Faith schools in England may no longer have to offer a proportion of their places to children who do not follow their religion, according to the plans being considered by Downing Street.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government is reportedly exploring a repeal of the cap that was implemented by former Prime Minister David Cameron's government in 2010.&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The individuals reportedly involved in the formulation of new policies for faith schools also constitute the committee for making manifesto of the Conservative Party for January 2025 General Elections.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-uk-sunaks-conservatives-on-course-for-worse-general-election-result-than-1997-survey-707714">In UK, Sunak's Conservatives on course for worse general election result than 1997: Survey</a>

There are suggestions that repealing the cap could be a key Conservative education pledge, The Times newspaper reported.&nbsp;

But other sources cited by the newspaper&nbsp;have suggested that No 10 is in advanced discussions about the policy and is expected to lift the cap before Rishi Sunak calls a general election.

<h2>What is '50 per cent rule'?</h2>

The cap introduced by Prime Minister David Cameron's government in 2010 required new free schools and academies of a religious character to advertise half of their places openly, without any reference to the faith of the applicants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obamas-private-meeting-with-uk-pm-sunak-fuels-maga-theory-701674">Obama’s ‘private’ meeting with UK PM Sunak sparks various speculations</a>

It applies only in areas where schools are oversubscribed and was intended to stop local children missing out on places at good schools because of their faith or lack of it.

About 850,000 children are educated in Catholic schools across England and Wales. The Catholic schools, therefore, are the largest provider of secondary education and the second-largest provider of primary education in England.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;UK: No change in UK PM Rishi Sunak's net approval ratings

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The proposal to repeal the 50 per cent rule was repeated in the Conservative's 2017 election manifesto. But it never materialised after Prime Minister Theresa May's loss of party majority.

(With inputs from agencies)

Faith schools in England may no longer have to offer a proportion of their places to children who do not follow their religion, according to the plans being considered by Downing Street.

Faith schools in England may no longer have to offer a proportion of their places to children who do not follow their religion, according to the plans being considered by Downing Street. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government is reportedly exploring a repeal of the cap that was implemented by former Prime Minister David Cameron's government in 2010. What does it mean? The individuals reportedly involved in the formulation of new policies for faith schools also constitute the committee for making manifesto of the Conservative Party for January 2025 General Elections. Also read | In UK, Sunak's Conservatives on course for worse general election result than 1997: Survey There are suggestions that repealing the cap could be a key Conservative education pledge, The Times newspaper reported. But other sources cited by the newspaper have suggested that No 10 is in advanced discussions about the policy and is expected to lift the cap before Rishi Sunak calls a general election. What is '50 per cent rule'? The cap introduced by Prime Minister David Cameron's government in 2010 required new free schools and academies of a religious character to advertise half of their places openly, without any reference to the faith of the applicants. Also read | Obama’s ‘private’ meeting with UK PM Sunak sparks various speculations It applies only in areas where schools are oversubscribed and was intended to stop local children missing out on places at good schools because of their faith or lack of it. About 850,000 children are educated in Catholic schools across England and Wales. The Catholic schools, therefore, are the largest provider of secondary education and the second-largest provider of primary education in England. Also watch | UK: No change in UK PM Rishi Sunak's net approval ratings × The proposal to repeal the 50 per cent rule was repeated in the Conservative's 2017 election manifesto. But it never materialised after Prime Minister Theresa May's loss of party majority. (With inputs from agencies)

Conservative Rishi Sunak likely to repeal '50 per cent rule' in Faith schools

The YouGov model, which predicts results in individual parliamentary seats based on estimated vote share, projected that Sunak's Conservatives would win just 155 seats and Labour would win 403 seats. Britain's parliament has 650 seats.

Rishi Sunak's conservatives would win just 155 seats, survey shows

With less than eight months to go until an expected autumn UK general election, Rishi Sunak has a steep climb to avoid defeat. Support for the Conservatives has dropped to a low of 23 per cent. Watch in for more details!

Can Rishi Sunak stage biggest electoral comeback in decades?

More bad news for the UK's conservative party as a new poll that suggests that the Rishi Sunak-led party is on course for its worst election defeat ever. Watch to know more.

UK: Poll suggests conservatives set for worst election results

Two ministers submitted their resignations Tuesday in a blow to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, forcing him to appoint new names in a mini-reshuffle. Watch in for more details!

UK: Two more Tory ministers quits

Portugal is holding a snap parliamentary election, voting is currently underway in the country polling stations opened at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 7:00 p.m. local time. Results are expected around midnight. More than 10 million citizens are eligible to vote in this election. The choice is between Center left Socialist Party Center right Social Democratic party and a far right Chega party. Watch to know more!

Portugal heads for political instability, Parliament fails to elect speaker

Rishi Sunak has insisted that the Conservatives are united despite rampant speculation about a plot to replace him as prime minister before the general election.

UK PM Rishi Sunak insists Tories are ‘absolutely united’

Rishi Sunak insists Tories are ‘absolutely united’ despite rumoured plot to depose him

Portugal: Conservatives declare victory winning 79 seats, Chega party wins 48 seats

Support for the governing Conservative Party has fallen to the lowest level in more than four decades as a general election draws nearer in an opinion poll published on Monday. Watch in for more details!

UK: Tory approval ratings hit lowest mark

Support for the governing Conservative Party has fallen to the lowest level in more than four decades as a general election draws nearer in an opinion poll published on Monday.

UK: Poll shows Tories plunging to lowest support in 46 years

UK Conservatives' support lowest in 46 years, shows new poll

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been urged to break his silence over a mounting row about Islamophobia as senior Conservatives criticised the "dangerous" rhetoric of the party's former deputy chair.

UK: Tory peer urges Rishi Sunak to speak out of Islamophobia row

Lee Anderson has been suspended from the Conservative Party after drawing widespread criticism for claiming that "Islamists" have "got control" of London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

UK: Tory MP Lee Anderson stripped of party whip post

In a big embarrassment to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, his Conservative party has lost two seats to the Labour Party in a key by-election. This comes after UK slipped into recession, again, under Sunak's leadership. Some Tories now want Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson to come back. Will Sunak make way?

Gravitas: Is Boris Johnson making a comeback?

A fresh civil war has erupted within the Conservatives after a top ally called for Rishi Sunak to be sacked and replaced. Sunak is facing questions over his leadership among members of the party.

UK: Former Advisor to Conservatives accused of plotting against Rishi Sunak

A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated.&nbsp;

Rishi Sunak, who took over the helm of affairs in the UK after Boris Johnson's exit triggered by the 'partygate' scandal and Liz Truss' inability to steer the economy in a better direction, is reportedly being targeted by individuals linked to Suella Braverman, Robert Jenrick and Jacob Rees-Mogg.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak

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Sir Jacob William Rees-Mogg is a British politician and member of the Conservative Party serving as the Member of Parliament for North East Somerset since 2010. While Suella Braverman is a Conservative heavyweight who served as Home Secretary under Prime Minister Liz Truss and is widely seen as a rival to Sunak&nbsp;within the Conservative Party circles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-at-centre-of-tory-breakdown-over-secret-election-talks-with-dominic-cummings-675371">UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings</a>

Robert Jenrick served as Minister of State for Immigration from 2022 to 2023 and is reported to be the person who stirred opposition to Sunak's much-debated Rwanda plan to combat illegal immigration in the United Kingdom.

<h2>Spotlight on Tories' showing in May 2024 by-elections</h2>

The Times report claimed that potential&nbsp;poor performance in May's local elections could be the cue to strike Sunak by individuals linked with his Tory colleagues. These colleagues, such as Braverman, are&nbsp;deemed antagonistic towards Sunak.&nbsp;

The report added that while Sunak's position is safe for now, those plotting to get rid of him are preparing for a campaign of attrition between now and the local elections on May 2.&nbsp;

The May by-elections are expected to be the "moment of maximum" danger for the UK prime minister.&nbsp;

One senior Tory leader told the publication: "There was a school of thought that Simon Clarke had jumped and expected others to follow and been surprised that no one else had. That is not the case. I expect there to be a constant dribble of people coming forward to call for a change in leadership in a bid to gradually destabilise Sunak in the run-up to the local elections. Once those are over, Sunak could face a challenge. Those who oppose him believe that things can’t get any worse and want him to take ownership of the mess before they seek to install a new leader."

(With inputs from agencies)

A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated.

A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated. Rishi Sunak, who took over the helm of affairs in the UK after Boris Johnson's exit triggered by the 'partygate' scandal and Liz Truss' inability to steer the economy in a better direction, is reportedly being targeted by individuals linked to Suella Braverman, Robert Jenrick and Jacob Rees-Mogg. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak × Sir Jacob William Rees-Mogg is a British politician and member of the Conservative Party serving as the Member of Parliament for North East Somerset since 2010. While Suella Braverman is a Conservative heavyweight who served as Home Secretary under Prime Minister Liz Truss and is widely seen as a rival to Sunak within the Conservative Party circles. Also read | UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings Robert Jenrick served as Minister of State for Immigration from 2022 to 2023 and is reported to be the person who stirred opposition to Sunak's much-debated Rwanda plan to combat illegal immigration in the United Kingdom. Spotlight on Tories' showing in May 2024 by-elections The Times report claimed that potential poor performance in May's local elections could be the cue to strike Sunak by individuals linked with his Tory colleagues. These colleagues, such as Braverman, are deemed antagonistic towards Sunak. The report added that while Sunak's position is safe for now, those plotting to get rid of him are preparing for a campaign of attrition between now and the local elections on May 2. The May by-elections are expected to be the "moment of maximum" danger for the UK prime minister. One senior Tory leader told the publication: "There was a school of thought that Simon Clarke had jumped and expected others to follow and been surprised that no one else had. That is not the case. I expect there to be a constant dribble of people coming forward to call for a change in leadership in a bid to gradually destabilise Sunak in the run-up to the local elections. Once those are over, Sunak could face a challenge. Those who oppose him believe that things can’t get any worse and want him to take ownership of the mess before they seek to install a new leader." (With inputs from agencies)

Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's aircraft broke down during a trip to Jamaica. This is the second time in four months that his official plane has risked stranding him overseas. The incident has once again raised questions about the country's crumbling infrastructure.

Gravitas: Trudeau's 'faulty' plane breaks down in Jamaica after India | Embarrassment for Canada's PM

Samir Shah, the incoming chair of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) told British Members of Parliament on Wednesday (Dec 13) that the tweets made by sports presenter Gary Lineker mocking Conservative Party MPs broke th news corporation's social media guidelines. Shah told the committee of MPs that the tweets appeared to be breaching the rules “on the face of it”.

Lineker had elicited praise as well as rebuke for signing a letter that urged the British government to scrap its deportation to Rwanda policy for illegal asylum seekers crossing the English Channel on boats. Along with Lineker, many other celebrities had signed the letter.

UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps subsequently told Lineker to "stick to football commentary". Lineker was also accused by Jonathan Gullis, a Conservative Party MP, of breaching BBC guidelines.

Watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak's Rwanda Migration Plan survives shutdown

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Lineker shot back at Shapps on X (formerly Twitter) the minister's images which purportedly showed him using three names: Michael Green, Corinne Stockheath and Sebastian Fox

“A tad rich coming from someone who can’t even stick to one name. 4 chaps Shapps,” said Lineker's post.

Shapps has previously denied claims that he was using these names.

Lineker also shot back at Gullis saying, “Jonathan hasn’t read the new guidelines….or, should I say, had someone read them to him?”

This was taken as an attempt to call Gullis illiterate.

<h2>Lineker's comments 'not very helpful'</h2>

On Wednesday, Shah told the committee of MPs that Lineker's comments “seem to breach those guidelines”.

“I don’t think it was very helpful either for Gary Lineker or the BBC or the cause he supports because it becomes a story about Gary Lineker and the BBC.” he said as quoted by The Independent.

“As far as I’m aware, the signing of the letter did not breach those guidelines," Shah said.

“But the more recent tweet in which he identifies a politician does, on the face of it, seem to breach those guidelines. I’m not sure how egregious it is but I imagine the BBC is looking into it and considering its response.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-ministry-of-defence-fined-440000-for-email-blunder-revealing-details-of-afghan-interpreters-669298">UK's Ministry of Defence fined $440,000 for email blunder revealing details of Afghan interpreters</a>

When the committee asked Shah what would he have done in this situation if he was BBC Chairman.

“I think it’s our duty to monitor and see how well guidelines are delivering their purpose,” said Shah.

Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indian-students-workers-to-be-affected-by-visa-rules-in-australia-uk-and-canada-heres-why-668656">Explained: How new visa rules in Australia, UK, Canada will adversely affect Indian students, workers</a>

Shah also said that he would invite Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC to “interrogate quite forcibly” to see if the social media guidelines were having the effect they are designed to have.

(With inputs from agencies)

Samir Shah, the incoming chair of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) told British Members of Parliament on Wednesday (Dec 13) that the tweets made by sports presenter Gary Lineker mocking Conservative Party MPs broke th news corporation's social media guidelines.

Samir Shah, the incoming chair of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) told British Members of Parliament on Wednesday (Dec 13) that the tweets made by sports presenter Gary Lineker mocking Conservative Party MPs broke th news corporation's social media guidelines. Shah told the committee of MPs that the tweets appeared to be breaching the rules “on the face of it”. Lineker had elicited praise as well as rebuke for signing a letter that urged the British government to scrap its deportation to Rwanda policy for illegal asylum seekers crossing the English Channel on boats. Along with Lineker, many other celebrities had signed the letter. UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps subsequently told Lineker to "stick to football commentary". Lineker was also accused by Jonathan Gullis, a Conservative Party MP, of breaching BBC guidelines. Watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak's Rwanda Migration Plan survives shutdown × Lineker shot back at Shapps on X (formerly Twitter) the minister's images which purportedly showed him using three names: Michael Green, Corinne Stockheath and Sebastian Fox “A tad rich coming from someone who can’t even stick to one name. 4 chaps Shapps,” said Lineker's post. Shapps has previously denied claims that he was using these names. Lineker also shot back at Gullis saying, “Jonathan hasn’t read the new guidelines….or, should I say, had someone read them to him?” This was taken as an attempt to call Gullis illiterate. Lineker's comments 'not very helpful' On Wednesday, Shah told the committee of MPs that Lineker's comments “seem to breach those guidelines”. “I don’t think it was very helpful either for Gary Lineker or the BBC or the cause he supports because it becomes a story about Gary Lineker and the BBC.” he said as quoted by The Independent. “As far as I’m aware, the signing of the letter did not breach those guidelines," Shah said. “But the more recent tweet in which he identifies a politician does, on the face of it, seem to breach those guidelines. I’m not sure how egregious it is but I imagine the BBC is looking into it and considering its response.” Also Read | UK's Ministry of Defence fined $440,000 for email blunder revealing details of Afghan interpreters When the committee asked Shah what would he have done in this situation if he was BBC Chairman. “I think it’s our duty to monitor and see how well guidelines are delivering their purpose,” said Shah. Read | Explained: How new visa rules in Australia, UK, Canada will adversely affect Indian students, workers Shah also said that he would invite Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC to “interrogate quite forcibly” to see if the social media guidelines were having the effect they are designed to have. (With inputs from agencies)

Incoming BBC chair says Gary Lineker's posts on Tory MPs broke social media rules

Britain's ruling Conservative Party is in disarray after its Immigration Minister quit over legislation regarding sending migrants to Rwanda. Hardliners are turning the screw on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The UK leader's position looks increasingly vulnerable after Robert Jenrick said he quit due to strong disagreements with direction of the government's policy on Immigration.

UK: Hardliners turn turn the screws on Rishi Sunak; Deep slits in Conservative Party? | WION

Rishi Sunak's immigration policy and its success is likely to be a key part of the fortunes of the Conservative Party going forward and now that ruling party is in a dilemma after its Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick resigned.

UK: Rwanda plan at centre of Sunak's immigration policy; Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick resigns

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing pressure to resign or be forced out of the leadership of the Liberal Party due to his declining popularity in opinion polls.

Canada PM Justin Trudeau's declining popularity in opinion polls

A conservative MP in the UK has been suspended from the Commons for six weeks after he was found guilty of bullying and sexually assaulting a former staffer.

Peter Bone from the Wellingborough constituency allegedly exposed himself to an aide and physically struck him between 2012 and 2013.

MPs voted in favour of his suspension, meaning that a by-election will be held now on his seat, which could very well flip to Labour amid the Tory’s dipping popularity.

The Conservative Party had already withdrawn the whip from Bone, meaning he would not be able to stand for re-election as a Tory candidate and he currently sits as an independent.

Peter Bone has denied the allegations.

<h2>Reactions</h2>

Labour party has called on the Tory MP to tender his resignation. "The people of Wellingborough deserve an MP they can be proud of. The country deserves the change that only Labour can bring," said Labour's shadow leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Rishi Sunak completes one year in office, his popularity dips to an all-time low | Race to Power

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On the other hand, Tory MP Philip Hollobone said it was “a very sad day” for the parliament.

"Peter has been an outstanding MP for 18 years, he has helped tens of thousands of local residents with difficulties they've had - that it should come to an end like this I think it is very sad for all concerned," he said.

<h2>About Peter Bone</h2>

Bone has been an MP since 2005. In the last general election, Bone won a majority of 18,540 - which is smaller than the Tory majorities overturned by Labour in October in both Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire in 2019.

In July 2022, he was appointed to the job of deputy Commons leader by then PM Boris Johnson, which involves handling how complaints of bullying are dealt with.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/about-200-afghan-refugees-to-relocate-from-pakistan-to-uk-on-charter-flights-on-oct-26-651419">Also read:&nbsp;About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26</a>

Earlier in 2018, the Conservative party launched an investigation into the grave allegations against him, but it was dropped midway after "the complainant withdrew from the process.”

<h2>Statement from Bone’s victim</h2>

The victim was quoted by BBC as saying that the actions of Peter Bone left him a "broken shell of the young man I once was".

It was on the basis of his appeal that the investigation into&nbsp;Bone was launched. The MP demanded the investigation be scrapped, arguing it had been flawed.

His appeal was, however, dismissed.

(With inputs from agencies)

A conservative MP in the UK has been suspended from the Commons for six weeks after he was found guilty of bullying and sexually assaulting a former staffer. Peter Bone from the Wellingborough constituency allegedly exposed himself to an aide and physically struck him between 2012 and 2013.

A conservative MP in the UK has been suspended from the Commons for six weeks after he was found guilty of bullying and sexually assaulting a former staffer. Peter Bone from the Wellingborough constituency allegedly exposed himself to an aide and physically struck him between 2012 and 2013. MPs voted in favour of his suspension, meaning that a by-election will be held now on his seat, which could very well flip to Labour amid the Tory’s dipping popularity. The Conservative Party had already withdrawn the whip from Bone, meaning he would not be able to stand for re-election as a Tory candidate and he currently sits as an independent. Peter Bone has denied the allegations. Reactions Labour party has called on the Tory MP to tender his resignation. "The people of Wellingborough deserve an MP they can be proud of. The country deserves the change that only Labour can bring," said Labour's shadow leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell. Watch: UK: Rishi Sunak completes one year in office, his popularity dips to an all-time low | Race to Power × On the other hand, Tory MP Philip Hollobone said it was “a very sad day” for the parliament. "Peter has been an outstanding MP for 18 years, he has helped tens of thousands of local residents with difficulties they've had - that it should come to an end like this I think it is very sad for all concerned," he said. About Peter Bone Bone has been an MP since 2005. In the last general election, Bone won a majority of 18,540 - which is smaller than the Tory majorities overturned by Labour in October in both Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire in 2019. In July 2022, he was appointed to the job of deputy Commons leader by then PM Boris Johnson, which involves handling how complaints of bullying are dealt with. Also read: About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26 Earlier in 2018, the Conservative party launched an investigation into the grave allegations against him, but it was dropped midway after "the complainant withdrew from the process.” Statement from Bone’s victim The victim was quoted by BBC as saying that the actions of Peter Bone left him a "broken shell of the young man I once was". It was on the basis of his appeal that the investigation into Bone was launched. The MP demanded the investigation be scrapped, arguing it had been flawed. His appeal was, however, dismissed. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Conservative MP suspended for bullying, sexually assaulting staffer

The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a number of proposals on Wednesday (Oct 4) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester ranging from raising the smoking age by one year every year to lifetime imprisonment for sadistic sexual crimes.

The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a number of proposals on Wednesday (Oct 4) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester ranging from raising the smoking age by one year every year to lifetime imprisonment for sadistic sexual crimes. One of the most significant points emerged to be the full-life terms for "sexual and sadistic murders". The British PM described some crimes as "so heinous," that those who commit these crimes should spend the rest of their lives in prison. "So I can confirm that we will legislate for sexual and sadistic murderers to carry a full life term with no prospect of release," he added. 'Man is a man and a woman is a woman' Sunak further said it should not be "controversial for parents to know what their children are being taught in school about relationships." "We shouldn't get bullied into believing that people can be any sex they want to be, they can't. A man is a man and a woman is a woman, that's just common sense," he said. The annual Tory conference is akin to the National Executive meets conducted annually in India by the country's principal political parties; Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress. Also read | Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book 'Smoke free generation' Calling for a "smoke free generation", Sunak said that his government plans to raise the smoking age in the United Kingdom by one year every year. This implies that tobacco will never be legally sold to children aged 14 or less. "So I propose that in future we raise the smoking age by one year every year, that means a 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they and their generation can grow up smoke-free," Sunak said. Also watch | UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces pressure over tax cuts, HS2 rail link × Small boat crossings are 'the evil': Rishi Sunak Referring to the issue of illegal migration, which routinely occurs why English Channel crossings via small boats, the British Prime Minister said that his government's policies are focused to curb such forms of entries into the United Kingdom. "It is non-negotiable that you, the British people, decide who comes here and not criminal gangs," he said, adding that they have a moral obligation to defeat "this evil, and we will." Small boat crossings are for the first time down 20 per cent this year, he noted. "Entry into Europe is up. We are by no means where we want to be but don't let anyone tell you we aren't making progress. We are and we will get there." Touching on the controversial Rwanda plan – sending illegal migrants to third countries – Sunak backed the plan, saying it will bring a decline in English Channel crossings. "Now I'm confident that once flights start going regularly to Rwanda, the boats will stop coming." According to official data, a record 45,756 migrants crossed the Channel to the UK in 2022. 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.

Rishi Sunak announces jail without parole for sadistic sexual crimes

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party, is favored by 41% of respondents in an Ipsos survey to be the prime minister of Canada. Support for Trudeau is still 31%.

Conservative party continues to gain popularity in Canada, Trudeau's popularity declines

Senior leaders of the Conservative Party have urged British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to use his next manifesto to address the party's unpopularity among young voters. According to a report by The Guardian early Sunday (September 17), there are concerns that the party could be sunk without any action to win over voters below the age of 40.&nbsp; 
 
There is also mounting anxiety among moderate Tories that the party is failing to prioritise net zero and help for renters that could attract younger voters.

Tom Tugendhat, the minister of state for security, warned that the Conservative Party can no longer sit around and assume that voters will simply turn to the party as they get older.&nbsp;

Addressing a gathering last week, Tugendha said, "There isn’t a Conservative in the country that doesn’t believe the opportunity for people to have a home, a family – whatever that family looks like – is vital and we need to be the party of aspiration, helping people achieve that ideal with Conservative policies."

“There are areas where we can be doing more, especially when it comes to young people and the next generation," Tugendha added. The minister also said that the Tories need to ensure that young people "have those opportunities to help them get ahead and we can’t leave them behind."

He pointed out that any offer to young voters had to include sticking with the party’s commitments to achieving net zero by 2050, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;

The minister's comments come as the latest Opinium poll revealed that the Labour Party maintained a 15-point lead over the Conservatives. The results showed that Labour had a 46-point lead among voters aged between 18 and 34.

Echoing Tugendhat's concerns, former minister Stephen Hammond said, "It is difficult to disagree with Tom’s comments. If we don’t have policies that resonate with the next generation of voters we are sunk."

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Senior leaders of the Conservative Party have urged British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to use his next manifesto to address the party's unpopularity among young voters.

Senior leaders of the Conservative Party have urged British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to use his next manifesto to address the party's unpopularity among young voters. According to a report by The Guardian early Sunday (September 17), there are concerns that the party could be sunk without any action to win over voters below the age of 40. There is also mounting anxiety among moderate Tories that the party is failing to prioritise net zero and help for renters that could attract younger voters. Tom Tugendhat, the minister of state for security, warned that the Conservative Party can no longer sit around and assume that voters will simply turn to the party as they get older. Addressing a gathering last week, Tugendha said, "There isn’t a Conservative in the country that doesn’t believe the opportunity for people to have a home, a family – whatever that family looks like – is vital and we need to be the party of aspiration, helping people achieve that ideal with Conservative policies." “There are areas where we can be doing more, especially when it comes to young people and the next generation," Tugendha added. The minister also said that the Tories need to ensure that young people "have those opportunities to help them get ahead and we can’t leave them behind." He pointed out that any offer to young voters had to include sticking with the party’s commitments to achieving net zero by 2050, The Guardian reported. The minister's comments come as the latest Opinium poll revealed that the Labour Party maintained a 15-point lead over the Conservatives. The results showed that Labour had a 46-point lead among voters aged between 18 and 34. Echoing Tugendhat's concerns, former minister Stephen Hammond said, "It is difficult to disagree with Tom’s comments. If we don’t have policies that resonate with the next generation of voters we are sunk." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK: Senior Tories urge PM Sunak to address party's unpopularity among young voters

The UK government is set to secure a deal with the European Union. The deal talks about cooperation between the UK and the EU's Border Protection Agency.

UK MPs grill Sunak in Parliament for not securing tougher stance against Russia in G20

The conservative party is in split over reports of a Chinese spy in Westminster. Some senior conservative members are demanding to categorize China as a threat while some in the cabinet are warning that by doing so the UK could incur losses in business opportunities.

UK Conservative party in split over China spy row

Conservative Party MP Chris Pincher has tendered his resignation, as he lost his appeal against an eight-week suspension from the Commons Standards Committee after groping allegations.

Conservative Party MP Chris Pincher has tendered his resignation, as he lost his appeal against an eight-week suspension from the Commons Standards Committee after groping allegations. This necessitates yet another by-election that, if the Conservatives lose it, will put additional pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. After probing the accusations and verifying whether the ex-deputy chief whip caused "significant damage to the reputation of the House," the Commons declared the sanction in July. The move implies a by-election in Pincher's constituency of Tamworth in Staffordshire, which has a conservative majority of roughly 20,000, PA news agency reported. Pincher did not plead against the breach. He argued to the Independent Expert Panel (IEP) that the punishment was disproportionate. However, the IEP upheld the sanction, calling his arguments "misconceived or erroneous." In June 2022, Chris Pincher stepped down as deputy chief whip after he was accused of groping two men while drinking at the Carlton Club in central London. Later, he was suspended by the Conservative Party. "I have said already I will not stand at the next general election," he stated in his resignation on Thursday, September 7. "However, following the Independent Expert Panel's decision. I wanted to talk to my office team and family," he added. ALSO READ | PM Modi's 12-point plan: India-ASEAN connectivity a viable alternative to China's BRI Pincher has comfortably won the Tamworth seat since 2010. In the last general election, he won by 19,634 votes. He called Tamworth "a wonderful place" and said that it was an honour to represent its people. He said, "I do not want my constituents to be put to further uncertainty, and so, in consequence, I have made arrangements to resign and leave the Commons." "I shall make no further comment at this time," said Pincher. The by-election might come as bad news to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak after a line of damaging losses in the elections in 2023. Ex-culture secretary Nadine Dorries' harsh exit from the Commons last week has already opened up a contest in Mid Bedfordshire for October 19. Pincer's accusations also led to Boris Johnson's downfall. He appointed Pincer to a government position despite knowing about the investigation three years earlier. After the Commons released their report in July, Pincher said he had "sought professional medical help." The report said, "Pincher's conduct had been 'completely inappropriate, profoundly damaging to the individuals concerned, and represented an abuse of power.'" The Conservative Party has held the Tamworth seat since 1931. Dorries held on to it in 2019 by 24,664 votes over second-place Labour. However, the Tories are sceptical of any electoral test after a sustained period in which national polling has put the party far behind the Labour Party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK: Tory ex-whip Chris Pincher steps down as MP after losing appeal against Commons suspension over groping

Birmingham, the second-largest city in the United Kingdom with the country’s largest local authority, declared itself bankrupt, on Tuesday (September 5) after issuing a section 114 notice which indicates that it does not have enough resources to balance its books. However, the leader of the city’s council has insisted that vital services are safe.

<h2>‘Long-standing issues’</h2>

The opposition Labour-run council in central England has also blamed Conservative governments for years of underfunding as it scrambles to settle a 760 million pound (US$980 million) bill for equal pay claims.

In the meantime, Birmingham City Council has issued a Section 114 Notice under the Local Government Finance Act 1988, which essentially blocks all spending other than essential services that it is obligated to provide by law, including&nbsp;social care, waste collection and protecting the vulnerable.

The city council has also attributed their current predicament to “long-standing issues”, like installing a new IT system and one billion pounds (US$ 1.3 billion) worth of budget cuts over the past decade under successive Conservative governments.&nbsp;

“Like local authorities across the country, it is clear that Birmingham city council faces unprecedented financial challenges,” said the leader and the deputy leader of the Labour-run council John Cotton and Sharon Thompson, in a statement, as quoted by the Guardian.&nbsp;

It went on to list huge increases in adult social care demand, “dramatic reductions” in business rates income and “rampant inflation,” which created “a perfect storm” that the local government faces. &nbsp;

Cotton also said “tough and robust decisions” would be made amid fears that the budget cuts could affect the city’s roads, parks, and libraries. However, the Tory members on the council have blamed Labour’s mismanagement of public finances of the city which is home to over one million people.

During a council meeting, on Tuesday, Robert Alden, the leader of the Conservative opposition, accused the council of “lying to the people of Birmingham” and called their supposed claim of the city “facing a golden decade” under the Labour leadership “fools’ gold.”&nbsp;

<h2>A ‘concerning situation’: Downing Street 
&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Downing Street has called the situation “concerning” for residents. The government is doing its part and will provide an additional 5.1 billion pounds (US$ 6.4 billion) to councils in 2023-24, said British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s official spokesperson, adding that it would also be a more than nine per cent increase for Birmingham city council.&nbsp;

He added that “clearly it’s for locally elected councils to manage their own budgets”, and that the government had expressed concern about “their governance arrangements”. Furthermore, the British government has also “requested assurances from the leader of the council about the best use of taxpayers’ money”.

But he did go on to acknowledge that Birmingham had a “particular issue” with equal pay settlements and that the ministers had “commissioned an independent governance review which will report in the coming weeks”.&nbsp;

Croydon Council in south London issued a Section 114 notice in November last year after more than 100 million pounds black hole in its budget. In December, Thurrock Council in Essex, east of London had also declared itself in financial distress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Birmingham, the second-largest city in the United Kingdom with the country’s largest local authority, declared itself bankrupt, on Tuesday (September 5) after issuing a section 114 notice which indicates that it does not have enough resources to balance its books.

Birmingham, the second-largest city in the United Kingdom with the country’s largest local authority, declared itself bankrupt, on Tuesday (September 5) after issuing a section 114 notice which indicates that it does not have enough resources to balance its books. However, the leader of the city’s council has insisted that vital services are safe. ‘Long-standing issues’ The opposition Labour-run council in central England has also blamed Conservative governments for years of underfunding as it scrambles to settle a 760 million pound (US$980 million) bill for equal pay claims. In the meantime, Birmingham City Council has issued a Section 114 Notice under the Local Government Finance Act 1988, which essentially blocks all spending other than essential services that it is obligated to provide by law, including social care, waste collection and protecting the vulnerable. The city council has also attributed their current predicament to “long-standing issues”, like installing a new IT system and one billion pounds (US$ 1.3 billion) worth of budget cuts over the past decade under successive Conservative governments. “Like local authorities across the country, it is clear that Birmingham city council faces unprecedented financial challenges,” said the leader and the deputy leader of the Labour-run council John Cotton and Sharon Thompson, in a statement, as quoted by the Guardian. It went on to list huge increases in adult social care demand, “dramatic reductions” in business rates income and “rampant inflation,” which created “a perfect storm” that the local government faces. Cotton also said “tough and robust decisions” would be made amid fears that the budget cuts could affect the city’s roads, parks, and libraries. However, the Tory members on the council have blamed Labour’s mismanagement of public finances of the city which is home to over one million people. During a council meeting, on Tuesday, Robert Alden, the leader of the Conservative opposition, accused the council of “lying to the people of Birmingham” and called their supposed claim of the city “facing a golden decade” under the Labour leadership “fools’ gold.” A ‘concerning situation’: Downing Street Meanwhile, Downing Street has called the situation “concerning” for residents. The government is doing its part and will provide an additional 5.1 billion pounds (US$ 6.4 billion) to councils in 2023-24, said British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s official spokesperson, adding that it would also be a more than nine per cent increase for Birmingham city council. He added that “clearly it’s for locally elected councils to manage their own budgets”, and that the government had expressed concern about “their governance arrangements”. Furthermore, the British government has also “requested assurances from the leader of the council about the best use of taxpayers’ money”. But he did go on to acknowledge that Birmingham had a “particular issue” with equal pay settlements and that the ministers had “commissioned an independent governance review which will report in the coming weeks”. Croydon Council in south London issued a Section 114 notice in November last year after more than 100 million pounds black hole in its budget. In December, Thurrock Council in Essex, east of London had also declared itself in financial distress. (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.

UK: Second-largest city Birmingham’s council declares itself bankrupt

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