The British government said on Thursday it found no evidence that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor underwent any vetting before being appointed as a trade envoy in 2001. The disclosure came alongside the release of official documents showing that his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, had supported his appointment to the role. The papers were released after opposition MPs sought all records connected to the establishment of the post of “Special Representative for Trade and Investment” and Prince Andrew’s controversial selection for the position. He was appointed trade envoy in 2001 but resigned ten years later following scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The embattled royal was briefly arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the US Department of Justice (DOJ) published documents in connection with the investigation into Epstein, raising questions about his relationship with the financier while he was a trade envoy.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-vanessa-trump-breast-cancer-diagnosis-donald-trump-jr-1779365736602"> Who Is Vanessa Trump? Former model and Donald Trump Jr ex-wife diagnosed with breast cancer</a> Following his arrest, the Liberal Democrats of Britain, an opposition party, made a “humble address” and requested the ministers to publish all available documents on the appointment of Mountbatten-Windsor. Chris Bryant, a trade minister, said on Thursday: “We have found no evidence that a formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken. There is also no evidence that this was considered.” Chris Bryant said the decision was “understandable”, arguing that Prince Andrew’s appointment was effectively a continuation of the royal family’s longstanding role in promoting Britain’s trade and investment interests. A 41-page dossier released by the British government also revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had actively backed her son’s appointment as trade envoy.<h3>Trade envoy role</h3>In a February 2000 memo addressed to then Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, David Wright, who headed British Trade International at the time, wrote that it was “the Queen’s wish” for Prince Andrew to take up the trade envoy role, adding that the position would “fit well” with the conclusion of his career in the British Navy. “The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests,” Wright wrote at the time. While serving as trade envoy, Mountbatten-Windsor travelled the world and met senior personalities in business and government. In the released documents on Thursday, a British diplomat wrote that Mountbatten-Windsor had a preference for visiting “more sophisticated countries” and “should not be offered golfing functions abroad.” Later, Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal title last year as his brother, King Charles III, sought to protect the royal family from the backlash surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.&nbsp;

The UK government found no evidence that Prince Andrew underwent vetting before his 2001 trade envoy appointment, which released papers show was backed by Queen Elizabeth II. He resigned in 2011 and was recently arrested in February 2026 amid ties to the Epstein scandal.

The British government said on Thursday it found no evidence that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor underwent any vetting before being appointed as a trade envoy in 2001. The disclosure came alongside the release of official documents showing that his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, had supported his appointment to the role. The papers were released after opposition MPs sought all records connected to the establishment of the post of “Special Representative for Trade and Investment” and Prince Andrew’s controversial selection for the position. He was appointed trade envoy in 2001 but resigned ten years later following scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The embattled royal was briefly arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the US Department of Justice (DOJ) published documents in connection with the investigation into Epstein, raising questions about his relationship with the financier while he was a trade envoy. Also read: Who Is Vanessa Trump? Former model and Donald Trump Jr ex-wife diagnosed with breast cancer Following his arrest, the Liberal Democrats of Britain, an opposition party, made a “humble address” and requested the ministers to publish all available documents on the appointment of Mountbatten-Windsor. Chris Bryant, a trade minister, said on Thursday: “We have found no evidence that a formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken. There is also no evidence that this was considered.” Chris Bryant said the decision was “understandable”, arguing that Prince Andrew’s appointment was effectively a continuation of the royal family’s longstanding role in promoting Britain’s trade and investment interests. A 41-page dossier released by the British government also revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had actively backed her son’s appointment as trade envoy. Trade envoy role In a February 2000 memo addressed to then Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, David Wright, who headed British Trade International at the time, wrote that it was “the Queen’s wish” for Prince Andrew to take up the trade envoy role, adding that the position would “fit well” with the conclusion of his career in the British Navy. “The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests,” Wright wrote at the time. While serving as trade envoy, Mountbatten-Windsor travelled the world and met senior personalities in business and government. In the released documents on Thursday, a British diplomat wrote that Mountbatten-Windsor had a preference for visiting “more sophisticated countries” and “should not be offered golfing functions abroad.” Later, Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal title last year as his brother, King Charles III, sought to protect the royal family from the backlash surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

The UK government found no evidence that Prince Andrew underwent vetting before his 2001 trade envoy appointment, which released papers show was backed by Queen Elizabeth II. He resigned in 2011 and was recently arrested in February 2026 amid ties to the Epstein scandal.

No vetting for former Prince Andrew before trade envoy role, UK govt documents reveal

A family in India’s Madhya Pradesh has claimed that the British government owes them a loan of Rs 35,000, which the then administration failed to repay during the First World War in 1917. The family of late businessman Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia has said that they are now exploring legal options to recover the ancestral debt with interest.Vivek Ruthia, 63, has alleged that his grandfather, Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia, gave a loan of Rs 35,000 in 1917 to W S Dawis, the then political agent in Bhopal under British rule. The family has said that the amount was given to help with the management of administration in Bhopal. However, the money has still not been paid back.A certificate preserved by the family, dated June 4, 1917, states that Seth Jumma Lal, of the firm Seth Rama Kishan Jaskaran Ruthia, “subscribed Rs 35,000 to the Indian War Loan and thereby showed his loyalty to the Government and Empire.” The document carries the signature of W S Davis, then Political Agent in Bhopal.Under British rule, Political Agents acted as intermediaries between the British administration and princely states and looked after government matters, ensuring alignment with imperial authority.Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia passed away in 1937, about 20 years after making the subscription. India gained independence in 1947, and the family maintains that no repayment or settlement was ever made.Ruthia said that he is now consulting lawyers to explore whether a financial claim linked to a colonial-era Indian War Loan can be pursued against the present-day United Kingdom. Although no legal notice has been issued yet.“It’s not just about money, it’s about justice and history,” he said. The original sum of Rs 35,000 could now be worth more than Rs 10 crore after being adjusted for compound interest, inflation or gold prices.However, legal experts have said that pursuing such a claim would involve significant challenges, including limitation laws, sovereign immunity and jurisdictional complexities. For now, the 1917 certificate remains a historical document in the family’s possession.

A Madhya Pradesh family claims the British government owes Rs 35,000 from a 1917 Indian War Loan. They are exploring legal options, saying the sum with interest could now exceed Rs 10 crore.

A family in India’s Madhya Pradesh has claimed that the British government owes them a loan of Rs 35,000, which the then administration failed to repay during the First World War in 1917. The family of late businessman Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia has said that they are now exploring legal options to recover the ancestral debt with interest. Vivek Ruthia, 63, has alleged that his grandfather, Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia, gave a loan of Rs 35,000 in 1917 to W S Dawis, the then political agent in Bhopal under British rule. The family has said that the amount was given to help with the management of administration in Bhopal. However, the money has still not been paid back. A certificate preserved by the family, dated June 4, 1917, states that Seth Jumma Lal, of the firm Seth Rama Kishan Jaskaran Ruthia, “subscribed Rs 35,000 to the Indian War Loan and thereby showed his loyalty to the Government and Empire.” The document carries the signature of W S Davis, then Political Agent in Bhopal. Under British rule, Political Agents acted as intermediaries between the British administration and princely states and looked after government matters, ensuring alignment with imperial authority. Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia passed away in 1937, about 20 years after making the subscription. India gained independence in 1947, and the family maintains that no repayment or settlement was ever made. Ruthia said that he is now consulting lawyers to explore whether a financial claim linked to a colonial-era Indian War Loan can be pursued against the present-day United Kingdom. Although no legal notice has been issued yet. “It’s not just about money, it’s about justice and history,” he said. The original sum of Rs 35,000 could now be worth more than Rs 10 crore after being adjusted for compound interest, inflation or gold prices. However, legal experts have said that pursuing such a claim would involve significant challenges, including limitation laws, sovereign immunity and jurisdictional complexities. For now, the 1917 certificate remains a historical document in the family’s possession.

A Madhya Pradesh family claims the British government owes Rs 35,000 from a 1917 Indian War Loan. They are exploring legal options, saying the sum with interest could now exceed Rs 10 crore.

Indian family claims British government owes them over 100-year-old loan – Will UK repay?

The British government said on Thursday it plans to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in general elections, a landmark change giving the UK one of the lowest voting ages worldwide. It follows a pledge from the ruling Labour Party to make the shift ahead of winning power last year, and is among several planned changes to the democratic system, which some argue is "in crisis" due to low turnout among other issues.&nbsp;The voting age change is likely to prove contentious, with critics previously arguing it is self-serving as newly-enfranchised teenagers are seen as more likely to support the centre-left Labour party. "I think it's really important that 16- and 17-year-olds have the vote, because they are old enough to go out to work, they are old enough to pay taxes, so (they) pay in," Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.&nbsp;"And I think if you pay in, you should have the opportunity to say what you want your money spent on, which way the government should go," Starmer added. The government will have to bring legislation before parliament, where it has a comfortable majority, to make the changes. Only a small number of countries allow 16-year-olds to vote in national elections, according to online databases.&nbsp;They include Austria -- the first EU country to lower the voting age to 16 when it made the shift in 2007 -- as well as Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador and Cuba. Labour ministers in the United Kingdom insist the change is intended to "modernise our democracy" and boost turnout, while aligning general elections with the existing voting age for elections for the devolved regional parliaments in Scotland and Wales.&nbsp;Other planned changes include introducing automated voter registration -- which is already used in Australia and Canada -- and making UK-issued bank cards an accepted form of ID at polling stations.It follows changes to the electoral law introduced by the previous Conservative government which required voters to show a photo ID, which the Electoral Commission found led to around 750,000 people not voting in last year's election.&nbsp;Harry Quilter-Pinner, executive director of the Institute For Public Policy Research think tank, said the changes were "the biggest reform to our electoral system since 1969", when the voting age was lowered to 18. He noted lowering the voting age and introducing automated voter registration could add 9.5 million more people to the voter rolls. "Our democracy is in crisis, and we risk reaching a tipping point where politics loses its legitimacy," he added, backing the changes.

UK to lower voting age to 16 ahead of 2029 general elections

The British government said on Thursday it plans to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in general elections, a landmark change giving the UK one of the lowest voting ages worldwide. It follows a pledge from the ruling Labour Party to make the shift ahead of winning power last year, and is among several planned changes to the democratic system, which some argue is "in crisis" due to low turnout among other issues. The voting age change is likely to prove contentious, with critics previously arguing it is self-serving as newly-enfranchised teenagers are seen as more likely to support the centre-left Labour party. "I think it's really important that 16- and 17-year-olds have the vote, because they are old enough to go out to work, they are old enough to pay taxes, so (they) pay in," Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. "And I think if you pay in, you should have the opportunity to say what you want your money spent on, which way the government should go," Starmer added. The government will have to bring legislation before parliament, where it has a comfortable majority, to make the changes. Only a small number of countries allow 16-year-olds to vote in national elections, according to online databases. They include Austria -- the first EU country to lower the voting age to 16 when it made the shift in 2007 -- as well as Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador and Cuba. Labour ministers in the United Kingdom insist the change is intended to "modernise our democracy" and boost turnout, while aligning general elections with the existing voting age for elections for the devolved regional parliaments in Scotland and Wales. Other planned changes include introducing automated voter registration -- which is already used in Australia and Canada -- and making UK-issued bank cards an accepted form of ID at polling stations. It follows changes to the electoral law introduced by the previous Conservative government which required voters to show a photo ID, which the Electoral Commission found led to around 750,000 people not voting in last year's election. Harry Quilter-Pinner, executive director of the Institute For Public Policy Research think tank, said the changes were "the biggest reform to our electoral system since 1969", when the voting age was lowered to 18. He noted lowering the voting age and introducing automated voter registration could add 9.5 million more people to the voter rolls. "Our democracy is in crisis, and we risk reaching a tipping point where politics loses its legitimacy," he added, backing the changes.

It follows a pledge from the ruling Labour Party to make the shift ahead of winning power last year, and is among several planned changes to the democratic system, which some argue is "in crisis" due to low turnout among other issues

The British government and the water regulator might have violated the environmental law regarding the regulation of untreated sewage releases, said the country's environmental protection watchdog on Tuesday (September 12). The officials might have done so by failing to stem the raw sewage dumped into the rivers by water companies in England, said the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP).

<h2>Public authorities may have misinterpreted the law: OEP</h2>

The OEP believes the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), regulator Ofwat and the government’s Environment Agency may have misinterpreted the law by allowing raw sewage to be discharged by water companies more frequently than legally allowed.&nbsp;

“Where we interpret the law to mean that untreated sewage discharges should generally be allowed only in exceptional circumstances...it appears that the public authorities may have interpreted the law differently,” said the OEP Chief Regulatory Officer Helen Venn.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-lawmakers-lodge-complaint-against-uk-sewage-dump-in-shared-waters-510832">French lawmakers lodge complaint against UK over sewage dumping in shared waters</a>

The exceptional circumstances for discharging raw sewage from storm overflows on the network include ‘very heavy rainfall,’ to stop it from backing up into homes. However, campaigners have alleged that the water companies are discharging much more often than they should.&nbsp;

The OEP, a watchdog set up after Brexit to replace the enforcement powers of the European Commission, was called upon to investigate by the charity WildFish, which said that the regulators were failing in their duty to enforce the law.&nbsp;

“The guidance provided by government to regulators, and the permitting regime they put in place for the water companies, possibly allow untreated sewage discharges to occur more regularly than intended by the law without risk of sanction,” said the OEP.&nbsp;

Last year, water companies in England alone released raw sewage 301,091 times – an average of 825 times a day – into rivers and the sea, according to data from the Environment Agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Not the first time</h2>

The recent possible failure to comply with the law by the three agencies is related to urban wastewater treatment laws, which derive from European Union law.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/water-companies-in-uk-released-raw-sewage-into-bathing-areas-claims-study-475828">Water companies in UK released raw sewage into bathing areas, claims study</a>

In 2012, prior to Brexit, the UK government was found to be in breach of the urban wastewater laws by the European court over raw sewage discharges.&nbsp;

The OEP, which has far fewer powers than the European Commission for enforcement action against public bodies, has given British officials two months to respond and set out proposed measures to address the issues.&nbsp;

<h2>British government agencies disagree with OEP report</h2>

A spokesperson from Defra said that while it disagrees with the OEP’s interpretations the government was taking “comprehensive action to tackle it, driving forward more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement,” as per Reuters.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Environment Agency said that they would always take action against those not following the law and Ofwat said it would work with OEP. “Water companies’ performance on the environment is simply not good enough,” said the Ofwat spokesperson, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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The British government and the water regulator might have violated the environmental law regarding the regulation of untreated sewage releases, said the country's environmental protection watchdog on Tuesday (September 12).

The British government and the water regulator might have violated the environmental law regarding the regulation of untreated sewage releases, said the country's environmental protection watchdog on Tuesday (September 12). The officials might have done so by failing to stem the raw sewage dumped into the rivers by water companies in England, said the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP). Public authorities may have misinterpreted the law: OEP The OEP believes the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), regulator Ofwat and the government’s Environment Agency may have misinterpreted the law by allowing raw sewage to be discharged by water companies more frequently than legally allowed. “Where we interpret the law to mean that untreated sewage discharges should generally be allowed only in exceptional circumstances...it appears that the public authorities may have interpreted the law differently,” said the OEP Chief Regulatory Officer Helen Venn. ALSO READ | French lawmakers lodge complaint against UK over sewage dumping in shared waters The exceptional circumstances for discharging raw sewage from storm overflows on the network include ‘very heavy rainfall,’ to stop it from backing up into homes. However, campaigners have alleged that the water companies are discharging much more often than they should. The OEP, a watchdog set up after Brexit to replace the enforcement powers of the European Commission, was called upon to investigate by the charity WildFish, which said that the regulators were failing in their duty to enforce the law. “The guidance provided by government to regulators, and the permitting regime they put in place for the water companies, possibly allow untreated sewage discharges to occur more regularly than intended by the law without risk of sanction,” said the OEP. Last year, water companies in England alone released raw sewage 301,091 times – an average of 825 times a day – into rivers and the sea, according to data from the Environment Agency. Not the first time The recent possible failure to comply with the law by the three agencies is related to urban wastewater treatment laws, which derive from European Union law. ALSO READ | Water companies in UK released raw sewage into bathing areas, claims study In 2012, prior to Brexit, the UK government was found to be in breach of the urban wastewater laws by the European court over raw sewage discharges. The OEP, which has far fewer powers than the European Commission for enforcement action against public bodies, has given British officials two months to respond and set out proposed measures to address the issues. British government agencies disagree with OEP report A spokesperson from Defra said that while it disagrees with the OEP’s interpretations the government was taking “comprehensive action to tackle it, driving forward more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement,” as per Reuters. Meanwhile, the Environment Agency said that they would always take action against those not following the law and Ofwat said it would work with OEP. “Water companies’ performance on the environment is simply not good enough,” said the Ofwat spokesperson, as per Reuters. (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.

British govt may have broken law on sewage dumping in England, says watchdog

The British Museum in London has sacked a staffer after items were reported&nbsp;"missing, stolen or damaged", adding that legal action will be taken against the former employee.&nbsp;

In a statement released, the museum informed that&nbsp;most of the items stolen included&nbsp;gold,&nbsp;jewellery and gems of semi-precious stones and glass dating back from the&nbsp;15th Century BC to the 19th Century AD. The items were&nbsp;kept in a storeroom and none had&nbsp;been put on public display recently. They were kept mainly for&nbsp;academic and research purposes, the museum added, without elaborating.&nbsp;

"This is a highly unusual incident. I know I speak for all colleagues when I say that we take the safeguarding of all the items in our care extremely seriously,"&nbsp;British Museum director Hartwig Fischer was quoted as saying by BBC. He added that the museum would&nbsp;&nbsp;"throw our efforts into the recovery of objects".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africans-sign-petition-to-bring-back-diamond-from-uk-588928">Watch |&nbsp;South Africans sign petition to bring back diamond from UK</a>

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The Economic Crime Command of the Metropolitan Police has been called upon to investigate the matter while the museum has also initiated an independent review of security.&nbsp;Former trustee Sir Nigel Boardman and British Transport Police Chief Constable Lucy D'Orsi will be leading the review, informed Sky.com.&nbsp;

"The British Museum has been the victim of theft and we are absolutely determined to use our review in order to get to the bottom of what happened and ensure lessons are learnt. We are working alongside the Metropolitan Police," said&nbsp;Boardman.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-arrest-man-in-london-after-stabbing-outside-british-museum-623522">Also read |&nbsp;UK: Police arrest man in London after stabbing outside British Museum</a>

<h2>Netizens have a field day</h2>

Meanwhile, netizens had a field day upon hearing the news. Some said it was ironic that such an incident had taken place, given the history of British Musem while others remained sympathetic.&nbsp;

"Please tell us, British Museum, how you got all your items…? Asking as&nbsp;someone with Indian ancestry living in South Africa," said one user, while another said, "Life comes at you fast, I've heard."

Meanwhile, a third said: "Perhaps they were just trying to return the items to their rightful owners."

The British Museum is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the UK despite its chequered history. It was opened in 1759 and attracts&nbsp;visitors, especially during the peak summer tourist season. According to reports more than six million people visit it each year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The British Museum in London has sacked a staffer after items were reported "missing, stolen or damaged", adding that legal action will be taken against the former employee.

The British Museum in London has sacked a staffer after items were reported "missing, stolen or damaged", adding that legal action will be taken against the former employee. In a statement released, the museum informed that most of the items stolen included gold, jewellery and gems of semi-precious stones and glass dating back from the 15th Century BC to the 19th Century AD. The items were kept in a storeroom and none had been put on public display recently. They were kept mainly for academic and research purposes, the museum added, without elaborating. "This is a highly unusual incident. I know I speak for all colleagues when I say that we take the safeguarding of all the items in our care extremely seriously," British Museum director Hartwig Fischer was quoted as saying by BBC. He added that the museum would "throw our efforts into the recovery of objects". Watch | South Africans sign petition to bring back diamond from UK × The Economic Crime Command of the Metropolitan Police has been called upon to investigate the matter while the museum has also initiated an independent review of security. Former trustee Sir Nigel Boardman and British Transport Police Chief Constable Lucy D'Orsi will be leading the review, informed Sky.com. "The British Museum has been the victim of theft and we are absolutely determined to use our review in order to get to the bottom of what happened and ensure lessons are learnt. We are working alongside the Metropolitan Police," said Boardman. Also read | UK: Police arrest man in London after stabbing outside British Museum Netizens have a field day Meanwhile, netizens had a field day upon hearing the news. Some said it was ironic that such an incident had taken place, given the history of British Musem while others remained sympathetic. "Please tell us, British Museum, how you got all your items…? Asking as someone with Indian ancestry living in South Africa," said one user, while another said, "Life comes at you fast, I've heard." Meanwhile, a third said: "Perhaps they were just trying to return the items to their rightful owners." The British Museum is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the UK despite its chequered history. It was opened in 1759 and attracts visitors, especially during the peak summer tourist season. According to reports more than six million people visit it each year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Ironic!' say netizens as British Museum sacks staffer after items found 'missing, stolen or damaged'

The British government is mulling over dropping its crucial £11.6 billion climate finance pledge, The Guardian reported further alleging that the administration has betrayed climate action.&nbsp;

The outlet mentioned in its reportage that it has seen a leaked briefing note to ministers, which was given to the Foreign Office.&nbsp;

The note mentions all the reasons for abandoning the nation's contribution to meeting the global $100 billion-a-year commitment to developing countries.&nbsp;

As quoted by the report, the leaked note says, "Our commitment to double our international climate finance to £11.6bn was made in 2019, when we were still at 0.7 [% of GDP spent on international aid] and pre-Covid."&nbsp;

It further added that in order to meet it by the deadline would be a "huge challenge" as there are new pressures, which also include the aid London is providing to the war-ravaged Ukraine.&nbsp;

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So hope the government is not planning to drop its climate finance pledge to some of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world 
 
I was at the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> when <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> made this commitment - to spontaneous applause 
 
It was a proud moment for the UK <a href="https://t.co/Rzoa8iHA6n">https://t.co/Rzoa8iHA6n</a>
— Alok Sharma (@AlokSharma_RDG) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlokSharma_RDG/status/1676324975387525120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>UK government denies the report</h2>

Local reports have mentioned that the government has denied any such plans now and said it will "remain committed" to its promised plan.&nbsp;

A spokesperson from the British government said, "The government remains committed to spending £11.6bn on international climate finance and we are delivering on that pledge."&nbsp;

"We spent over £1.4bn on international climate finance over the course of the 2021/22 financial year, supporting developing countries to reduce poverty and respond to the causes and impacts of climate change. We will publish the latest annual figures in due course," the British government spokesperson further said.&nbsp;

As per the calculation, the UK government will have to spend 83 per cent of the total aid budget on the international climate fund so that it meets the £11.6bn pledge by 2026.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The British government is mulling over dropping its crucial £11.6 billion climate finance pledge, The Guardian reported further alleging that the administration has betrayed climate action.

The British government is mulling over dropping its crucial £11.6 billion climate finance pledge, The Guardian reported further alleging that the administration has betrayed climate action. The outlet mentioned in its reportage that it has seen a leaked briefing note to ministers, which was given to the Foreign Office. The note mentions all the reasons for abandoning the nation's contribution to meeting the global $100 billion-a-year commitment to developing countries. As quoted by the report, the leaked note says, "Our commitment to double our international climate finance to £11.6bn was made in 2019, when we were still at 0.7 [% of GDP spent on international aid] and pre-Covid." It further added that in order to meet it by the deadline would be a "huge challenge" as there are new pressures, which also include the aid London is providing to the war-ravaged Ukraine. So hope the government is not planning to drop its climate finance pledge to some of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world I was at the @UN when @BorisJohnson made this commitment - to spontaneous applause It was a proud moment for the UK https://t.co/Rzoa8iHA6n — Alok Sharma (@AlokSharma_RDG) July 4, 2023 × UK government denies the report Local reports have mentioned that the government has denied any such plans now and said it will "remain committed" to its promised plan. A spokesperson from the British government said, "The government remains committed to spending £11.6bn on international climate finance and we are delivering on that pledge." "We spent over £1.4bn on international climate finance over the course of the 2021/22 financial year, supporting developing countries to reduce poverty and respond to the causes and impacts of climate change. We will publish the latest annual figures in due course," the British government spokesperson further said. As per the calculation, the UK government will have to spend 83 per cent of the total aid budget on the international climate fund so that it meets the £11.6bn pledge by 2026. (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.

British government denies report that it's planning to drop £11.6bn climate pledge

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings.&nbsp;Sunak, who last week celebrated his 100th day in office at 10 Downing Street, said that party leader and cabinet minister&nbsp;Nadhim Zahawi had been replaced by close ally Greg Hands.

After an internal investigation into the&nbsp;Zahawi's tax dealings, dating back to when he spearheaded the YouGov polling company in 2000, found a "serious breach," the Tory leader dismissed him "of ministerial regulations.

The west London constituency MP Greg Hands expressed his excitement on Twitter "to be the new Conservative party chair, a position viewed as vital in the in the run-up to general elections.

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I am excited to be asked by <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rishisunak</a> to be Chairman of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Conservatives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@conservatives</a> 
 
I joined the Party in 1986 - a ward chairman in 1992, a councillor in 1998, a Group Leader in 1999, an MP in 2005, a Minister in 2011 - an honour to chair it in 2023! 
 
The work starts right away. <a href="https://t.co/eMxGSS2uNo">pic.twitter.com/eMxGSS2uNo</a>
— Greg Hands (@GregHands) <a href="https://twitter.com/GregHands/status/1622917714581897216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In an attempt to address the government's present dire conditions ahead of a general election that is anticipated for next year, Sunak has decided to establish four new government ministries.

Also watch |&nbsp;Sunak appoints new conservative party chair

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It comes after multiple scandals that involved Sunak's predecessors and corresponds with the biggest cost of living crisis in a generation as decades-high inflation threatens to send the country into recession.

Sunak established the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and appointed Grant Shapps as the ministry's director.

Additionally, he established the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, appointing Michelle Donelan, a former Secretary of Culture, to the position.

As Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, lawmaker Lucy Frazer was promoted to take her position.

The Tory party's rising star Kemi Badenoch, who was serving as the international trade secretary, stretched her responsibilities to include heading the business ministry.

She continues to serve as minister of equality for women.

The establishment of the new ministries, according to Sunak's Downing Street office, would&nbsp;“ensure the whole of government is geared up to deliver for the British people."

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings. Sunak, who last week celebrated his 100th day in office at 10 Downing Street, said that party leader and cabinet minister Nadhim Zahawi had been replaced by close ally Greg Hands. After an internal investigation into the Zahawi's tax dealings, dating back to when he spearheaded the YouGov polling company in 2000, found a "serious breach," the Tory leader dismissed him "of ministerial regulations. The west London constituency MP Greg Hands expressed his excitement on Twitter "to be the new Conservative party chair, a position viewed as vital in the in the run-up to general elections. I am excited to be asked by @rishisunak to be Chairman of the @conservatives I joined the Party in 1986 - a ward chairman in 1992, a councillor in 1998, a Group Leader in 1999, an MP in 2005, a Minister in 2011 - an honour to chair it in 2023! The work starts right away. pic.twitter.com/eMxGSS2uNo — Greg Hands (@GregHands) February 7, 2023 × In an attempt to address the government's present dire conditions ahead of a general election that is anticipated for next year, Sunak has decided to establish four new government ministries. Also watch | Sunak appoints new conservative party chair It comes after multiple scandals that involved Sunak's predecessors and corresponds with the biggest cost of living crisis in a generation as decades-high inflation threatens to send the country into recession. Sunak established the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and appointed Grant Shapps as the ministry's director. Additionally, he established the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, appointing Michelle Donelan, a former Secretary of Culture, to the position. As Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, lawmaker Lucy Frazer was promoted to take her position. The Tory party's rising star Kemi Badenoch, who was serving as the international trade secretary, stretched her responsibilities to include heading the business ministry. She continues to serve as minister of equality for women. The establishment of the new ministries, according to Sunak's Downing Street office, would “ensure the whole of government is geared up to deliver for the British people." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: Rishi Sunak creates four ministries, appoints new Tory chair in mini Cabinet reshuffle

The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday.

According to the report, the increment in the budget will be announced by UK's Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt in the spring.&nbsp;

According to the newspaper, as per the estimate of military experts, the budget of the Ministry of Defence must increase from £48.6 billion to £50.1 billion in 2024-25 to avoid real-terms cut as the country's inflation continues to remain more than 10%.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-asks-a-homeless-man-if-he-works-in-business-labour-calls-it-excruciating-546365">UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating'</a>

In the autumn budget presented last month, Hunt said that the requirement of increasing the defence budget has been recognised by the government and confirmed that the budget will be maintained at least 2% of the gross domestic product in accordance with NATO.&nbsp;

"We have one of the largest defence budgets in Europe and in 2020 we announced the biggest increase to defence spending since the Cold War," said a government spokesperson while speaking to Reuters.

The spokesperson further stated that any increase in the defence budget will be considered in the next integrated review's part, which will also lay out the country's foreign policy, security and defence priorities in the spring.&nbsp;

WATCH| WION Dispatch: UK economy shrinking more than expected

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The announcement of an increase in defence spending will be seen as Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's victory, who was pushing hard for this in the past year.

Royal United Services Institute's deputy director-general Prof Malcolm Chalmers, while speaking to The Telegraph said, “It looks as if the Chancellor in his Spring Budget will provide enough money to maintain the core defence budget in real terms over the next two years. And indeed the Government has already committed to doing that next year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday.

The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday. According to the report, the increment in the budget will be announced by UK's Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt in the spring. According to the newspaper, as per the estimate of military experts, the budget of the Ministry of Defence must increase from £48.6 billion to £50.1 billion in 2024-25 to avoid real-terms cut as the country's inflation continues to remain more than 10%. ALSO READ| UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating' In the autumn budget presented last month, Hunt said that the requirement of increasing the defence budget has been recognised by the government and confirmed that the budget will be maintained at least 2% of the gross domestic product in accordance with NATO. "We have one of the largest defence budgets in Europe and in 2020 we announced the biggest increase to defence spending since the Cold War," said a government spokesperson while speaking to Reuters. The spokesperson further stated that any increase in the defence budget will be considered in the next integrated review's part, which will also lay out the country's foreign policy, security and defence priorities in the spring. WATCH| WION Dispatch: UK economy shrinking more than expected The announcement of an increase in defence spending will be seen as Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's victory, who was pushing hard for this in the past year. Royal United Services Institute's deputy director-general Prof Malcolm Chalmers, while speaking to The Telegraph said, “It looks as if the Chancellor in his Spring Budget will provide enough money to maintain the core defence budget in real terms over the next two years. And indeed the Government has already committed to doing that next year.” (With inputs from agencies)

Britain to increase defence spending by more than £1 billion: report

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea.

Prompting widespread horror among the public, recent discharges of sewage into popular river and sea bathing areas have caused activists to raise an alarm over waters shared with the European Union.

Several members of parliament have complained to the European Commission about British sewage allegedly being poured into the bloc's water bodies.

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Requiring them to invest £56 billion ($66 billion) over 25 years to improve infrastructure such as storm overflows, the UK government on Friday announced the "toughest targets ever" for water companies.

Britons have expressed frustration over the plan as some of that cost will be passed onto customers through bills.

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We're announcing the largest infrastructure programme in water company history to crack down on sewage spills and end pollution. 
 
Read more about our Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan: <a href="https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu">https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnvironmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnvironmentAct</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sewage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sewage</a> <a href="https://t.co/4nBxtUGoOm">pic.twitter.com/4nBxtUGoOm</a>
— Defra UK (@DefraGovUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefraGovUK/status/1563139910525407232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While untreated wastewater goes directly into watercourses or the sea, storm channels are conduits used during heavy rain to prevent sewers from becoming overfull.

Criticising the plan, 'The Rivers Trust' charity said it was "too little, too late" and environment spokesman for the Liberal Democratic Party Tim Farron called it a "cruel joke".

''You could argue that governments down the decades should have prioritised this,'' said environment secretary George Eustice.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea.

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea. Prompting widespread horror among the public, recent discharges of sewage into popular river and sea bathing areas have caused activists to raise an alarm over waters shared with the European Union. Several members of parliament have complained to the European Commission about British sewage allegedly being poured into the bloc's water bodies. × Requiring them to invest £56 billion ($66 billion) over 25 years to improve infrastructure such as storm overflows, the UK government on Friday announced the "toughest targets ever" for water companies. Britons have expressed frustration over the plan as some of that cost will be passed onto customers through bills. We're announcing the largest infrastructure programme in water company history to crack down on sewage spills and end pollution. Read more about our Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan: https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu#EnvironmentAct #Sewage pic.twitter.com/4nBxtUGoOm — Defra UK (@DefraGovUK) August 26, 2022 × While untreated wastewater goes directly into watercourses or the sea, storm channels are conduits used during heavy rain to prevent sewers from becoming overfull. Criticising the plan, 'The Rivers Trust' charity said it was "too little, too late" and environment spokesman for the Liberal Democratic Party Tim Farron called it a "cruel joke". ''You could argue that governments down the decades should have prioritised this,'' said environment secretary George Eustice. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Environmentalists slam British government for releasing sewage into rivers, sea

Iran's state television and news agency have reported that the country's revolutionary guards have arrested several foreign diplomats including a British national. These diplomats have been accused of espionage however the British government was quick to deny these allegations claiming that none of their personnel had been detained.

Iran's revolutionary guard arrests diplomats accused of spying

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-malvika-bansod-beats-chinas-hue-yan-in-a-thriller-to-enter-second-round-468569">Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round</a>

Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles.

"We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement.

"This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-indias-lakshya-sen-sweats-it-out-versus-choi-ji-hoon-to-earn-hard-fought-win-468547">Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win</a>

"We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May."

British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London.

He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete.

Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May. Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation." ALSO READ: Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles. "We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement. "This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis. ALSO READ: Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win "We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May." British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London. He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete. Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus

The British government has supported a parliamentary committee's recommendation to limit public funding for cricket unless the sport can demonstrate continuous progress in getting rid of racism, it said on Thursday.

The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport parliamentary committee issued its report in January, saying cricket must clean up its act or face cuts in funding.

Former Yorkshire spinner Azeem Rafiq, who is of Pakistani descent, appeared before the committee in November to detail the "inhuman" treatment he suffered at county level and said the sport in England was institutionally racist.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-aus-3rd-test-steve-smith-achieves-new-feat-becomes-quickest-to-reach-8000-run-club-465215">Pak vs Aus, 3rd Test: Steve Smith achieves new feat, becomes quickest to reach 8000-run club</a>

"Public funding is already explicitly linked to the development and implementation of robust diversity and inclusion policies and plans - in cricket and beyond," the government said.

"The Government and Sport England has left the ECB (England &amp; Wales Cricket Board) in no doubt on the need to make progress in this regard."

The committee had also called for quarterly reports and monitoring by indicators developed by the ECB, which the government has now endorsed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-aakash-chopra-picks-csks-playing-xi-for-season-opener-vs-kkr-465227">IPL 2022: Aakash Chopra picks CSK's playing XI for season-opener vs KKR</a>

"The Government will continue to call in the ECB quarterly and track their progress in tackling racism and increasing diversity, and will hold them to account for delivery against the joint 12-point action plan published in November 2021," it added.

"We expect to see evidence of improvements across the sport and delivery on the ECB's ambition to eradicate racism from cricket.

"However, if these changes are not made and implemented, the Government reserves the right to intervene further. This has been made clear to the ECB and the first-class counties."

The British government has supported a parliamentary committee's recommendation to limit public funding for cricket unless the sport can demonstrate continuous progress in getting rid of racism, it said on Thursday.

The British government has supported a parliamentary committee's recommendation to limit public funding for cricket unless the sport can demonstrate continuous progress in getting rid of racism, it said on Thursday. The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport parliamentary committee issued its report in January, saying cricket must clean up its act or face cuts in funding. Former Yorkshire spinner Azeem Rafiq, who is of Pakistani descent, appeared before the committee in November to detail the "inhuman" treatment he suffered at county level and said the sport in England was institutionally racist. ALSO READ: Pak vs Aus, 3rd Test: Steve Smith achieves new feat, becomes quickest to reach 8000-run club "Public funding is already explicitly linked to the development and implementation of robust diversity and inclusion policies and plans - in cricket and beyond," the government said. "The Government and Sport England has left the ECB (England & Wales Cricket Board) in no doubt on the need to make progress in this regard." The committee had also called for quarterly reports and monitoring by indicators developed by the ECB, which the government has now endorsed. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Aakash Chopra picks CSK's playing XI for season-opener vs KKR "The Government will continue to call in the ECB quarterly and track their progress in tackling racism and increasing diversity, and will hold them to account for delivery against the joint 12-point action plan published in November 2021," it added. "We expect to see evidence of improvements across the sport and delivery on the ECB's ambition to eradicate racism from cricket. "However, if these changes are not made and implemented, the Government reserves the right to intervene further. This has been made clear to the ECB and the first-class counties."

UK govt backs calls to limit funding unless ECB demonstrate continuous progress in getting rid of racism

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday.

Chelsea will not receive any revenue from the ticket sales, the DCMS added, with all proceeds going to relevant competition organisers.

Premier League Chelsea were unable to sell tickets due to British government restrictions after sanctions were imposed on the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-receive-declarations-of-interest-from-britain-ireland-russia-turkey-to-host-euro-2028-465143">UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028</a>

"Since Roman Abramovich was added to the UK's sanctions list for his links to (Russian president) Vladimir Putin, we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced," sports minister Nigel Huddleston said.

"I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible."

Chelsea cannot sell tickets to home fans for home league games but away supporters will be able to buy tickets for matches at Stamford Bridge, with revenue going to the Premier League.

The club will be able to sell tickets for their Champions League quarter-final at home to Real Madrid on April 6 and the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Crystal Palace 10 days later.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-bidders-shortlist-to-be-cut-to-three-nick-candy-increases-bid-464477">Chelsea bidders shortlist to be cut to three, Nick Candy increases bid</a>

"Revenue will go via the Premier League to the relevant competition organiser or home club rather than Chelsea FC in order to remain compliant with current sanctions," the government added.

Chelsea season-ticket holders and those supporters who bought tickets before the sanctions can attend Premier League home games, but an exception has been made for fixtures in the Women`s Super League as "there is a risk of empty stands for these matches".

Additionally, Chelsea supporters can purchase tickets for away Premier League games with all proceeds going to the host team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-liverpool-to-play-man-city-in-semis-after-close-1-0-win-against-nottingham-palace-to-face-chelsea-464272">FA Cup: Liverpool to play Man City in semis after close 1-0 win against Nottingham, Palace to face Chelsea</a>

Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club.

The club's sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group, which plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three.

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday.

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday. Chelsea will not receive any revenue from the ticket sales, the DCMS added, with all proceeds going to relevant competition organisers. Premier League Chelsea were unable to sell tickets due to British government restrictions after sanctions were imposed on the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ: UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028 "Since Roman Abramovich was added to the UK's sanctions list for his links to (Russian president) Vladimir Putin, we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced," sports minister Nigel Huddleston said. "I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible." Chelsea cannot sell tickets to home fans for home league games but away supporters will be able to buy tickets for matches at Stamford Bridge, with revenue going to the Premier League. The club will be able to sell tickets for their Champions League quarter-final at home to Real Madrid on April 6 and the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Crystal Palace 10 days later. ALSO READ: Chelsea bidders shortlist to be cut to three, Nick Candy increases bid "Revenue will go via the Premier League to the relevant competition organiser or home club rather than Chelsea FC in order to remain compliant with current sanctions," the government added. Chelsea season-ticket holders and those supporters who bought tickets before the sanctions can attend Premier League home games, but an exception has been made for fixtures in the Women`s Super League as "there is a risk of empty stands for these matches". Additionally, Chelsea supporters can purchase tickets for away Premier League games with all proceeds going to the host team. ALSO READ: FA Cup: Liverpool to play Man City in semis after close 1-0 win against Nottingham, Palace to face Chelsea Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. The club's sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group, which plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three.

Chelsea allowed to sell tickets after UK govt amends licence

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence.

While Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff, they cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-opens-disciplinary-proceedings-against-psg-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-after-3-1-defeat-to-real-madrid-461293">UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi after 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid</a>

"It's not a situation all the employees at Chelsea are responsible for. One man is and that's (Russian president) Vladimir Putin," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.

"I don't know about Roman Abramovich's role in all this but you can say he is close. I think what the government did is right."

Abramovich has denied having close ties with Putin.

While the future of many Chelsea players remains in doubt, Klopp has his own problems with Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah yet to sign a new deal that will extend his stay at Anfield beyond 2023.

Salah is once again the league's top scorer with 19 goals so far, with another eight in the Champions League.

"Mo expects this club to be ambitious. We cannot do much more, it is Mo's decision," Klopp said.

"It's all fine from my point of view. Nothing happened further, no signing or rejection. We just have to wait, there's no rush."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-intent-on-leaving-manchester-united-has-held-talks-with-agent-jorge-mendes-report-461260">Cristiano Ronaldo intent on leaving Manchester United, has held talks with agent Jorge Mendes - Report</a>

Klopp also praised new signing Luis Diaz's impact, with the Colombian winger now fully settled into the squad and starting games regularly.

"It has been surprisingly quick. When you sign a player, you never know how quick it will go," Klopp added. "You get what you see in training in the games. It has been brilliant so far."

Liverpool are six points behind leaders Manchester City but Klopp's side have a game in hand.

"It's hard work but the boys are ready. We will try everything, but we cannot call it a title race because we are still behind. We try to win football games, but let's see," Klopp said.

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence. While Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff, they cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way. ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi after 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid "It's not a situation all the employees at Chelsea are responsible for. One man is and that's (Russian president) Vladimir Putin," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Brighton & Hove Albion. "I don't know about Roman Abramovich's role in all this but you can say he is close. I think what the government did is right." Abramovich has denied having close ties with Putin. While the future of many Chelsea players remains in doubt, Klopp has his own problems with Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah yet to sign a new deal that will extend his stay at Anfield beyond 2023. Salah is once again the league's top scorer with 19 goals so far, with another eight in the Champions League. "Mo expects this club to be ambitious. We cannot do much more, it is Mo's decision," Klopp said. "It's all fine from my point of view. Nothing happened further, no signing or rejection. We just have to wait, there's no rush." ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo intent on leaving Manchester United, has held talks with agent Jorge Mendes - Report Klopp also praised new signing Luis Diaz's impact, with the Colombian winger now fully settled into the squad and starting games regularly. "It has been surprisingly quick. When you sign a player, you never know how quick it will go," Klopp added. "You get what you see in training in the games. It has been brilliant so far." Liverpool are six points behind leaders Manchester City but Klopp's side have a game in hand. "It's hard work but the boys are ready. We will try everything, but we cannot call it a title race because we are still behind. We try to win football games, but let's see," Klopp said.

UK govt right to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp

Anyone interested in buying Chelsea Football Club can approach the British government and make a proposal, the government&nbsp;said on Friday after it sanctioned current owner Roman Abramovich and halted his planned sale of the club.

"As the license conditions are written today, the sale would not be allowed," Britain's technology minister Chris Philp told Sky News.

"However, if a buyer emerged it would be open to that buyer or to that football club to approach the government and ask for the conditions to be varied in a way that allows that sale to take place."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelsea-ignore-off-field-turmoil-to-beat-norwich-city-3-1-461210">Premier League: Chelsea ignore off-field turmoil to beat Norwich City 3-1</a>

The government, which has been under pressure to ramp up sanctions on Russian oligarchs after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine late last month, imposed a travel ban and froze the assets owned by Abramovich on Thursday.

The announcement effectively brought to a halt his recently-announced plans to sell the West London football club, which he had expected to fetch more than three billion pounds ($3.93 billion).

Separately, London-listed Russian steelmaker Evraz, in which Abramovich is the largest shareholder with a 28.6% stake according to Refinitiv Eikon, said on Friday its entire board had quit.

Anyone interested in buying Chelsea Football Club can approach the British government and make a proposal, the government said on Friday after it sanctioned current owner Roman Abramovich and halted his planned sale of the club.

Anyone interested in buying Chelsea Football Club can approach the British government and make a proposal, the government said on Friday after it sanctioned current owner Roman Abramovich and halted his planned sale of the club. "As the license conditions are written today, the sale would not be allowed," Britain's technology minister Chris Philp told Sky News. "However, if a buyer emerged it would be open to that buyer or to that football club to approach the government and ask for the conditions to be varied in a way that allows that sale to take place." ALSO READ: Premier League: Chelsea ignore off-field turmoil to beat Norwich City 3-1 The government, which has been under pressure to ramp up sanctions on Russian oligarchs after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine late last month, imposed a travel ban and froze the assets owned by Abramovich on Thursday. The announcement effectively brought to a halt his recently-announced plans to sell the West London football club, which he had expected to fetch more than three billion pounds ($3.93 billion). Separately, London-listed Russian steelmaker Evraz, in which Abramovich is the largest shareholder with a 28.6% stake according to Refinitiv Eikon, said on Friday its entire board had quit.

Anyone interested in buying Chelsea can approach British government, says minister Chris Philp

The British government has launched a new initiative urging smokers to quit saying that teenagers whose parents smoke are four times more likely to do so.

Known as the 'Better Health Smoke-Free' campaign, it is calling on smokers to discard the&nbsp;unhealthy&nbsp;habit as a new year resolution.

The initiative highlights the impact adult smokers have on younger people.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-government-announces-bold-new-smokefree-2025-action-plan-to-curb-smoking-435490/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per the data released by the campaign, 4.9 per cent of teenagers whose parents smoke have adopted the habit as well.&nbsp;

However, only 1.2 per cent of teenagers whose caregivers do not smoke initiated to do so.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quitting-smoking-might-reduce-severe-coronavirus-infection-risk-says-study-299646">Also read |&nbsp;Quitting smoking might reduce severe coronavirus infection risk, says study</a>

In Britain, the National Health Service (NHS) has released an educational film on the subject.

In the movie, Professor Nick Hopkinson and Dr Anthony Laverty from Imperial College London appear as a child psychologist and smoking cessation experts and request parents to quit smoking.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-652000-people-have-started-smoking-in-pandemic-study-408282">Also read |&nbsp;Nearly 652,000 people have started smoking in pandemic: Study</a>

"We know many people make a quit attempt in January, and while there are so many good reasons to stop smoking for yourself, we hope that this new campaign - by highlighting the inter-generational smoking link with parents influencing their children - will be the added motivation many need to ditch the cigarettes for good this year," said Health minister Maggie Throup.

"With so much help and support available for parents, carers and anyone looking to quit - including the NHS Quit Smoking app, support on Facebook, daily emails and texts, and an online Personal Quit Plan - you won't be alone in your new year's resolution."

Health authorities welcomed the initiative, while retailers and tobacco companies expressed concern about the impact on their businesses and warned of the emergence of a black market.

Like the United Kingdom, New Zealand has set goals to go smoke-free by 2030 while Canada and Sweden have targets to bring down smoking prevalence to less than 5 per cent of their populations.

(With inputs from agencies)

The British government has launched a new initiative urging smokers to quit saying that teenagers whose parents smoke are four times more likely to do so. Known as the 'Better Health Smoke-Free' campaign, it is calling on smokers to discard the unhealthy habit as a new year resolution.

The British government has launched a new initiative urging smokers to quit saying that teenagers whose parents smoke are four times more likely to do so. Known as the 'Better Health Smoke-Free' campaign, it is calling on smokers to discard the unhealthy habit as a new year resolution. The initiative highlights the impact adult smokers have on younger people. As per the data released by the campaign, 4.9 per cent of teenagers whose parents smoke have adopted the habit as well. However, only 1.2 per cent of teenagers whose caregivers do not smoke initiated to do so. Also read | Quitting smoking might reduce severe coronavirus infection risk, says study In Britain, the National Health Service (NHS) has released an educational film on the subject. In the movie, Professor Nick Hopkinson and Dr Anthony Laverty from Imperial College London appear as a child psychologist and smoking cessation experts and request parents to quit smoking. Also read | Nearly 652,000 people have started smoking in pandemic: Study "We know many people make a quit attempt in January, and while there are so many good reasons to stop smoking for yourself, we hope that this new campaign - by highlighting the inter-generational smoking link with parents influencing their children - will be the added motivation many need to ditch the cigarettes for good this year," said Health minister Maggie Throup. "With so much help and support available for parents, carers and anyone looking to quit - including the NHS Quit Smoking app, support on Facebook, daily emails and texts, and an online Personal Quit Plan - you won't be alone in your new year's resolution." Health authorities welcomed the initiative, while retailers and tobacco companies expressed concern about the impact on their businesses and warned of the emergence of a black market. Like the United Kingdom, New Zealand has set goals to go smoke-free by 2030 while Canada and Sweden have targets to bring down smoking prevalence to less than 5 per cent of their populations. (With inputs from agencies)

British government launches initiative that urges people to quit smoking

Britain said on Friday it would add Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan, and the Philippines to its travel "red list", banning entry to people arriving from those countries unless they are British or Irish nationals.

Those who come to Britain from countries on the red list will be refused entry while returning Britons must submit to 10 days of mandatory quarantine in hotels.

From 4 a.m. on April 9, Pakistan, Kenya, the Philippines, and Bangladesh will be put on the list, the government said, joining about three dozen other nations mainly in Africa, the Middle East, and South America.

There have been calls for the inclusion of some European countries where COVID-19 cases have surged, but the government has said it currently has no plans to do so.

A group of British lawmakers on Friday warned ministers against introducing "divisive and discriminatory" vaccine passports after Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed the scheme.

The group of more than 70 MPs -- including former leaders of both the main parties -- warned that vaccine passports could be used to "deny individuals access to general services, businesses or jobs".

They spoke out after the prime minister on Thursday said the documents would be "useful" adding that "there's definitely going to be a world in which international travel will use vaccine passports".

Earlier this week, Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour party,&nbsp;&nbsp;said if virus deaths and hospital admissions fall very low, "the British instinct... will be against vaccine passports".

The concept has won support internationally, particularly from countries dependent on tourism such as Greece.

The EU has proposed a digital European vaccine pass.

The UK has already given more than 31 million people, or more than 45 percent of the population, a first dose of a coronavirus vaccine, the second highest proportion in the world, behind Israel.

It aims to offer the whole population a first vaccine dose by the end of July.

Greece and Cyprus already have vaccination passports specifically for travel to and from Israel, which has fully vaccinated over 55 percent of its population.

From next week, Denmark is set to allow people to go to hairdressers and beauty salons if they use&nbsp;a smartphone app showing a negative test, vaccination or recent recovery from the virus.

Britain said on Friday it would add Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan, and the Philippines to its travel "red list", banning entry to people arriving from those countries unless they are British or Irish nationals.

Britain said on Friday it would add Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan, and the Philippines to its travel "red list", banning entry to people arriving from those countries unless they are British or Irish nationals. Those who come to Britain from countries on the red list will be refused entry while returning Britons must submit to 10 days of mandatory quarantine in hotels. From 4 a.m. on April 9, Pakistan, Kenya, the Philippines, and Bangladesh will be put on the list, the government said, joining about three dozen other nations mainly in Africa, the Middle East, and South America. There have been calls for the inclusion of some European countries where COVID-19 cases have surged, but the government has said it currently has no plans to do so. A group of British lawmakers on Friday warned ministers against introducing "divisive and discriminatory" vaccine passports after Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed the scheme. The group of more than 70 MPs -- including former leaders of both the main parties -- warned that vaccine passports could be used to "deny individuals access to general services, businesses or jobs". They spoke out after the prime minister on Thursday said the documents would be "useful" adding that "there's definitely going to be a world in which international travel will use vaccine passports". Earlier this week, Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour party, said if virus deaths and hospital admissions fall very low, "the British instinct... will be against vaccine passports". The concept has won support internationally, particularly from countries dependent on tourism such as Greece. The EU has proposed a digital European vaccine pass. The UK has already given more than 31 million people, or more than 45 percent of the population, a first dose of a coronavirus vaccine, the second highest proportion in the world, behind Israel. It aims to offer the whole population a first vaccine dose by the end of July. Greece and Cyprus already have vaccination passports specifically for travel to and from Israel, which has fully vaccinated over 55 percent of its population. From next week, Denmark is set to allow people to go to hairdressers and beauty salons if they use a smartphone app showing a negative test, vaccination or recent recovery from the virus.

Britain adds Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan, Philippines to 'red list'

Pakistan is among a number of countries flagged as using luxury properties and precious jewellery as a guise for funnelling "dirty money" to the UK by an official report collated by the British authorities.

The 'National risk assessment of money laundering and terrorist financing 2020' analysis, compiled by the UK Treasury and Home Office and released this month, finds that criminals continue to purchase high-value assets, such as real estate, precious gems and jewellery to launder illicit funds, which are transferred from Pakistan to the UK and vice versa.

"This includes proceeds from corruption and drug trafficking. The risk from cash-based money laundering from the UK to Pakistan via smuggled cash and MSBs [money service businesses] also persists," it reveals.

"In 2018 Pakistan was nominated to the FATF's [Financial Action Task Force] list of jurisdictions with strategic anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CTF) deficiencies, known as the 'grey list', due to widespread CTF deficiencies -- Pakistan failed to complete the FATF action plan resulting from their nomination to the 'grey list' by the required deadline of October 2019, it notes.

While the FATF acknowledged "notable improvements" in the months following, they also warned that should significant and sustainable progress not be made when next reviewed then the FATF could call on its members to advise their financial institutions to give special attention to business relations and transactions with Pakistan, the report warns.

"The UK, as a member of FATF, continues to closely monitor for sustained and timely efforts. The UK also continues to support Pakistan, including with capacity-building assistance, to help Pakistani authorities meet their commitments," it adds.

Besides Pakistan, the other countries referenced in the report include China, Hong Kong, Russia and the UAE.

The UK property market is seen as a particularly attractive area for dubious overseas fund flows.

"The high amounts of money that can be moved in one transaction and the appreciation in value, along with the enhanced lifestyle, makes them very attractive to criminals," the report notes.

The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) has expanded its use of Unexplained Wealth Orders to freeze several multimillion-pound homes in London while it investigates how the money used to buy them was obtained.

As an example, the report highlights how in December 2019 the NCA negotiated a settlement with a Pakistani national to return funds and property valued at approximately 190 million pounds to Pakistan.

"This success would not have been possible without the close cooperation between UK and Pakistan law enforcement agencies," it concluded.

The regular review of the risks associated with financial transactions finds that the use of complex systems of shell companies registered overseas in secrecy jurisdictions obscured ownership and made it hard to find out where the money really came from.

Pakistan is among a number of countries flagged as using luxury properties and precious jewellery as a guise for funnelling "dirty money" to the UK by an official report collated by the British authorities.

Pakistan is among a number of countries flagged as using luxury properties and precious jewellery as a guise for funnelling "dirty money" to the UK by an official report collated by the British authorities. The 'National risk assessment of money laundering and terrorist financing 2020' analysis, compiled by the UK Treasury and Home Office and released this month, finds that criminals continue to purchase high-value assets, such as real estate, precious gems and jewellery to launder illicit funds, which are transferred from Pakistan to the UK and vice versa. "This includes proceeds from corruption and drug trafficking. The risk from cash-based money laundering from the UK to Pakistan via smuggled cash and MSBs [money service businesses] also persists," it reveals. "In 2018 Pakistan was nominated to the FATF's [Financial Action Task Force] list of jurisdictions with strategic anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CTF) deficiencies, known as the 'grey list', due to widespread CTF deficiencies -- Pakistan failed to complete the FATF action plan resulting from their nomination to the 'grey list' by the required deadline of October 2019, it notes. While the FATF acknowledged "notable improvements" in the months following, they also warned that should significant and sustainable progress not be made when next reviewed then the FATF could call on its members to advise their financial institutions to give special attention to business relations and transactions with Pakistan, the report warns. "The UK, as a member of FATF, continues to closely monitor for sustained and timely efforts. The UK also continues to support Pakistan, including with capacity-building assistance, to help Pakistani authorities meet their commitments," it adds. Besides Pakistan, the other countries referenced in the report include China, Hong Kong, Russia and the UAE. The UK property market is seen as a particularly attractive area for dubious overseas fund flows. "The high amounts of money that can be moved in one transaction and the appreciation in value, along with the enhanced lifestyle, makes them very attractive to criminals," the report notes. The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) has expanded its use of Unexplained Wealth Orders to freeze several multimillion-pound homes in London while it investigates how the money used to buy them was obtained. As an example, the report highlights how in December 2019 the NCA negotiated a settlement with a Pakistani national to return funds and property valued at approximately 190 million pounds to Pakistan. "This success would not have been possible without the close cooperation between UK and Pakistan law enforcement agencies," it concluded. The regular review of the risks associated with financial transactions finds that the use of complex systems of shell companies registered overseas in secrecy jurisdictions obscured ownership and made it hard to find out where the money really came from.

Pakistan funnelling drug and corruption money to the UK: British government report

The British government on Thursday revealed that a combine rescue package of £300 million ($396 million) will be given to 11 sports hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sport in the UK has suffered massive financial ramifications as a result of matches being played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus.

The financial support is set to be largely in the form of loans, the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said.

Rugby Union will be at the receiver’s end of the biggest single amount, with £135 million earmarked for the sport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-agrees-new-manchester-city-deal-till-summer-of-2023-344109" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola agrees new Manchester City deal till summer of 2023</a>

Of that, £44 million will go to the Rugby Football Union, £59 million to Premiership Rugby clubs, £9 million to clubs in the Championship and £23 million to clubs below the Championship.

Horse racing will receive £40 million to support racecourses. Football’s Nation’s League will get £11 million to cover the period between January and the end of March.

The Rugby Football League will have another further £12 million, topping up the £16 million announced in May to safeguard rugby league's future.

Owners and authorities of major motor-sports circuits will get combined of £6 million, the Lawn Tennis Association will get £5 million and England Netball will receive £2 million.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-madness-lionel-messi-on-being-blamed-for-all-problems-at-barcelona-344083" hreflang="en">'It's madness': Lionel Messi on being blamed for all problems at Barcelona</a>

However, the package does not have the men’s professional football despite the public fact about the financial difficulties of Football League clubs as the Government expects the Premier League to provide financial help.&nbsp;

Cricket is not included in Thursday's announcement.&nbsp;

Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "Over the past few weeks we have worked tirelessly with sport governing bodies and clubs across the country to fully assess what support is needed, as a result of the decision to postpone the return of fans.

"We know the vast majority of sports - many of which operate on tight financial margins - have been making serious cost reductions, such as locking down grounds, taking up the furlough scheme for many staff and halting excess payments."

(With AFP Inputs) 
&nbsp;

The British government on Thursday revealed that a combine rescue package of £300 million ($396 million) will be given to 11 sports hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The British government on Thursday revealed that a combine rescue package of £300 million ($396 million) will be given to 11 sports hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sport in the UK has suffered massive financial ramifications as a result of matches being played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus. The financial support is set to be largely in the form of loans, the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said. Rugby Union will be at the receiver’s end of the biggest single amount, with £135 million earmarked for the sport. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola agrees new Manchester City deal till summer of 2023 Of that, £44 million will go to the Rugby Football Union, £59 million to Premiership Rugby clubs, £9 million to clubs in the Championship and £23 million to clubs below the Championship. Horse racing will receive £40 million to support racecourses. Football’s Nation’s League will get £11 million to cover the period between January and the end of March. The Rugby Football League will have another further £12 million, topping up the £16 million announced in May to safeguard rugby league's future. Owners and authorities of major motor-sports circuits will get combined of £6 million, the Lawn Tennis Association will get £5 million and England Netball will receive £2 million. ALSO READ: 'It's madness': Lionel Messi on being blamed for all problems at Barcelona However, the package does not have the men’s professional football despite the public fact about the financial difficulties of Football League clubs as the Government expects the Premier League to provide financial help. Cricket is not included in Thursday's announcement. Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "Over the past few weeks we have worked tirelessly with sport governing bodies and clubs across the country to fully assess what support is needed, as a result of the decision to postpone the return of fans. "We know the vast majority of sports - many of which operate on tight financial margins - have been making serious cost reductions, such as locking down grounds, taking up the furlough scheme for many staff and halting excess payments." (With AFP Inputs)

British government provides $396 million rescue package to COVID-19-hit sport

The British government has given&nbsp;the green light to a&nbsp;controversial road tunnel project near the prehistoric Stonehenge site.

The&nbsp;$2.2&nbsp;billion&nbsp;tunnel project&nbsp;includes a new dual carriageway with a two-mile&nbsp;tunnel&nbsp;beside&nbsp;Stonehenge and&nbsp;aims&nbsp;at hiding a nearby main&nbsp;road&nbsp;that has long blighted the mysterious prehistoric circle of stones in southern England.

England's highways agency believes&nbsp;the&nbsp;road&nbsp;beside&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;is a congestion hotspot with traffic flow double what it was designed for, and that the&nbsp;tunnel&nbsp;amounts to the biggest investment in English&nbsp;roads for a generation.

However, as per a report,&nbsp;the decision was taken by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and it conflicts with the suggestions of the Planning Inspectorate, which had cautioned about the "lasting" and "irreversible" hurt which can emerge from the task.

According to the Department for Transport, Shapps was supposed to be "fulfilled that on balance the need case for the improvement along with different advantages distinguished exceed any damage."

Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments, includes a 5,000-year-old ditch and a Neolithic stone circle with early Bronze Age burial mounds nearby. It is a World Heritage Site.

Some archaeologists and local residents oppose the&nbsp;project.&nbsp;They say the&nbsp;tunnel&nbsp;is too short and will damage the archaeological surroundings of&nbsp;Stonehenge. They have called for a deep-bored&nbsp;tunnel&nbsp;at least 4.5 km (3 miles) long.

The&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;Alliance, which opposes the&nbsp;project, said it deeply regretted Shapps' decision and would discuss its options. There is now a six-week period in which the decisions may be challenged in the High Court, Highways England said.

The British government has given the green light to a controversial road tunnel project near the prehistoric Stonehenge site. The $2.2 billion tunnel project includes a new dual carriageway with a two-mile tunnel beside Stonehenge and aims at hiding a nearby main road that has long blighted the mysterious prehistoric circle of stones in southern England.

The British government has given the green light to a controversial road tunnel project near the prehistoric Stonehenge site. The $2.2 billion tunnel project includes a new dual carriageway with a two-mile tunnel beside Stonehenge and aims at hiding a nearby main road that has long blighted the mysterious prehistoric circle of stones in southern England. England's highways agency believes the road beside Stonehenge is a congestion hotspot with traffic flow double what it was designed for, and that the tunnel amounts to the biggest investment in English roads for a generation. However, as per a report, the decision was taken by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and it conflicts with the suggestions of the Planning Inspectorate, which had cautioned about the "lasting" and "irreversible" hurt which can emerge from the task. According to the Department for Transport, Shapps was supposed to be "fulfilled that on balance the need case for the improvement along with different advantages distinguished exceed any damage." Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments, includes a 5,000-year-old ditch and a Neolithic stone circle with early Bronze Age burial mounds nearby. It is a World Heritage Site. Some archaeologists and local residents oppose the project. They say the tunnel is too short and will damage the archaeological surroundings of Stonehenge. They have called for a deep-bored tunnel at least 4.5 km (3 miles) long. The Stonehenge Alliance, which opposes the project, said it deeply regretted Shapps' decision and would discuss its options. There is now a six-week period in which the decisions may be challenged in the High Court, Highways England said.

British government approves controversial road tunnel project near Stonehenge

The 2020-21 season of English National League will begin on Saturday after the fifth-tier competition secured significant financial support from the British government, the league announced on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-sadio-mane-tests-positive-for-covid-19-332245" hreflang="en">Liverpool's Sadio Mane tests positive for Covid-19</a>

According to British media, the National League had secured a 10 million pounds ($12.93 million) grant over the next three months after negotiations between the league, FA and the government.

The fundings by the government is to compensate the losses faced by clubs in the league after the fans were banned amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The National League has now received confirmation of significant financial grant-aid support from the Government to compensate clubs for essential revenue lost from fans not returning in October..." the league said in a statement https://www.thenationalleague.org.uk/national-league-statement-commencement-of-202021-s-63856.

"The 2020/21 National League season will now commence on Oct. 3 as planned with clubs playing 'behind closed doors' in compliance with the elite sport protocols,"

The 2020-21 season of English National League will begin on Saturday after the fifth-tier competition secured significant financial support from the British government, the league announced on Friday.

The 2020-21 season of English National League will begin on Saturday after the fifth-tier competition secured significant financial support from the British government, the league announced on Friday. Also read: Liverpool's Sadio Mane tests positive for Covid-19 According to British media, the National League had secured a 10 million pounds ($12.93 million) grant over the next three months after negotiations between the league, FA and the government. The fundings by the government is to compensate the losses faced by clubs in the league after the fans were banned amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "The National League has now received confirmation of significant financial grant-aid support from the Government to compensate clubs for essential revenue lost from fans not returning in October..." the league said in a statement https://www.thenationalleague.org.uk/national-league-statement-commencement-of-202021-s-63856. "The 2020/21 National League season will now commence on Oct. 3 as planned with clubs playing 'behind closed doors' in compliance with the elite sport protocols,"

England's fifth-tier league to kick-off after government funding

Britain's public debt went above 2 trillion pounds ($2.65 trillion) for the first time in July as the government ramped up public spending to cope with the coronavirus pandemic and tax revenues fell, official data showed on Friday.

Net debt, excluding public banks, rose to 2.004 trillion pounds ($2.66 trillion), up by nearly 230 billion pounds from July 2019 and equivalent to 100.5% of Britain's economic output, its highest since 1961.

Borrowing in the April-July period, the first four months of the financial year, surged to 150.5 billion pounds, almost three times borrowing by the government during the previous financial year as a whole, the Office for National Statistics said.

In July alone, borrowing excluding public sector banks was 26.7 billion pounds, slightly less than the median forecast in a Reuters poll of economists. But in July last year, the budget was in surplus by about 1.6 billion pounds, boosted by receipts of income tax which typically fall in the month.

"Today’s figures are a stark reminder that we must return our public finances to a sustainable footing over time, which will require taking difficult decisions," finance minister Rishi Sunak said.

Debt as a share of gross domestic product was also pushed up by the sharp contraction in the size of Britain's economy during the coronavirus lockdown, the ONS said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Britain's public debt went above 2 trillion pounds ($2.65 trillion) for the first time in July as the government ramped up public spending to cope with the coronavirus pandemic and tax revenues fell, official data showed on Friday.

Britain's public debt went above 2 trillion pounds ($2.65 trillion) for the first time in July as the government ramped up public spending to cope with the coronavirus pandemic and tax revenues fell, official data showed on Friday. Net debt, excluding public banks, rose to 2.004 trillion pounds ($2.66 trillion), up by nearly 230 billion pounds from July 2019 and equivalent to 100.5% of Britain's economic output, its highest since 1961. Borrowing in the April-July period, the first four months of the financial year, surged to 150.5 billion pounds, almost three times borrowing by the government during the previous financial year as a whole, the Office for National Statistics said. In July alone, borrowing excluding public sector banks was 26.7 billion pounds, slightly less than the median forecast in a Reuters poll of economists. But in July last year, the budget was in surplus by about 1.6 billion pounds, boosted by receipts of income tax which typically fall in the month. "Today’s figures are a stark reminder that we must return our public finances to a sustainable footing over time, which will require taking difficult decisions," finance minister Rishi Sunak said. Debt as a share of gross domestic product was also pushed up by the sharp contraction in the size of Britain's economy during the coronavirus lockdown, the ONS said.

British public debt tops 2 trillion pounds for first time

UK has reimposed a lockdown on the city of Leicester which has a much higher COVID-19 infection rate as compared to anywhere else in the country. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: UK reimposes lockdown on virus-hit city Leicester

The British government is considering to reimpose lockdown in Leicester after a recent surge in COVID-19 infections. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: British city Leicester to face lockdown as cases surge

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