The EU on Friday formally established its first standalone border force, boosting the Frontex service with a new permanent corps that will number 10,000 officers by 2027.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-singapore-trade-deal-takes-effect-on-november-21-260881">The adoption by EU</a> member states means Frontex,&nbsp;the border and coast guard agency for the bloc's Schengen area,&nbsp;will have personnel wearing its uniform and on its payroll who can be deployed to the EU's external borders to handle crises or general management.

Frontex currently has up to 1,500 officers active at any time but they are seconded to the agency by member states for short missions, along with ships and aircraft.

The EU regulation adopted Friday also expands the agency's mandate, which "will allow Frontex to play a bigger role in supporting member states in border control, on returns and in cooperating with third countries," said Maria Ohisalo, interior minister of Finland, which presently holds the EU's rotating presidency.

'First uniformed service'

Frontex, whose headquarters is in Poland's capital Warsaw, has been called on to handle numerous migration situations, most notably in 2015 when a million asylum-seekers entered the EU, many of them Syrians fleeing war.

While the number of migrants has fallen under a 2016 deal done with neighbouring Turkey, threats from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to "open the gates" once more have raised alarm in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-concerned-by-iran-nuclear-enrichment-announcement-260166">EU capitals</a>.

Frontex says its new corps will be "Europe's first uniformed service",&nbsp;a boast affirming the EU's goal to build integrated security institutions to match its economic and political heft.&nbsp;

Last month, it launched its first recruitment drive for more than 700 border guards who will be operational in January 2021.

"The agency will provide support at the request of the member state concerned or on its own initiative and in agreement with the member state concerned," the European Council said in a statement.

The Schengen area comprises 22 of the EU's 28 member states, with four more,&nbsp;Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania,&nbsp;due to be included in the future. Two EU countries have opt-outs from the area: Ireland and Brexit-bound Britain.

Another four <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-top-court-rules-poland-broke-rule-of-law-with-judicial-reforms-260119">European countries</a> outside the EU but with close relations with it,&nbsp;Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland,&nbsp;are also part of the Schengen area.

Frontex's budget has swelled steadily in the 14 years of its existence and will jump 26 per cent from this year to next to stand at 421 million euros ($464 million).

The EU on Friday formally established its first standalone border force, boosting the Frontex service with a new permanent corps that will number 10,000 officers by 2027.

The EU on Friday formally established its first standalone border force, boosting the Frontex service with a new permanent corps that will number 10,000 officers by 2027. The adoption by EU member states means Frontex, the border and coast guard agency for the bloc's Schengen area, will have personnel wearing its uniform and on its payroll who can be deployed to the EU's external borders to handle crises or general management. Frontex currently has up to 1,500 officers active at any time but they are seconded to the agency by member states for short missions, along with ships and aircraft. The EU regulation adopted Friday also expands the agency's mandate, which "will allow Frontex to play a bigger role in supporting member states in border control, on returns and in cooperating with third countries," said Maria Ohisalo, interior minister of Finland, which presently holds the EU's rotating presidency. 'First uniformed service' Frontex, whose headquarters is in Poland's capital Warsaw, has been called on to handle numerous migration situations, most notably in 2015 when a million asylum-seekers entered the EU, many of them Syrians fleeing war. While the number of migrants has fallen under a 2016 deal done with neighbouring Turkey, threats from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to "open the gates" once more have raised alarm in EU capitals. Frontex says its new corps will be "Europe's first uniformed service", a boast affirming the EU's goal to build integrated security institutions to match its economic and political heft. Last month, it launched its first recruitment drive for more than 700 border guards who will be operational in January 2021. "The agency will provide support at the request of the member state concerned or on its own initiative and in agreement with the member state concerned," the European Council said in a statement. The Schengen area comprises 22 of the EU's 28 member states, with four more, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania, due to be included in the future. Two EU countries have opt-outs from the area: Ireland and Brexit-bound Britain. Another four European countries outside the EU but with close relations with it, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, are also part of the Schengen area. Frontex's budget has swelled steadily in the 14 years of its existence and will jump 26 per cent from this year to next to stand at 421 million euros ($464 million).

European Union establishes standalone border force to boost Frontex service

A landmark trade deal between the EU and Singapore, a major hub for European businesses in Asia, will go into effect on November 21, a statement said on Friday.

Both sides have praised the deal as a strong rebuke to the rising protectionism that has been championed by US President Donald Trump in Washington.

Export powerhouse Singapore is by far the EU's largest trading partner in Southeast Asia, with total bilateral trade in goods of over 53 billion euros&nbsp;and another 51 billion euros of trade in services.&nbsp;

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker hailed the deal as "a building block towards a closer relationship between Europe and one of the most dynamic regions in the world," a statement said.

S&nbsp;Iswaran, Singapore's trade minister, said the deal's entry into force "is a strong signal by two like-minded partners on the need to continue upholding open and rules-based trade," Bloomberg reported.

The parties have also agreed an investment protection agreement, but this is more controversial as it sets up a special court to decide business conflicts.

After a successful battle spearheaded by environmentalists in Europe, this aspect of the deal will need the national ratification by the EU's 28 member states before entering into effect. That process that could years.

The deal with Singapore came after the EU suspended efforts to strike a bloc deal with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2009 amid widespread disagreements, including European concerns over Myanmar's human rights record.

The EU has instead pursued deals with individual ASEAN countries and has concluded a pact with Vietnam.

A landmark trade deal between the EU and Singapore, a major hub for European businesses in Asia, will go into effect on November 21, a statement said on Friday. Both sides have praised the deal as a strong rebuke to the rising protectionism that has been championed by US President Donald Trump in Washington.

A landmark trade deal between the EU and Singapore, a major hub for European businesses in Asia, will go into effect on November 21, a statement said on Friday. Both sides have praised the deal as a strong rebuke to the rising protectionism that has been championed by US President Donald Trump in Washington. Export powerhouse Singapore is by far the EU's largest trading partner in Southeast Asia, with total bilateral trade in goods of over 53 billion euros and another 51 billion euros of trade in services. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker hailed the deal as "a building block towards a closer relationship between Europe and one of the most dynamic regions in the world," a statement said. S Iswaran, Singapore's trade minister, said the deal's entry into force "is a strong signal by two like-minded partners on the need to continue upholding open and rules-based trade," Bloomberg reported. The parties have also agreed an investment protection agreement, but this is more controversial as it sets up a special court to decide business conflicts. After a successful battle spearheaded by environmentalists in Europe, this aspect of the deal will need the national ratification by the EU's 28 member states before entering into effect. That process that could years. The deal with Singapore came after the EU suspended efforts to strike a bloc deal with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2009 amid widespread disagreements, including European concerns over Myanmar's human rights record. The EU has instead pursued deals with individual ASEAN countries and has concluded a pact with Vietnam.

European Union-Singapore trade deal takes effect on November 21

The European Union(EU) today expressed concern over Iran's reported decision to deny accreditation of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-starts-injecting-uranium-gas-into-centrifuges-at-fordow-state-media-260336">UN nuclear inspector</a>.

In a statement, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-accuses-iran-of-nuclear-extortion-with-enrichment-step-260207">Iran's Atomic Energy organisation</a> said while entering the gate an "alarm" was triggered which led officials to believe the inspector was carrying a "suspect product".

As a result, she was denied entry, the agency added. "Iran's representative to the IAEA will present a full report on the matter," it said.

However, the Iranian atomic agency did not specify if anything suspicious was found on the inspector. The agency added she was sent back to IAEA in Vienna.

Meanwhile, the EU said it had "full confidence in the inspectorate's professionalism and impartiality."

"The EU is deeply concerned by the incident concerning one IAEA inspector. We understand that the incident was resolved and call upon Iran to ensure that no such incidents occur in the future," it said.

The incident comes even as the Rouhani government had declared that it had resumed uranium enrichment at its underground Fordow plant south of Tehran on Thursday. On Wednesday, Iran had announced that it had resumed enrichment at the Fordow plant from midnight (2030 GMT Wednesday), a move which was seen as a setback for the nuclear deal.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-escalates-the-nuclear-threat-260497/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Russian foreign minister Lavrov had expressed concern about Iran's announcement.

"They are demanding that Iran fulfil all (obligations) without exception but are not giving anything in return," Lavrov said.

The Kremlin has previously called sanctions against Iran "unprecedented and illegal".

"All these activities have been carried out under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency," the Iranian nuclear organisation said.

French President Emmanuel Macron had said Iran had made a "grave" decision as it took steps against the &nbsp;2015 nuclear agreement. Macron added that it was a "profound change" from Iran's earlier stand.

"A return to normal can only take place if the United States and Iran agree to reopen a sort of trust agenda and dialogue," Macron added.&nbsp;

Iran had earlier complained of &nbsp;"undue pressure" from the US and Israel over its nuclear programme after the IAEA had asked for promt reply to the agency's questions.

The European Union(EU) today expressed concern over Iran's reported decision to deny accreditation of a UN nuclear inspector. In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy organisation said while entering the gate an "alarm" was triggered which led officials to believe the inspector was carrying a "suspect product".

The European Union(EU) today expressed concern over Iran's reported decision to deny accreditation of a UN nuclear inspector. In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy organisation said while entering the gate an "alarm" was triggered which led officials to believe the inspector was carrying a "suspect product". As a result, she was denied entry, the agency added. "Iran's representative to the IAEA will present a full report on the matter," it said. However, the Iranian atomic agency did not specify if anything suspicious was found on the inspector. The agency added she was sent back to IAEA in Vienna. Meanwhile, the EU said it had "full confidence in the inspectorate's professionalism and impartiality." "The EU is deeply concerned by the incident concerning one IAEA inspector. We understand that the incident was resolved and call upon Iran to ensure that no such incidents occur in the future," it said. The incident comes even as the Rouhani government had declared that it had resumed uranium enrichment at its underground Fordow plant south of Tehran on Thursday. On Wednesday, Iran had announced that it had resumed enrichment at the Fordow plant from midnight (2030 GMT Wednesday), a move which was seen as a setback for the nuclear deal. Watch Video: Russian foreign minister Lavrov had expressed concern about Iran's announcement. "They are demanding that Iran fulfil all (obligations) without exception but are not giving anything in return," Lavrov said. The Kremlin has previously called sanctions against Iran "unprecedented and illegal". "All these activities have been carried out under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency," the Iranian nuclear organisation said. French President Emmanuel Macron had said Iran had made a "grave" decision as it took steps against the 2015 nuclear agreement. Macron added that it was a "profound change" from Iran's earlier stand. "A return to normal can only take place if the United States and Iran agree to reopen a sort of trust agenda and dialogue," Macron added. Iran had earlier complained of "undue pressure" from the US and Israel over its nuclear programme after the IAEA had asked for promt reply to the agency's questions.

'Deeply concerned' over Iran's decision to deny accreditation to IAEA inspector: EU

The European Union voiced concern Tuesday at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-resume-enrichment-at-underground-plant-hassan-rouhani-260070">Iran's announcement</a> that it would resume uranium enrichment at an underground plant, warning it is getting harder to preserve the 2015 nuclear deal.

An EU spokeswoman said it was becoming "increasingly difficult" to save the accord, which was abandoned by the US in May last year and which Iran has undercut with a series of recent moves to step up its nuclear activities.

After the US ditched the deal, it reimposed crippling sanctions, prompting Iran to begin suspending its own commitments.

President Hassan Rouhani said Tuesday that Iran would restart enrichment at the Fordow plant south of Tehran.

"We are concerned by President Rouhani's announcement today to further reduce Iran's commitments under the JCPOA," EU spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters, using an abbreviation for the deal's official title, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

"We urge Iran to reverse all activities that are inconsistent with its commitments under the JCPOA and to refrain from any further measures that would undermine the preservation and full implementation of the nuclear deal."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-decision-to-enrich-uranium-goes-against-vienna-agreement-france-260161">The three European parties to the accord</a>,&nbsp;France, Britain and Germany,&nbsp;along with the EU diplomatic service have tried to keep Iran in the deal despite the US sanctions.

But, to Tehran's mounting frustration, European efforts to create a way for foreign firms to keep trading with Iran have so far failed to have any significant impact.

Kocijancic said the EU remained committed to the deal but warned this depended on "full compliance" from Iran.

"High Representative Federica Mogherini said herself recently it is becoming increasingly difficult to preserve the JCPOA," Kocijancic warned.

Iranian pressure

EU foreign ministers will discuss the nuclear crisis along with the broader tensions in the Gulf at a regular meeting in Brussels on Monday, though no decision or formal statement on the matter is expected.

A key factor for EU countries is the assessment of Iran's latest actions by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which oversees Tehran's nuclear activities.

Rouhani's statement did not make it clear exactly what process would resume at Fordow on Wednesday, and the bloc will look to the IAEA for clarification.

Iran has sought to ratchet up the pressure on the European parties to the deal to do more to help its economy, which is struggling with the US sanctions, and officials in Brussels see this week's announcements as part of this pattern.

"They haven't really changed their approach. They are provocative but the measures they have taken up to now are reversible," one EU official said.

"But the longer they push it, this reversibility is going to disappear," &nbsp;the official warned.

The JCPOA, agreed in 2015 between Iran, the three European powers, Russia, China and the US, includes a mechanism for dealing with breaches, but so far this has not been used.

The European Union voiced concern Tuesday at Iran's announcement that it would resume uranium enrichment at an underground plant, warning it is getting harder to preserve the 2015 nuclear deal.

The European Union voiced concern Tuesday at Iran's announcement that it would resume uranium enrichment at an underground plant, warning it is getting harder to preserve the 2015 nuclear deal. An EU spokeswoman said it was becoming "increasingly difficult" to save the accord, which was abandoned by the US in May last year and which Iran has undercut with a series of recent moves to step up its nuclear activities. After the US ditched the deal, it reimposed crippling sanctions, prompting Iran to begin suspending its own commitments. President Hassan Rouhani said Tuesday that Iran would restart enrichment at the Fordow plant south of Tehran. "We are concerned by President Rouhani's announcement today to further reduce Iran's commitments under the JCPOA," EU spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters, using an abbreviation for the deal's official title, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "We urge Iran to reverse all activities that are inconsistent with its commitments under the JCPOA and to refrain from any further measures that would undermine the preservation and full implementation of the nuclear deal." The three European parties to the accord, France, Britain and Germany, along with the EU diplomatic service have tried to keep Iran in the deal despite the US sanctions. But, to Tehran's mounting frustration, European efforts to create a way for foreign firms to keep trading with Iran have so far failed to have any significant impact. Kocijancic said the EU remained committed to the deal but warned this depended on "full compliance" from Iran. "High Representative Federica Mogherini said herself recently it is becoming increasingly difficult to preserve the JCPOA," Kocijancic warned. Iranian pressure EU foreign ministers will discuss the nuclear crisis along with the broader tensions in the Gulf at a regular meeting in Brussels on Monday, though no decision or formal statement on the matter is expected. A key factor for EU countries is the assessment of Iran's latest actions by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which oversees Tehran's nuclear activities. Rouhani's statement did not make it clear exactly what process would resume at Fordow on Wednesday, and the bloc will look to the IAEA for clarification. Iran has sought to ratchet up the pressure on the European parties to the deal to do more to help its economy, which is struggling with the US sanctions, and officials in Brussels see this week's announcements as part of this pattern. "They haven't really changed their approach. They are provocative but the measures they have taken up to now are reversible," one EU official said. "But the longer they push it, this reversibility is going to disappear," the official warned. The JCPOA, agreed in 2015 between Iran, the three European powers, Russia, China and the US, includes a mechanism for dealing with breaches, but so far this has not been used.

European Union 'concerned' by Iran nuclear enrichment announcement

Poland broke European Union law when it lowered the retirement age for judges in 2017 and introduced a different retirement age for women and men in the profession, the EU's top court ruled on Tuesday.

The ruling dealt a further blow to the nationalist Polish government in a long-standing battle with the European Commission, which says Warsaw is breaking the rule of law in the country by undermining the independence of courts.

The ruling eurosceptic Law and Justice party passed a law in 2017 that lowered the retirement age of judges in ordinary courts and public prosecutors and the age for early retirement of Supreme Court judges, to 60 years for women and 65 years for men, from 67 for both sexes.

It also gave the justice minister, a politician from the ruling party, the power to extend the period of active service of judges in the ordinary courts beyond the new retirement ages.

The Commission, the EU's executive arm whose role is to safeguard law across the 28-nation bloc, said Poland's measures were contrary to EU law, and it sued Poland in the European Court of Justice.

"(Poland)... failed to fulfil its obligations under EU law, first, by establishing a different retirement age for men and women who were judges or public prosecutors in Poland and, second, by lowering the retirement age of judges of the ordinary courts while conferring on the Minister for Justice the power to extend the period of active service of those judges," the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled.

In a statement, Poland's Foreign Ministry hit back saying the ruling was unjustified since Warsaw had made amendments to the reforms in 2018 in order to address EU concerns.

Under the amendments, the new compulsory retirement age for judges was made the same for men and women, slowing down the process of retiring current judges.

Critics say the aim of the reform was to allow the PiS to replace judges with political appointees to gain greater control over the judiciary. The PiS has said it wanted to improve the efficiency of the justice system and remove residue from Poland's Communist era.

Should Poland fail to align itself with the ECJ ruling, the European Commission could file another request to levy a fine against Warsaw in the months to come.

On Monday the PiS-controlled lower house of parliament nominated three new judges to the Constitutional Tribunal - two of them former party lawmakers aged 67, and the other one a former deputy finance minister, aged 71.

"In accordance with current European Commission policy, the complaint should have been withdrawn after the amendments to the act came into effect. The failure to withdraw the complaint is not justified," the Foreign Ministry statement said.

Poland broke European Union law when it lowered the retirement age for judges in 2017 and introduced a different retirement age for women and men in the profession, the EU's top court ruled on Tuesday.

Poland broke European Union law when it lowered the retirement age for judges in 2017 and introduced a different retirement age for women and men in the profession, the EU's top court ruled on Tuesday. The ruling dealt a further blow to the nationalist Polish government in a long-standing battle with the European Commission, which says Warsaw is breaking the rule of law in the country by undermining the independence of courts. The ruling eurosceptic Law and Justice party passed a law in 2017 that lowered the retirement age of judges in ordinary courts and public prosecutors and the age for early retirement of Supreme Court judges, to 60 years for women and 65 years for men, from 67 for both sexes. It also gave the justice minister, a politician from the ruling party, the power to extend the period of active service of judges in the ordinary courts beyond the new retirement ages. The Commission, the EU's executive arm whose role is to safeguard law across the 28-nation bloc, said Poland's measures were contrary to EU law, and it sued Poland in the European Court of Justice. "(Poland)... failed to fulfil its obligations under EU law, first, by establishing a different retirement age for men and women who were judges or public prosecutors in Poland and, second, by lowering the retirement age of judges of the ordinary courts while conferring on the Minister for Justice the power to extend the period of active service of those judges," the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled. In a statement, Poland's Foreign Ministry hit back saying the ruling was unjustified since Warsaw had made amendments to the reforms in 2018 in order to address EU concerns. Under the amendments, the new compulsory retirement age for judges was made the same for men and women, slowing down the process of retiring current judges. Critics say the aim of the reform was to allow the PiS to replace judges with political appointees to gain greater control over the judiciary. The PiS has said it wanted to improve the efficiency of the justice system and remove residue from Poland's Communist era. Should Poland fail to align itself with the ECJ ruling, the European Commission could file another request to levy a fine against Warsaw in the months to come. On Monday the PiS-controlled lower house of parliament nominated three new judges to the Constitutional Tribunal - two of them former party lawmakers aged 67, and the other one a former deputy finance minister, aged 71. "In accordance with current European Commission policy, the complaint should have been withdrawn after the amendments to the act came into effect. The failure to withdraw the complaint is not justified," the Foreign Ministry statement said.

European Union top court rules Poland broke rule of law with judicial reforms

British MPs will on Monday select the new speaker of the House of Commons, once an unremarkable event but one now charged with significance following the previous occupant's role in Brexit.

Eight MPs are running to replace John Bercow, who placed himself front and centre of the Brexit saga by choosing amendments and introducing procedures that Leave-supporting MPs claimed were designed to frustrate Britain's departure from the European Union.

Bercow also faced accusations that he fostered a culture of bullying within parliament. But his colourful personality and eccentric performances in parliament gave him an international profile and raised the status of the office.

Lindsay Hoyle, Bercow's deputy since 2010, is the odds-on favourite to fill his shoes but other political heavyweights are also vying for the job.

Hoyle has been a Labour MP for 22 years and was Bercow's deputy from 2010, since when his distinctive Lancashire accent has rung out from the speaker's chair.&nbsp;

In a sign that he may follow a different path from Bercow, he recently rejected amendments that would have made it more difficult for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to force a general election, now due on December 12.

The 62-year-old is as unimpressed as his predecessor by rowdy MPs, once chastising Scottish Nationalists for humming the EU anthem "Ode to Joy" in the chamber.

Hoyle pledged in an interview published in the Sunday Times to repair what he claims has become a "toxic parliament".

"I don't want the abuse of each other and I think we have got to close that down quickly and make sure it is a calmer place to be," he said.

'Irreplaceable'

His closest rival appears to be veteran Labour MP Harriet Harman, parliament's longest-serving female MP.

She entered the Commons in 1982 and served as the Labour Party's deputy leader from 2007-2015, leading the party twice, in 2010 and 2015, between leaders.&nbsp;

The former justice minister is known for her ardent feminism and has been a long-time crusader on social justice issues.&nbsp;

Another woman in the running is Eleanor Laing, Bercow's number two deputy since 2013.

The 61-year-old Conservative entered parliament in 1997 and previously served as the party's spokeswoman on Scotland.

One of the more colourful characters in contention is former Church of England vicar, and now Labour MP Chris Bryant.&nbsp;

The openly gay 57-year-old's civil partnership ceremony in 2010 was the first held in the Houses of Parliament.

Bercow stepped down on Thursday after 10 years as speaker.

The man in the middle of more than three years of fiery parliamentary debates has proved a controversial figure, loathed by pro-Brexit supporters and hailed by its foes.

A social media mash-up by German television of Bercow trying to calm down rowdy MPs has been seen more than a million times. A Belgian newspaper called him "irreplaceable".&nbsp;

Johnson paid guarded tribute to the outgoing speaker, likening Bercow's glare to a "trademark Tony Montana scowl", after Al Pacino's character in the 1983 film "Scarface".

Opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn added: "You've done so much to reform this House of Commons and our democracy is the stronger for the way you have done it."

Bercow will not stand in next month's general election.

British MPs will on Monday select the new speaker of the House of Commons, once an unremarkable event but one now charged with significance following the previous occupant's role in Brexit.

British MPs will on Monday select the new speaker of the House of Commons, once an unremarkable event but one now charged with significance following the previous occupant's role in Brexit. Eight MPs are running to replace John Bercow, who placed himself front and centre of the Brexit saga by choosing amendments and introducing procedures that Leave-supporting MPs claimed were designed to frustrate Britain's departure from the European Union. Bercow also faced accusations that he fostered a culture of bullying within parliament. But his colourful personality and eccentric performances in parliament gave him an international profile and raised the status of the office. Lindsay Hoyle, Bercow's deputy since 2010, is the odds-on favourite to fill his shoes but other political heavyweights are also vying for the job. Hoyle has been a Labour MP for 22 years and was Bercow's deputy from 2010, since when his distinctive Lancashire accent has rung out from the speaker's chair. In a sign that he may follow a different path from Bercow, he recently rejected amendments that would have made it more difficult for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to force a general election, now due on December 12. The 62-year-old is as unimpressed as his predecessor by rowdy MPs, once chastising Scottish Nationalists for humming the EU anthem "Ode to Joy" in the chamber. Hoyle pledged in an interview published in the Sunday Times to repair what he claims has become a "toxic parliament". "I don't want the abuse of each other and I think we have got to close that down quickly and make sure it is a calmer place to be," he said. 'Irreplaceable' His closest rival appears to be veteran Labour MP Harriet Harman, parliament's longest-serving female MP. She entered the Commons in 1982 and served as the Labour Party's deputy leader from 2007-2015, leading the party twice, in 2010 and 2015, between leaders. The former justice minister is known for her ardent feminism and has been a long-time crusader on social justice issues. Another woman in the running is Eleanor Laing, Bercow's number two deputy since 2013. The 61-year-old Conservative entered parliament in 1997 and previously served as the party's spokeswoman on Scotland. One of the more colourful characters in contention is former Church of England vicar, and now Labour MP Chris Bryant. The openly gay 57-year-old's civil partnership ceremony in 2010 was the first held in the Houses of Parliament. Bercow stepped down on Thursday after 10 years as speaker. The man in the middle of more than three years of fiery parliamentary debates has proved a controversial figure, loathed by pro-Brexit supporters and hailed by its foes. A social media mash-up by German television of Bercow trying to calm down rowdy MPs has been seen more than a million times. A Belgian newspaper called him "irreplaceable". Johnson paid guarded tribute to the outgoing speaker, likening Bercow's glare to a "trademark Tony Montana scowl", after Al Pacino's character in the 1983 film "Scarface". Opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn added: "You've done so much to reform this House of Commons and our democracy is the stronger for the way you have done it." Bercow will not stand in next month's general election.

British MPs vote on new speaker after Bercow's departure

When the Berlin Wall came tumbling down 30 years ago, many hoped its demise portended an end to barriers between borders and isolationism.

But with US President Donald Trump's planned wall on the border with Mexico, the West Bank "separation barrier" and Hungary's anti-migrant fence facing Serbia and Croatia, manmade partitions are going up again.

"Edifices of fear, both real and imaginary, are being constructed everywhere," the Transnational Institute, an Amsterdam-based think-tank, wrote in its "Building Walls" report last year.

The fall of the Berlin Wall, a Cold War structure erected in 1961 to separate Soviet-allied East Berlin from the democratic West, was met with jubilation by Germans and millions of others dreaming of cooperation and openness in a more globalist and liberal world.

But the optimism and idealism of 1989 was "short-lived," said Alexandra Novosseloff, a senior researcher at the International Peace Institute in New York.

"Walls are still there and have multiplied. There are more today than 30 years ago," she told AFP.

Not only physical walls but also political and legislative ones are rising.

The United States and some European countries have been taking an ever-harder stance against migrants, and Brexit is the result of citizens choosing to leave a barrier-free European Union created exactly to put an end to the continent's recurrent, bloody conflicts -- often over border disputes.

Too risky&nbsp;

Bruno Tertrais, deputy director of the Foundation for Strategic Research in Paris, argues that globalisation has, somewhat ironically, fuelled a resurgence of nationalism.

After the initial rush of freedom, many people started worrying that too much openness was putting their national identity and values at risk.

Then everything changed on September 11, 2001.

It was really after the terror attacks on the United States, Tertrais said, that "barriers started to multiply."

Raphael Bossong of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin said the post-9/11 war on terrorism "fuelled a sense of paranoia and erosion of political freedoms".

"By the late 2000s, economic shocks, rising inequality and a growing political backlash against globalisation led to a resurgence of nationalism in the West," he wrote in a blog entitled "New Walls I: Militarizing Borders in Europe" for the Bertelsmann Stiftung research foundation.

"The resurrection of physical borders has taken on an outsized symbolic importance."

Elisabeth Vallet, a political analyst at Canada's Universite du Quebec a Montreal (UQAM), said she had counted "70 to 75" border walls built or being built around the world, compared to 15 in 1989.

Placed end to end, the world's existing walls would stretch over 40,000 kilometres (25,000 miles), Vallet said -- enough to cover the circumference of the Earth and divide our planet into two parts.

'Staunch our fears'&nbsp;

Former French diplomat Michel Foucher, author of "The Return of Borders," argues that the vulnerability many people feel in the face of globalisation has caused them to welcome more state protectionism, and by extension, more walls.

The wall serves as "a metaphor, it is supposed to calm our fears," Foucher said.

For Vallet, author of "Borders, Fences and Walls -- State of Insecurity, "at a time when populism is growing fast, a wall is a quick solution that a populist government can quickly exploit."

As the migration flows from south to north continue, more and more walls are seeking to keep foreigners out.

"Member states of the European Union and Schengen Area have constructed almost 1,000 km of walls, the equivalent of more than six times the total length of the Berlin Wall, since the nineties to prevent displaced people migrating into Europe", according to the Transnational Institute.

In spite of their growing popularity, however, there is little evidence of their efficiency, Vallet said.

"They do not, for example, halt the trafficking of drugs, most of which enter the United States through border crossings," he told AFP by email.

"What is clear is that the ever-changing role of borders serves as an indicator for the health of liberal democracy," Bossong said. 
 
&nbsp;

When the Berlin Wall came tumbling down 30 years ago, many hoped its demise portended an end to barriers between borders and isolationism. But with US President Donald Trump's planned wall on the border with Mexico, the West Bank "separation barrier" and Hungary's anti-migrant fence facing Serbia and Croatia, manmade partitions are going up again.

When the Berlin Wall came tumbling down 30 years ago, many hoped its demise portended an end to barriers between borders and isolationism. But with US President Donald Trump's planned wall on the border with Mexico, the West Bank "separation barrier" and Hungary's anti-migrant fence facing Serbia and Croatia, manmade partitions are going up again. "Edifices of fear, both real and imaginary, are being constructed everywhere," the Transnational Institute, an Amsterdam-based think-tank, wrote in its "Building Walls" report last year. The fall of the Berlin Wall, a Cold War structure erected in 1961 to separate Soviet-allied East Berlin from the democratic West, was met with jubilation by Germans and millions of others dreaming of cooperation and openness in a more globalist and liberal world. But the optimism and idealism of 1989 was "short-lived," said Alexandra Novosseloff, a senior researcher at the International Peace Institute in New York. "Walls are still there and have multiplied. There are more today than 30 years ago," she told AFP. Not only physical walls but also political and legislative ones are rising. The United States and some European countries have been taking an ever-harder stance against migrants, and Brexit is the result of citizens choosing to leave a barrier-free European Union created exactly to put an end to the continent's recurrent, bloody conflicts -- often over border disputes. Too risky Bruno Tertrais, deputy director of the Foundation for Strategic Research in Paris, argues that globalisation has, somewhat ironically, fuelled a resurgence of nationalism. After the initial rush of freedom, many people started worrying that too much openness was putting their national identity and values at risk. Then everything changed on September 11, 2001. It was really after the terror attacks on the United States, Tertrais said, that "barriers started to multiply." Raphael Bossong of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin said the post-9/11 war on terrorism "fuelled a sense of paranoia and erosion of political freedoms". "By the late 2000s, economic shocks, rising inequality and a growing political backlash against globalisation led to a resurgence of nationalism in the West," he wrote in a blog entitled "New Walls I: Militarizing Borders in Europe" for the Bertelsmann Stiftung research foundation. "The resurrection of physical borders has taken on an outsized symbolic importance." Elisabeth Vallet, a political analyst at Canada's Universite du Quebec a Montreal (UQAM), said she had counted "70 to 75" border walls built or being built around the world, compared to 15 in 1989. Placed end to end, the world's existing walls would stretch over 40,000 kilometres (25,000 miles), Vallet said -- enough to cover the circumference of the Earth and divide our planet into two parts. 'Staunch our fears' Former French diplomat Michel Foucher, author of "The Return of Borders," argues that the vulnerability many people feel in the face of globalisation has caused them to welcome more state protectionism, and by extension, more walls. The wall serves as "a metaphor, it is supposed to calm our fears," Foucher said. For Vallet, author of "Borders, Fences and Walls -- State of Insecurity, "at a time when populism is growing fast, a wall is a quick solution that a populist government can quickly exploit." As the migration flows from south to north continue, more and more walls are seeking to keep foreigners out. "Member states of the European Union and Schengen Area have constructed almost 1,000 km of walls, the equivalent of more than six times the total length of the Berlin Wall, since the nineties to prevent displaced people migrating into Europe", according to the Transnational Institute. In spite of their growing popularity, however, there is little evidence of their efficiency, Vallet said. "They do not, for example, halt the trafficking of drugs, most of which enter the United States through border crossings," he told AFP by email. "What is clear is that the ever-changing role of borders serves as an indicator for the health of liberal democracy," Bossong said.

Build that wall! Barriers back 30 years after Berlin Wall

Brexit figurehead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurosceptic-nigel-farage-urges-british-pm-to-listen-to-donald-trump-259384">Nigel Farage</a> will not stand in Britain's upcoming general election, in which his party is threatening to go head-to-head with Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservatives, he announced Sunday.

"Do I find a seat, try and get myself into parliament? or do I serve the cause better traversing the length and breadth of the United Kingdom supporting 600 candidates -- I've decided that the last course is the right one," he told BBC's Andrew Marr.

Farage leads the Brexit Party, which formed earlier this year to fight the European parliamentary elections, emerging as the runaway winner.

He has been a harsh critic of the Brexit deal reached between Johnson and the EU and has promised to stand candidates in every constituency unless the Conservatives agreed an election pact, something the prime minister again ruled out on Sunday.

With the Tories relying on Brexit supporters to gain a majority on December 12, a strong showing by Farage's party threatens to split the Leave vote and open the door for the Labour party.&nbsp;

Farage appeared to be in little mood to compromise, putting a two-page advert in the Sunday Express declaring: "Boris' deal is not Brexit".

The former UKIP leader, who has campaigned against Britain's EU membership for decades, told Marr he had "thought very hard" about whether to run again to become an MP. &nbsp;

"It is very difficult... to be in a constituency every day and at the same time be out across the United Kingdom," he explained.

People "need to understand that, actually, what's on offer is a close linkage with all the European institutions, a next negotiating phase of at least three years," he added.

"So I'm going out across the country starting tomorrow."

During nearly three decades in public life, Farage has risen from a eurosceptic rabble-rouser on the fringes of British politics to a pivotal player who could make or break Brexit.

Farage, who has been a member of the European Parliament since 1999, has tried to become an MP on seven occasions, losing out each time.

Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage will not stand in Britain's upcoming general election, in which his party is threatening to go head-to-head with Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservatives, he announced Sunday.

Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage will not stand in Britain's upcoming general election, in which his party is threatening to go head-to-head with Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservatives, he announced Sunday. "Do I find a seat, try and get myself into parliament? or do I serve the cause better traversing the length and breadth of the United Kingdom supporting 600 candidates -- I've decided that the last course is the right one," he told BBC's Andrew Marr. Farage leads the Brexit Party, which formed earlier this year to fight the European parliamentary elections, emerging as the runaway winner. He has been a harsh critic of the Brexit deal reached between Johnson and the EU and has promised to stand candidates in every constituency unless the Conservatives agreed an election pact, something the prime minister again ruled out on Sunday. With the Tories relying on Brexit supporters to gain a majority on December 12, a strong showing by Farage's party threatens to split the Leave vote and open the door for the Labour party. Farage appeared to be in little mood to compromise, putting a two-page advert in the Sunday Express declaring: "Boris' deal is not Brexit". The former UKIP leader, who has campaigned against Britain's EU membership for decades, told Marr he had "thought very hard" about whether to run again to become an MP. "It is very difficult... to be in a constituency every day and at the same time be out across the United Kingdom," he explained. People "need to understand that, actually, what's on offer is a close linkage with all the European institutions, a next negotiating phase of at least three years," he added. "So I'm going out across the country starting tomorrow." During nearly three decades in public life, Farage has risen from a eurosceptic rabble-rouser on the fringes of British politics to a pivotal player who could make or break Brexit. Farage, who has been a member of the European Parliament since 1999, has tried to become an MP on seven occasions, losing out each time.

Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage will not run to become MP

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-election-campaign-kicks-off-on-no-brexit-day-259143">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> sparked an angry backlash from Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage on Saturday after he rejected calls to drop his Brexit deal and embrace a clean break from the European Union, potentially splitting the eurosceptic vote.

Johnson had previously pledged to take Britain out of the EU with or without a deal on October&nbsp;31, before lawmakers voted to force him to seek an extension until January&nbsp;31.

But he has abandoned the threat of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-defends-brexit-deal-after-trumps-trade-warning-259275">no-deal Brexit</a> in his Conservative Party's manifesto for the December&nbsp;12 election, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday. It added that the focus would be on getting his Brexit deal approved.

On Friday, Johnson rejected a call from the Brexit Party to drop the deal he negotiated with the European Union last month in order to form a new electoral pact, saying that he could put his deal through parliament after any election win.

"What we’ve got is a fantastic deal that nobody thought we could get," Johnson said. "As soon as we get back in the middle of December, we can put that deal through."

In Britain's tortuous journey since the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU, businesses and economists have cautioned that leaving the bloc without a deal to smooth the transition would deliver a big blow to the British economy.

Proponents of a no-deal Brexit say it provides a clean break from EU rules and regulations.

"If The Times are right and Boris Johnson will abandon a clean break Brexit, and he wins an election on this, we will never be free of EU rules," Brexit Party Leader Nigel Farage said in a tweet.

"The deal is simply not Brexit and does not get Brexit done."

Farage on Thursday interviewed US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who said that Jeremy Corbyn, leader of Britain's opposition Labour party, would be "so bad" for Britain.

On Saturday, Corbyn said Trump was entitled to his opinion but again warned of the dangers of a trade deal with the United States, saying it threatened Britain's public National Health Service, a claim Johnson and Trump both deny.

"The reality of no-deal is (heading) straight into the arms of Donald Trump. Straight into the arms of a free trade deal with the USA... and their desire to take over our public services," Corbyn said at a rally in Swindon, 70 miles west of London.

"We will not go down that path under any circumstances. Our public services, our national health service is not for sale, to Donald Trump or anybody else."

Both major parties face battles on at least three fronts: Against each other, with the hardline Brexit Party seeking to poach leave voters, and with the Liberal Democrats seeking to win over those who oppose Brexit altogether.

Opinion polls give Johnson a sizeable lead over Labour, but also suggest that more than 10% of voters back the Brexit Party - enough to split the pro-Brexit vote in some seats and hand victory to Labour.

The Conservative manifesto will also not include a commitment to a fiscal rule, the Times reported, relaxing the government's grip on public finances. The Conservative party did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The government's previous fiscal rule pledged to hold the underlying budget deficit below 2% of the country's economic output in the 2020/21 financial year.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sparked an angry backlash from Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage on Saturday after he rejected calls to drop his Brexit deal and embrace a clean break from the European Union, potentially splitting the eurosceptic vote.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sparked an angry backlash from Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage on Saturday after he rejected calls to drop his Brexit deal and embrace a clean break from the European Union, potentially splitting the eurosceptic vote. Johnson had previously pledged to take Britain out of the EU with or without a deal on October 31, before lawmakers voted to force him to seek an extension until January 31. But he has abandoned the threat of a no-deal Brexit in his Conservative Party's manifesto for the December 12 election, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday. It added that the focus would be on getting his Brexit deal approved. On Friday, Johnson rejected a call from the Brexit Party to drop the deal he negotiated with the European Union last month in order to form a new electoral pact, saying that he could put his deal through parliament after any election win. "What we’ve got is a fantastic deal that nobody thought we could get," Johnson said. "As soon as we get back in the middle of December, we can put that deal through." In Britain's tortuous journey since the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU, businesses and economists have cautioned that leaving the bloc without a deal to smooth the transition would deliver a big blow to the British economy. Proponents of a no-deal Brexit say it provides a clean break from EU rules and regulations. "If The Times are right and Boris Johnson will abandon a clean break Brexit, and he wins an election on this, we will never be free of EU rules," Brexit Party Leader Nigel Farage said in a tweet. "The deal is simply not Brexit and does not get Brexit done." Farage on Thursday interviewed US President Donald Trump, who said that Jeremy Corbyn, leader of Britain's opposition Labour party, would be "so bad" for Britain. On Saturday, Corbyn said Trump was entitled to his opinion but again warned of the dangers of a trade deal with the United States, saying it threatened Britain's public National Health Service, a claim Johnson and Trump both deny. "The reality of no-deal is (heading) straight into the arms of Donald Trump. Straight into the arms of a free trade deal with the USA... and their desire to take over our public services," Corbyn said at a rally in Swindon, 70 miles west of London. "We will not go down that path under any circumstances. Our public services, our national health service is not for sale, to Donald Trump or anybody else." Both major parties face battles on at least three fronts: Against each other, with the hardline Brexit Party seeking to poach leave voters, and with the Liberal Democrats seeking to win over those who oppose Brexit altogether. Opinion polls give Johnson a sizeable lead over Labour, but also suggest that more than 10% of voters back the Brexit Party - enough to split the pro-Brexit vote in some seats and hand victory to Labour. The Conservative manifesto will also not include a commitment to a fiscal rule, the Times reported, relaxing the government's grip on public finances. The Conservative party did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The government's previous fiscal rule pledged to hold the underlying budget deficit below 2% of the country's economic output in the 2020/21 financial year.

UK PM Boris Johnson rejects calls for no-deal Brexit in election pitch

Anti-European populist Nigel Farage urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday to follow Donald Trump's advice and form a "non-aggression" pact with his Brexit Party in Britain's pre-Christmas general election.

The US president used a lengthy appearance on Farage's radio phone-in show Thursday to share his characteristically blunt views ahead of the December 12 snap poll.

"I know that you and (Johnson) will end up doing something that could be terrific if you and he get together as, you know, an unstoppable force," Trump told Farage.

Trump also warned Johnson Thursday that the terms of his EU divorce deal meant that "under certain aspect... you can't trade" with the United States.

The US president's unannounced intervention turned into top UK news and put Farage in the headlines just as he launched his party's official campaign in London.

It also threatened to hurt Johnson at the outset of a campaign that has huge implications for Britain's future place in Europe and the rest of the world.

Both Trump and Farage are deeply polarising figures in Britain who could hurt Johnson's chances with more moderate voters.

Johnson claims that his revised deal with Brussels will allow Britain to strike lucrative free-trade agreements with global giants such as China and the United States.

'Not interested in any pacts'

Johnson shot down Trump's trade warning, telling the BBC that his deal "enables us to do proper all-singing, all-dancing free-trade deals around the world" and dismissed talk of an alliance with Farage.

"The difficulty about doing deals with any other party is that any other party, I'm afraid, simply risks... putting Jeremy Corbyn into Number 10," he said.

But Farage seized on Trump's remarks and made several references to it at Friday's campaign event.

He urged Johnson to rip up his deal with Brussels and campaign with his Brexit Party for Britain to leave EU with no strings attached -- a prospect that frightens most businesses and the markets.

"If it was done, Boris Johnson really would get a really big majority. And on that manifesto, we really could get Brexit done -- in fact, to quote a friend of mine, we'd become an unstoppable force," Farage told his supporters.

Johnson has publicly resisted the idea of a tie-up with Farage.

The Brexit Party has seen its support slump to around 10 per cent from the 31 per cent it enjoyed when it won the largest share of British votes in European Parliament elections in May.

Targeting Labour voters

Farage argued that Johnson will need his help to win over Brexit-supporting voters who traditionally back Labour and reject the Conservatives for "cultural" reasons.

"It would be fair to say there are around about 150 seats in this country that are Labour Leave constituencies that the Conservative party has never, ever won in their history," he said.

"I think a deal of this kind would work, a non-aggression pact of this kind would work," Farage said, hoping that a clearer picture will emerge before election nominations close on November 14.

Johnson's minority government currently holds 298 seats in the 650-seat lower House of Commons, forcing it to rely on smaller parties and independents for support.

Polls show Johnson's Conservatives leading Jeremy Corbyn's Labour by a 35 to 25 per cent margin.&nbsp;

But Johnson is eyeing an outright majority to make pushing through his Brexit deal easier.

The Conservatives' old alliance with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) is in disarray because of sharp disagreement over the terms of Brexit deal.

The other smaller parties all back Europe and are more likely to try to form a coalition designed to stop Brexit.

Farage said there remained two weeks to put together a "leave alliance" but dismissed suggestions his party could split the anti-EU vote.

The party had the funding in place to "contest every single seat in England, Scotland and Wales" if Johnson turned him down.

"Please don't doubt we are ready," Farage said. "I hope that common sense prevails over the next new weeks."

Anti-European populist Nigel Farage urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday to follow Donald Trump's advice and form a "non-aggression" pact with his Brexit Party in Britain's pre-Christmas general election.

Anti-European populist Nigel Farage urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday to follow Donald Trump's advice and form a "non-aggression" pact with his Brexit Party in Britain's pre-Christmas general election. The US president used a lengthy appearance on Farage's radio phone-in show Thursday to share his characteristically blunt views ahead of the December 12 snap poll. "I know that you and (Johnson) will end up doing something that could be terrific if you and he get together as, you know, an unstoppable force," Trump told Farage. Trump also warned Johnson Thursday that the terms of his EU divorce deal meant that "under certain aspect... you can't trade" with the United States. The US president's unannounced intervention turned into top UK news and put Farage in the headlines just as he launched his party's official campaign in London. It also threatened to hurt Johnson at the outset of a campaign that has huge implications for Britain's future place in Europe and the rest of the world. Both Trump and Farage are deeply polarising figures in Britain who could hurt Johnson's chances with more moderate voters. Johnson claims that his revised deal with Brussels will allow Britain to strike lucrative free-trade agreements with global giants such as China and the United States. 'Not interested in any pacts' Johnson shot down Trump's trade warning, telling the BBC that his deal "enables us to do proper all-singing, all-dancing free-trade deals around the world" and dismissed talk of an alliance with Farage. "The difficulty about doing deals with any other party is that any other party, I'm afraid, simply risks... putting Jeremy Corbyn into Number 10," he said. But Farage seized on Trump's remarks and made several references to it at Friday's campaign event. He urged Johnson to rip up his deal with Brussels and campaign with his Brexit Party for Britain to leave EU with no strings attached -- a prospect that frightens most businesses and the markets. "If it was done, Boris Johnson really would get a really big majority. And on that manifesto, we really could get Brexit done -- in fact, to quote a friend of mine, we'd become an unstoppable force," Farage told his supporters. Johnson has publicly resisted the idea of a tie-up with Farage. The Brexit Party has seen its support slump to around 10 per cent from the 31 per cent it enjoyed when it won the largest share of British votes in European Parliament elections in May. Targeting Labour voters Farage argued that Johnson will need his help to win over Brexit-supporting voters who traditionally back Labour and reject the Conservatives for "cultural" reasons. "It would be fair to say there are around about 150 seats in this country that are Labour Leave constituencies that the Conservative party has never, ever won in their history," he said. "I think a deal of this kind would work, a non-aggression pact of this kind would work," Farage said, hoping that a clearer picture will emerge before election nominations close on November 14. Johnson's minority government currently holds 298 seats in the 650-seat lower House of Commons, forcing it to rely on smaller parties and independents for support. Polls show Johnson's Conservatives leading Jeremy Corbyn's Labour by a 35 to 25 per cent margin. But Johnson is eyeing an outright majority to make pushing through his Brexit deal easier. The Conservatives' old alliance with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) is in disarray because of sharp disagreement over the terms of Brexit deal. The other smaller parties all back Europe and are more likely to try to form a coalition designed to stop Brexit. Farage said there remained two weeks to put together a "leave alliance" but dismissed suggestions his party could split the anti-EU vote. The party had the funding in place to "contest every single seat in England, Scotland and Wales" if Johnson turned him down. "Please don't doubt we are ready," Farage said. "I hope that common sense prevails over the next new weeks."

Eurosceptic Nigel Farage urges British PM to listen to Donald Trump

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar shared some details of EU MPs visit to J&K.

Raveesh Kumar speaks on EU MPs visit to J&K

European Union Lawmakers' Visit To Jammu & Kashmir: The Charges & Rebuttals.

Gravitas: EU MPs' Kashmir visit: Analysing the charges & rebuttals

A delegation of European lawmakers visited Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation in the valley.

The lawmakers extended their support to India saying that terrorism is a global concern.

The European Union parliamentary delegation, comprising of parliamentarians from UK, Poland, France and other countries interacted with locals in Kashmir valley to get a first-hand understanding of the situation.

It is the first foreign delegation that has been allowed to visit Kashmir after the scrapping of article 370.

Both India and the EU have clarified that the delegation is not on an official visit to India. The lawmakers are in India in their capacity.

The army and security forces also briefed the EU delegation about Pakistan's role in fuelling terror in Kashmir.

The delegation also regretted the killing of six people by terrorists in south Kashmir. They said “terrorism is a severe problem in Kashmir” and named Pakistan as its source.

The Indian Prime Minister had met with the 23 members in New Delhi on Monday.

During the meet, PM Modi urged for action against the countries using terrorism as a state policy.

This is the first foreign delegation of 23 lawmakers from the European Union to visit Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the opposition is keeping up its criticism of the centre's decision to facilitate this visit.

Many alleged that no prominent civil society group, trade body or mainstream Kashmiri political party could meet the EU lawmakers.

It has been 86 days since the Indian government scrapped article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

In the weeks that followed, the government worked towards restoring connectivity and normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

A delegation of European lawmakers visited Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation in the valley. The lawmakers extended their support to India saying that terrorism is a global concern.

A delegation of European lawmakers visited Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation in the valley. The lawmakers extended their support to India saying that terrorism is a global concern. The European Union parliamentary delegation, comprising of parliamentarians from UK, Poland, France and other countries interacted with locals in Kashmir valley to get a first-hand understanding of the situation. It is the first foreign delegation that has been allowed to visit Kashmir after the scrapping of article 370. Both India and the EU have clarified that the delegation is not on an official visit to India. The lawmakers are in India in their capacity. The army and security forces also briefed the EU delegation about Pakistan's role in fuelling terror in Kashmir. The delegation also regretted the killing of six people by terrorists in south Kashmir. They said “terrorism is a severe problem in Kashmir” and named Pakistan as its source. The Indian Prime Minister had met with the 23 members in New Delhi on Monday. During the meet, PM Modi urged for action against the countries using terrorism as a state policy. This is the first foreign delegation of 23 lawmakers from the European Union to visit Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, the opposition is keeping up its criticism of the centre's decision to facilitate this visit. Many alleged that no prominent civil society group, trade body or mainstream Kashmiri political party could meet the EU lawmakers. It has been 86 days since the Indian government scrapped article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. In the weeks that followed, the government worked towards restoring connectivity and normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

European Union Lawmakers call terrorism a global concern after J&K visit, extend support to India

European Union Lawmakers Get A Glimpse Of Kashmir's Culture During Their Kashmir Visit.

Gravitas: European Union Lawmakers' Kashmir Visit: Day 1

Britain looked set Tuesday for a pre-Christmas election after the main opposition Labour party backed Prime Minister Boris Johnson's push for an early vote to try to overcome the lengthening political deadlock caused by Brexit.

Conservative leader Johnson -- overseeing a minority government -- is trying to lead Britain out of the deep crisis engulfing its EU departure that was meant to take place this Thursday.

But unable to get parliamentary support for his divorce deal with Brussels, he was forced to abandon his "do-or-die" pledge to leave the bloc on schedule and has begrudgingly accepted another extension until the end of January.

Britain's inability to break its half-century bond with the EU has halted costly "no-deal" exit preparations and reportedly seen freshly minted 50-pence commemorative Brexit coins melted down.

General elections have been held twice in the last four years -- in 2015 and 2017. The next is not scheduled to happen until 2022.

But Johnson has been trying to secure an early vote to try to win a majority to allow him to push through legislation to enact Brexit.

His third attempt to get parliament to agree to disband early and hold a general election on December 12 ended in failure on Monday after he fell well short of the required support of two-thirds of MPs.

But he was making a fresh bid for the same date on Tuesday using a different parliamentary procedure that would only require a simple majority.

He consulted his cabinet ministers to plot strategy in advance of another gruelling session of the lower House of Commons that could stretch into the night.

Johnson's new attempt amends existing laws requiring a two-thirds majority by proposing a simple bill with an election date.

"This house cannot any longer keep this country hostage," Johnson told lawmakers after they defeated Monday's election attempt.

- Date debate -

Johnson's election push received a big boost when the leader of the main opposition Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn, indicated his support.

Veteran socialist Corbyn has been torn between rival camps within his own party and is facing poor polling numbers that show the Conservatives in a strong lead.

He has argued he cannot back an election until Johnson promises not to take Britain out of the EU without a new trade deal when the post-Brexit transition period ends in December 2020.

Britain would be following EU rules until that time.

But he said the latest delay to Brexit agreed by EU leaders on Monday meant "for the next there months, our condition of taking no-deal off the table has now been met".

"We will now launch the most ambitious and radical campaign for real change our country has ever seen," he added.

The sides must now settle on an election date.

Johnson insists on December 12. A rival plan proposed by the pro-European Liberal Democrats and the Scottish National Party (SNP) proposes December 9.

The second option is also preferred by Labour.

Some in the party say the later date reduces the number of more liberal students voting because it comes after they finish their semesters and return home for the winter break.

Labour's trade spokesman Barry Gardiner told BBC radio "the first thing" for Johnson to do to get his party's backing was "to ensure that students are not going to be disenfranchised by an election on December 12".

Corbyn did not specify a date in his statement.

"It will be a December election," a Labour source told AFP.

The last election to be held in December was in 1923, when Labour's Ramsay McDonald lost to the Conservatives led by Stanley Baldwin.

The debate appears to be one of principle.

The SNP's parliamentary leader Ian Blackford urged Labour to not "be the handmaidens to the prime minister's Brexit" and to fight for the earlier date.

Johnson is mainly concerned about amendments that could be attached to his bill.

One proposed option would extend voting rights to EU citizens -- a group that strongly opposed Brexit.

Another would lower the voting age from 18 to 16.

 
&nbsp;

Britain looked set Tuesday for a pre-Christmas election after the main opposition Labour party backed Prime Minister Boris Johnson's push for an early vote to try to overcome the lengthening political deadlock caused by Brexit.

Britain looked set Tuesday for a pre-Christmas election after the main opposition Labour party backed Prime Minister Boris Johnson's push for an early vote to try to overcome the lengthening political deadlock caused by Brexit. Conservative leader Johnson -- overseeing a minority government -- is trying to lead Britain out of the deep crisis engulfing its EU departure that was meant to take place this Thursday. But unable to get parliamentary support for his divorce deal with Brussels, he was forced to abandon his "do-or-die" pledge to leave the bloc on schedule and has begrudgingly accepted another extension until the end of January. Britain's inability to break its half-century bond with the EU has halted costly "no-deal" exit preparations and reportedly seen freshly minted 50-pence commemorative Brexit coins melted down. General elections have been held twice in the last four years -- in 2015 and 2017. The next is not scheduled to happen until 2022. But Johnson has been trying to secure an early vote to try to win a majority to allow him to push through legislation to enact Brexit. His third attempt to get parliament to agree to disband early and hold a general election on December 12 ended in failure on Monday after he fell well short of the required support of two-thirds of MPs. But he was making a fresh bid for the same date on Tuesday using a different parliamentary procedure that would only require a simple majority. He consulted his cabinet ministers to plot strategy in advance of another gruelling session of the lower House of Commons that could stretch into the night. Johnson's new attempt amends existing laws requiring a two-thirds majority by proposing a simple bill with an election date. "This house cannot any longer keep this country hostage," Johnson told lawmakers after they defeated Monday's election attempt. - Date debate - Johnson's election push received a big boost when the leader of the main opposition Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn, indicated his support. Veteran socialist Corbyn has been torn between rival camps within his own party and is facing poor polling numbers that show the Conservatives in a strong lead. He has argued he cannot back an election until Johnson promises not to take Britain out of the EU without a new trade deal when the post-Brexit transition period ends in December 2020. Britain would be following EU rules until that time. But he said the latest delay to Brexit agreed by EU leaders on Monday meant "for the next there months, our condition of taking no-deal off the table has now been met". "We will now launch the most ambitious and radical campaign for real change our country has ever seen," he added. The sides must now settle on an election date. Johnson insists on December 12. A rival plan proposed by the pro-European Liberal Democrats and the Scottish National Party (SNP) proposes December 9. The second option is also preferred by Labour. Some in the party say the later date reduces the number of more liberal students voting because it comes after they finish their semesters and return home for the winter break. Labour's trade spokesman Barry Gardiner told BBC radio "the first thing" for Johnson to do to get his party's backing was "to ensure that students are not going to be disenfranchised by an election on December 12". Corbyn did not specify a date in his statement. "It will be a December election," a Labour source told AFP. The last election to be held in December was in 1923, when Labour's Ramsay McDonald lost to the Conservatives led by Stanley Baldwin. The debate appears to be one of principle. The SNP's parliamentary leader Ian Blackford urged Labour to not "be the handmaidens to the prime minister's Brexit" and to fight for the earlier date. Johnson is mainly concerned about amendments that could be attached to his bill. One proposed option would extend voting rights to EU citizens -- a group that strongly opposed Brexit. Another would lower the voting age from 18 to 16.

UK set for third election in four years to try to break Brexit gridlock

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit.

Traders were looking ahead also to a meeting of the Federal Reserve that was expected to end with the US central bank announcing an interest-rate cut on Wednesday.

Around 1115 GMT, sterling clawed back losses to trade at $1.2862, virtually unchanged compared with its level late Monday in New York.

The euro meanwhile reversed direction to stand 0.2-per cent lower at 86.14 pence.

"Bulls have finally escaped the selling pressure and pushed sterling higher on the back of the news that Labour is finally backing the elections," commented Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at ThinkMarkets.&nbsp;

"The spike in sterling is decent but we are not expecting any significant moves."

Britain appeared headed for a December election after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Johnson's desire for a pre-Christmas poll.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the decision by European Union leaders on Monday to again delay Brexit meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking 'no-deal' off the table has now been met".

David Cheetham, chief market analyst at XTB trading group, said "the pound will likely stay fairly well supported unless a no-deal outcome becomes more than marginally possible once more".

He added: "Elections are often seen as bringing heightened uncertainty and therefore negative in the near-term for affected markets, but in this case there is a hope that it will bring an end to the present quandary we find ourselves in."&nbsp;

In equities trade, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was down 0.7 per cent in late morning deals, extending earlier losses as the stronger pound weighed on share price for multinationals that have substantial earnings in dollars.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 lost 0.2 per cent and the Paris CAC 40 shed 0.1 per cent.&nbsp;

Elsewhere Tuesday, Asian stock markets diverged following another record-high close for Wall Street on Monday amid a renewed sense of hope over China-US trade talks.

Expectations for a US rate cut and some strong company earnings were also providing a much-needed lift to confidence after a rollercoaster year on global trading floors.

Oil prices extended Monday's big losses that had been sparked by reports of another pick-up in US stockpiles that indicated weak demand growth.

Key figures around 1115 GMT

Pound/dollar: DOWN slightly at $1.2862 from $1.2863 at 2100 GMT

Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.14 pence from 86.29 pence&nbsp;

Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1081 from $1.1100

Dollar/yen: DOWN at 108.90 yen from 108.95 yen

London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.7 per cent at 7,278.43 points

Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 12,921

Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 5,726.50

EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,618.32

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.5 per cent at 22,974.13 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 26,786.76 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.9 per cent at 2,954.18 (close)

New York - Dow: UP 0.5 per cent at 27.090.72 (close)

Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 1.1 per cent at $60.87 per barrel

West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 1.2 per cent at $55.14 per barrel

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit.

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit. Traders were looking ahead also to a meeting of the Federal Reserve that was expected to end with the US central bank announcing an interest-rate cut on Wednesday. Around 1115 GMT, sterling clawed back losses to trade at $1.2862, virtually unchanged compared with its level late Monday in New York. The euro meanwhile reversed direction to stand 0.2-per cent lower at 86.14 pence. "Bulls have finally escaped the selling pressure and pushed sterling higher on the back of the news that Labour is finally backing the elections," commented Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at ThinkMarkets. "The spike in sterling is decent but we are not expecting any significant moves." Britain appeared headed for a December election after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Johnson's desire for a pre-Christmas poll. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the decision by European Union leaders on Monday to again delay Brexit meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking 'no-deal' off the table has now been met". David Cheetham, chief market analyst at XTB trading group, said "the pound will likely stay fairly well supported unless a no-deal outcome becomes more than marginally possible once more". He added: "Elections are often seen as bringing heightened uncertainty and therefore negative in the near-term for affected markets, but in this case there is a hope that it will bring an end to the present quandary we find ourselves in." In equities trade, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was down 0.7 per cent in late morning deals, extending earlier losses as the stronger pound weighed on share price for multinationals that have substantial earnings in dollars. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 lost 0.2 per cent and the Paris CAC 40 shed 0.1 per cent. Elsewhere Tuesday, Asian stock markets diverged following another record-high close for Wall Street on Monday amid a renewed sense of hope over China-US trade talks. Expectations for a US rate cut and some strong company earnings were also providing a much-needed lift to confidence after a rollercoaster year on global trading floors. Oil prices extended Monday's big losses that had been sparked by reports of another pick-up in US stockpiles that indicated weak demand growth. Key figures around 1115 GMT Pound/dollar: DOWN slightly at $1.2862 from $1.2863 at 2100 GMT Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.14 pence from 86.29 pence Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1081 from $1.1100 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 108.90 yen from 108.95 yen London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.7 per cent at 7,278.43 points Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 12,921 Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 5,726.50 EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,618.32 Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.5 per cent at 22,974.13 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 26,786.76 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.9 per cent at 2,954.18 (close) New York - Dow: UP 0.5 per cent at 27.090.72 (close) Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 1.1 per cent at $60.87 per barrel West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 1.2 per cent at $55.14 per barrel

Pound recovers with UK set for general election

Britain was on course for a December election Tuesday after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan, although a date has not yet been fixed.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said, "I have consistently said that we are ready for an election and our support is subject to a 'no deal' Brexit being off the table."

He said the decision by EU leaders on Monday to delay Brexit to January 31 meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking No Deal off the table has now been met.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-election-johnson-makes-fresh-bid-to-break-the-deadlock-258648">Brexit election? Johnson makes fresh bid to break the deadlock</a>

"We will now launch the most ambitious and radical campaign for real change our country has ever seen," he said in a statement.

Johnson has called for an election on December 12 but Labour and other opposition parties are pushing for a date nearer to December 9.

"It will be a December election," a Labour party source told AFP.

The prime minister will on Tuesday bring forward a bill to legislate for the snap poll, which is expected to pass parliament in the next few days.

Britain was on course for a December election Tuesday after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan, although a date has not yet been fixed.

Britain was on course for a December election Tuesday after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan, although a date has not yet been fixed. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said, "I have consistently said that we are ready for an election and our support is subject to a 'no deal' Brexit being off the table." He said the decision by EU leaders on Monday to delay Brexit to January 31 meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking No Deal off the table has now been met. Also read: Brexit election? Johnson makes fresh bid to break the deadlock "We will now launch the most ambitious and radical campaign for real change our country has ever seen," he said in a statement. Johnson has called for an election on December 12 but Labour and other opposition parties are pushing for a date nearer to December 9. "It will be a December election," a Labour party source told AFP. The prime minister will on Tuesday bring forward a bill to legislate for the snap poll, which is expected to pass parliament in the next few days.

UK's opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn agrees to December election

Prime Minister Boris Johnson makes a fresh bid for an election to break the Brexit deadlock on Tuesday after nearly three-and-a-half years of wrangling in parliament that has left Britain's exit from the European Union in turmoil.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson makes a fresh bid for an election to break the Brexit deadlock on Tuesday after nearly three-and-a-half years of wrangling in parliament that has left Britain's exit from the European Union in turmoil. As the European Union finalises a third delay to the divorce that was originally supposed to take place on March 29, the United Kingdom, its parliament and its voters remain divided on how or indeed if to go ahead with Brexit. Johnson, who had promised to deliver Brexit on October 31, "do or die", has repeatedly demanded an election to end what he casts as a nightmare paralysis that is sapping public trust by preventing any Brexit outcome at all. After parliament refused Johnson his third demand for an election on Monday, he will try to force a bill through parliament on Tuesday that calls for a December 12 election. It needs a simple majority in parliament. "We will not allow this paralysis to continue and, one way or another, we must proceed straight to an election," Johnson told parliament on Monday. "This House cannot any longer keep this country hostage." Meanwhile, the legislation enacting Johnson's Brexit deal has been put on hold, pending an election, Jacob Rees-Mogg, who oversees the government's legislative agenda in the House of Commons, said. The first Christmas election in Britain since 1923 would be highly unpredictable: Brexit has variously fatigued and enraged swathes of voters while eroding traditional loyalties to the two major parties, Conservative and Labour. Ultimately, voters would have a choice between an emboldened Johnson pushing for his Brexit deal or a socialist government under Jeremy Corbyn renegotiating the deal before a referendum. If no party wins conclusively, the Brexit deadlock will continue. Christmas election? While almost all British politicians agree that an election is needed, Johnson's opponents want to inflict maximum political damage by preventing his last-minute deal from being ratified before the poll. Johnson, in turn, is trying to shift the blame for failing to deliver Brexit by October 31 on to parliament. Such is the lack of trust in parliament that lawmakers are squabbling about almost everything from the sequencing of Brexit to the date of the election. Behind the bickering, though, Johnson is closer to an election than he has ever been in his tumultuous 3-month premiership. Two opposition parties, the Liberal Democrats and Scottish National Party, want an election on December 9. "We won't accept any jiggery-pokery from the prime minister," Ian Blackford, the Scottish National Party's Westminster leader, said. "Our vote certainly can't be taken for granted." Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, said on Monday he would "consider carefully" legislation which locked in an election date. Johnson's Conservatives are ahead of Labour by an average of about 10 percentage points in polls this month, though pollsters underestimated the support for Brexit in 2016 and admit that the models they use are wilting beside the Brexit furnace. When Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, bet on a snap election in 2017, she lost her slender majority - a failure that ultimately prevented her from ratifying her Brexit deal and so sank her political career. In the June 23, 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 51.9 percent, backed leaving the EU while 16.1 million, or 48.1 percent, voted to remain.

Brexit election? Johnson makes fresh bid to break the deadlock

Prime Minister Boris Johnson makes a fresh bid for an election to break the Brexit deadlock on Tuesday after nearly three-and-a-half years of wrangling in parliament that has left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-union-agrees-in-principle-to-extend-brexit-258217">Britain's exit </a>from the European Union in turmoil.

As the European Union finalises a third delay to the divorce that was originally supposed to take place on March 29, the United Kingdom, its parliament and its voters remain divided on how or indeed if to go ahead with Brexit.

Johnson, who had promised to deliver Brexit on October&nbsp;31, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-adamant-on-brexit-deadline-despite-delay-request-257170">"do or die"</a>, has repeatedly demanded an election to end what he casts as a nightmare paralysis that is sapping public trust by preventing any Brexit outcome at all.

After parliament refused Johnson his third demand for an election on Monday, he will try to force a bill through parliament on Tuesday that calls for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-calls-for-the-elections-on-12th-december-258032">December&nbsp;12 election</a>. It needs a simple majority in parliament.

"We will not allow this paralysis to continue and, one way or another, we must proceed straight to an election," Johnson told parliament on Monday. "This House cannot any longer keep this country hostage."

Meanwhile, the legislation enacting Johnson's Brexit deal has been put on hold, pending an election, Jacob Rees-Mogg, who oversees the government's legislative agenda in the House of Commons, said.

The first Christmas election in Britain since 1923 would be highly unpredictable: Brexit has variously fatigued and enraged swathes of voters while eroding traditional loyalties to the two major parties, Conservative and Labour.

Ultimately, voters would have a choice between an emboldened Johnson pushing for his Brexit deal or a socialist government under Jeremy Corbyn renegotiating the deal before a referendum.

If no party wins conclusively, the Brexit deadlock will continue.

While almost all British politicians agree that an election is needed, Johnson's opponents want to inflict maximum political damage by preventing his last-minute deal from being ratified before the poll.

Johnson, in turn, is trying to shift the blame for failing to deliver Brexit by October&nbsp;31 on to parliament.

Such is the lack of trust in parliament that lawmakers are squabbling about almost everything from the sequencing of Brexit to the date of the election.

Behind the bickering, though, Johnson is closer to an election than he has ever been in his tumultuous 3-month premiership.

Two opposition parties, the Liberal Democrats and Scottish National Party, want an election on December&nbsp;9.

"We won't accept any jiggery-pokery from the prime minister," Ian Blackford, the Scottish National Party's Westminster leader, said. "Our vote certainly can't be taken for granted."

Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, said on Monday he would "consider carefully" legislation which locked in an election date.

Johnson's Conservatives are ahead of Labour by an average of about 10 percentage points in polls this month, though pollsters underestimated the support for Brexit in 2016 and admit that the models they use are wilting beside the Brexit furnace.

When Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, bet on a snap election in 2017, she lost her slender majority - a failure that ultimately prevented her from ratifying her Brexit deal and so sank her political career.

In the June 23, 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 51.9 percent, backed leaving the EU while 16.1 million, or 48.1 percent, voted to remain.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson makes a fresh bid for an election to break the Brexit deadlock on Tuesday after nearly three-and-a-half years of wrangling in parliament that has left Britain's exit from the European Union in turmoil. As the European Union finalises a third delay to the divorce that was originally supposed to take place on March 29, the United Kingdom, its parliament and its voters remain divided on how or indeed if to go ahead with Brexit. Johnson, who had promised to deliver Brexit on October 31, "do or die", has repeatedly demanded an election to end what he casts as a nightmare paralysis that is sapping public trust by preventing any Brexit outcome at all. After parliament refused Johnson his third demand for an election on Monday, he will try to force a bill through parliament on Tuesday that calls for a December 12 election. It needs a simple majority in parliament. "We will not allow this paralysis to continue and, one way or another, we must proceed straight to an election," Johnson told parliament on Monday. "This House cannot any longer keep this country hostage." Meanwhile, the legislation enacting Johnson's Brexit deal has been put on hold, pending an election, Jacob Rees-Mogg, who oversees the government's legislative agenda in the House of Commons, said. The first Christmas election in Britain since 1923 would be highly unpredictable: Brexit has variously fatigued and enraged swathes of voters while eroding traditional loyalties to the two major parties, Conservative and Labour. Ultimately, voters would have a choice between an emboldened Johnson pushing for his Brexit deal or a socialist government under Jeremy Corbyn renegotiating the deal before a referendum. If no party wins conclusively, the Brexit deadlock will continue. While almost all British politicians agree that an election is needed, Johnson's opponents want to inflict maximum political damage by preventing his last-minute deal from being ratified before the poll. Johnson, in turn, is trying to shift the blame for failing to deliver Brexit by October 31 on to parliament. Such is the lack of trust in parliament that lawmakers are squabbling about almost everything from the sequencing of Brexit to the date of the election. Behind the bickering, though, Johnson is closer to an election than he has ever been in his tumultuous 3-month premiership. Two opposition parties, the Liberal Democrats and Scottish National Party, want an election on December 9. "We won't accept any jiggery-pokery from the prime minister," Ian Blackford, the Scottish National Party's Westminster leader, said. "Our vote certainly can't be taken for granted." Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, said on Monday he would "consider carefully" legislation which locked in an election date. Johnson's Conservatives are ahead of Labour by an average of about 10 percentage points in polls this month, though pollsters underestimated the support for Brexit in 2016 and admit that the models they use are wilting beside the Brexit furnace. When Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, bet on a snap election in 2017, she lost her slender majority - a failure that ultimately prevented her from ratifying her Brexit deal and so sank her political career. In the June 23, 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 51.9 percent, backed leaving the EU while 16.1 million, or 48.1 percent, voted to remain.

Brexit election? Boris Johnson makes fresh bid to break the deadlock

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA).&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi, Speaking to European MPs called for "early conclusion of a fair and balanced Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) " which he called a "priority for the government."

Formal talks were suspended on the proposed FTA in 2013, an FTA which will help both India and Europe in a major way. Since 2013, India, EU has met 9 times informally to talk about the FTA with August 5, 2019, was the last time both sides met to discuss the issue.

Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, the EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing.

High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on.

Next year the 15th India-EU summit is expected to happen in Brussels, which can spur the talks on the FTA. The last India EU summit happened in 2017.&nbsp;

The development on EU India FTA comes even as next week could see mega RCEP FTA being inked in Bangkok on the sidelines of East Asia summit. India is keen to be part of RCEP whose part will be China, ASEAN, Australia etc.

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA).

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA). PM Narendra Modi, Speaking to European MPs called for "early conclusion of a fair and balanced Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) " which he called a "priority for the government." Formal talks were suspended on the proposed FTA in 2013, an FTA which will help both India and Europe in a major way. Since 2013, India, EU has met 9 times informally to talk about the FTA with August 5, 2019, was the last time both sides met to discuss the issue. Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, the EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing. High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on. Next year the 15th India-EU summit is expected to happen in Brussels, which can spur the talks on the FTA. The last India EU summit happened in 2017. The development on EU India FTA comes even as next week could see mega RCEP FTA being inked in Bangkok on the sidelines of East Asia summit. India is keen to be part of RCEP whose part will be China, ASEAN, Australia etc.

New Delhi keen for early conclusion of India-European Union free trade agreement

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval address the 28 members of the European Union. This is the first time an international delegation is visiting J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. PM Modi has taken them into confidence on developments in Jammu & Kashmir.

28 members of EU are all set to visit J&K tomorrow

UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson will push for an early election in the parliament today. European Union leaders will be meeting to discuss yet another Brexit delay. Watch this video to know more.

UK PM Johnson will push for an early election in parliament today

The European Union agreed to London's request for a Brexit deadline extension on Friday (October 25), a spokeswoman for the EU executive said, but set no new departure date, giving time for Britain's bitterly divided parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for a snap election.

European Union agrees in principle to extend Brexit

The European Union agreed on Friday to London's request for a Brexit deadline extension but set no new departure date, giving Britain's divided parliament time to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for a snap election.

The European Union agreed on Friday to London's request for a Brexit deadline extension but set no new departure date, giving Britain's divided parliament time to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for a snap election. "There was full agreement on the need for an extension," an EU official said after ambassadors to the 27 countries staying in the bloc met to discuss postponing Britain's exit, less than a week before the current deadline of Oct. 31. "Work will continue over the weekend" and envoys will meet again in Brussels on Monday or Tuesday, the person said. A day after admitting that he will not meet his "do or die" deadline of Oct. 31, Johnson said it was up to the EU to decide on an extension. "Of course October 31 is still possible - we could leave on Oct. 31 - unfortunately it depends on what the EU says," he said, adding that if opponents frustrate his bid for an election on Dec. 12 his minority government would not engage in pointless "Brexitology" in parliament. The EU envoys had been due to discuss the length of a third delay to Brexit but diplomats decided to hold off to let events play out in London. One EU diplomat said France pressed the other 26 to wait and favoured a delay until Nov. 15 or Nov. 30 to keep pressure on the British parliament to approve Johnson's deal or face a disorderly Brexit. "Everyone wanted a decision today. But France had a problem with that and wanted to wait until Monday/Tuesday to see what happens in London," the diplomat said. A source close to French President Emmanuel Macron said: "France wants a justified and proportionate extension. However, we have nothing of the sort so far. We must show the British that it is up to them to clarify the situation and that an extension is not a given." Macron has previously managed to sway the bloc's extension decisions, meaning options range from two weeks to the three months - to Jan. 31, 2020 - requested by Johnson, or longer should it be clear that Britain is headed for an election. Any delay can only be granted unanimously and it could come as little as 60 hours before Britain is due to leave. Blank date According to a draft document seen by Reuters ahead of Friday's meeting, a delay was to be granted "with the view to allowing for the finalisation of the ratification" of the divorce agreement sealed with Johnson last week. The draft text left the Brexit date blank, but said the split could take place earlier if ratification was completed, an idea dubbed a flexible extension or "flextension". A two-tier delay was also on the cards, meaning one decision might come with two possible dates for Brexit, depending on if and when the deal is ratified. "This extension excludes any reopening of the Withdrawal Agreement," the draft decision said, reminding Britain it would remain a full, paying member state until it leaves and should not seek to stall EU decisions. The EU is intent on preventing the most damaging no-deal split, but it is also tired of the intractable divorce. A joke in that spirit was being shared among EU diplomats: "The year is 2192. The British prime minister visits Brussels to ask for an extension of the Brexit deadline. No one remembers where this tradition originated, but every year it attracts many tourists from all over the world." More than three years after Britons voted 52%-48% to be the first country to leave the European project, the future of Brexit is unclear and the country bitterly divided. Johnson won the leadership of the ruling Conservative Party in July with a pledge to get Brexit done by Oct. 31, but parliament's rejection of his timetable on Tuesday means he will fail to do that. His predecessor Theresa May resigned after parliament defeated her Brexit deal three times, forcing delays from an initial Brexit date of March 29. Johnson told opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn he would give parliament more time to approve his Brexit deal by Nov. 6 if lawmakers back a December election in a vote on Monday, his third attempt at forcing a snap poll. Corbyn replied he would wait to see what the EU does on a Brexit delay before deciding which way to vote, repeating that he could only back an election when the risk of a no-deal Brexit was off the table. It is not clear how Corbyn will respond now the EU has shelved its decision on a new Brexit date. A spokesman for Johnson said he would push ahead with plans to leave the EU if lawmakers reject a pre-Christmas election. Ladbrokes said betting odds indicated an election in 2020.

EU agrees Brexit extension but sets no date as UK squabbles over election

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-sends-unsigned-letter-seeking-brexit-delay-256989">Brexit extension</a> to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election.

"I'd be surprised if we land today," said an EU official before ambassadors to the 27 other EU member states went into a meeting to discuss postponing Britain's departure from the bloc, less than a week before the current deadline of October&nbsp;31.

Separately, a senior EU official said the 27 may agree in principle to a delay but set no new date until after parliament's vote on Monday on whether to have a snap election on December&nbsp;12.

Johnson admitted on Thursday that he would not meet his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-adamant-on-brexit-deadline-despite-delay-request-257170">"do or die" deadline</a> of October&nbsp;31 and demanded a pre-Christmas poll to end what he cast as the "nightmare" of the Brexit crisis.

EU envoys to Brussels were due to discuss the length of a third delay to Brexit on Friday, though officials said they would be reluctant to set a date because it could dictate the direction of political events in London.

According to a draft decision by the 27, which was seen by Reuters on Thursday evening, a delay would be granted "with the view to allowing for the finalisation of the ratification" of the divorce agreement sealed with Johnson last week.

The draft text left the new Brexit date blank, but said the split could take place earlier if ratification was completed earlier - an idea known as "flextension", an amalgamation of the words "flexible" and "extension".

An EU official explained: "It's basically between a three-month flextension or a two-tier one."

Under the first idea, Britain would leave on Jan. 31, three months after the current departure date, but earlier if it and the EU raify an agreement before that. The second one would include a second specific date when Britain could leave.

Johnson won the leadership of the ruling Conservative Party to become prime minister in a minority government by staking his career on getting Brexit done by October&nbsp;31, but after parliament rejected his proposed legislative timetable on Tuesday he will fail to do that.

Brexit was initially supposed to have taken place on March 29 but Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was forced to delay twice as parliament defeated her Brexit deal by margins of between 58 and 230 votes earlier this year. Her failure cost May her job.

Johnson said in a letter to opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Thursday he would give parliament more time to approve his Brexit deal by Nov. 6 but lawmakers must on Monday back a December election, Johnson's third attempt to try to force a snap vote.

"Prolonging this paralysis into 2020 would have dangerous consequences," he said. "If I win a majority in this election, we will then ratify the great new deal that I have negotiated, get Brexit done in January and the country will move on."

Corbyn said he would wait to see what the EU decides on a Brexit delay before deciding which way to vote on Monday, repeating that he could only back an election when the risk of Johnson taking Britain out of the EU without a deal to smooth the transition was off the table.

It is not clear how Corbyn would respond if the EU makes no decision on a date on Friday.

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a Brexit extension to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election.

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a Brexit extension to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election. "I'd be surprised if we land today," said an EU official before ambassadors to the 27 other EU member states went into a meeting to discuss postponing Britain's departure from the bloc, less than a week before the current deadline of October 31. Separately, a senior EU official said the 27 may agree in principle to a delay but set no new date until after parliament's vote on Monday on whether to have a snap election on December 12. Johnson admitted on Thursday that he would not meet his "do or die" deadline of October 31 and demanded a pre-Christmas poll to end what he cast as the "nightmare" of the Brexit crisis. EU envoys to Brussels were due to discuss the length of a third delay to Brexit on Friday, though officials said they would be reluctant to set a date because it could dictate the direction of political events in London. According to a draft decision by the 27, which was seen by Reuters on Thursday evening, a delay would be granted "with the view to allowing for the finalisation of the ratification" of the divorce agreement sealed with Johnson last week. The draft text left the new Brexit date blank, but said the split could take place earlier if ratification was completed earlier - an idea known as "flextension", an amalgamation of the words "flexible" and "extension". An EU official explained: "It's basically between a three-month flextension or a two-tier one." Under the first idea, Britain would leave on Jan. 31, three months after the current departure date, but earlier if it and the EU raify an agreement before that. The second one would include a second specific date when Britain could leave. Johnson won the leadership of the ruling Conservative Party to become prime minister in a minority government by staking his career on getting Brexit done by October 31, but after parliament rejected his proposed legislative timetable on Tuesday he will fail to do that. Brexit was initially supposed to have taken place on March 29 but Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was forced to delay twice as parliament defeated her Brexit deal by margins of between 58 and 230 votes earlier this year. Her failure cost May her job. Johnson said in a letter to opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Thursday he would give parliament more time to approve his Brexit deal by Nov. 6 but lawmakers must on Monday back a December election, Johnson's third attempt to try to force a snap vote. "Prolonging this paralysis into 2020 would have dangerous consequences," he said. "If I win a majority in this election, we will then ratify the great new deal that I have negotiated, get Brexit done in January and the country will move on." Corbyn said he would wait to see what the EU decides on a Brexit delay before deciding which way to vote on Monday, repeating that he could only back an election when the risk of Johnson taking Britain out of the EU without a deal to smooth the transition was off the table. It is not clear how Corbyn would respond if the EU makes no decision on a date on Friday.

EU likely to shelve Brexit delay as Britain squabbles over election

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he would give parliament more time to scrutinise his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-delay-looms-after-uk-mps-demand-more-time-to-debate-deal-257603">Brexit plan</a> if it agrees to hold a snap general election on December 12.

He said if MPs really wanted more time to study his deal, "they can have it, but they have to agree on a general election on December 12", Johnson said in televised remarks.

EU member states on Wednesday delayed a decision on whether to grant Britain a three-month&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;extension, while Prime Minister Boris Johnson said if the deadline is deferred to the end of January he would call an election by Christmas.

Johnson is opposed to delaying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-brexit-vote-eu-says-done-all-in-our-power-for-orderly-departure-257542">Britain's exit</a> from the European Union a third time.&nbsp;

But lawmakers on Tuesday also gave their support "in principle" for the agreement. It marked the first time the House of Commons had backed any Brexit proposal since the 2016 EU referendum.

The EU is expected to agree the length of a Brexit deadline extension on Friday.

At parliament's behest, Johnson has formally submitted a request for a three-month delay.

Johnson said Thursday that the only way to achieve a breakthrough in the process was for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-go-for-general-elections-if-parliament-refuses-to-allow-brexit-to-happen-johnson-257576">parliament to vote in favour of holding a general election</a>.

"The way to get Brexit done is, I think, to be reasonable with parliament and say if they genuinely want more time to study this excellent deal, they can have it,&nbsp;but they have to agree on a general election on December 12," he said.

Watch: EU considers Brexit extension, Boris Johnson battles to save deal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-considers-brexit-extension-boris-johnson-battles-to-save-deal-257370/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It's time, frankly, that the opposition summoned up the nerve to submit themselves to the judgement of our collective boss, which is the people of the UK."

Johnson must win the support of two-thirds of MPs in the House of Commons to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-after-uk-parliaments-votes-on-brexit-deal-257608">hold early polls</a> under current election rules.

The government could also try a different legal route that only requires a simple majority of 50 percent plus one vote.

But such a proposal would be amendable and allow the opposition to either change the date or make the vote conditional on other issues.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he would give parliament more time to scrutinise his Brexit plan if it agrees to hold a snap general election on December 12.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he would give parliament more time to scrutinise his Brexit plan if it agrees to hold a snap general election on December 12. He said if MPs really wanted more time to study his deal, "they can have it, but they have to agree on a general election on December 12", Johnson said in televised remarks. EU member states on Wednesday delayed a decision on whether to grant Britain a three-month Brexit extension, while Prime Minister Boris Johnson said if the deadline is deferred to the end of January he would call an election by Christmas. Johnson is opposed to delaying Britain's exit from the European Union a third time. But lawmakers on Tuesday also gave their support "in principle" for the agreement. It marked the first time the House of Commons had backed any Brexit proposal since the 2016 EU referendum. The EU is expected to agree the length of a Brexit deadline extension on Friday. At parliament's behest, Johnson has formally submitted a request for a three-month delay. Johnson said Thursday that the only way to achieve a breakthrough in the process was for parliament to vote in favour of holding a general election. "The way to get Brexit done is, I think, to be reasonable with parliament and say if they genuinely want more time to study this excellent deal, they can have it, but they have to agree on a general election on December 12," he said. Watch: EU considers Brexit extension, Boris Johnson battles to save deal "It's time, frankly, that the opposition summoned up the nerve to submit themselves to the judgement of our collective boss, which is the people of the UK." Johnson must win the support of two-thirds of MPs in the House of Commons to hold early polls under current election rules. The government could also try a different legal route that only requires a simple majority of 50 percent plus one vote. But such a proposal would be amendable and allow the opposition to either change the date or make the vote conditional on other issues.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says he wants early election on December 12

The European Union's top court ruled on Thursday that France has persistently exceeded the threshold limit for nitrogen dioxide, a polluting gas from diesel motors that causes major health problems.

France "systematically and persistently exceeded the annual limit value for nitrogen dioxide since Jan. 1, 2010," the court said in a statement.

The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, referred the matter to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in May 2018 after almost a decade of warnings that went unaddressed.

France is the first of several member states, including Germany and Britain, that the commission has sued in court after it stepped up its anti-pollution fight in the wake of the so-called "Dieselgate" scandal that erupted in 2015.

The motors caught up in the scandal, in which automakers installed special emission-cheating devices into their car engines, are the main emitters of nitrogen oxides that the European Environment Agency says are responsible for 68,000 premature deaths per year in the EU.

Nitrogen dioxide is toxic and can cause significant respiratory problems as one of the main constituents of traffic-jam smog.

Under EU rules, member countries are required to keep the gas to under 40 micrograms per cubic metre&nbsp;but that level is often exceeded in many traffic-clogged European cities.

The judgement opens the way to possible sanctions at a later stage if Paris does nothing to fix the situation.&nbsp;

The case involved 24 areas in France, including the cities of Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice and Strasbourg, but also the alpine Arve Valley, France's lorry-clogged gateway to Italy.&nbsp;

While France does not dispute the violation, it argued that the application of European air quality legislation "must be assessed in the light of the structural difficulties encountered" in applying it, the court said in a statement.

But for the judges, EU law demands that when high pollution is found, the member state concerned is required to draw up an air-quality plan and to ensure that the danger period is "as short as possible".&nbsp;

The court said "France clearly did not adopt, in due time, appropriate measures," noting an "overrun for seven consecutive years".

The European Union's top court ruled on Thursday that France has persistently exceeded the threshold limit for nitrogen dioxide, a polluting gas from diesel motors that causes major health problems.

The European Union's top court ruled on Thursday that France has persistently exceeded the threshold limit for nitrogen dioxide, a polluting gas from diesel motors that causes major health problems. France "systematically and persistently exceeded the annual limit value for nitrogen dioxide since Jan. 1, 2010," the court said in a statement. The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, referred the matter to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in May 2018 after almost a decade of warnings that went unaddressed. France is the first of several member states, including Germany and Britain, that the commission has sued in court after it stepped up its anti-pollution fight in the wake of the so-called "Dieselgate" scandal that erupted in 2015. The motors caught up in the scandal, in which automakers installed special emission-cheating devices into their car engines, are the main emitters of nitrogen oxides that the European Environment Agency says are responsible for 68,000 premature deaths per year in the EU. Nitrogen dioxide is toxic and can cause significant respiratory problems as one of the main constituents of traffic-jam smog. Under EU rules, member countries are required to keep the gas to under 40 micrograms per cubic metre but that level is often exceeded in many traffic-clogged European cities. The judgement opens the way to possible sanctions at a later stage if Paris does nothing to fix the situation. The case involved 24 areas in France, including the cities of Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice and Strasbourg, but also the alpine Arve Valley, France's lorry-clogged gateway to Italy. While France does not dispute the violation, it argued that the application of European air quality legislation "must be assessed in the light of the structural difficulties encountered" in applying it, the court said in a statement. But for the judges, EU law demands that when high pollution is found, the member state concerned is required to draw up an air-quality plan and to ensure that the danger period is "as short as possible". The court said "France clearly did not adopt, in due time, appropriate measures," noting an "overrun for seven consecutive years".

France loses diesel pollution fight in European Union court

President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday put forward businessman and former economy minister Thierry Breton as France's candidate for a key <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-brexit-vote-eu-says-done-all-in-our-power-for-orderly-departure-257542">European Commission</a> portfolio after his first choice was shot down by the European Parliament.

Macron proposed Breton to incoming commission head Ursula von der Leyen for the ambitious portfolio covering industrial policy, defence spending, technology and space, an Elysee Palace official said.

The portfolio, which Macron fought hard for, has remained unchanged.

Macron and Von der Leyen had agreed on Breton's "profile," the official said, adding: "If we are proposing this candidate, he is suitable."

Two weeks ago, European Parliament lawmakers voted to reject Macron's first candidate for the Brussels post, Sylvie Goulard, in a rare political defeat for the French leader on the European stage.

A former MEP, Goulard resigned in June 2017 from a short stint as France's defence minister after claims she and other members of the centrist MoDem party were using European parliamentary funds to pay assistants who were actually based in France.

She was questioned by French investigators in September and is also under scrutiny by the EU Anti-Fraud Office, though she has not been charged.

Breton, 64, is credited with a turnaround for the debt-laden former state monopoly France Telecom, now Orange, and leading it to privatisation.

He has served as a director on many boards and led French computer-maker Bull as well as Thomson Multimedia before serving as economy minister under Jacques Chirac from 2005 to 2007.

He now heads digital firm Atos, a group with head offices both outside Paris and in Munich, where he has doubled turnover to more than $13.4 billion&nbsp;and staff numbers to 122,000.

But Atos is an IT service provider to the EU and Breton's nomination has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest.

The vetting process "will be complicated, once again," said Yannick Jadot, a European parliamentarian from France's EELV green party.

"Thierry Breton is the CEO of Atos, it is a digital company that receives European grants, that is a European leader in supercomputers, also with European grants. And in his portfolio, what do we have? Digital."

Another MEP, Manon Aubry of the hard-left France Unbowed party, criticised the candidature of a boss of a listed company "that receives millions of European grants".

But the Elysee insisted Breton was always "rigorous to avoid any conflict of interest" when he moved to government from the business sector.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-vows-unrelenting-fight-against-islamist-terror-after-police-killings-254514">Macron's nominee will be vetted by European lawmakers</a> in the coming weeks.

The Elysee official said Breton "has solid skills in all the areas covered by the portfolio, particularly industry and high tech", adding that he is a "committed European" and "a man of action".

Breton said Thursday that he was "working on preparing for the hearings", adding he was "very honoured" by the trust placed in him.

"For Europe and for all our fellow European citizens, I appreciate the importance of the challenges associated with this portfolio for the future of our country."

The vetting of the EU's 28 commissioners, one for each member country, has taken longer than expected, and the EU executive is now expected to start its work on December 1, a month later than initially planned.

MEPs also rejected the candidates from Hungary and Romania last month.

President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday put forward businessman and former economy minister Thierry Breton as France's candidate for a key European Commission portfolio after his first choice was shot down by the European Parliament.

President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday put forward businessman and former economy minister Thierry Breton as France's candidate for a key European Commission portfolio after his first choice was shot down by the European Parliament. Macron proposed Breton to incoming commission head Ursula von der Leyen for the ambitious portfolio covering industrial policy, defence spending, technology and space, an Elysee Palace official said. The portfolio, which Macron fought hard for, has remained unchanged. Macron and Von der Leyen had agreed on Breton's "profile," the official said, adding: "If we are proposing this candidate, he is suitable." Two weeks ago, European Parliament lawmakers voted to reject Macron's first candidate for the Brussels post, Sylvie Goulard, in a rare political defeat for the French leader on the European stage. A former MEP, Goulard resigned in June 2017 from a short stint as France's defence minister after claims she and other members of the centrist MoDem party were using European parliamentary funds to pay assistants who were actually based in France. She was questioned by French investigators in September and is also under scrutiny by the EU Anti-Fraud Office, though she has not been charged. Breton, 64, is credited with a turnaround for the debt-laden former state monopoly France Telecom, now Orange, and leading it to privatisation. He has served as a director on many boards and led French computer-maker Bull as well as Thomson Multimedia before serving as economy minister under Jacques Chirac from 2005 to 2007. He now heads digital firm Atos, a group with head offices both outside Paris and in Munich, where he has doubled turnover to more than $13.4 billion and staff numbers to 122,000. But Atos is an IT service provider to the EU and Breton's nomination has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. The vetting process "will be complicated, once again," said Yannick Jadot, a European parliamentarian from France's EELV green party. "Thierry Breton is the CEO of Atos, it is a digital company that receives European grants, that is a European leader in supercomputers, also with European grants. And in his portfolio, what do we have? Digital." Another MEP, Manon Aubry of the hard-left France Unbowed party, criticised the candidature of a boss of a listed company "that receives millions of European grants". But the Elysee insisted Breton was always "rigorous to avoid any conflict of interest" when he moved to government from the business sector. Macron's nominee will be vetted by European lawmakers in the coming weeks. The Elysee official said Breton "has solid skills in all the areas covered by the portfolio, particularly industry and high tech", adding that he is a "committed European" and "a man of action". Breton said Thursday that he was "working on preparing for the hearings", adding he was "very honoured" by the trust placed in him. "For Europe and for all our fellow European citizens, I appreciate the importance of the challenges associated with this portfolio for the future of our country." The vetting of the EU's 28 commissioners, one for each member country, has taken longer than expected, and the EU executive is now expected to start its work on December 1, a month later than initially planned. MEPs also rejected the candidates from Hungary and Romania last month.

After setback, Emmanuel Macron unveils new pick for key EU post

European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday he will recommend EU leaders grant another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-go-for-general-elections-if-parliament-refuses-to-allow-brexit-to-happen-johnson-257576">Brexit extension</a>, hours after <a href="What next after UK parliament's votes on Brexit deal?">British MPs rejected Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>'s bid to force his divorce deal through parliament this week.

Tusk said he would advise the bloc's 27 other member states to accept a postponement request from the UK government, which Johnson was forced to submit Saturday under British law after he had failed to win lawmakers' backing for his new agreement.

However, earlier on Tuesday MPs gave their initial approval to legislation enacting the agreement struck with Brussels last week -- only to then block the British premier's timetable to pass it ahead of the latest October 31 date for Brexit.

Johnson immediately announced he would pause the process of trying to ratify the text -- the first that MPs have backed since the 2016 referendum -- while he consulted European Union leaders on a possible delay.

"Following Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to pause the process of ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement, and in order to avoid a no-deal Brexit, I will recommend the EU27 accept the UK request for an extension," Tusk said in a tweet.

France's European Affairs Minister Amelie de Montchalin said Paris was open to a "technical" Brexit extension of "several days" but ruled out reopening discussions to renegotiate the deal reached by the two sides.

Johnson won a significant victory when the House of Commons voted by 329 to 299 to approve in principle a bill that implements his Brexit deal.

But just minutes later, MPs rejected by 322 to 308 his timetable motion demanding they push through the bill in three days to allow Britain's departure at the end of this month.

Johnson reiterated his desire to stick to the October 31 date and said Britain would step up preparations in case of a disorderly "no-deal" exit. 
Ratifying the bill before October 31 would have allowed him to avoid a legally-mandated delay, which was set provisionally at three months but is open for EU leaders to amend.

With speedy ratification now in doubt, a postponement seems inevitable.

"I will speak to EU member states about their intentions," Johnson told MPs.

"Until we have reached a decision I will say, we will pause this legislation.

"Let me be clear — our policy remains that we should not delay, that we should leave the European Union on October 31. That is what I will say to the EU."

Ahead of the vote, Johnson warned he would seek an election to break the political deadlock, although this requires the support of the Labour party.

Blindside parliament

Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner in the 2016 EU referendum, took office in July promising to deliver on the result come what may.

He defied expectations in striking a new divorce deal at a Brussels summit last month, and despite Saturday's setback, has now shown he has the numbers to get it through parliament.

But to stick to his Brexit deadline he needs to get the deal through in the next week -- and has no majority in the 650-seat House of Commons.

Opposition parties, many of whom dislike his divorce deal, said it was "ludicrous" to expect proper scrutiny of the legislation in less than three days.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who has called for a second referendum on Brexit, said Johnson was trying to "blindside" MPs into supporting a "rotten bill".

The Democratic Unionist Party, Johnson's Northern Irish allies, accused him of duping them about new trading arrangements for the province. 
DUP MP Sammy Wilson said he "nearly choked" when he heard Johnson's assurances, adding: "The prime minister thinks I can't read the agreement."

EU 'will be ready'

The timetable motion was intended to ensure the House of Commons debated the bill quickly, allowing it to go onto the unelected upper House of Lords.

Johnson warned that seeking further time risked a "no-deal" exit if the EU refused a delay.

Businesses and markets on both sides of the Channel fear such a scenario, where Britain severs ties with its closest trading partner with no new plans in place after 46 years of integration.

The deal covers EU citizens' rights, Britain's financial settlements, a post-Brexit transition period until at least the end of 2020 and new trade arrangements for Northern Ireland.

It also sets out vague plans for a loose free trade agreement with the EU after Brexit.

An earlier Brexit text agreed by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May was rejected three times by MPs earlier this year.

European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday he will recommend EU leaders grant another Brexit extension, hours after British MPs rejected Prime Minister Boris Johnson's bid to force his divorce deal through parliament this week.

European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday he will recommend EU leaders grant another Brexit extension, hours after British MPs rejected Prime Minister Boris Johnson's bid to force his divorce deal through parliament this week. Tusk said he would advise the bloc's 27 other member states to accept a postponement request from the UK government, which Johnson was forced to submit Saturday under British law after he had failed to win lawmakers' backing for his new agreement. However, earlier on Tuesday MPs gave their initial approval to legislation enacting the agreement struck with Brussels last week -- only to then block the British premier's timetable to pass it ahead of the latest October 31 date for Brexit. Johnson immediately announced he would pause the process of trying to ratify the text -- the first that MPs have backed since the 2016 referendum -- while he consulted European Union leaders on a possible delay. "Following Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to pause the process of ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement, and in order to avoid a no-deal Brexit, I will recommend the EU27 accept the UK request for an extension," Tusk said in a tweet. France's European Affairs Minister Amelie de Montchalin said Paris was open to a "technical" Brexit extension of "several days" but ruled out reopening discussions to renegotiate the deal reached by the two sides. Johnson won a significant victory when the House of Commons voted by 329 to 299 to approve in principle a bill that implements his Brexit deal. But just minutes later, MPs rejected by 322 to 308 his timetable motion demanding they push through the bill in three days to allow Britain's departure at the end of this month. Johnson reiterated his desire to stick to the October 31 date and said Britain would step up preparations in case of a disorderly "no-deal" exit. Ratifying the bill before October 31 would have allowed him to avoid a legally-mandated delay, which was set provisionally at three months but is open for EU leaders to amend. With speedy ratification now in doubt, a postponement seems inevitable. "I will speak to EU member states about their intentions," Johnson told MPs. "Until we have reached a decision I will say, we will pause this legislation. "Let me be clear — our policy remains that we should not delay, that we should leave the European Union on October 31. That is what I will say to the EU." Ahead of the vote, Johnson warned he would seek an election to break the political deadlock, although this requires the support of the Labour party. Blindside parliament Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner in the 2016 EU referendum, took office in July promising to deliver on the result come what may. He defied expectations in striking a new divorce deal at a Brussels summit last month, and despite Saturday's setback, has now shown he has the numbers to get it through parliament. But to stick to his Brexit deadline he needs to get the deal through in the next week -- and has no majority in the 650-seat House of Commons. Opposition parties, many of whom dislike his divorce deal, said it was "ludicrous" to expect proper scrutiny of the legislation in less than three days. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who has called for a second referendum on Brexit, said Johnson was trying to "blindside" MPs into supporting a "rotten bill". The Democratic Unionist Party, Johnson's Northern Irish allies, accused him of duping them about new trading arrangements for the province. DUP MP Sammy Wilson said he "nearly choked" when he heard Johnson's assurances, adding: "The prime minister thinks I can't read the agreement." EU 'will be ready' The timetable motion was intended to ensure the House of Commons debated the bill quickly, allowing it to go onto the unelected upper House of Lords. Johnson warned that seeking further time risked a "no-deal" exit if the EU refused a delay. Businesses and markets on both sides of the Channel fear such a scenario, where Britain severs ties with its closest trading partner with no new plans in place after 46 years of integration. The deal covers EU citizens' rights, Britain's financial settlements, a post-Brexit transition period until at least the end of 2020 and new trade arrangements for Northern Ireland. It also sets out vague plans for a loose free trade agreement with the EU after Brexit. An earlier Brexit text agreed by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May was rejected three times by MPs earlier this year.

Brexit delay looms after UK MPs demand more time to debate deal

Britain's three-year Brexit saga took another dramatic twist on Tuesday, with the outcome still tortuously tough to predict.

In a landmark vote, MPs finally backed an EU divorce deal -- only then to reject Prime Minister Boris Johnson's rushed timetable to turn it into law ahead of the country's scheduled October 31 departure date. &nbsp;

The decision makes that deadline almost impossible to meet, but it does not kill the deal — the first that has got a majority in parliament.&nbsp;

Here are the possible scenarios ahead:

Technical extension?

Legislation passed last month stated that unless MPs backed a divorce deal by October 19, Johnson must write to EU leaders asking for Brexit to be postponed for three months to January 31, 2020.

The prime minister reluctantly sent the letter late on Saturday, and EU leaders are still considering their response.

European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday following the drama in Westminster that he was now recommending they accept the request.

Johnson had earlier told lawmakers who had just defied his bid to fast-track his deal through parliament that he would "pause" the ratification process while the EU decides on an extension.

Although he insisted Britain should still leave on October 31, he may have little choice but to accept a short "technical" delay to allow for a new parliamentary timetable to pass the legislation in the coming weeks.

Longer delay?

Despite Johnson being adamant he will not delay Brexit for months, the EU may also offer Britain the option of a longer extension -- which opposition MPs argue the premier would be compelled by law to accept.

European leaders could claim a longer delay is necessary to give the country enough time to resolve the issue.

Legislation of this type would normally take months and must be approved again by the House of Commons as well as by the upper House of Lords.

There is a real risk MPs could try to hijack its passage and attach various amendments, for example to make approval subject to negotiating a future customs union with the bloc or even to hold a new referendum.

A longer delay could also allow for a general election.

'No-deal' Brexit?

The default legal position is that Britain leaves the EU on October 31 unless the other 27 member states agree to a delay.

Business and markets across Europe fear the shock of a sudden Brexit that even the government's own assessment says would cause economic damage, raising the chances that the EU will offer an extension.

Despite EU leaders claiming they would never cause a no-deal Brexit, their decision to offer a delay must be unanimous and any one of the 27 member states could block such a move.&nbsp;

In that highly unlikely scenario, Britain would crash out of the bloc at the end of next week.

Another election?

Johnson warned MPs ahead of the votes on Tuesday that he would pull his Brexit deal legislation and try to hold a general election if they rejected his timetable -- although he did not repeat the threat afterwards.

Riding high in the polls, he has already unsuccessfully tried twice to get an early election to win back a majority in parliament, and seemed buoyed by having secured MPs' initial approval for his new Brexit deal.

But he needs the support of the main opposition Labour Party for an election to be called and it has so far resisted.

Labour says it would back an election when the threat of a "no deal" Brexit is off the table.

A second referendum?

Labour says any deal should be subject to a new referendum, and has promised to call one if it takes office.

Some MPs may try to force the issue during the passage of the Brexit deal legislation, although it is far from clear that they have the numbers to succeed.

Britain's three-year Brexit saga took another dramatic twist on Tuesday, with the outcome still tortuously tough to predict. In a landmark vote, MPs finally backed an EU divorce deal -- only then to reject Prime Minister Boris Johnson's rushed timetable to turn it into law ahead of the country's scheduled October 31 departure date.

Britain's three-year Brexit saga took another dramatic twist on Tuesday, with the outcome still tortuously tough to predict. In a landmark vote, MPs finally backed an EU divorce deal -- only then to reject Prime Minister Boris Johnson's rushed timetable to turn it into law ahead of the country's scheduled October 31 departure date. The decision makes that deadline almost impossible to meet, but it does not kill the deal — the first that has got a majority in parliament. Here are the possible scenarios ahead: Technical extension? Legislation passed last month stated that unless MPs backed a divorce deal by October 19, Johnson must write to EU leaders asking for Brexit to be postponed for three months to January 31, 2020. The prime minister reluctantly sent the letter late on Saturday, and EU leaders are still considering their response. European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday following the drama in Westminster that he was now recommending they accept the request. Johnson had earlier told lawmakers who had just defied his bid to fast-track his deal through parliament that he would "pause" the ratification process while the EU decides on an extension. Although he insisted Britain should still leave on October 31, he may have little choice but to accept a short "technical" delay to allow for a new parliamentary timetable to pass the legislation in the coming weeks. Longer delay? Despite Johnson being adamant he will not delay Brexit for months, the EU may also offer Britain the option of a longer extension -- which opposition MPs argue the premier would be compelled by law to accept. European leaders could claim a longer delay is necessary to give the country enough time to resolve the issue. Legislation of this type would normally take months and must be approved again by the House of Commons as well as by the upper House of Lords. There is a real risk MPs could try to hijack its passage and attach various amendments, for example to make approval subject to negotiating a future customs union with the bloc or even to hold a new referendum. A longer delay could also allow for a general election. 'No-deal' Brexit? The default legal position is that Britain leaves the EU on October 31 unless the other 27 member states agree to a delay. Business and markets across Europe fear the shock of a sudden Brexit that even the government's own assessment says would cause economic damage, raising the chances that the EU will offer an extension. Despite EU leaders claiming they would never cause a no-deal Brexit, their decision to offer a delay must be unanimous and any one of the 27 member states could block such a move. In that highly unlikely scenario, Britain would crash out of the bloc at the end of next week. Another election? Johnson warned MPs ahead of the votes on Tuesday that he would pull his Brexit deal legislation and try to hold a general election if they rejected his timetable -- although he did not repeat the threat afterwards. Riding high in the polls, he has already unsuccessfully tried twice to get an early election to win back a majority in parliament, and seemed buoyed by having secured MPs' initial approval for his new Brexit deal. But he needs the support of the main opposition Labour Party for an election to be called and it has so far resisted. Labour says it would back an election when the threat of a "no deal" Brexit is off the table. A second referendum? Labour says any deal should be subject to a new referendum, and has promised to call one if it takes office. Some MPs may try to force the issue during the passage of the Brexit deal legislation, although it is far from clear that they have the numbers to succeed.

What next after UK parliament's votes on Brexit deal?

British PM Johnson told the Parliament on Tuesday that he will withdraw the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-brexit-vote-eu-says-done-all-in-our-power-for-orderly-departure-257542"> Brexit deal and call for general elections </a>if the Parliament does not pass the government's timetable.

Johnson has set October 31 as the deadline to pull Britain out of the European Union as British lawmakers vote today on two crucial Brexit bills, if the lawmakers fail to pass any of the bill it would be a huge setback for Conservative prime minister who has promised to take his country out of the 28-nation European body.

“I will in no way allow months more of this. If parliament refuses to allow Brexit to happen and instead gets its way and decides to delay everything until January or possibly longer, in no circumstances can the government continue. And with great regret, I must say the bill will have to be pulled and we will have to go forward to a general election,” Johnson told British parliamentarians.

Johnson's government hopes to get the legislation through Britain's lower house the House of Commons by the end of Thursday.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-brexit-the-tale-of-three-letters-257382/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

"I believe that if we do this deal, if we pass this deal and the legislation that enables it, we can turn the page and allow this parliament and this country to begin to heal and unite," he said.

Meanwhile, Jean-Claude Juncker told the European Parliament that everything had been done to make sure UK's departure is "orderly" as UK lawmakers prepared to vote today on the 115-page Withdrawal Agreement Bill and then vote on the government's extremely tight timetable for approving the legislation.

In his speech in Parliament, Johnson said that Brexit can be done which could also "de-escalate those no-deal preparations".

"We can get Brexit done and move our country on and we can de-escalate those no-deal preparations immediately and turn them off next week and instead concentrate on the great enterprise of building a new relationship of the closest cooperation and friendship, as I said on Saturday, with our European neighbour." 
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British PM Johnson told the Parliament on Tuesday that he will withdraw the Brexit deal and call for general elections if the Parliament does not pass the government's timetable.

British PM Johnson told the Parliament on Tuesday that he will withdraw the Brexit deal and call for general elections if the Parliament does not pass the government's timetable. Johnson has set October 31 as the deadline to pull Britain out of the European Union as British lawmakers vote today on two crucial Brexit bills, if the lawmakers fail to pass any of the bill it would be a huge setback for Conservative prime minister who has promised to take his country out of the 28-nation European body. “I will in no way allow months more of this. If parliament refuses to allow Brexit to happen and instead gets its way and decides to delay everything until January or possibly longer, in no circumstances can the government continue. And with great regret, I must say the bill will have to be pulled and we will have to go forward to a general election,” Johnson told British parliamentarians. Johnson's government hopes to get the legislation through Britain's lower house the House of Commons by the end of Thursday. Watch Video: "I believe that if we do this deal, if we pass this deal and the legislation that enables it, we can turn the page and allow this parliament and this country to begin to heal and unite," he said. Meanwhile, Jean-Claude Juncker told the European Parliament that everything had been done to make sure UK's departure is "orderly" as UK lawmakers prepared to vote today on the 115-page Withdrawal Agreement Bill and then vote on the government's extremely tight timetable for approving the legislation. In his speech in Parliament, Johnson said that Brexit can be done which could also "de-escalate those no-deal preparations". "We can get Brexit done and move our country on and we can de-escalate those no-deal preparations immediately and turn them off next week and instead concentrate on the great enterprise of building a new relationship of the closest cooperation and friendship, as I said on Saturday, with our European neighbour."

Will go for general elections if Parliament refuses to allow Brexit to happen: Johnson

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