<p>To address staff shortages and improve patient care, the British government has introduced a historic workforce hiring plan for National Health Service (NHS). NHS has faced immense pressure&nbsp;in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading Sunak to prioritise reducing patient waiting lists as one of the key objectives for the year. "This government is making the largest single expansion in NHS education and training in its history," Sunak said in a statement adding, "This is a plan for investment and a plan for reform."</p>

<h2><strong>Ambitious goals to increase staff</strong></h2>

<p>The NHS currently has approximately 112,000 vacancies, a number that could more than triple by 2037 if no action is taken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To address this, the government plans to invest £2.4 billion ($3 billion) over the next five years.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-riots-600-people-arrested-200-cops-left-injured-as-violence-continues-on-third-night-610544">France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night</a></p>

<p>As part of the plan, the NHS aims to double the number of medical school training places to 15,000 by 2031. Additionally, there will be a 50 per cent increase in doctor training places and nearly double the number of adult nurse training places.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These initiatives are crucial in addressing the discontent among healthcare professionals over poor pay and inadequate staffing, which have hindered their ability to provide effective care.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/uk-environment-minister-zac-goldsmith-resigns-accuses-rishi-sunak-of-neglecting-climate-change-610540">UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change</a></p>

<p>The workforce plan is designed to alleviate the effects of the winter crisis, including treatment backlogs, staff absences, and delayed patient discharges, which have resulted in ambulance queues outside hospitals.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Addressing staffing challenges to improve healthcare services</strong></h2>

<p>Alongside measures to retain existing staff, the plan aims to provide the NHS with an additional 60,000 doctors, 170,000 nurses, and 71,000 allied health professionals by 2036-37.</p>

<p>NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard views this plan as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to establish sustainable staffing for the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Prime Minister Sunak acknowledges that waiting lists for treatment will continue to rise in the coming months, he highlights the positive developments in reducing the number of people waiting over 18 months for treatment and improving ambulance response times.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots</strong></p>

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<p>The plan has garnered praise from politicians and health experts, with Richard Murray, head of the King's Fund health policy charity, describing it as a potential landmark moment. "A national focus on training, and reform, with some initial financial commitment from government to back the plan, should start to place the NHS workforce on a sustainable footing," he said.</p>

<p>However, Murray called for a sister scheme to be implemented in the broader social care sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition Labour Party welcomes the proposals but expresses the view that they should have been delivered much earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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To address staff shortages and improve patient care, the British government has introduced a historic workforce hiring plan for National Health Service (NHS). NHS has faced immense pressure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading Sunak to prioritise reducing patient waiting lists as one of the key objectives for the year.

To address staff shortages and improve patient care, the British government has introduced a historic workforce hiring plan for National Health Service (NHS). NHS has faced immense pressure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading Sunak to prioritise reducing patient waiting lists as one of the key objectives for the year. "This government is making the largest single expansion in NHS education and training in its history," Sunak said in a statement adding, "This is a plan for investment and a plan for reform." Ambitious goals to increase staff The NHS currently has approximately 112,000 vacancies, a number that could more than triple by 2037 if no action is taken. To address this, the government plans to invest £2.4 billion ($3 billion) over the next five years. Also Read | France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night As part of the plan, the NHS aims to double the number of medical school training places to 15,000 by 2031. Additionally, there will be a 50 per cent increase in doctor training places and nearly double the number of adult nurse training places. These initiatives are crucial in addressing the discontent among healthcare professionals over poor pay and inadequate staffing, which have hindered their ability to provide effective care. Also Read | UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change The workforce plan is designed to alleviate the effects of the winter crisis, including treatment backlogs, staff absences, and delayed patient discharges, which have resulted in ambulance queues outside hospitals. Addressing staffing challenges to improve healthcare services Alongside measures to retain existing staff, the plan aims to provide the NHS with an additional 60,000 doctors, 170,000 nurses, and 71,000 allied health professionals by 2036-37. NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard views this plan as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to establish sustainable staffing for the future. While Prime Minister Sunak acknowledges that waiting lists for treatment will continue to rise in the coming months, he highlights the positive developments in reducing the number of people waiting over 18 months for treatment and improving ambulance response times. Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots × The plan has garnered praise from politicians and health experts, with Richard Murray, head of the King's Fund health policy charity, describing it as a potential landmark moment. "A national focus on training, and reform, with some initial financial commitment from government to back the plan, should start to place the NHS workforce on a sustainable footing," he said. However, Murray called for a sister scheme to be implemented in the broader social care sector. The opposition Labour Party welcomes the proposals but expresses the view that they should have been delivered much earlier. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Sunak unveils historic workforce expansion plan for NHS to address staff shortages

Britain hosts art exhibition

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<p>A British man on vacation with his family in Jamaica has died after attempting to sweep the entire roster of 21 cocktails featured on a bar's menu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man, identified as 53-year-old Timothy Southern, hailed from Kingston and was staying at the Royal Decameron Club Caribbean in Saint Ann. He had finished 12 of the menu's various cocktails before returning to his hotel room. However, when family members arrived at the scene, Southern was already choking and could not be resuscitated back to life.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Southern embarks upon the challenge&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, before attempting to gulp the 21 cocktails, Southern had been drinking brandy and beer throughout the morning. It was only after he met two Canadian women celebrating a birthday that he embarked upon the challenge. The women reportedly told home they were trying to complete the 21-cocktail challenge before midnight as part of the birthday festivities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He was on his back choking. I put him in the recovery position and screamed for an ambulance. He was making a gurgling sound. As soon as he was in the recovery position, he vomited. I was shouting his name with no response,”</p>

<p>“When the nurse arrived, I said had an ambulance been called and she said ‘no.’ I thought she would take over. But that was not the case. I noticed he was starting to lose temperature. I checked his pulse and couldn’t find it,”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-inflation-at-10-year-high-says-report-pm-rishi-sunak-claims-economy-is-looking-up-wion-593673"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK inflation at 10-year-high, says report; PM Rishi Sunak claims economy is looking up | WION</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>GoFundMe page started</strong></h2>

<p>After the incident, the family set up a GoFundMe page to bring Southern back to the UK as his bank did not cover the insurance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After doing some digging to find information about his insurance we have found out that he's not actually covered by his bank (as he had originally thought). This leaves us with an impossibly large amount of money to find in order to bring him home and pay for his funeral." read the GoFundMe page.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-influencer-dies-after-gulping-copious-amounts-of-liquor-on-livestream-597395" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | China: Influencer dies after gulping copious amounts of liquor on&nbsp;</strong></a>live stream</p>

<p>"We're hoping by doing this we could try to raise as much money as we can to get him home so that we, as a family, get to say our goodbyes. Anything that is left over from the funds we raise will go to the MIND charity."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A British man on vacation with his family in Jamaica has died after attempting to sweep the entire roster of 21 cocktails featured on a bar's menu. The man, identified as 53-year-old Timothy Southern, hailed from Kingston and was staying at the Royal Decameron Club Caribbean in Saint Ann.

A British man on vacation with his family in Jamaica has died after attempting to sweep the entire roster of 21 cocktails featured on a bar's menu. The man, identified as 53-year-old Timothy Southern, hailed from Kingston and was staying at the Royal Decameron Club Caribbean in Saint Ann. He had finished 12 of the menu's various cocktails before returning to his hotel room. However, when family members arrived at the scene, Southern was already choking and could not be resuscitated back to life. Southern embarks upon the challenge Notably, before attempting to gulp the 21 cocktails, Southern had been drinking brandy and beer throughout the morning. It was only after he met two Canadian women celebrating a birthday that he embarked upon the challenge. The women reportedly told home they were trying to complete the 21-cocktail challenge before midnight as part of the birthday festivities. “He was on his back choking. I put him in the recovery position and screamed for an ambulance. He was making a gurgling sound. As soon as he was in the recovery position, he vomited. I was shouting his name with no response,” “When the nurse arrived, I said had an ambulance been called and she said ‘no.’ I thought she would take over. But that was not the case. I noticed he was starting to lose temperature. I checked his pulse and couldn’t find it,” WATCH | UK inflation at 10-year-high, says report; PM Rishi Sunak claims economy is looking up | WION GoFundMe page started After the incident, the family set up a GoFundMe page to bring Southern back to the UK as his bank did not cover the insurance. "After doing some digging to find information about his insurance we have found out that he's not actually covered by his bank (as he had originally thought). This leaves us with an impossibly large amount of money to find in order to bring him home and pay for his funeral." read the GoFundMe page. Also read | China: Influencer dies after gulping copious amounts of liquor on live stream "We're hoping by doing this we could try to raise as much money as we can to get him home so that we, as a family, get to say our goodbyes. Anything that is left over from the funds we raise will go to the MIND charity." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British man dies after attempting to gulp all 21 cocktails on bar menu in Jamaica

The leader of the UK's labor party Keir Starmer opened the fifth annual India Global Forum UK India Week 2023 in London. During Starmer's opening remarks, his message was clearly tailored to invigorate the labor party's ties with India and the Indian diaspora. Starmer interaction is seen as a hugely significant speech as he outlined the labor party's engagement with India.

Britain has healthy relationship with Indian communities: Keir Starmer

India is shining as the world's biggest democracy: Keir Starmer

The Greenhouse theatre, billed as Britain's first zero waste theatre, is staging plays in London over the summer months when long, light evenings reduce the need for electricity.

London: Zero waste theater seeks to spark climate action

British people are staring at a seemingly endless summer sun. Five more heatwaves are expected to bake the United Kingdom this year, with sizzling hot weather until September.

City dwellers hit British beaches; Mercury boosted by hot continental air

<p>A little more than a decade after scientists discovered the remains of a 16-year-old&nbsp;Anglo-Saxon girl in UK's Cambridgeshire who died more than 1,300 years ago, they have managed to reveal her face using facial reconstruction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To succeed in their endeavour, scientists analysed the girl's skull to create a life-like reconstruction which showed how she looked prior to her untimely death. However, without DNA analysis, forensic artists could not render precise eye and hair colour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new image shows she had a fair face with pale skin, a rather petite nose, pronounced cheekbones and one eye slightly lower than the other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was interesting to see her face developing.&nbsp;Her left eye was slightly lower, about half a centimetre, than her right eye; this would have been quite noticeable in life," said&nbsp;Hew Morrison, the facial reconstruction artist who rendered the image.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-scientists-to-create-lunar-time-zone-570391"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Scientists to create 'lunar time zone'</strong></a></p>

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<p>The girl's skeleton was found buried in a wooden bed with a gold and garnet cross on her chest. Despite being discovered in 2012 by British archaeologists, scientists are unsure about the origins of the 'Trumpington girl'. They posit that she may have migrated from Germany to England as a young girl who was part of an early Christian group, spreading the teaching of Jesus.</p>

<h2><strong>Her diet may have changed: Scientists&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Some reports indicate that the girl may have died from illness but the true cause remains unknown.&nbsp;The scientists say upon arriving in England, the proportion of protein in the girl's diet decreased by a small but significant amount. Although it is not clear if it had anything to do with her death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We now know the proportion of protein dropped, suggesting she was eating more meat and dairy products when in southern Germany than on arrival in Trumpington,"&nbsp;Anglo-Saxon specialist Dr Sam Lucy was quoted as saying by BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reconstructed image is slated to go on display as part of the University of Cambridge's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology exhibition which opens on Wednesday (June 21).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Facial reconstruction - a special technology&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Facial reconstruction is a fascinating technology through which researchers are able to unveil how certain people looked in the past. Earlier this month,&nbsp;scientists managed to reconstruct King Tutankhamun's face - one of the most prominent pharaohs of ancient Egypt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Teams from Australia, Italy and Brazil utilised a digital model of his mummified skull and managed to re-create the face of King Tut.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-reconstruct-ancient-egyptian-king-tutankhamuns-face-599335"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Scientists reconstruct ancient Egyptian King Tutankhamun's face</strong></a></p>

<p>"He looks like a young man with a delicate face. Looking at him, we see more of a young student than a politician full of responsibilities, which makes the historical figure even more interesting," said&nbsp;&nbsp;Brazilian graphics expert and co-author of the study, Cicero Moraes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A little more than a decade after scientists discovered the remains of a 16-year-old Anglo-Saxon girl in UK's Cambridgeshire who died more than 1,300 years ago, they have managed to reveal her face using facial reconstruction.

A little more than a decade after scientists discovered the remains of a 16-year-old Anglo-Saxon girl in UK's Cambridgeshire who died more than 1,300 years ago, they have managed to reveal her face using facial reconstruction. To succeed in their endeavour, scientists analysed the girl's skull to create a life-like reconstruction which showed how she looked prior to her untimely death. However, without DNA analysis, forensic artists could not render precise eye and hair colour. The new image shows she had a fair face with pale skin, a rather petite nose, pronounced cheekbones and one eye slightly lower than the other. "It was interesting to see her face developing. Her left eye was slightly lower, about half a centimetre, than her right eye; this would have been quite noticeable in life," said Hew Morrison, the facial reconstruction artist who rendered the image. WATCH | Gravitas: Scientists to create 'lunar time zone' × The girl's skeleton was found buried in a wooden bed with a gold and garnet cross on her chest. Despite being discovered in 2012 by British archaeologists, scientists are unsure about the origins of the 'Trumpington girl'. They posit that she may have migrated from Germany to England as a young girl who was part of an early Christian group, spreading the teaching of Jesus. Her diet may have changed: Scientists Some reports indicate that the girl may have died from illness but the true cause remains unknown. The scientists say upon arriving in England, the proportion of protein in the girl's diet decreased by a small but significant amount. Although it is not clear if it had anything to do with her death. "We now know the proportion of protein dropped, suggesting she was eating more meat and dairy products when in southern Germany than on arrival in Trumpington," Anglo-Saxon specialist Dr Sam Lucy was quoted as saying by BBC. The reconstructed image is slated to go on display as part of the University of Cambridge's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology exhibition which opens on Wednesday (June 21). Facial reconstruction - a special technology Facial reconstruction is a fascinating technology through which researchers are able to unveil how certain people looked in the past. Earlier this month, scientists managed to reconstruct King Tutankhamun's face - one of the most prominent pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Teams from Australia, Italy and Brazil utilised a digital model of his mummified skull and managed to re-create the face of King Tut. Also read | Scientists reconstruct ancient Egyptian King Tutankhamun's face "He looks like a young man with a delicate face. Looking at him, we see more of a young student than a politician full of responsibilities, which makes the historical figure even more interesting," said Brazilian graphics expert and co-author of the study, Cicero Moraes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Researchers reconstruct face of 16-year-old girl who died 1,300 years ago

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government.</p>

<p>MP for Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams, abruptly decided to resign immediately. This comes even as he had previously announced his intention to retire at the next general election.&nbsp;Boris Johnson, the former British prime minister, announced his resignation as a Member of Parliament on June 9 claiming that the ongoing parliamentary investigation into the 'partygate' scandal was the reason behind his decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-wealth-report-2023-indias-stock-market-performance-has-positive-outlook-amid-global-decline-in-hnwis-602943">World Wealth Report 2023: India's stock market performance has positive outlook amid global decline in HNWIs</a></p>

<p>Although Johnson had nominated Adams for a peerage (Members of the House of Lords, the upper chamber of Great Britain's bicameral), he did not make the final list alongside Nadine Dorries, Alok Sharma, and Alister Jack. Sunak had intentionally prevented Johnson's allies from receiving peerages to avoid challenging byelections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Adams' resignation</strong></h2>

<p>Adams announced his resignation on Twitter, stating that the Selby Conservatives had chosen an excellent new candidate for Parliament. He expressed gratitude to his constituents for their support and mentioned that it had been an honor to represent the area where he grew up and received his education.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-aileen-cannon-trump-appointed-judge-in-classified-documents-case-602926">Who is Aileen Cannon? Trump-appointed judge in classified documents case</a></p>

<p>“Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated and I want to thank my constituents for their wonderful support since 2010," Adams tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate.<br />
<br />
I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect.<br />
<br />
It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated &amp;<br />
<br />
1/2</p>
— Nigel Adams 🇬🇧 (@nadams) <a href="https://twitter.com/nadams/status/1667512301698596864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Nadine Dorries' steps down&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At the same time as Johnson's, his former culture secretary Nadine Dorries announced she was quitting as an MP with immediate effect. Prior to Dorries' resignation, she had stated her intention is&nbsp;not to cause a byelection in her seat. But eventually, she followed the lead of Johnson, who criticized Sunak's leadership and the ongoing Partygate inquiry.</p>

<p>The Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) had been conducting byelection drills for about a month, anticipating the possibility of Johnson and his allies accepting peerages.</p>

<p>Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft</p>

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<p>These drills involved identifying priority issues in each seat and determining which ministers should visit each constituency and for what reasons. There is speculation that other MPs, such as Alok Sharma, may also resign in protest.</p>

<h2><strong>Calls for general election</strong></h2>

<p>The Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Daisy Cooper, urged the Conservative party to call a general election, stating that the party is in chaos and has failed to address healthcare and the cost of living crisis. She believes the public should have the opportunity to pass judgment on the current Conservative government.</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns about byelection outcomes</strong></h2>

<p>Some Tory MPs are worried that the party may lose all three byelections. They argue that Sunak should learn from these outcomes, highlighting the need to address internal divisions, uphold the 2019 manifesto, and avoid handing control of the government to Jeremy Hunt.</p>

<h2><strong>Adams' successor</strong></h2>

<p>Michael Naughton, the Conservative candidate for Adams' Selby and Ainsty constituency, is regarded as an excellent choice. Labour is expected to win in Uxbridge, a seat that Johnson may be trying to avoid, possibly in favor of a safer seat like Henley. The Liberal Democrats have been actively campaigning in Mid-Bedfordshire.&nbsp;</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government. MP for Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams, abruptly decided to resign immediately. This comes even as he had previously announced his intention to retire at the next general election. Boris Johnson, the former British prime minister, announced his resignation as a Member of Parliament on June 9 claiming that the ongoing parliamentary investigation into the 'partygate' scandal was the reason behind his decision. Also Read | World Wealth Report 2023: India's stock market performance has positive outlook amid global decline in HNWIs Although Johnson had nominated Adams for a peerage (Members of the House of Lords, the upper chamber of Great Britain's bicameral), he did not make the final list alongside Nadine Dorries, Alok Sharma, and Alister Jack. Sunak had intentionally prevented Johnson's allies from receiving peerages to avoid challenging byelections. Adams' resignation Adams announced his resignation on Twitter, stating that the Selby Conservatives had chosen an excellent new candidate for Parliament. He expressed gratitude to his constituents for their support and mentioned that it had been an honor to represent the area where he grew up and received his education. Also Read | Who is Aileen Cannon? Trump-appointed judge in classified documents case “Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated and I want to thank my constituents for their wonderful support since 2010," Adams tweeted. Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated & 1/2 — Nigel Adams 🇬🇧 (@nadams) June 10, 2023 × Nadine Dorries' steps down At the same time as Johnson's, his former culture secretary Nadine Dorries announced she was quitting as an MP with immediate effect. Prior to Dorries' resignation, she had stated her intention is not to cause a byelection in her seat. But eventually, she followed the lead of Johnson, who criticized Sunak's leadership and the ongoing Partygate inquiry. The Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) had been conducting byelection drills for about a month, anticipating the possibility of Johnson and his allies accepting peerages. Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft × These drills involved identifying priority issues in each seat and determining which ministers should visit each constituency and for what reasons. There is speculation that other MPs, such as Alok Sharma, may also resign in protest. Calls for general election The Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Daisy Cooper, urged the Conservative party to call a general election, stating that the party is in chaos and has failed to address healthcare and the cost of living crisis. She believes the public should have the opportunity to pass judgment on the current Conservative government. Concerns about byelection outcomes Some Tory MPs are worried that the party may lose all three byelections. They argue that Sunak should learn from these outcomes, highlighting the need to address internal divisions, uphold the 2019 manifesto, and avoid handing control of the government to Jeremy Hunt. Adams' successor Michael Naughton, the Conservative candidate for Adams' Selby and Ainsty constituency, is regarded as an excellent choice. Labour is expected to win in Uxbridge, a seat that Johnson may be trying to avoid, possibly in favor of a safer seat like Henley. The Liberal Democrats have been actively campaigning in Mid-Bedfordshire. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test

<p>For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman.&nbsp;The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge.</p>

<p>Since Lord Chief Justice is currently a title only used by men, British constitutional law may need to be changed to accommodate the title "Lady Chief Justice," reported the Daily Mail.</p>

<p>Since the position was first created in 1268, more than 100 men have held it.</p>

<h2><strong>First woman to fill the position</strong></h2>

<p>However, the first woman to fill the position is anticipated to be announced within the next two weeks by Alex Chalk, the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary.</p>

<p>Before Chalk and the Prime Minister's final decision is approved by the King, a carefully curated&nbsp;panel narrowed the field of candidates down to the top two.</p>

<p>The leading candidate to succeed departing Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett is Dame Victoria Sharp, whose twin brother is former Goldman Sachs financier Richard Sharp, who resigned as BBC chairman last month.</p>

<p>She is known for putting in long hours; she and her doctor husband sometimes work 14-hour days while raising their four children. In court, she once even experienced labour.</p>

<p>When she was awarded a law doctorate at Bristol University, academic Professor David Clarke said of her: 'She was convinced that if she had not dedicated herself to her job as she did by rejecting any leave on the birth of any of her children, she would have been significantly disadvantaged; as she puts it, if you were not there in chambers, you did not receive briefs and you had no job.'</p>

<p>A more "outwardly confident personality" is said to characterise Dame Sue, a Court of Appeal judge since April 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson: Former UK prime minister quits as MP over Partygate report</strong></p>

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<p>A legal expert told The Daily Telegraph that she would be more suited to handle the role's public-facing duties and liaison with the Government and the Lord Chancellor.</p>

<p>The mother-of-three, who received her education at Trinity College Cambridge and Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire, has said that feminism means "having that true freedom of choice."</p>

<p>'So perhaps you could be prime minister, but if actually you really want to be a painter or teach riding and your circumstances permit it, that is what you should do.'</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-uk-pm-boris-johnson-resigns-as-member-of-parliament-602731">Former UK PM Boris Johnson quits from British Parliament</a></p>

<p>When it comes to dealing with court backlogs, which this month hit their greatest level since October, the next lord chief judge will have a full in-tray.</p>

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For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman. The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge.

For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman. The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge. Since Lord Chief Justice is currently a title only used by men, British constitutional law may need to be changed to accommodate the title "Lady Chief Justice," reported the Daily Mail. Since the position was first created in 1268, more than 100 men have held it. First woman to fill the position However, the first woman to fill the position is anticipated to be announced within the next two weeks by Alex Chalk, the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary. Before Chalk and the Prime Minister's final decision is approved by the King, a carefully curated panel narrowed the field of candidates down to the top two. The leading candidate to succeed departing Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett is Dame Victoria Sharp, whose twin brother is former Goldman Sachs financier Richard Sharp, who resigned as BBC chairman last month. She is known for putting in long hours; she and her doctor husband sometimes work 14-hour days while raising their four children. In court, she once even experienced labour. When she was awarded a law doctorate at Bristol University, academic Professor David Clarke said of her: 'She was convinced that if she had not dedicated herself to her job as she did by rejecting any leave on the birth of any of her children, she would have been significantly disadvantaged; as she puts it, if you were not there in chambers, you did not receive briefs and you had no job.' A more "outwardly confident personality" is said to characterise Dame Sue, a Court of Appeal judge since April 2020. Also watch | Boris Johnson: Former UK prime minister quits as MP over Partygate report A legal expert told The Daily Telegraph that she would be more suited to handle the role's public-facing duties and liaison with the Government and the Lord Chancellor. The mother-of-three, who received her education at Trinity College Cambridge and Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire, has said that feminism means "having that true freedom of choice." 'So perhaps you could be prime minister, but if actually you really want to be a painter or teach riding and your circumstances permit it, that is what you should do.' Also read | Former UK PM Boris Johnson quits from British Parliament When it comes to dealing with court backlogs, which this month hit their greatest level since October, the next lord chief judge will have a full in-tray. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK to get first ever female Lord Chief Justice after 755 years

British PM Rishi Sunak on Wednesday unveiled a two-year pilot scheme to reduce pressures on the National Health Service which will see general practitioners prescribe “game-changer” anti-obesity drugs to patients.

UK PM Rishi Sunak unveils anti-obesity drug pilot to support health service

Britain's leader Rishi Sunak is in Washington for a two-day visit that marks his fourth encounter with President Joe Biden in as many months. But before checking in with his American counterpart, the cricket-loving prime minister caught a baseball game.

AI, Ukraine, Baseball: UK leader Rishi Sunak tours Washington

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<p>A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday.</p>

<p>Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact. He was wearing his wingsuit as well as a parachute. However, it remains unclear if he was able to deploy the chute in time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Originally from Redruth in Cornwall, Andrews, a veteran with over 600 jumps to his resume, had been living in Bucharest, Romania, with his wife. He went to the spot of the jump on his own but it was another base jumper that rang the emergency services after witnessing the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, a mountain rescue helicopter was pressed into service to recover the body which was later flown to a nearby hospital as Andrews' family awaits its repatriation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-43-year-old-british-man-dies-due-to-xylazine-drug-in-the-uk-596234" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | A 43-year-old British man dies due to Xylazine drug in the UK</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to Andrews' friends in base jumping, he had been a relative latecomer to the sport. However, despite being late into the game, he managed to quickly earn the admiration of the community with his 'fearless' approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He came to base jumping quite late. He's only been doing it since 2014 but he packed a lot into those nine years," one of the base jumpers that knew Andrews was quoted as saying by DailyMail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was fearless and will be missed. He was a regular in Italy at various base-jumping events but had also base-jumped all over the world off bridges and skyscrapers."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/research-claims-fatal-heart-attacks-more-common-on-a-monday-600726"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Research claims fatal heart attacks more common on a Monday</strong></a></p>

<p>The tragic fall of Andrews came in the exact same spot where another British base jumper died on the same day last year. On June 2, 2022, Dylan Morris Roberts died after hitting a rock on his descent as the parachute failed to open.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to experts, the area where the incident took place is considered one of the most dangerous spots to base jump. Only experts are recommended to perform the extremely tricky manoeuvre. There are rock and tree ledges in the first 400 metres before the 1500 metres straight down descent which can become difficult to negotiate.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is BASE jumping?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>BASE jumping is basically skydiving but without the airplane. Thrill seekers in this sport leap from fixed objects and use a parachute to descend to the ground. Since Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs, for example) are the most commonly used jumping points, the sport received its acronym, B.A.S.E, which is more commonly called BASE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the adrenaline rush, the extreme sport is high in danger and according to reports, more than 400 people have been killed in the last 20 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday. Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact.

A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday. Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact. He was wearing his wingsuit as well as a parachute. However, it remains unclear if he was able to deploy the chute in time. Originally from Redruth in Cornwall, Andrews, a veteran with over 600 jumps to his resume, had been living in Bucharest, Romania, with his wife. He went to the spot of the jump on his own but it was another base jumper that rang the emergency services after witnessing the incident. Afterwards, a mountain rescue helicopter was pressed into service to recover the body which was later flown to a nearby hospital as Andrews' family awaits its repatriation. WATCH | A 43-year-old British man dies due to Xylazine drug in the UK × According to Andrews' friends in base jumping, he had been a relative latecomer to the sport. However, despite being late into the game, he managed to quickly earn the admiration of the community with his 'fearless' approach. "He came to base jumping quite late. He's only been doing it since 2014 but he packed a lot into those nine years," one of the base jumpers that knew Andrews was quoted as saying by DailyMail. "He was fearless and will be missed. He was a regular in Italy at various base-jumping events but had also base-jumped all over the world off bridges and skyscrapers." Also read | Research claims fatal heart attacks more common on a Monday The tragic fall of Andrews came in the exact same spot where another British base jumper died on the same day last year. On June 2, 2022, Dylan Morris Roberts died after hitting a rock on his descent as the parachute failed to open. According to experts, the area where the incident took place is considered one of the most dangerous spots to base jump. Only experts are recommended to perform the extremely tricky manoeuvre. There are rock and tree ledges in the first 400 metres before the 1500 metres straight down descent which can become difficult to negotiate. What is BASE jumping? BASE jumping is basically skydiving but without the airplane. Thrill seekers in this sport leap from fixed objects and use a parachute to descend to the ground. Since Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs, for example) are the most commonly used jumping points, the sport received its acronym, B.A.S.E, which is more commonly called BASE. Despite the adrenaline rush, the extreme sport is high in danger and according to reports, more than 400 people have been killed in the last 20 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British base jumper dies after plunging off 400m high cliff wearing wingsuit

<p>In a moment of respite for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the country’s annual inflation rate dropped to a 13-month low of 8.7 per cent in April,&nbsp;from 10.1% in March, registering the biggest fall since the cost of living crisis began, but food prices still remain&nbsp;elevated at one of the highest levels in 45 years,&nbsp;according to official data.</p>

<p>The development bringing some respite&nbsp;comes after months of post-pandemic cost-of-living crisis aggravated by war in Ukraine had&nbsp;pushed up energy prices in one of the coldest winters in Europe in recent times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain inflation data: What is the reading?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the UK's Office for National Statistics, the rate of price increases came down from 10.1 per cent in March,&nbsp;and the inflation in April is down under 10 per cent for the first time since August last year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;UK inflation falls to 8.7% in April, food prices still remain high</strong></p>

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<p>At 8.7 per cent, it was at the lowest level since March last year, when the rate stood at 7.0 per cent.</p>

<p>"However, prices in general remain substantially higher than they were this time last year, with annual food price inflation near historic highs," said ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner in an official statement.<br />
<br />
The rate at which food prices are rising fell for the second month in a row in May but remains ‘incredibly high’, says research firm Kantar.</p>

<p>Prices were up by 17.2% from a year ago in the four weeks to the middle of May, down from 17.3% last month, it said. Food price rises are expected to ease further later this year, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>UK inflation drop: What is the catch?</strong></h2>

<p>The inflation rate continues to remain above the Bank of England's (BoE) prediction for inflation of 8.4 per cent last month.</p>

<p>Britain's annual inflation rate in April was also the highest among the G-7 countries in the Group of Seven rich economies, which include&nbsp;Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the target rate of 2.0 per cent remains very far off for the UK government. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government has said that the inflation may drop up to about 5.0 per cent by the end of 2023.</p>

<p>“Last month, the rate of inflation fell notably as the large energy price rises seen last year were not repeated... but was offset partially by increases in the cost of second-hand cars and cigarettes,” Fitzner added.</p>

<h2><strong>UK economy: Inflation numbers come after IMF U-turn</strong></h2>

<p>The data comes a day after the International Monetary Fund, in a major U-turn on its forecast for the UK economy, said that it expected growth this year just one month after predicting a contraction.</p>

<p>Britain's economy is expected to expand 0.4 per cent in 2023, the IMF said in its latest outlook document, which cited weaker energy prices.</p>

<p>The IMF ripped up its previous forecast in April for a 0.3-per cent contraction.</p>

<p>"The IMF said yesterday we've acted decisively to tackle inflation but although it is positive that it is now in single digits, food prices are still rising too fast," UK finance minister Jeremy Hunt said following the release of inflation data on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
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In a moment of respite for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the country’s annual inflation rate dropped to a 13-month low of 8.7 per cent in April, from 10.1% in March, registering the biggest fall since the cost of living crisis began, but food prices still remain elevated at one of the highest levels in 45 years, according to official data.

In a moment of respite for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the country’s annual inflation rate dropped to a 13-month low of 8.7 per cent in April, from 10.1% in March, registering the biggest fall since the cost of living crisis began, but food prices still remain elevated at one of the highest levels in 45 years, according to official data. The development bringing some respite comes after months of post-pandemic cost-of-living crisis aggravated by war in Ukraine had pushed up energy prices in one of the coldest winters in Europe in recent times. Britain inflation data: What is the reading? According to the UK's Office for National Statistics, the rate of price increases came down from 10.1 per cent in March, and the inflation in April is down under 10 per cent for the first time since August last year. ALSO WATCH | UK inflation falls to 8.7% in April, food prices still remain high × At 8.7 per cent, it was at the lowest level since March last year, when the rate stood at 7.0 per cent. "However, prices in general remain substantially higher than they were this time last year, with annual food price inflation near historic highs," said ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner in an official statement. The rate at which food prices are rising fell for the second month in a row in May but remains ‘incredibly high’, says research firm Kantar. Prices were up by 17.2% from a year ago in the four weeks to the middle of May, down from 17.3% last month, it said. Food price rises are expected to ease further later this year, it added. UK inflation drop: What is the catch? The inflation rate continues to remain above the Bank of England's (BoE) prediction for inflation of 8.4 per cent last month. Britain's annual inflation rate in April was also the highest among the G-7 countries in the Group of Seven rich economies, which include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. Meanwhile, the target rate of 2.0 per cent remains very far off for the UK government. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government has said that the inflation may drop up to about 5.0 per cent by the end of 2023. “Last month, the rate of inflation fell notably as the large energy price rises seen last year were not repeated... but was offset partially by increases in the cost of second-hand cars and cigarettes,” Fitzner added. UK economy: Inflation numbers come after IMF U-turn The data comes a day after the International Monetary Fund, in a major U-turn on its forecast for the UK economy, said that it expected growth this year just one month after predicting a contraction. Britain's economy is expected to expand 0.4 per cent in 2023, the IMF said in its latest outlook document, which cited weaker energy prices. The IMF ripped up its previous forecast in April for a 0.3-per cent contraction. "The IMF said yesterday we've acted decisively to tackle inflation but although it is positive that it is now in single digits, food prices are still rising too fast," UK finance minister Jeremy Hunt said following the release of inflation data on Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Rishi Sunak delivers inflation respite for Britain, food prices fall but still remain high

<p>Britain's Special Air Service and other special forces have reportedly been involved in clandestine operations in at least 19 countries since 2011, a study by London-based Action by Armed Violence has revealed. The British special forces also operated in Russia to protect the country's athletes against potential Islamic terror attacks during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.</p>

<p>Closer to India, in Pakistan, the British special forces operated to locate and target potential Al-Qaeda and Taliban operatives.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH | US document leak reveals 50 UK special forces working in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>The study, which describes the aforementioned British armed force constituents as "shadowy units", stated that this covert deployment has been carried out in several countries, including Nigeria, the Philippines, Russia, Syria, Ukraine and Sudan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The London-based research group has compiled a list of these activities based on media leaks.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan and Russia: How British special forces operate(d) there?</strong></h2>

<p>The report said that the Special Boat Service (SBS) and Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR) members from the UK participated in operations in Pakistan. “They worked alongside American forces to locate and target high-value individuals linked to al-Qaeda and the Taliban,” it said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-most-dangerous-special-forces-in-the-world-1680949548261">World's most powerful special forces</a></strong></p>

<p>It also revealed that UK Special Forces had a presence in Russia during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, “where they were tasked with protecting athletes against potential Islamic terror attacks.”</p>

<h2><strong>Where have British forces&nbsp;clandestinely operated?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Action on Armed Violence, since 2011, &nbsp;UK Special Forces (UKSF) have been primed to contact or surveil hostile forces in Algeria, Estonia, France, Iran/Oman (Strait of Hormuz), Iraq, Kenya, Libya, Mali, Mediterranean (Cyprus), Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Yemen.</p>

<p>"There are a further six sites where UKSF have trained foreign forces or where they have based themselves before launching into another country. These are: Burkina Faso, Oman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Djibouti," the report adds.</p>

<p>There are also another seven locations, not included in the above lists, known to be used by UKSF for their own exercises and engagements, it states further, adding these locations to be: Albania, Falklands, Gibraltar, Belize, Brunei, Malaysia, and Canada.</p>

<p>The report says that in many missions, the UK Special Forces are sent off "without any parliamentary approval" beforehand.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>British overseas troop operations: A decade of controversies</strong></h2>

<p>The British Special Air Services (SAS) is reported to be behind the deliberate assassination of British citizens in Iraq and Syria, and the alleged cover-up of multiple killings of innocent Afghan civilians, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British SAS also reportedly outsourced its operatives to MI6, the British intelligence powerhouse, to deny "kill-or-capture missions in Yemen".&nbsp;</p>

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Britain's Special Air Service and other special forces have reportedly been involved in clandestine operations in at least 19 countries since 2011, a study by London-based Action by Armed Violence has revealed.

Britain's Special Air Service and other special forces have reportedly been involved in clandestine operations in at least 19 countries since 2011, a study by London-based Action by Armed Violence has revealed. The British special forces also operated in Russia to protect the country's athletes against potential Islamic terror attacks during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Closer to India, in Pakistan, the British special forces operated to locate and target potential Al-Qaeda and Taliban operatives. ALSO WATCH | US document leak reveals 50 UK special forces working in Ukraine × The study, which describes the aforementioned British armed force constituents as "shadowy units", stated that this covert deployment has been carried out in several countries, including Nigeria, the Philippines, Russia, Syria, Ukraine and Sudan. The London-based research group has compiled a list of these activities based on media leaks. Pakistan and Russia: How British special forces operate(d) there? The report said that the Special Boat Service (SBS) and Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR) members from the UK participated in operations in Pakistan. “They worked alongside American forces to locate and target high-value individuals linked to al-Qaeda and the Taliban,” it said. ALSO READ | World's most powerful special forces It also revealed that UK Special Forces had a presence in Russia during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, “where they were tasked with protecting athletes against potential Islamic terror attacks.” Where have British forces clandestinely operated? According to Action on Armed Violence, since 2011, UK Special Forces (UKSF) have been primed to contact or surveil hostile forces in Algeria, Estonia, France, Iran/Oman (Strait of Hormuz), Iraq, Kenya, Libya, Mali, Mediterranean (Cyprus), Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Yemen. "There are a further six sites where UKSF have trained foreign forces or where they have based themselves before launching into another country. These are: Burkina Faso, Oman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Djibouti," the report adds. There are also another seven locations, not included in the above lists, known to be used by UKSF for their own exercises and engagements, it states further, adding these locations to be: Albania, Falklands, Gibraltar, Belize, Brunei, Malaysia, and Canada. The report says that in many missions, the UK Special Forces are sent off "without any parliamentary approval" beforehand. British overseas troop operations: A decade of controversies The British Special Air Services (SAS) is reported to be behind the deliberate assassination of British citizens in Iraq and Syria, and the alleged cover-up of multiple killings of innocent Afghan civilians, including children. The British SAS also reportedly outsourced its operatives to MI6, the British intelligence powerhouse, to deny "kill-or-capture missions in Yemen". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

British special forces operated in Russia under Putin's watch, report reveals

Several surfers and paddlers rallied at sea and beaches in England’s Brighton against water companies' continued dumping of untreated sewage. Protestors held signs on the beach and in the water written: "no more poo", "fishes, not faeces!" and "hands off our water!" Eric Njoka brings you the report.

"Fishes, not faeces!" British paddle against sea pollution

The much-touted India UK free trade deal (FTA) is in the eye of a storm called 'Angel's Share' of whiskey. The trade deal negotiations have resulted in a tug-of-war between Indian whiskey makers and their UK counterparts. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Indian whiskey VS British whiskey

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will soon begin a diplomatic campaign to reclaim the Kohinoor diamond and thousands of other treasures taken by Britain during their centuries-long colonial exploits in the Indian subcontinent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The diplomatic campaign is reportedly dubbed as "reckoning with the past" and is set to be the largest repatriation claim faced by the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is of huge importance to the government. The thrust of this effort to repatriate India's artifacts comes from the personal commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has made it a major priority," Govind Mohan, secretary for India's culture ministry, was quoted as saying by The Telegraph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Diplomats in London will make formal requests to institutions holding artifacts seized as spoils of war or collected by enthusiasts during the colonial rule. The process is due to begin this year, The Telegraph report added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India's reckoning with colonial history: Return of Koh-i-noor in particular focus</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian government's goal is to secure the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, one of the Crown Jewels currently held by the recently crowned King Charles III.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British Royal family has been in possession of the Kohinoor since 1849 CE, ever since a 10-year-old boy King,&nbsp;Maharaja Duleep Singh was forced to sign the Treaty of Lahore in 1849. Queen Victoria wore the Kohinoor as a brooch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-who-does-the-kohinoor-belong-to-589189">Opinion | Who does the Kohinoor belong to?</a></strong></p>

<p>Till this date, sections of British media just like Britain's history books state that the Kohinoor was a gift for Britain from India or that "it was handed over to the East India Company".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-who-glorified-britains-colonial-tyranny-in-charless-coronation-589825">Who glorified Britain's colonial tyranny in Charles's coronation?</a></strong></p>

<p>But a crucial omission from the British version of Kohinoor's history remains that the British took it from a 10-year-old boy king, when his mother was a prisoner of the British. India's historians in past have unanimously pointed out with documentary evidence that Kohinoor went to the British from India under "colonial coercion".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kohinoor, Amaravati Marbles: What did the British take from India?</strong></h2>

<p>While Kohinoor is widely perceived as a symbol of British colonial conquest in the Indian subcontinent, it is just the tip of the iceberg of total wealth drained from the region by the Raj.</p>

<p>In terms of monetary value, Britain drained a total of nearly $45 trillion worth of wealth from India during the period 1765 to 1938, according to economist Utsa Patnaik’s 2018 research.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Koh-i-noor diamond a 'symbol of conquest' in new display of Crown Jewels</b></p>

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<p>Apart from the Kohinoor, Taimur's Ruby, Gem-encrusted tiger head owned by Tipu Sultan, Tipu Sultan's Tiger, Amaravati Marbles, Lord Harihara idol, Shah Jahan's wine cups, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne, and a number of artifacts depicting Hindu gods have been kept by the British.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If it belonged to us, and it is somewhere else, then it should be returned to us. The right place for someone’s property is with them," an official source was quoted as saying by the British.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will soon begin a diplomatic campaign to reclaim the Kohinoor diamond and thousands of other treasures taken by Britain during their centuries-long colonial exploits in the Indian subcontinent.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will soon begin a diplomatic campaign to reclaim the Kohinoor diamond and thousands of other treasures taken by Britain during their centuries-long colonial exploits in the Indian subcontinent. The diplomatic campaign is reportedly dubbed as "reckoning with the past" and is set to be the largest repatriation claim faced by the United Kingdom. "It is of huge importance to the government. The thrust of this effort to repatriate India's artifacts comes from the personal commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has made it a major priority," Govind Mohan, secretary for India's culture ministry, was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. Diplomats in London will make formal requests to institutions holding artifacts seized as spoils of war or collected by enthusiasts during the colonial rule. The process is due to begin this year, The Telegraph report added. India's reckoning with colonial history: Return of Koh-i-noor in particular focus The Indian government's goal is to secure the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, one of the Crown Jewels currently held by the recently crowned King Charles III. The British Royal family has been in possession of the Kohinoor since 1849 CE, ever since a 10-year-old boy King, Maharaja Duleep Singh was forced to sign the Treaty of Lahore in 1849. Queen Victoria wore the Kohinoor as a brooch. ALSO READ | Opinion | Who does the Kohinoor belong to? Till this date, sections of British media just like Britain's history books state that the Kohinoor was a gift for Britain from India or that "it was handed over to the East India Company". ALSO READ | Who glorified Britain's colonial tyranny in Charles's coronation? But a crucial omission from the British version of Kohinoor's history remains that the British took it from a 10-year-old boy king, when his mother was a prisoner of the British. India's historians in past have unanimously pointed out with documentary evidence that Kohinoor went to the British from India under "colonial coercion". Kohinoor, Amaravati Marbles: What did the British take from India? While Kohinoor is widely perceived as a symbol of British colonial conquest in the Indian subcontinent, it is just the tip of the iceberg of total wealth drained from the region by the Raj. In terms of monetary value, Britain drained a total of nearly $45 trillion worth of wealth from India during the period 1765 to 1938, according to economist Utsa Patnaik’s 2018 research. ALSO WATCH | Koh-i-noor diamond a 'symbol of conquest' in new display of Crown Jewels × Apart from the Kohinoor, Taimur's Ruby, Gem-encrusted tiger head owned by Tipu Sultan, Tipu Sultan's Tiger, Amaravati Marbles, Lord Harihara idol, Shah Jahan's wine cups, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne, and a number of artifacts depicting Hindu gods have been kept by the British. "If it belonged to us, and it is somewhere else, then it should be returned to us. The right place for someone’s property is with them," an official source was quoted as saying by the British. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s PM Modi eyes return of Kohinoor, thousands of other treasures from Britain

The Britain government on Thursday announced it would send Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine, becoming the first country to provide longer-range weapons to Kyiv. The missiles give Ukraine the capacity to strike well behind the front lines.

Russia-Ukraine War: Britain to supply Ukraine with long range cruise missiles

The weekend of splendour is knocking on the door of the UK. London and Windsor are preparing for parades, crowds and street parties. It will be the biggest ceremonial event staged in the British capital in 70 years. King Charles III will be crowned in Westminster Abbey on May 6. The coronation plans include about 2,000 people in attendance. However, some countries aren't invited to the British ceremonial event.

King Charles III Coronation: Which are the countries not invited?

<p>A National Health Service (NHS) worker has been imprisoned for five months for sending a threatening letter to Indian-origin former UK Home Secretary Priti Patel.</p>

<p>In the letter, the 65-year-old had abused Patel and had also threatened to 'tear' her 'into pieces'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pooneeraj Canakiah sent the offensive letter in the month of January 2022 when Patel was still the Home Secretary.&nbsp;He was sentenced by the Westminster Magistrates' Court in London last week.</p>

<p>Canakiah, in the hope that the former UK home secretary would open the letter herself, marked it as 'personal'. However, before it could reach her, the letter was intercepted by the security staff.</p>

<p>"Your time is coming to an end, be prepared we will get you," Canakiah wrote in the letter, abusing Patel, "Be prepared, b****".</p>

<p>"If we don't get you, we will wait and wait and wait, and tear you to pieces," he threatened.</p>

<p>The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) official said that the content of the letter was grossly offensive. He further revealed that the writer was identified by forensic testing.</p>

<p>"The content of the letter was grossly offensive and abusive. Canakiah thought that he would not be caught, however, forensic analysis proved that he wrote the letter," said Senior Crown Prosecutor Lauren Doshi, from the Complex Casework Unit of the Crown Prosecution Service in London South.</p>

<p>"This conviction and sentence sends a clear message, that threats of this nature are taken very seriously and will not be tolerated. The CPS will not hesitate to prosecute such offences whenever our legal test is met," she said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Good riddance' say UK MPs after Priti Patel's resignation</strong></h2>

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<p>Analysis of the handwriting on the envelope and letter proved that Canakiah was the author.</p>

<p>On being interviewed by the police, he denied writing the letter but ultimately pleaded guilty.</p>

<p>Sentencing Canakiah to five months in prison, District Judge Briony Clarke said the letter shocked her every time she read it.</p>

<p>"It`s an attack on democracy", The Standard quoted her as saying.</p>

<p>"You sent a letter which was disgusting and threatening in nature, it was addressed to a serving MP who at the time was Home Secretary. It was vile in nature, including threats, it was offensive and vulgar," Clarke said.</p>

<p>As per the media reports, the defence said that the Canakiah "worked all through COVID and became very unwell during 2020".</p>

<p>The court was told that he suffered two heart attacks and also his mother passed away in July last year.</p>

<p>The defence further blamed his declining mental health for the offensive step he took and further added that he suffered from depression.</p>

<p>The judge, however, said that she wasn't given any proof that could support Canakiah's mental health state so he must serve his five-month prison sentence before being released on licence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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A National Health Service (NHS) worker has been imprisoned for five months for sending a threatening letter to Indian-origin former UK Home Secretary Priti Patel.

A National Health Service (NHS) worker has been imprisoned for five months for sending a threatening letter to Indian-origin former UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. In the letter, the 65-year-old had abused Patel and had also threatened to 'tear' her 'into pieces'. Pooneeraj Canakiah sent the offensive letter in the month of January 2022 when Patel was still the Home Secretary. He was sentenced by the Westminster Magistrates' Court in London last week. Canakiah, in the hope that the former UK home secretary would open the letter herself, marked it as 'personal'. However, before it could reach her, the letter was intercepted by the security staff. "Your time is coming to an end, be prepared we will get you," Canakiah wrote in the letter, abusing Patel, "Be prepared, b****". "If we don't get you, we will wait and wait and wait, and tear you to pieces," he threatened. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) official said that the content of the letter was grossly offensive. He further revealed that the writer was identified by forensic testing. "The content of the letter was grossly offensive and abusive. Canakiah thought that he would not be caught, however, forensic analysis proved that he wrote the letter," said Senior Crown Prosecutor Lauren Doshi, from the Complex Casework Unit of the Crown Prosecution Service in London South. "This conviction and sentence sends a clear message, that threats of this nature are taken very seriously and will not be tolerated. The CPS will not hesitate to prosecute such offences whenever our legal test is met," she said. 'Good riddance' say UK MPs after Priti Patel's resignation Analysis of the handwriting on the envelope and letter proved that Canakiah was the author. On being interviewed by the police, he denied writing the letter but ultimately pleaded guilty. Sentencing Canakiah to five months in prison, District Judge Briony Clarke said the letter shocked her every time she read it. "It`s an attack on democracy", The Standard quoted her as saying. "You sent a letter which was disgusting and threatening in nature, it was addressed to a serving MP who at the time was Home Secretary. It was vile in nature, including threats, it was offensive and vulgar," Clarke said. As per the media reports, the defence said that the Canakiah "worked all through COVID and became very unwell during 2020". The court was told that he suffered two heart attacks and also his mother passed away in July last year. The defence further blamed his declining mental health for the offensive step he took and further added that he suffered from depression. The judge, however, said that she wasn't given any proof that could support Canakiah's mental health state so he must serve his five-month prison sentence before being released on licence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK man jailed for sending ‘grossly offensive’ letter to British Indian ex-minister Priti Patel

<p>Two of Britain's biggest transport unions have called fresh strikes in May, including on the days of the Eurovision Song Contest and FA Cup finals. The strikes have been called after the rail workers rejected the latest pay deal from train operators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), which has more than 83,000 members from almost every sector of Britain's transport industry, said it would launch strikes across 14 train operators on Saturday, May 13. On the same day, Liverpool will host Eurovision's main event on behalf of Ukraine currently at war with Russia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-festive-travel-set-to-take-a-hit-amid-planned-rail-strikes-in-december-540854">UK festive travel set to take a hit amid planned rail strikes from next week</a></strong></p>

<p>The RMT claimed that the train operators had "torpedoed" the negotiating process while the operators' side (the Rail Delivery Group) said that they were "blindsided by the strike.</p>

<p>Other than the RMT, the train drivers' union Aslef has called strikes on May 12, May 31 and on June 3, the day of FA Cup final.</p>

<h2><strong>What do workers want?</strong></h2>

<p>The workers want higher wages to combat growing inflation in Britain. This involves one year's pay increase followed by a second year's pay increase. The RMT members are looking for a "negotiated settlement" but they have not specified how much pay rise they expect.</p>

<h2><strong>What do train operators want?</strong></h2>

<p>Train operators would partially accept the demands of transport unions if such unions cease to exist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A statement explaining its position read: "Following further discussions between the union and RDG [Rail Delivery Group], the employer issued a clarification on the offer RMT has been considering."</p>

<p>"The RDG is now saying they would only implement the first-year payment of 5 per cent if the union terminated its industrial mandate, meaning no further strike action could take place."</p>

<p>"Stage 2 discussions which are part of the offer made by the employer would then have to begin without the union having any industrial leverage at the negotiating table."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;UK: 40,000 rail union workers on strike, services paralysed</strong></p>

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<p>The last rail strike on 18 March meant only 40 per cent&nbsp;to 50 per cent&nbsp;of trains could run as workers across 14 train operators staged a walked out.</p>

<p>The ongoing dispute has affected services since June last year.</p>

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Two of Britain's biggest transport unions have called fresh strikes in May, including on the days of the Eurovision Song Contest and FA Cup finals. The strikes have been called after the rail workers rejected the latest pay deal from train operators.

Two of Britain's biggest transport unions have called fresh strikes in May, including on the days of the Eurovision Song Contest and FA Cup finals. The strikes have been called after the rail workers rejected the latest pay deal from train operators. The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), which has more than 83,000 members from almost every sector of Britain's transport industry, said it would launch strikes across 14 train operators on Saturday, May 13. On the same day, Liverpool will host Eurovision's main event on behalf of Ukraine currently at war with Russia. ALSO READ | UK festive travel set to take a hit amid planned rail strikes from next week The RMT claimed that the train operators had "torpedoed" the negotiating process while the operators' side (the Rail Delivery Group) said that they were "blindsided by the strike. Other than the RMT, the train drivers' union Aslef has called strikes on May 12, May 31 and on June 3, the day of FA Cup final. What do workers want? The workers want higher wages to combat growing inflation in Britain. This involves one year's pay increase followed by a second year's pay increase. The RMT members are looking for a "negotiated settlement" but they have not specified how much pay rise they expect. What do train operators want? Train operators would partially accept the demands of transport unions if such unions cease to exist. A statement explaining its position read: "Following further discussions between the union and RDG [Rail Delivery Group], the employer issued a clarification on the offer RMT has been considering." "The RDG is now saying they would only implement the first-year payment of 5 per cent if the union terminated its industrial mandate, meaning no further strike action could take place." "Stage 2 discussions which are part of the offer made by the employer would then have to begin without the union having any industrial leverage at the negotiating table." ALSO WATCH | UK: 40,000 rail union workers on strike, services paralysed × The last rail strike on 18 March meant only 40 per cent to 50 per cent of trains could run as workers across 14 train operators staged a walked out. The ongoing dispute has affected services since June last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK rail workers' planned strikes set to hammer Eurovision, FA Cup finals

<p>The Bloom Review, an independent report commissioned by former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has highlighted the existence of a "small, extremely vocal and aggressive minority of British Sikhs who can be described as pro-Khalistan extremists".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report examines how the government should engage with faith groups in England and identifies the need for a more nuanced understanding of "subversive and sectarian activity" within the Sikh community. The report warns that some pro-Khalistan Sikh groups aim to artificially inflate their influence by lobbying political bodies under the guise of human rights activism, presenting a false appearance of legitimacy. It also notes that some groups use various aliases to "subvert the British political order", a strategy used historically by white supremacist and Islamist terrorist groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It notes that the subversive, sectarian, and discriminatory activities of these groups do not reflect the true nature of the majority of British Sikh communities. However, it acknowledges that these activities have adversely affected these communities, making it crucial for the government to take steps to define and deal with such harmful extremism.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The Bloom Review draws on over 21,000 responses to a call for evidence that posed a series of questions about how those of all faiths perceive the government’s engagement with faith organisations. It includes 22 recommendations to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up Housing and Communities on how engagement can be improved, both in terms of recognizing the contribution of faith communities and addressing harmful practices linked to faith.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports also point out how Lord Singh of Wimbledon, a prominent Sikh in public life, was deliberately ill-treated to silence him in his recent evidence to the House of Lords Conduct Committee. He claimed that he was being bullied and harassed by certain individuals and organizations who sought to prevent him from expressing views contrary to theirs on Sikh issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lord Singh was ill-treated by Sikh Federation UK (SFUK), a major pro-Khalistan organisation and one that runs the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs, an informal&nbsp;cross-party group. The Colin Bloom report suggests that there may be some overlap of membership between certain Sikh groups operating in the UK and proscribed groups. The report recommends that the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Sikhs take note of these findings and that the parliamentary authorities take steps to prevent the unwitting hosting of individuals and organizations linked to bullying, harassment, and subversive behaviour.</p>

<p>The key recommendation of the report has been that the British govt should "clearly define and investigate extremist activity and identify where this exists within the Sikh community" and take "steps to develop a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of subversive and sectarian Sikh extremist activity." It suggested that the govt should ensure that "unacceptable and extremist behaviours are not inadvertently legitimized by government or parliamentary engagement."</p>

<p>The report is significant given India-UK ties were impacted earlier this year after Khalistani elements vandalised Indian High Commission in the UK. The UK had assured the safety of the Indian mission after the incident.&nbsp;</p>

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The Bloom Review, an independent report commissioned by former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has highlighted the existence of a "small, extremely vocal and aggressive minority of British Sikhs who can be described as pro-Khalistan extremists".

The Bloom Review, an independent report commissioned by former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has highlighted the existence of a "small, extremely vocal and aggressive minority of British Sikhs who can be described as pro-Khalistan extremists". The report examines how the government should engage with faith groups in England and identifies the need for a more nuanced understanding of "subversive and sectarian activity" within the Sikh community. The report warns that some pro-Khalistan Sikh groups aim to artificially inflate their influence by lobbying political bodies under the guise of human rights activism, presenting a false appearance of legitimacy. It also notes that some groups use various aliases to "subvert the British political order", a strategy used historically by white supremacist and Islamist terrorist groups. It notes that the subversive, sectarian, and discriminatory activities of these groups do not reflect the true nature of the majority of British Sikh communities. However, it acknowledges that these activities have adversely affected these communities, making it crucial for the government to take steps to define and deal with such harmful extremism. The Bloom Review draws on over 21,000 responses to a call for evidence that posed a series of questions about how those of all faiths perceive the government’s engagement with faith organisations. It includes 22 recommendations to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up Housing and Communities on how engagement can be improved, both in terms of recognizing the contribution of faith communities and addressing harmful practices linked to faith. The reports also point out how Lord Singh of Wimbledon, a prominent Sikh in public life, was deliberately ill-treated to silence him in his recent evidence to the House of Lords Conduct Committee. He claimed that he was being bullied and harassed by certain individuals and organizations who sought to prevent him from expressing views contrary to theirs on Sikh issues. Lord Singh was ill-treated by Sikh Federation UK (SFUK), a major pro-Khalistan organisation and one that runs the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs, an informal cross-party group. The Colin Bloom report suggests that there may be some overlap of membership between certain Sikh groups operating in the UK and proscribed groups. The report recommends that the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Sikhs take note of these findings and that the parliamentary authorities take steps to prevent the unwitting hosting of individuals and organizations linked to bullying, harassment, and subversive behaviour. The key recommendation of the report has been that the British govt should "clearly define and investigate extremist activity and identify where this exists within the Sikh community" and take "steps to develop a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of subversive and sectarian Sikh extremist activity." It suggested that the govt should ensure that "unacceptable and extremist behaviours are not inadvertently legitimized by government or parliamentary engagement." The report is significant given India-UK ties were impacted earlier this year after Khalistani elements vandalised Indian High Commission in the UK. The UK had assured the safety of the Indian mission after the incident. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK report highlights pro-Khalistan extremism in Britain, calls for government action

After a controversy over shares of Akshata Murthy, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced his wife's stake in Koru Kids, a childcare firm that could benefit from the government's new policy.

UK PM Rishi Sunak declares wife's link to childcare firm Koru Kids

Incidents such as Hindu pupils being bullied to convert to Islam and beef being thrown at another are among some illustrative examples recorded in a new report by a UK-based think-tank released on Wednesday, warning against the prevalence of anti-Hindu hate in schools in Britain. 'Anti-Hindu Hate in Schools', by the counter-terrorism think-tank Henry Jackson Society, found that 51 per cent of Hindu parents surveyed reported that their child has suffered anti-Hindu hate at school. It also recorded that teaching on Hinduism was reported by some participants of the study as fostering religious discrimination towards Hindu pupils.

UK-based think tank warns of "Anti-Hindu hate" in schools in Britain

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's register of ministerial interests was published by the UK Cabinet Office on Wednesday, revealing his wife Akshata Murty's shares in a childcare agency which could benefit from a policy in last month's Budget. The publication of the list came in the wake of a parliamentary watchdog probe opened by the UK's Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards last week to determine if the British Indian leader had been "open and frank" in his obligation under the parliamentary "Code of Conduct".

Rishi Sunak declares wife Akshata Murty's shares after financial interests row

The UK's ongoing cost of living crisis is evident in the fact that millions of Britons are unable to pay their electricity bills, their food bills, or the most recent price increases of up to 80% on items like pig sausages, white bread, and cheddar cheese.

Survey: Individual supermarkets introduced price hikes of upto 80% | UK

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UK's Labour party has targeted Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murty in its latest advertisement. The ad accuses Sunak of letting his family benefit from a tax loophole. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: UK's Labour Party targets Rishi Sunak's wife

Britain plans to launch its "Swap to Stop" scheme to discourage smoking. The scheme will include distribution of 1 million free vaping starter kits to smokers. How does UK find vaping as a better alternative? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: UK to distribute 1 million free vaping kits

<p>United States President Joe Biden will reach&nbsp;Belfast on Tuesday at a time when Northern Ireland is going through a delicate political situation to mark the peace deal's 25-year anniversary that ended 30 years of bloodshed.</p>

<p>Biden, who is known for his pro-Irish views, will have to carefully tread as the devolved power-sharing government, which was an important part of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, is still being boycotted by the largest pro-British unionist party.</p>

<p>During his visit, Biden is likely to meet five main Northern Irish parties' representatives on Wednesday before delivering his speech at Belfast's Ulster University. However, the US president does not plan to pressurise the representatives, said a senior administration official.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northern-ireland-petrol-bombs-thrown-at-police-vehicle-in-londonderry-on-eve-of-us-presidents-visit-581157">Northern Ireland: Petrol bombs thrown at police vehicle in Londonderry on eve of US president's visit</a></p>

<p>"Twenty-five years ago, Northern Ireland's leaders chose peace. I look forward to marking the anniversary in Belfast, underscoring the US commitment to preserving peace and encouraging prosperity," said Biden on Twitter.</p>

<p>Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland has stated that the visit of Biden, which will be the first visit of a US president in the last 10 years, will not be able to pressurise them to end their protests against the post-Brexit trade rules that they believe are treating the province differently in comparison to the rest of the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>In a recent deal, which was endorsed by Biden, the European Union and the UK had agreed to ease the trade barriers. The DUP has been demanding more changes in the deal, however, the UK government has said that it is not possible.</p>

<p>During the Brexit talks, Biden had clashed with the UK government multiple times drawing a rebuke from DUP lawmakers. Biden, who will be welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on his arrival ahead of the talks between the two leaders on Wednesday, will hint at the possibility of closer investment ties between Northern Ireland and the US and will encourage an end to the impasse.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Northern Ireland Protocol: What does the UK want to change?</strong></p>

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<p>Biden's visit and the peace deal's anniversary, which the US had brokered between Irish nationalists and the pro-British unionists are likely to be overshadowed by the latest political stalemate and</p>

<p>"It might spur things along and maybe things will be taken a bit more seriously," said Niamh McNutt, who is a student advisor in Belfast. "We do need help right now to get things in order and maybe this will give people the push that they need,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden will reach Belfast on Tuesday at a time when Northern Ireland is going through a delicate political situation to mark the peace deal's 25-year anniversary that ended 30 years of bloodshed.

United States President Joe Biden will reach Belfast on Tuesday at a time when Northern Ireland is going through a delicate political situation to mark the peace deal's 25-year anniversary that ended 30 years of bloodshed. Biden, who is known for his pro-Irish views, will have to carefully tread as the devolved power-sharing government, which was an important part of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, is still being boycotted by the largest pro-British unionist party. During his visit, Biden is likely to meet five main Northern Irish parties' representatives on Wednesday before delivering his speech at Belfast's Ulster University. However, the US president does not plan to pressurise the representatives, said a senior administration official. ALSO READ | Northern Ireland: Petrol bombs thrown at police vehicle in Londonderry on eve of US president's visit "Twenty-five years ago, Northern Ireland's leaders chose peace. I look forward to marking the anniversary in Belfast, underscoring the US commitment to preserving peace and encouraging prosperity," said Biden on Twitter. Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland has stated that the visit of Biden, which will be the first visit of a US president in the last 10 years, will not be able to pressurise them to end their protests against the post-Brexit trade rules that they believe are treating the province differently in comparison to the rest of the United Kingdom. In a recent deal, which was endorsed by Biden, the European Union and the UK had agreed to ease the trade barriers. The DUP has been demanding more changes in the deal, however, the UK government has said that it is not possible. During the Brexit talks, Biden had clashed with the UK government multiple times drawing a rebuke from DUP lawmakers. Biden, who will be welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on his arrival ahead of the talks between the two leaders on Wednesday, will hint at the possibility of closer investment ties between Northern Ireland and the US and will encourage an end to the impasse. WATCH | Northern Ireland Protocol: What does the UK want to change? Biden's visit and the peace deal's anniversary, which the US had brokered between Irish nationalists and the pro-British unionists are likely to be overshadowed by the latest political stalemate and "It might spur things along and maybe things will be taken a bit more seriously," said Niamh McNutt, who is a student advisor in Belfast. "We do need help right now to get things in order and maybe this will give people the push that they need,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Biden heads to Northern Ireland to mark 25th anniversary of peace deal

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