London

Storm Bert shuts down the UK and Ireland due to heavy rain, strong winds, snow, and ice. Snowfall in Scotland and northern England has closed roads, railways, and airports, with blizzard-like conditions in some areas. Heavy rainfall caused flooding, particularly in Wales, where over 30 flood warnings were issued. Watch to know more!

Storm 'Bert' Causes Severe Weather Across Britain

Egyptian authorities said 17 people, including foreigners, were missing after a tourist yacht capsized off the country's Red Sea coast on Monday, with 28 others rescued.

The vessel, which was carrying 31 tourists of various nationalities and a 14-member crew, sent out a distress call at 5:30 am (0330 GMT), said a statement from Egypt's Red Sea governorate.

An AFP tally confirmed that tourists involved in the incident include nationals from Britain, China, Finland, Poland, and Spain.

The "Sea Story" embarked on Sunday on a multi-day diving trip from Port Ghalib near Marsa Alam in the southeast, and had been due to dock on Friday at the town of Hurghada, 200 kilometres (124 miles) north.

Governor Amr Hanafi said that some survivors were rescued by an aircraft, while others were transported to safety aboard a warship.

"Intensive search operations are underway in coordination with the navy and the armed forces," Hanafi added in a statement.

Authorities have not confirmed the nationalities of the tourists.

Beijing's embassy in Egypt said two of its nationals were "in good health" after being "rescued in the cruise ship sinking accident in the Red Sea", Chinese state media reported.

The Finnish foreign ministry confirmed to AFP that one of its nationals is missing.

Polish foreign ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski said authorities "have information that two of the tourists may have had Polish citizenship"."That's all we know about them. That's all we can say for now," he told national news agency PAP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-trampled-to-death-on-asylum-seekers-channel-boat-says-french-minister-764805">Also read:&nbsp;Child 'trampled to death' on asylum seekers' Channel crossing boat, says French minister</a>

The Red Sea governor's office did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment about the possible cause of the accident.

According to a manager of a diving resort close to the rescue operation, one surviving crew member said they were "hit by a wave in the middle of the night, throwing the vessel on its side".

Authorities in the Red Sea capital of Hurghada on Sunday shut down marine activities and the city's port due to "bad weather conditions".

But winds around Marsa Alam had remained favourable until Sunday night, the diving manager told AFP, before calming again by morning.

By Monday afternoon, it became increasingly "unlikely that the 17 missing would be rescued after 12 hours in the water," he said, requesting anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media.

The Marsa Alam area saw at least two similar boat accidents earlier this year, but there were no fatalities.

Watch |&nbsp;Nigeria: At Least 60 Dead As Boat Carrying Mostly Women And Children Capsizes

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The Red Sea coast is a major tourist destination in Egypt, a country of 105 million that is in the grip of a serious economic crisis. Nationally, the tourism sector employs two million people and generates more than 10 per cent of GDP.

Dozens of dive boats crisscross between coral reefs and islands off Egypt's eastern coast every day, where safety regulations are robust but unevenly enforced.

Earlier this month, 30 people were rescued from a sinking dive boat near the Red Sea's Daedalus reef.

In June, two dozen French tourists were evacuated safely before their boat sank in a similar accident.

Last year, three British tourists died when a fire broke out on their yacht, engulfing it in flames.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Egyptian authorities said 17 people, including foreigners, were missing after a tourist yacht capsized off the country's Red Sea coast on Monday, with 28 others rescued.

Egyptian authorities said 17 people, including foreigners, were missing after a tourist yacht capsized off the country's Red Sea coast on Monday, with 28 others rescued. The vessel, which was carrying 31 tourists of various nationalities and a 14-member crew, sent out a distress call at 5:30 am (0330 GMT), said a statement from Egypt's Red Sea governorate. An AFP tally confirmed that tourists involved in the incident include nationals from Britain, China, Finland, Poland, and Spain. The "Sea Story" embarked on Sunday on a multi-day diving trip from Port Ghalib near Marsa Alam in the southeast, and had been due to dock on Friday at the town of Hurghada, 200 kilometres (124 miles) north. Governor Amr Hanafi said that some survivors were rescued by an aircraft, while others were transported to safety aboard a warship. "Intensive search operations are underway in coordination with the navy and the armed forces," Hanafi added in a statement. Authorities have not confirmed the nationalities of the tourists. Beijing's embassy in Egypt said two of its nationals were "in good health" after being "rescued in the cruise ship sinking accident in the Red Sea", Chinese state media reported. The Finnish foreign ministry confirmed to AFP that one of its nationals is missing. Polish foreign ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski said authorities "have information that two of the tourists may have had Polish citizenship"."That's all we know about them. That's all we can say for now," he told national news agency PAP. Also read: Child 'trampled to death' on asylum seekers' Channel crossing boat, says French minister The Red Sea governor's office did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment about the possible cause of the accident. According to a manager of a diving resort close to the rescue operation, one surviving crew member said they were "hit by a wave in the middle of the night, throwing the vessel on its side". Authorities in the Red Sea capital of Hurghada on Sunday shut down marine activities and the city's port due to "bad weather conditions". But winds around Marsa Alam had remained favourable until Sunday night, the diving manager told AFP, before calming again by morning. By Monday afternoon, it became increasingly "unlikely that the 17 missing would be rescued after 12 hours in the water," he said, requesting anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media. The Marsa Alam area saw at least two similar boat accidents earlier this year, but there were no fatalities. Watch | Nigeria: At Least 60 Dead As Boat Carrying Mostly Women And Children Capsizes × The Red Sea coast is a major tourist destination in Egypt, a country of 105 million that is in the grip of a serious economic crisis. Nationally, the tourism sector employs two million people and generates more than 10 per cent of GDP. Dozens of dive boats crisscross between coral reefs and islands off Egypt's eastern coast every day, where safety regulations are robust but unevenly enforced. Earlier this month, 30 people were rescued from a sinking dive boat near the Red Sea's Daedalus reef. In June, two dozen French tourists were evacuated safely before their boat sank in a similar accident. Last year, three British tourists died when a fire broke out on their yacht, engulfing it in flames. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tourist yacht capsizes in Egypt's Red Sea, 17 still missing

Days after Russia fired Oresnik missiles into Ukraine for the first time, President Vladimir Putin issued a warning. In televised comments to defense officials and missile developers, Putin said Russia would continue testing the hypersonic missile, adding that it had a stock ready for use. In a direct warning to Britain, Putin said the elites of those countries that are hatching plans to use their military contingents against Russia need to seriously think about this. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's New Hypersonic Missile A Warning To Britain?

Body found after man swept away by river as close to month’s rain falls in 48 hours due to Bert. Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan calls floods brought by Storm Bert 'absolutely devastating' as heavy rain and strong winds continue to move across the UK and Ireland. Watch to know more!

UK Met Office Described Storm Bert as a 'Multi-Hazard Event'

Britain's former deputy prime minister John Prescott, who served under Tony Blair and with him helped transform the country's Labour Party, has died aged 86, his family said on Thursday.

"We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, John Prescott, passed away yesterday (Wednesday) at the age of 86," a statement read.

Blair, the privately educated lawyer who appointed working-class Prescott to help appease the Labour left as he moved the party to the centre ground, said he was "devastated" at Prescott's death.&nbsp;

"There was no one quite like him in British politics," he told BBC radio.

As well as being a prominent figure on the domestic stage, Prescott led negotiations for Britain for the 1997 international Kyoto Protocol on climate change.&nbsp;

Former US vice president and leading environmentalist Al Gore paid tribute to a "dear friend" and said he would be "forever grateful for his commitment to solving the climate crisis".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-at-rio-de-janeiro-outcome-and-impact-777974">G20 summit at Rio de Janeiro: Outcome and impact&nbsp;</a>

"He fought like hell to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol and was an unwavering champion of climate action for decades to come," he said in a statement.

“He possessed an inherent ability to connect with people about the issues that mattered to them -- a talent that others spend years studying and cultivating, but that was second nature," he added.&nbsp;

Gordon Brown, who succeeded Blair as prime minister, called Prescott a "colossus" and "titan of the Labour movement".&nbsp;

He said he was "probably the first government minister to see the importance of the environment", adding that the 1997 Kyoto agreement had to be attributed to "John's hard work with Al Gore".

Keir Starmer, who became Labour's first prime minister since 2010 after a landslide general election win in July, called Prescott "a true giant of the Labour movement".

<h2>'Proud trade unionist'</h2>

"He was a staunch defender of working people and a proud trade unionist. During a decade as deputy prime minister, he was one of the key architects of a Labour government that transformed the lives of millions of people across the nation," he added.

"So much of John's work set the path for those of us fortunate enough to follow. From leading climate negotiations to fighting regional inequality, his legacy will live on well beyond his lifetime."

Prescott, a former merchant seaman and trade union activist who served as a member of parliament for Hull in northern England for four decades, died "peacefully" at a care home, his wife Pauline, and two sons said.

"He did so surrounded by the love of his family and the jazz music of Marian Montgomery," they added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-and-ramaswamy-led-doge-plan-to-stop-work-from-home-for-federal-employees-777953">Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees</a>

Prescott, who was appointed to the House of Lords, suffered a stroke in 2019 and had been suffering from Alzheimer's. He stopped being a member of the upper chamber of parliament in July because of his health problems.

Plain-speaking, Prescott served for 10 years as Blair's deputy following Labour's landslide 1997 general election win. During a campaign stop in north Wales he punched a protester who threw an egg at him.

But he also acted as a mediator between Blair and his finance minister Gordon Brown, who also helmed the transformation of Labour in the 1990s and who had designs on power.

Prescott's brief included the environment and transport.

Blair said in a 2007 letter to Prescott that he saw his role as "smoothing out colleagues and sorting out colleagues and trouble-shooting".

"The completely unique Prescott blend of charm and brutality... got you through the decade, kept the government together and above all, gave me a lot of fun. I was lucky to have you as my deputy," he told him.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Britain's former deputy prime minister John Prescott, who served under Tony Blair and with him helped transform the country's Labour Party, has died aged 86, his family said on Thursday.

Britain's former deputy prime minister John Prescott, who served under Tony Blair and with him helped transform the country's Labour Party, has died aged 86, his family said on Thursday. "We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, John Prescott, passed away yesterday (Wednesday) at the age of 86," a statement read. Blair, the privately educated lawyer who appointed working-class Prescott to help appease the Labour left as he moved the party to the centre ground, said he was "devastated" at Prescott's death. "There was no one quite like him in British politics," he told BBC radio. As well as being a prominent figure on the domestic stage, Prescott led negotiations for Britain for the 1997 international Kyoto Protocol on climate change. Former US vice president and leading environmentalist Al Gore paid tribute to a "dear friend" and said he would be "forever grateful for his commitment to solving the climate crisis". Also read | G20 summit at Rio de Janeiro: Outcome and impact "He fought like hell to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol and was an unwavering champion of climate action for decades to come," he said in a statement. “He possessed an inherent ability to connect with people about the issues that mattered to them -- a talent that others spend years studying and cultivating, but that was second nature," he added. Gordon Brown, who succeeded Blair as prime minister, called Prescott a "colossus" and "titan of the Labour movement". He said he was "probably the first government minister to see the importance of the environment", adding that the 1997 Kyoto agreement had to be attributed to "John's hard work with Al Gore". Keir Starmer, who became Labour's first prime minister since 2010 after a landslide general election win in July, called Prescott "a true giant of the Labour movement". 'Proud trade unionist' "He was a staunch defender of working people and a proud trade unionist. During a decade as deputy prime minister, he was one of the key architects of a Labour government that transformed the lives of millions of people across the nation," he added. "So much of John's work set the path for those of us fortunate enough to follow. From leading climate negotiations to fighting regional inequality, his legacy will live on well beyond his lifetime." Prescott, a former merchant seaman and trade union activist who served as a member of parliament for Hull in northern England for four decades, died "peacefully" at a care home, his wife Pauline, and two sons said. "He did so surrounded by the love of his family and the jazz music of Marian Montgomery," they added. Also read | Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees Prescott, who was appointed to the House of Lords, suffered a stroke in 2019 and had been suffering from Alzheimer's. He stopped being a member of the upper chamber of parliament in July because of his health problems. Plain-speaking, Prescott served for 10 years as Blair's deputy following Labour's landslide 1997 general election win. During a campaign stop in north Wales he punched a protester who threw an egg at him. But he also acted as a mediator between Blair and his finance minister Gordon Brown, who also helmed the transformation of Labour in the 1990s and who had designs on power. Prescott's brief included the environment and transport. Blair said in a 2007 letter to Prescott that he saw his role as "smoothing out colleagues and sorting out colleagues and trouble-shooting". "The completely unique Prescott blend of charm and brutality... got you through the decade, kept the government together and above all, gave me a lot of fun. I was lucky to have you as my deputy," he told him. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK former deputy prime minister John Prescott dies at 86

Britain on Friday named Jonathan Powell, who was chief of staff to former prime minister Tony Blair, as its national security adviser, a role that will involve responding to global threats and building ties with Donald Trump's new US&nbsp;administration.

Powell, who also served as a diplomat in Britain's Foreign Office for 10 years, played a major role in negotiating the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 which largely ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Powell's experience working on some of the world's most complex conflicts meant he was "uniquely qualified" to advise on dealing with security challenges and building ties with foreign governments.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-rants-about-gen-z-colleague-for-taking-a-week-off-to-deal-with-breakup-gets-slammed-by-netizens-774601">Man rants about Gen Z colleague for taking a week off to deal with breakup, gets slammed by netizens</a>

Powell said he was honoured to accept the role. "National security is at the heart of this country’s response to the many challenges we face and having an integrated response will be crucial to our success," he said.

The 68-year-old currently leads Inter Mediate, a charity working on resolving international conflicts. He was recently appointed as the government's special envoy for negotiations that led to the return of the Chagos Islands, a chain of islands in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius.

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak announced in April that Gwyn Jenkins, one of the country's top generals, would be the next national security adviser, but that decision was overturned by Starmer, who won a landslide election victory in July.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/three-year-old-girl-files-petition-against-pakistan-government-as-air-quality-becomes-hazardous-774641">Three-year-old girl files petition against Pakistan government as air quality becomes&nbsp;hazardous</a>

Powell will succeed Tim Barrow, who has served in the role since September 2022.

Starmer and foreign minister David Lammy — who has criticised Trump in the past — are now seeking to build ties with the U.S. president-elect's team.

There are a number of areas where the British government could clash with the incoming Trump administration, from Ukraine to China.

Britain has been one of Ukraine's staunchest allies in its conflict against Russia and Trump's victory raises questions over future U.S. support to Kyiv, while Starmer's decision to reset ties with China could be challenged by Trump, who pressured Britain to take a much tougher approach in his first term.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Britain on Friday named Jonathan Powell, who was chief of staff to former prime minister Tony Blair, as its national security adviser, a role that will involve responding to global threats and building ties with Donald Trump's new US administration.

Britain on Friday named Jonathan Powell, who was chief of staff to former prime minister Tony Blair, as its national security adviser, a role that will involve responding to global threats and building ties with Donald Trump's new US administration. Powell, who also served as a diplomat in Britain's Foreign Office for 10 years, played a major role in negotiating the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 which largely ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Powell's experience working on some of the world's most complex conflicts meant he was "uniquely qualified" to advise on dealing with security challenges and building ties with foreign governments. Also Read | Man rants about Gen Z colleague for taking a week off to deal with breakup, gets slammed by netizens Powell said he was honoured to accept the role. "National security is at the heart of this country’s response to the many challenges we face and having an integrated response will be crucial to our success," he said. The 68-year-old currently leads Inter Mediate, a charity working on resolving international conflicts. He was recently appointed as the government's special envoy for negotiations that led to the return of the Chagos Islands, a chain of islands in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius. Former prime minister Rishi Sunak announced in April that Gwyn Jenkins, one of the country's top generals, would be the next national security adviser, but that decision was overturned by Starmer, who won a landslide election victory in July. Also Read | Three-year-old girl files petition against Pakistan government as air quality becomes hazardous Powell will succeed Tim Barrow, who has served in the role since September 2022. Starmer and foreign minister David Lammy — who has criticised Trump in the past — are now seeking to build ties with the U.S. president-elect's team. There are a number of areas where the British government could clash with the incoming Trump administration, from Ukraine to China. Britain has been one of Ukraine's staunchest allies in its conflict against Russia and Trump's victory raises questions over future U.S. support to Kyiv, while Starmer's decision to reset ties with China could be challenged by Trump, who pressured Britain to take a much tougher approach in his first term. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK appoints 'uniquely qualified' Jonathan Powell as national security adviser

Queen Camilla, the wife of Britain's head of state King Charles III, has been forced to postpone her engagements for this week because of a chest infection, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday.

Queen Camilla, 77, had been due to attend the opening of the annual Field of Remembrance in memory of the country's war dead at London's Westminster Abbey on Thursday.

She was then expected to be at the palace hosting a reception for Britain's Olympic and Paralympic athletes that evening.

"Her Majesty The Queen is currently unwell with a chest infection, for which her doctors have advised a short period of rest," a palace spokesman said.

"With great regret, Her Majesty has therefore had to withdraw from her engagements for this week but she very much hopes to be recovered in time to attend this weekend's Remembrance events as normal."

The palace announced earlier that Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester, 78, would instead represent Camilla at the Field of Remembrance.

British media said that Camilla was resting at home under doctors' supervision. No further details about her condition were given.

Camilla accompanied Charles on a recent tour of Australia and at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on the Pacific island of Samoa.

The couple broke up the long journey back to Britain from Samoa last week with what the palace called "a short private stopover" in India, a place spokesman said last Wednesday.

The stopover, reportedly at an ayurvedic spa near the southern city of Bangalore, was said not to be health-related.

Charles 75, was diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer earlier this year and has been receiving treatment. His daughter-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales, 42, announced recently that she has completed chemotherapy.

Catherine's husband Prince William, who is heir to the throne, is currently in South Africa as part of his Earthshot Prize for environmental innovation initiative.

Queen Camilla, the wife of Britain's head of state King Charles III, has been forced to postpone her engagements for this week because of a chest infection, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday.

Queen Camilla, the wife of Britain's head of state King Charles III, has been forced to postpone her engagements for this week because of a chest infection, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday. Queen Camilla, 77, had been due to attend the opening of the annual Field of Remembrance in memory of the country's war dead at London's Westminster Abbey on Thursday. She was then expected to be at the palace hosting a reception for Britain's Olympic and Paralympic athletes that evening. "Her Majesty The Queen is currently unwell with a chest infection, for which her doctors have advised a short period of rest," a palace spokesman said. "With great regret, Her Majesty has therefore had to withdraw from her engagements for this week but she very much hopes to be recovered in time to attend this weekend's Remembrance events as normal." The palace announced earlier that Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester, 78, would instead represent Camilla at the Field of Remembrance. British media said that Camilla was resting at home under doctors' supervision. No further details about her condition were given. Camilla accompanied Charles on a recent tour of Australia and at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on the Pacific island of Samoa. The couple broke up the long journey back to Britain from Samoa last week with what the palace called "a short private stopover" in India, a place spokesman said last Wednesday. The stopover, reportedly at an ayurvedic spa near the southern city of Bangalore, was said not to be health-related. Charles 75, was diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer earlier this year and has been receiving treatment. His daughter-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales, 42, announced recently that she has completed chemotherapy. Catherine's husband Prince William, who is heir to the throne, is currently in South Africa as part of his Earthshot Prize for environmental innovation initiative.

Britain's Queen Camilla withdraws from events after chest infection

As chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves seeks to persuade financial markets that she would prudently manage the nation's finances, the UK will adopt a stricter stance towards future public sector pay rises.

UK's Reeves Seeks to Calm Markets After Post-budget Selloff

Britons are reacting to the first Labour budget in 14 years, with opinions divided on the government's proposed measures. Supporters praise initiatives aimed at boosting the economy and addressing cost-of-living challenges, while critics raise concerns about spending priorities and potential impacts on public services. The budget marks a significant moment in UK politics, reflecting Labour's vision for the country's future.

Britons React To First Labour Budget In 14 Years

The Starmer government has presented its inaugural budget, marking a significant milestone for Labour after more than a decade in opposition. The budget outlines proposed tax hikes aimed at addressing fiscal challenges while implementing cuts to public spending. This strategic approach is designed to balance the nation's financial health with the need for essential services, setting the stage for intense political debate as the government seeks to navigate a complex economic landscape.

UK To See Biggest Tax Increase Since 1993 In Labour's First Budget

Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power.

Reeves said she would raise taxes by 40 billion pounds a year - much of it falling on businesses - to cover a 22 billion-pound shortfall inherited by her Labour Party, the lack of compensation payments, including for victims of an infected blood scandal, and under-funding of public services.

"Any Chancellor standing here today would face this reality," Reeves said in her budget speech.&nbsp;

"And any responsible Chancellor would take action. That is why today, I am restoring stability to our public finances and rebuilding our public service."

Reeves has said she will not let public debt balloon, mindful of how former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss sent the bond market into a tailspin two years ago with unfunded tax cut plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/britain-faces-warnings-of-a-tech-exodus-over-tax-plans-ahead-of-high-stakes-budget-769608">Also read:&nbsp;Tax plans worries spark UK tech exodus fears ahead of budget</a>

Initial reaction to Reeves speech suggested investors were taking her plans well, with government bond prices rising further as she addressed parliament.

According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, tax hikes of 40 billion pounds would be equivalent to 1.25 per cent&nbsp;of economic output, surpassed in recent history only in 1993 by a budget plan under the Conservatives which raised taxes to shore up the public finances after a recession and currency crisis.

Reeves said she would raise the rate of social security contributions paid by employers by 1.2 percentage points to 15 per cent&nbsp;from April next year, and lower a threshold at which firms start to pay it - moves which would raise an extra 25 billion pounds a year in five years' time.

Company bosses have warned that higher taxes on them, combined with planned new protections for workers and an increased minimum wage, could undermine Labour's promises to turn Britain into the fastest-growing Group of Seven economy.

Watch |&nbsp;UK: Birthrate Falls To Record Low In England And Wales

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Reeves announced a string of other revenue-raising moves including changes to the tax rules on capital gains and inheritances and tax paid by private equity executives and non-domiciled residents.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer had warned "those with the broadest shoulders" will have to pay more tax.

But she ruled out making more individuals pay basic and higher income tax rates by extending a freeze on the threshold for payments beyond its scheduled expiry in the 2028-29 tax year.&nbsp;

She also extended a freeze on fuel duty and a cut a tax on beer served in pubs.

Reeves also said Britain's economy was forecast to grow by more than expected this year and in 2025 but by less than previously forecast in the following three years.

Reeves was likely to announce changes to the government's budget rules to allow her to borrow more to invest in infrastructure and accelerate Britain's economic growth pace.

Bond strategists say they are confident that Reeves - a former Bank of England economist - will be more cautious than former Prime Minister Liz Truss, whose big tax-cut plans hammered British debt prices in 2022 and led to her resignation.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power.

Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power. Reeves said she would raise taxes by 40 billion pounds a year - much of it falling on businesses - to cover a 22 billion-pound shortfall inherited by her Labour Party, the lack of compensation payments, including for victims of an infected blood scandal, and under-funding of public services. "Any Chancellor standing here today would face this reality," Reeves said in her budget speech. "And any responsible Chancellor would take action. That is why today, I am restoring stability to our public finances and rebuilding our public service." Reeves has said she will not let public debt balloon, mindful of how former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss sent the bond market into a tailspin two years ago with unfunded tax cut plans. Also read: Tax plans worries spark UK tech exodus fears ahead of budget Initial reaction to Reeves speech suggested investors were taking her plans well, with government bond prices rising further as she addressed parliament. According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, tax hikes of 40 billion pounds would be equivalent to 1.25 per cent of economic output, surpassed in recent history only in 1993 by a budget plan under the Conservatives which raised taxes to shore up the public finances after a recession and currency crisis. Reeves said she would raise the rate of social security contributions paid by employers by 1.2 percentage points to 15 per cent from April next year, and lower a threshold at which firms start to pay it - moves which would raise an extra 25 billion pounds a year in five years' time. Company bosses have warned that higher taxes on them, combined with planned new protections for workers and an increased minimum wage, could undermine Labour's promises to turn Britain into the fastest-growing Group of Seven economy. Watch | UK: Birthrate Falls To Record Low In England And Wales × Reeves announced a string of other revenue-raising moves including changes to the tax rules on capital gains and inheritances and tax paid by private equity executives and non-domiciled residents. Prime Minister Keir Starmer had warned "those with the broadest shoulders" will have to pay more tax. But she ruled out making more individuals pay basic and higher income tax rates by extending a freeze on the threshold for payments beyond its scheduled expiry in the 2028-29 tax year. She also extended a freeze on fuel duty and a cut a tax on beer served in pubs. Reeves also said Britain's economy was forecast to grow by more than expected this year and in 2025 but by less than previously forecast in the following three years. Reeves was likely to announce changes to the government's budget rules to allow her to borrow more to invest in infrastructure and accelerate Britain's economic growth pace. Bond strategists say they are confident that Reeves - a former Bank of England economist - will be more cautious than former Prime Minister Liz Truss, whose big tax-cut plans hammered British debt prices in 2022 and led to her resignation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK finance minister lifts taxes by $51.8bn in first Labour budget

King Charles Has Put Forward A Plan To Turn Part Of The Historic Balmoral Estate Into A Wedding Venue. The Balmoral Castle Has Been The Private Scottish Retreat Of The Royal Family For Over 170 Years.

King Charles Submits Plan To Turn Balmoral Into Wedding Venue

The UK is set to ban single-use vapes next year. Britain took the decision seeking to target both environmental concerns and to crack down on the increasing number of children using them.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:68,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1753}">Children and vapes</h2>

A 2024 survey by the health charity ASH found that one in five children aged 11 to 17 had already experimented with vaping.

Health officials, as per Reuters, have raised alarms over how appealing these vapes have become to young people, thanks to their colourful designs and fruity flavours.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwieje-K4qaJAxXERUEAHV4yPeoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-considers-ban-on-outdoor-smoking-in-pubs-grounds-will-it-save-lives-or-harm-businesses-754325" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-considers-ban-on-outdoor-smoking-in-pubs-grounds-will-it-save-lives-or-harm-businesses-754325&amp;ved=2ahUKEwieje-K4qaJAxXERUEAHV4yPeoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">UK considers ban on outdoor smoking in pubs gardens, grounds: Will it save lives or harm businesses?</a>

Although it's illegal to sell nicotine vapes to anyone under 18, or for adults to buy them for minors, enforcement has been tricky.&nbsp;

Lisa Eva Nandy, the Labour Party's culture minister, highlighted that the number of youth vaping has tripled in the past three years. Speaking to Sky News, she said that disposable vapes are not only contributing to this worrying trend but also causing environmental damage.&nbsp;

"We have been increasingly concerned," she said, adding that the ban is aimed at breaking "this cycle where children are getting into the habit of vaping at younger and younger ages".

This proposed ban was initially suggested by the previous Conservative government earlier in the year but wasn't put into action before the July election, which Labour won. Now, with Labour in charge, the plan is back on the table, and as per media reports, is expected to be enforced in June 2025.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:445,&quot;w&quot;:559,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2130}" data-ved="2ahUKEwiEguT64aaJAxWwXEEAHYUxJAsQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaping-age-in-the-us-decreasing-intensity-of-use-shooting-up-new-study-says-532537" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/vaping-age-in-the-us-decreasing-intensity-of-use-shooting-up-new-study-says-532537&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEguT64aaJAxWwXEEAHYUxJAsQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Vaping age in the US decreasing, intensity of use shooting up, new study says</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:481,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2166}">Are vapes all bad?</h2>

Ironically, while there's concern over youth vaping, single-use vapes have proven to be a major tool in helping adults quit smoking. An ASH research shows that vapes are the most common method used by smokers looking to quit, with nearly 3 million people in the UK having successfully used them to stop smoking over the last five years.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK is set to ban single-use vapes next year. Britain took the decision seeking to target both environmental concerns and to crack down on the increasing number of children using them.

The UK is set to ban single-use vapes next year. Britain took the decision seeking to target both environmental concerns and to crack down on the increasing number of children using them. Children and vapes A 2024 survey by the health charity ASH found that one in five children aged 11 to 17 had already experimented with vaping. Health officials, as per Reuters, have raised alarms over how appealing these vapes have become to young people, thanks to their colourful designs and fruity flavours. Also read | UK considers ban on outdoor smoking in pubs gardens, grounds: Will it save lives or harm businesses? Although it's illegal to sell nicotine vapes to anyone under 18, or for adults to buy them for minors, enforcement has been tricky. Lisa Eva Nandy, the Labour Party's culture minister, highlighted that the number of youth vaping has tripled in the past three years. Speaking to Sky News, she said that disposable vapes are not only contributing to this worrying trend but also causing environmental damage. "We have been increasingly concerned," she said, adding that the ban is aimed at breaking "this cycle where children are getting into the habit of vaping at younger and younger ages". This proposed ban was initially suggested by the previous Conservative government earlier in the year but wasn't put into action before the July election, which Labour won. Now, with Labour in charge, the plan is back on the table, and as per media reports, is expected to be enforced in June 2025. Also read | Vaping age in the US decreasing, intensity of use shooting up, new study says Are vapes all bad? Ironically, while there's concern over youth vaping, single-use vapes have proven to be a major tool in helping adults quit smoking. An ASH research shows that vapes are the most common method used by smokers looking to quit, with nearly 3 million people in the UK having successfully used them to stop smoking over the last five years. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain to crack down on single-use vapes by 2025 to curb rising use among children

A diplomatic embarrassment grapples the United Kingdom as the Commonwealth heads of government plan to look at&nbsp;reparatory justice for transatlantic slave trade and demand slavery reparations of up to £18 trillion ($24 trillion) from the country.

Starmer's office said the issue is not a part of the summit of 56 Commonwealth countries being held in Samoa from October 21 to 26.

According to a BBC report, officials were negotiating an agreement to conduct further research and start a "meaningful conversation" about the issue that could make the UK pay billons of pounds in reparations.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-announces-100-million-euros-in-aid-to-lebanon-the-war-must-end-770360">Macron announces 100 million euros in aid to Lebanon: 'The war must end'</a>

Starmer has been reportedly warned it is 'only a matter of time' before Britain has to bow to pressure as nations push for a clear statement at the&nbsp;summit in Samoa.

<h2>How reparatory justice for slavery works?</h2>

Reparatory justice for slavery has many forms, such as financial reparations, debt relief, official apologies, educational programmes, building museums, etc.&nbsp;

The current text of the draft summit, as per the BBC, says, "Heads, noting calls for discussions on reparatory justice about the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and chattel enslavement, agreed that the time has come for a meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation towards forging a common future based on equity."

<h2>The 'extraordinary' summit&nbsp;</h2>

The biennial meeting, grouping mostly former British colonies, will attract around 3,000 delegates.

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The conference is the first hosted by a Pacific Island nation,&nbsp;and will be an "extraordinary" opportunity to showcase the region, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland told AFP.

Climate change and rising sea levels are expected to feature heavily on the agenda.

King Charles, who leads the Commonwealth, said in Canberra on Monday (Oct 21) that the bloc played a "significant role" on the world stage.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roblox-accused-of-child-safety-concerns-to-enact-parental-controls-770351">Roblox, accused of child safety concerns, to enact parental controls</a>

"It has the diversity to understand the world's problems, and the sheer brain power and resolve to formulate practical solutions," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A diplomatic embarrassment grapples the United Kingdom as the Commonwealth heads of government plan to look at reparatory justice for transatlantic slave trade and demand slavery reparations of up to £18 trillion ($24 trillion) from the country.

A diplomatic embarrassment grapples the United Kingdom as the Commonwealth heads of government plan to look at reparatory justice for transatlantic slave trade and demand slavery reparations of up to £18 trillion ($24 trillion) from the country. Starmer's office said the issue is not a part of the summit of 56 Commonwealth countries being held in Samoa from October 21 to 26. According to a BBC report, officials were negotiating an agreement to conduct further research and start a "meaningful conversation" about the issue that could make the UK pay billons of pounds in reparations. Also read | Macron announces 100 million euros in aid to Lebanon: 'The war must end' Starmer has been reportedly warned it is 'only a matter of time' before Britain has to bow to pressure as nations push for a clear statement at the summit in Samoa. How reparatory justice for slavery works? Reparatory justice for slavery has many forms, such as financial reparations, debt relief, official apologies, educational programmes, building museums, etc. The current text of the draft summit, as per the BBC, says, "Heads, noting calls for discussions on reparatory justice about the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and chattel enslavement, agreed that the time has come for a meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation towards forging a common future based on equity." The 'extraordinary' summit The biennial meeting, grouping mostly former British colonies, will attract around 3,000 delegates. Also read | Tropical storm Trami kills 26 in Philippines, forces 150,000 to evacuate The conference is the first hosted by a Pacific Island nation, and will be an "extraordinary" opportunity to showcase the region, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland told AFP. Climate change and rising sea levels are expected to feature heavily on the agenda. King Charles, who leads the Commonwealth, said in Canberra on Monday (Oct 21) that the bloc played a "significant role" on the world stage. Also read | Roblox, accused of child safety concerns, to enact parental controls "It has the diversity to understand the world's problems, and the sheer brain power and resolve to formulate practical solutions," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Commonwealth heads to defy UK on slavery reparations of $24 trillion

Approximately 6,000 millionaires are set to leave the United Kingdom before the year-end. This because Britain's tax burden is on course to rise more than any other major rich nation. Watch this report for more details!

Tax Fears Push Britain's Richest to Europe

British technology bosses and investors are warning that entrepreneurs may be forced to leave the UK if the government moves forward with controversial plans to raise capital gains tax on share sales according to a detailed report by CNBC.

Recent media reports have suggested Finance Minister Rachel Reeves is planning to hike capital gains tax (CGT), which applies to the profit investors make on the sale of an investments, with The Guardian saying the levy could jump to 39 per cent. Last week, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Bloomberg that such speculation was “wide of the mark.”

Government is aiming to close a multi-billion funding gap<o:p></o:p>

Reeves is expected to announce sweeping fiscal changes during her October 30 budget, as she seeks to close a multi-billion funding gap in public finances.

The government of UK is also planning to increase capital gains tax on shares and other assets by “several percentage points,” the Times reported, meaning that those who sell their stakes in an acquisition, initial public offering or secondary share sale will be taxed on any gain in value.

Reeves also plans to cut the so-called business asset disposal relief (BADR), which allows entrepreneurs to pay a reduced 10 per cent tax on profits from the sale of their firms, Bloomberg found.

The CNBC report further stated that they have not been able to independently verify these reports. A Treasury spokesperson told CNBC the government doesn’t comment on “speculation around tax changes outside of fiscal events.” 

Several entrepreneurs and investors have warned that the UK could face an exodus of technology entrepreneurs as a result of the reported tax changes. In an open letter to Reeves earlier this month, more than 500 entrepreneurs urged the finance minister to resist calls to hike capital gains tax or restrict the business asset disposal relief scheme.

Impact of higher capital gains tax <o:p></o:p>

“Higher CGT or any restrictions on BADR would make this relief less competitive at a time when the rest of the world is making their reliefs more competitive,” read the letter, published by The Entrepreneurs Network on October 13.

“It would mean the UK has the second-highest CGT rate in Europe, and jeopardise the success of our country’s startup ecosystem by enormously weakening the incentive individuals have to build businesses.”

The list of signatories includes the likes of Giles Andrews, co-founder of digital bank Zopa, Rishi Khosla, CEO of financing platform OakNorth, and Victor Riparbelli, boss of artificial intelligence firm Synthesia.

They suggested that the plans would make it harder for entrepreneurs to build businesses in the UK or indeed, force entrepreneur out of the country. 

Views of experts and the potential negative impact of tax plans<o:p></o:p>

The CNBC report further discussed the views of several prominent investors and market participants about how they think the potential upcoming tax hikes will impact the UK technology space.

Adam French, partner at seed investors Antler, stated in an email that “I’ve noticed a rising sense of stress in the UK tech ecosystem over proposals like this. If implemented, such a move would send a deeply negative signal,” 

&nbsp;“There is a real risk of complacency in UK tech, in tandem with increasing competition from Paris and Berlin for talent, and a brain drain to the US,” French added.

Harry Stebbings, a venture capitalist known for popular tech podcast “The Twenty Minute VC,” told The Guardian newspaper last week that entrepreneurs would leave the UK if the government raises capital gains tax. Calling the government’s plan on capital gains tax the “biggest” issue for entrepreneurs, Stebbings said: “I know fewer entrepreneurs will be here. They will leave en masse.”

Not everyone agrees that capital gains tax shouldn’t be increased to raise public finances.

In a report by the centre-left Institute for Public Policy Research published last week, a group of millionaire business owners said they would welcome an increase in the rate levied on capital gains to match the higher rate of income tax.

The analysis found that capital gains tax was not a primary driver of investment decisions, with entrepreneurs more focused on issues like access to financing, market opportunities and broader economic conditions.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

British technology bosses and investors are warning that entrepreneurs may be forced to leave the UK if the government moves forward with controversial plans to raise capital gains tax on share sales according to a detailed report by CNBC.

British technology bosses and investors are warning that entrepreneurs may be forced to leave the UK if the government moves forward with controversial plans to raise capital gains tax on share sales according to a detailed report by CNBC. Recent media reports have suggested Finance Minister Rachel Reeves is planning to hike capital gains tax (CGT), which applies to the profit investors make on the sale of an investments, with The Guardian saying the levy could jump to 39 per cent. Last week, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Bloomberg that such speculation was “wide of the mark.” Government is aiming to close a multi-billion funding gap Reeves is expected to announce sweeping fiscal changes during her October 30 budget, as she seeks to close a multi-billion funding gap in public finances. The government of UK is also planning to increase capital gains tax on shares and other assets by “several percentage points,” the Times reported, meaning that those who sell their stakes in an acquisition, initial public offering or secondary share sale will be taxed on any gain in value. Reeves also plans to cut the so-called business asset disposal relief (BADR), which allows entrepreneurs to pay a reduced 10 per cent tax on profits from the sale of their firms, Bloomberg found. The CNBC report further stated that they have not been able to independently verify these reports. A Treasury spokesperson told CNBC the government doesn’t comment on “speculation around tax changes outside of fiscal events.” Several entrepreneurs and investors have warned that the UK could face an exodus of technology entrepreneurs as a result of the reported tax changes. In an open letter to Reeves earlier this month, more than 500 entrepreneurs urged the finance minister to resist calls to hike capital gains tax or restrict the business asset disposal relief scheme. Impact of higher capital gains tax “Higher CGT or any restrictions on BADR would make this relief less competitive at a time when the rest of the world is making their reliefs more competitive,” read the letter, published by The Entrepreneurs Network on October 13. “It would mean the UK has the second-highest CGT rate in Europe, and jeopardise the success of our country’s startup ecosystem by enormously weakening the incentive individuals have to build businesses.” The list of signatories includes the likes of Giles Andrews, co-founder of digital bank Zopa, Rishi Khosla, CEO of financing platform OakNorth, and Victor Riparbelli, boss of artificial intelligence firm Synthesia. They suggested that the plans would make it harder for entrepreneurs to build businesses in the UK or indeed, force entrepreneur out of the country. Views of experts and the potential negative impact of tax plans The CNBC report further discussed the views of several prominent investors and market participants about how they think the potential upcoming tax hikes will impact the UK technology space. Adam French, partner at seed investors Antler, stated in an email that “I’ve noticed a rising sense of stress in the UK tech ecosystem over proposals like this. If implemented, such a move would send a deeply negative signal,” “There is a real risk of complacency in UK tech, in tandem with increasing competition from Paris and Berlin for talent, and a brain drain to the US,” French added. Harry Stebbings, a venture capitalist known for popular tech podcast “The Twenty Minute VC,” told The Guardian newspaper last week that entrepreneurs would leave the UK if the government raises capital gains tax. Calling the government’s plan on capital gains tax the “biggest” issue for entrepreneurs, Stebbings said: “I know fewer entrepreneurs will be here. They will leave en masse.” Not everyone agrees that capital gains tax shouldn’t be increased to raise public finances. In a report by the centre-left Institute for Public Policy Research published last week, a group of millionaire business owners said they would welcome an increase in the rate levied on capital gains to match the higher rate of income tax. The analysis found that capital gains tax was not a primary driver of investment decisions, with entrepreneurs more focused on issues like access to financing, market opportunities and broader economic conditions.

Tax plans worries spark UK tech exodus fears ahead of budget

UK's foreign secretary David Lamy has called Britain's engagement with China pragmatic and necessary. Lammy's two-day visit includes a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday before visiting Shanghai to meet British businesses operating in China.

Lammy's Visit To Reset Ties With China ?

Shares in British gambling companies have dropped sharply, erasing over $2.6 billion in market value. This comes after reports that treasury officials are considering tax hikes of up to $3.9 billion for the sector.

Gambling Stocks Slide As UK Government Considers Higher Taxes

Netflix is now offering fans the chance to buy fav memories from its shows, in a popup shop opening in two British cities and all proceeds from this Netflix sales will go to the British mental health charity. Watch to know more.

Netflix: Various Memorabilia And Collectables Are Up For Grabs

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition.

Starmer's first weeks in office have been overshadowed by rows about gifts to ministers and a cut in welfare payments for millions of pensioners that have tanked his personal poll ratings.

He has also faced accusations of discouraging overseas investment by repeatedly blaming the former Conservative administration for bequeathing Labour a dire economic inheritance and warning that further pain lies ahead.

"It hasn't gone well," said Steven Fielding, a political scientist at the University of Nottingham and author of several books on the Labour Party.

"If this is a start of a march towards (Starmer's pledge of) national renewal, the first footsteps were very uncertain," he told AFP.

Observers note the early missteps were largely self-inflicted: failing to shut down the "freebies" row and misjudging anger over removing winter fuel payments for 10 million elderly people.

<h2>'Flat-footed'&nbsp;</h2>

While Starmer promised a "government of service", he was accused of hypocrisy for accepting thousands of pounds worth of clothes and tickets when he was asking Britons to make sacrifices.

Even though the donations were within parliament's rules, Starmer announced he would return around £6,000 ($7,840) worth -- but only after the scandal had been allowed to grow for several weeks.

"He's clearly a very good administrator," Fielding said of Starmer, a human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor before entering politics.

"(But) there have always been questions about his political antennae." Labour, he said, had been "flat-footed" in taking control of the news agenda.

Observers say the decision to delay the budget until the party's fourth month in office left a vacuum that newspapers&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" />–&nbsp;particularly right-wing, Tory-supporting ones&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" />–&nbsp;were only too happy to fill with negative stories.

Scheduling the budget for October 30 meant the winter fuel cut gained more attention because it was announced in isolation, while government departments are in limbo about what they can announce, experts say.

<h2>Change at the top</h2>

Labour grandee Harriet Harman has said early "clunkiness" was to be expected since Labour had not been in government since Gordon Brown was prime minister in 2010.

Starmer, known to be ruthless when things are not going well, has already attempted a reset by parting company with his chief of staff, civil service veteran Sue Gray, who oversaw Labour's landslide vote triumph.

Her departure last weekend and the appointment of Labour insider Morgan McSweeney is expected to add a sharper political edge to government messaging.

"They do need to tell a more uplifting story about what they are doing," said Patrick Diamond, a Downing Street policy adviser when Labour was last in Number 10.

The government can point to several positive policy announcements in its first months, including on green energy, homebuilding and workers' rights, he pointed out.

Labour has launched a publicly owned clean energy company, lifted a de facto ban on new onshore wind farms and pledged to cut planning regulations to help build 1.5 million new homes.

On Thursday, it unveiled employment legislation that includes a ban on zero-hour contracts, improvements to sick and maternity pay, and measures aimed at making it harder for employers to sack staff.

Unions welcomed the bill, which comes after Labour ended drawn-out strikes in the public and private sectors.

<h2>European 'reset'</h2>

Starmer has also been busy attending international summits and travelling to European capitals seeking to repair relations with allies that were damaged by Brexit.&nbsp;

His official spokesman insisted this week that Starmer was focused on "delivering the change that he was elected to deliver" and it was "up to the public to determine what is success".

So far it appears unimpressed: a poll last month found that Starmer's popularity had slumped 45 points since the election, making him more unpopular than defeated Tory opponent Rishi Sunak.

Diamond notes that Labour's flagship policies are mid- and long-term projects. With the next election likely five years away, and a historically low number of Tory lawmakers, time is on Labour's side.

Finance Minister Rachel Reeves's budget is seen as crucial to Starmer achieving his mission of firing Britain's sluggish economy, and ultimately fulfilling his promise of "a decade of national renewal".

"It's completely retrievable as long as they learn the lessons," said Fielding.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition. Starmer's first weeks in office have been overshadowed by rows about gifts to ministers and a cut in welfare payments for millions of pensioners that have tanked his personal poll ratings. He has also faced accusations of discouraging overseas investment by repeatedly blaming the former Conservative administration for bequeathing Labour a dire economic inheritance and warning that further pain lies ahead. "It hasn't gone well," said Steven Fielding, a political scientist at the University of Nottingham and author of several books on the Labour Party. "If this is a start of a march towards (Starmer's pledge of) national renewal, the first footsteps were very uncertain," he told AFP. Observers note the early missteps were largely self-inflicted: failing to shut down the "freebies" row and misjudging anger over removing winter fuel payments for 10 million elderly people. 'Flat-footed' While Starmer promised a "government of service", he was accused of hypocrisy for accepting thousands of pounds worth of clothes and tickets when he was asking Britons to make sacrifices. Even though the donations were within parliament's rules, Starmer announced he would return around £6,000 ($7,840) worth -- but only after the scandal had been allowed to grow for several weeks. "He's clearly a very good administrator," Fielding said of Starmer, a human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor before entering politics. "(But) there have always been questions about his political antennae." Labour, he said, had been "flat-footed" in taking control of the news agenda. Observers say the decision to delay the budget until the party's fourth month in office left a vacuum that newspapers – particularly right-wing, Tory-supporting ones – were only too happy to fill with negative stories. Scheduling the budget for October 30 meant the winter fuel cut gained more attention because it was announced in isolation, while government departments are in limbo about what they can announce, experts say. Change at the top Labour grandee Harriet Harman has said early "clunkiness" was to be expected since Labour had not been in government since Gordon Brown was prime minister in 2010. Starmer, known to be ruthless when things are not going well, has already attempted a reset by parting company with his chief of staff, civil service veteran Sue Gray, who oversaw Labour's landslide vote triumph. Her departure last weekend and the appointment of Labour insider Morgan McSweeney is expected to add a sharper political edge to government messaging. "They do need to tell a more uplifting story about what they are doing," said Patrick Diamond, a Downing Street policy adviser when Labour was last in Number 10. The government can point to several positive policy announcements in its first months, including on green energy, homebuilding and workers' rights, he pointed out. Labour has launched a publicly owned clean energy company, lifted a de facto ban on new onshore wind farms and pledged to cut planning regulations to help build 1.5 million new homes. On Thursday, it unveiled employment legislation that includes a ban on zero-hour contracts, improvements to sick and maternity pay, and measures aimed at making it harder for employers to sack staff. Unions welcomed the bill, which comes after Labour ended drawn-out strikes in the public and private sectors. European 'reset' Starmer has also been busy attending international summits and travelling to European capitals seeking to repair relations with allies that were damaged by Brexit. His official spokesman insisted this week that Starmer was focused on "delivering the change that he was elected to deliver" and it was "up to the public to determine what is success". So far it appears unimpressed: a poll last month found that Starmer's popularity had slumped 45 points since the election, making him more unpopular than defeated Tory opponent Rishi Sunak. Diamond notes that Labour's flagship policies are mid- and long-term projects. With the next election likely five years away, and a historically low number of Tory lawmakers, time is on Labour's side. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves's budget is seen as crucial to Starmer achieving his mission of firing Britain's sluggish economy, and ultimately fulfilling his promise of "a decade of national renewal". "It's completely retrievable as long as they learn the lessons," said Fielding. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK PM Keir Starmer's poll ratings drop as Labour government set to mark 100 days in office

Several people died, including a young child, when an overcrowded boat attempted to cross the Channel to Britain, French authorities said on Saturday.

Another would-be asylum seeker was injured and airlifted to hospital after the dinghy issued a call for assistance on Saturday morning.

A French tow vessel, the Abeille Normandie, picked up 14 people on board, including the deceased during a rescue mission between 8:00 and 9:00 am, officials said.

"Yet again, several migrants lost their lives trying to reach Britain by crossing the Channel," the Pas-de-Calais prefecture in northern France said.

"A child was trampled to death," France's hard-line interior minister, Bruno Retailleau, said on X, adding that several other people had died in the "appalling drama".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/search-resumes-for-48-missing-after-migrants-boat-capsizes-near-canary-islands-763011">Also read:&nbsp;Search resumes for 48 missing after migrants boat capsizes near Spain's Canary Islands</a>

"The smugglers have the blood of these people on their hands and our government will intensify the fight against these gangs who enrich themselves by organising these deadly crossings," Retailleau added.

French officials said the accident was not a shipwreck and the dead child had been found in the boat, not in the water.

Olivier Barbarin, the mayor of the coastal town of Le Portel in northern France, said the child was around four years old.&nbsp;

The injured person was airlifted to hospital in Boulogne, northern France.

The other passengers continued their journey.

Watch |&nbsp;Spain: 9 Migrants Dead, 48 Missing After Boat Capsizes Near Canary Islands | World News | WION

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French authorities seek to stop people taking to the water but do not intervene once they are afloat except for rescue purposes, citing safety concerns.&nbsp;

<h2>'Misery and despair'&nbsp;</h2>

The Boulogne-sur-Mer public prosecutor's office confirmed the dead child had been "very young" but did not immediately release other details.

Barbarin said the 14 passengers rescued had disembarked at the town's commercial port.

Channel crossings to Britain by undocumented asylum seekers have ballooned since 2018 despite repeated warnings about the perilous journey.

The Channel has heavy maritime traffic, icy waters, and strong currents.

The French and British governments have sought to stop the flow of undocumented migrants, who may pay smugglers thousands of euros per head for the passage to England from France aboard small boats.

France's new right-wing prime minister, Michel Barnier, said on Tuesday the country needed a stricter immigration policy.

He vowed to be "ruthless" with people traffickers, who he said "exploit misery and despair" that pushed undocumented asylum seekers to risk trying to cross the Channel and the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

The latest tragedy comes after eight migrants died in mid-September when their overcrowded vessel capsized while trying to cross the Channel.&nbsp;

In early September at least 12 people including six minors, mostly from Eritrea, died off the northern French coast when their loaded boat capsized.

The number of migrants arriving in Britain by crossing the Channel in small boats has topped 25,000 since the start of the year.

Stopping the small boat arrivals on England's southern coast was a key issue in Britain's general election in July.

British Interior Minister Yvette Cooper has said the government aims over the next six months to achieve the highest rate of deportations of failed asylum seekers in five years.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Several people died, including a young child, when an overcrowded boat attempted to cross the Channel to Britain, French authorities said on Saturday. Another would-be asylum seeker was injured and airlifted to hospital after the dinghy issued a call for assistance on Saturday morning.

Several people died, including a young child, when an overcrowded boat attempted to cross the Channel to Britain, French authorities said on Saturday. Another would-be asylum seeker was injured and airlifted to hospital after the dinghy issued a call for assistance on Saturday morning. A French tow vessel, the Abeille Normandie, picked up 14 people on board, including the deceased during a rescue mission between 8:00 and 9:00 am, officials said. "Yet again, several migrants lost their lives trying to reach Britain by crossing the Channel," the Pas-de-Calais prefecture in northern France said. "A child was trampled to death," France's hard-line interior minister, Bruno Retailleau, said on X, adding that several other people had died in the "appalling drama". Also read: Search resumes for 48 missing after migrants boat capsizes near Spain's Canary Islands "The smugglers have the blood of these people on their hands and our government will intensify the fight against these gangs who enrich themselves by organising these deadly crossings," Retailleau added. French officials said the accident was not a shipwreck and the dead child had been found in the boat, not in the water. Olivier Barbarin, the mayor of the coastal town of Le Portel in northern France, said the child was around four years old. The injured person was airlifted to hospital in Boulogne, northern France. The other passengers continued their journey. Watch | Spain: 9 Migrants Dead, 48 Missing After Boat Capsizes Near Canary Islands | World News | WION × French authorities seek to stop people taking to the water but do not intervene once they are afloat except for rescue purposes, citing safety concerns. 'Misery and despair' The Boulogne-sur-Mer public prosecutor's office confirmed the dead child had been "very young" but did not immediately release other details. Barbarin said the 14 passengers rescued had disembarked at the town's commercial port. Channel crossings to Britain by undocumented asylum seekers have ballooned since 2018 despite repeated warnings about the perilous journey. The Channel has heavy maritime traffic, icy waters, and strong currents. The French and British governments have sought to stop the flow of undocumented migrants, who may pay smugglers thousands of euros per head for the passage to England from France aboard small boats. France's new right-wing prime minister, Michel Barnier, said on Tuesday the country needed a stricter immigration policy. He vowed to be "ruthless" with people traffickers, who he said "exploit misery and despair" that pushed undocumented asylum seekers to risk trying to cross the Channel and the Mediterranean. The latest tragedy comes after eight migrants died in mid-September when their overcrowded vessel capsized while trying to cross the Channel. In early September at least 12 people including six minors, mostly from Eritrea, died off the northern French coast when their loaded boat capsized. The number of migrants arriving in Britain by crossing the Channel in small boats has topped 25,000 since the start of the year. Stopping the small boat arrivals on England's southern coast was a key issue in Britain's general election in July. British Interior Minister Yvette Cooper has said the government aims over the next six months to achieve the highest rate of deportations of failed asylum seekers in five years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Child 'trampled to death' on asylum seekers' Channel crossing boat, says French minister

UK government has agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining sovereignty of Diego Garcia airbase for an initial period of 99 years.

UK Handovers The Control of Chagos Islands to Mauritius

UK Returns Chagos Island to Mauritius, Retains Diego Garcia Airbase

Britain announced on Thursday that it will cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in a deal that ensures the continued operation of the UK-U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. The agreement may also open the door for the return of residents who were displaced decades ago.

UK Agrees To Return Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Ending Decades-Long Dispute

Britain To Return Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Resolving Longstanding Dispute

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson's BBC interview has been cancelled after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg accidentally shared the briefing notes with him.&nbsp;

The British public service broadcaster was scheduled to conduct a prime-time interview at 7.30 pm on Thursday on BBC One. It was going to be Johnson’s first major interview since leaving office. &nbsp;

Presenter and former BBC political editor Kuenssberg said she sent Johnson the notes "in a message meant for my team”. She said that it was “embarrassing and disappointing”, adding that the error meant it was “not right for the interview to go ahead”.

Watch |&nbsp;The Brexit-ball champ to no 'kidding' around: Best moments on WION's Boris Cam

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“While prepping to interview Boris Johnson tomorrow, by mistake I sent our briefing notes to him in a message meant for my team. That obviously means it’s not right for the interview to go ahead," she said.&nbsp;

“It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added.&nbsp;

The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the Covid pandemic, and the Partygate scandal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outdated-abandoned-labyrinthine-covid-inquiry-finds-how-uks-health-system-failed-people-during-pandemic-742124">Also read:&nbsp;'Outdated, abandoned, labyrinthine': Covid inquiry finds how UK's health system failed people during pandemic</a>

As calls for the BBC to use another journalist prompted after the incident, other broadcasters and podcasters offered to do the interview in Kuenssberg’s place. Those volunteering on X to conduct the interview included Sky’s former political editor Adam Boulton, Tony Blair’s former director of communications Alastair Campbell, and the Channel 4 News presenters Cathy Newman and Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

The director of the think tank British Future, Sunder Katwala, also urged the BBC to find a replacement to conduct the interview.&nbsp;

“Shouldn’t the BBC just get somebody else to do the interview on Friday or next week?” he posted on X.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week.

A BBC spokesperson reported that the inadvertent move made the interview “untenable”, adding that both the BBC and Johnson’s team had agreed to cancel it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson's BBC interview has been cancelled after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg accidentally shared the briefing notes with him.

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson's BBC interview has been cancelled after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg accidentally shared the briefing notes with him. The British public service broadcaster was scheduled to conduct a prime-time interview at 7.30 pm on Thursday on BBC One. It was going to be Johnson’s first major interview since leaving office. Presenter and former BBC political editor Kuenssberg said she sent Johnson the notes "in a message meant for my team”. She said that it was “embarrassing and disappointing”, adding that the error meant it was “not right for the interview to go ahead”. Watch | The Brexit-ball champ to no 'kidding' around: Best moments on WION's Boris Cam × “While prepping to interview Boris Johnson tomorrow, by mistake I sent our briefing notes to him in a message meant for my team. That obviously means it’s not right for the interview to go ahead," she said. “It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added. The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the Covid pandemic, and the Partygate scandal. Also read: 'Outdated, abandoned, labyrinthine': Covid inquiry finds how UK's health system failed people during pandemic As calls for the BBC to use another journalist prompted after the incident, other broadcasters and podcasters offered to do the interview in Kuenssberg’s place. Those volunteering on X to conduct the interview included Sky’s former political editor Adam Boulton, Tony Blair’s former director of communications Alastair Campbell, and the Channel 4 News presenters Cathy Newman and Krishnan Guru-Murthy. The director of the think tank British Future, Sunder Katwala, also urged the BBC to find a replacement to conduct the interview. “Shouldn’t the BBC just get somebody else to do the interview on Friday or next week?” he posted on X. Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week. A BBC spokesperson reported that the inadvertent move made the interview “untenable”, adding that both the BBC and Johnson’s team had agreed to cancel it. (With inputs from agencies)

BBC cancels former British PM Boris Johnson's interview over pre-sent notes

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday his country's "steadfast commitment" to Israeli security and protection of civilians after Iran's missile attack.

A spokesperson for Starmer's office said the prime minister spoke with Netanyahu on Tuesday afternoon, and the leaders discussed the escalating situation across the Middle East.

Starmer condemned Iran's attack on Israel, which began during the leaders' conversation, in the "strongest terms", the spokesperson added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-attack-on-tel-aviv-response-to-nasrallahs-death-warns-of-crushing-attacks-if-israel-retaliates-763676">Also read:&nbsp;Tehran warns of ‘crushing attacks’ if Israel retaliates to Iranian missile barrage</a>

Iran fired a salvo of ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for Israel's campaign against Tehran's Hezbollah allies in Lebanon, and Israel vowed a "painful response" against its enemy.

Alarms sounded across Israel and explosions could be heard in Jerusalem and the Jordan River valley after Israelis piled into bomb shelters. Reuters journalists saw missiles intercepted in the airspace of neighbouring Jordan.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran Attacks Israel: Dozens Of Explosions Boom Across Jerusalem

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Starmer also spoke with Jordan's King Abdullah, and they underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza.

"The prime minister said he will work alongside partners and do everything possible to push for de-escalation and push for a diplomatic solution," the spokesperson said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday his country's "steadfast commitment" to Israeli security and protection of civilians after Iran's missile attack.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday his country's "steadfast commitment" to Israeli security and protection of civilians after Iran's missile attack. A spokesperson for Starmer's office said the prime minister spoke with Netanyahu on Tuesday afternoon, and the leaders discussed the escalating situation across the Middle East. Starmer condemned Iran's attack on Israel, which began during the leaders' conversation, in the "strongest terms", the spokesperson added. Also read: Tehran warns of ‘crushing attacks’ if Israel retaliates to Iranian missile barrage Iran fired a salvo of ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for Israel's campaign against Tehran's Hezbollah allies in Lebanon, and Israel vowed a "painful response" against its enemy. Alarms sounded across Israel and explosions could be heard in Jerusalem and the Jordan River valley after Israelis piled into bomb shelters. Reuters journalists saw missiles intercepted in the airspace of neighbouring Jordan. Watch | Iran Attacks Israel: Dozens Of Explosions Boom Across Jerusalem × Starmer also spoke with Jordan's King Abdullah, and they underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza. "The prime minister said he will work alongside partners and do everything possible to push for de-escalation and push for a diplomatic solution," the spokesperson said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

UK PM Starmer expresses Britain's 'steadfast commitment' to Israel's security in call with Netanyahu

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has breached parliamentary rules by not declaring a wealthy businessman and Labour Party donor bought high-end clothes for his wife Victoria, the Sunday Times reported.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has breached parliamentary rules by not declaring a wealthy businessman and Labour Party donor bought high-end clothes for his wife Victoria, the Sunday Times reported. According to the publication, Starmer, in power since July, faces an investigation after "neglecting to disclose" that major Labour donor Waheed Alli covered the cost of a personal shopper, clothes and alterations for his wife. The premier's registered financial interests on the parliament's website show that he has received several donations from Alli, including multiple pairs of glasses, work clothes and accommodation. The Sunday Times said those donations were declared but the clothes given to his wife were not. Watch | 'Reform needed, not more funding': UK PM Keir Starmer outlines plans for NHS reform × A spokesperson for 10 Downing Street said in a statement sent to Reuters that Starmer and his team had sought advice from authorities on coming to office, and believed they had been compliant. "However, following further interrogation this month, we've declared further items," the spokesperson said. Alli is a British media entrepreneur and former chairman of the online fashion retailer ASOS. Also read | UK PM Starmer visits Dublin, aims to 'reset' ties with Ireland Under the House of Commons code of conduct, members of parliament have to provide information about financial interests which might reasonably be thought to influence their work. A Conservative Party spokesperson called for a full investigation over "apparent serious breaches of parliamentary rules". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

British PM Keir Starmer faces investigation after Labour donor pays for his wife's clothes

Britain's police and crime minister had her bag stolen at a conference for senior and midranking police officers where she spoke about the growing problem of theft and shoplifting.

UK crime minister's bag gets stolen as conference on rising theft

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