British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-endgame-its-pm-boris-johnson-versus-parliament-in-historic-showdown-246685">Boris Johnson</a> on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics.

Johnson said Britons had decided to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum and MPs had promised multiple times to uphold that decision.

"If we stop the UK from leaving on October 31, if that's what parliamentarians end up doing, it will do lasting damage to people's trust in politics," he told Sky News television.

"It will do lasting and catastrophic damage to the major parties in this country. This political generation won't be forgiven for failing to honour that promise."

Opposition MPs and some lawmakers from Johnson's own Conservatives have said they want to legislate to prevent a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-endgame-its-pm-boris-johnson-versus-parliament-in-historic-showdown-246685">no-deal Brexit</a>, which the government's own assessment warns could cause food, fuel and medicine shortages.

But Johnson said that preparing for a no-deal Brexit would allow the government to clinch an agreement with Brussels.

"I'm afraid that the more our friends and partners think, at the back of their minds, that Brexit could be stopped, that the UK could be kept in by parliament, the less likely they are to give us the deal that we need," he said.

Johnson on Wednesday moved to suspend parliament in the final weeks before Brexit in what was widely seen as a move to limit the parliamentary time for his opponents.

Queen Elizabeth II, on his advice, gave the go-ahead to shutter parliament between mid-September and October 14 -- just two weeks before the Brexit date of October 31.

The move sent shockwaves through British politics, triggering a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal exit.

Wrong-footed, Johnson's opponents labelled the suspension of parliament a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage".

The decision is being challenged in several legal cases.

Judge Raymond Doherty on Friday rejected a request for a temporary block on the suspension decision but will hear the full case at a further hearing in Edinburgh on Tuesday.

Former prime minister John Major, a strong supporter of EU membership, said he will seek to join a separate case in London, which is due to be heard in court on Thursday.&nbsp;

'Step up the tempo'

Britain's Brexit negotiators are to meet their EU counterparts twice a week throughout September in a bid to reach a new divorce agreement.

Johnson said he wants to "step up the tempo" in talks with the EU to strike a new Brexit deal.

Johnson wants the so-called backstop, the fallback provisions regarding the Irish border, scrapped completely.

But there are growing concerns among some major players in the EU that Britain will not be able to come up with realistic alternatives in time.

A spokesperson for the European Commission said they were willing to work "24/7 throughout this long process".

"We expect the UK to come forward with concrete proposals, as President (Jean-Claude) Juncker made clear to Prime Minister Johnson earlier this week."

The backstop is included in a divorce deal that the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which Britain's parliament has rejected three times.

Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Britain had come up with "nothing credible" to replace the backstop.

Protests in the streets

Beyond the courts, Johnson's opponents are planning other moves to stop him in his tracks.

Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's chief legal advisor, warned on BBC radio: "We will use any means necessary to prevent this undemocratic behaviour -- that includes people taking to the streets."

Protests are planned Saturday in several cities, with some organisers calling for roads and bridges to be occupied.

The leaders of the six opposition parties in parliament said they believed a majority of MPs were against Johnson's move.

"The prime minister is shutting down parliament with the sole aim of stopping MPs from avoiding a no-deal Brexit," they said on the suspension.

Opponents want to legislate to prevent Britain leaving the EU without a deal, and to stop the suspension of parliament.

They are also mulling a no-confidence vote in Johnson's Conservative government, which commands a fragile 320 to 319 majority.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics. Johnson said Britons had decided to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum and MPs had promised multiple times to uphold that decision. "If we stop the UK from leaving on October 31, if that's what parliamentarians end up doing, it will do lasting damage to people's trust in politics," he told Sky News television. "It will do lasting and catastrophic damage to the major parties in this country. This political generation won't be forgiven for failing to honour that promise." Opposition MPs and some lawmakers from Johnson's own Conservatives have said they want to legislate to prevent a no-deal Brexit, which the government's own assessment warns could cause food, fuel and medicine shortages. But Johnson said that preparing for a no-deal Brexit would allow the government to clinch an agreement with Brussels. "I'm afraid that the more our friends and partners think, at the back of their minds, that Brexit could be stopped, that the UK could be kept in by parliament, the less likely they are to give us the deal that we need," he said. Johnson on Wednesday moved to suspend parliament in the final weeks before Brexit in what was widely seen as a move to limit the parliamentary time for his opponents. Queen Elizabeth II, on his advice, gave the go-ahead to shutter parliament between mid-September and October 14 -- just two weeks before the Brexit date of October 31. The move sent shockwaves through British politics, triggering a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal exit. Wrong-footed, Johnson's opponents labelled the suspension of parliament a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage". The decision is being challenged in several legal cases. Judge Raymond Doherty on Friday rejected a request for a temporary block on the suspension decision but will hear the full case at a further hearing in Edinburgh on Tuesday. Former prime minister John Major, a strong supporter of EU membership, said he will seek to join a separate case in London, which is due to be heard in court on Thursday. 'Step up the tempo' Britain's Brexit negotiators are to meet their EU counterparts twice a week throughout September in a bid to reach a new divorce agreement. Johnson said he wants to "step up the tempo" in talks with the EU to strike a new Brexit deal. Johnson wants the so-called backstop, the fallback provisions regarding the Irish border, scrapped completely. But there are growing concerns among some major players in the EU that Britain will not be able to come up with realistic alternatives in time. A spokesperson for the European Commission said they were willing to work "24/7 throughout this long process". "We expect the UK to come forward with concrete proposals, as President (Jean-Claude) Juncker made clear to Prime Minister Johnson earlier this week." The backstop is included in a divorce deal that the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which Britain's parliament has rejected three times. Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Britain had come up with "nothing credible" to replace the backstop. Protests in the streets Beyond the courts, Johnson's opponents are planning other moves to stop him in his tracks. Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's chief legal advisor, warned on BBC radio: "We will use any means necessary to prevent this undemocratic behaviour -- that includes people taking to the streets." Protests are planned Saturday in several cities, with some organisers calling for roads and bridges to be occupied. The leaders of the six opposition parties in parliament said they believed a majority of MPs were against Johnson's move. "The prime minister is shutting down parliament with the sole aim of stopping MPs from avoiding a no-deal Brexit," they said on the suspension. Opponents want to legislate to prevent Britain leaving the EU without a deal, and to stop the suspension of parliament. They are also mulling a no-confidence vote in Johnson's Conservative government, which commands a fragile 320 to 319 majority.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warns MPs against trying to block Brexit

After more than 1,000 days of political brawling, hordes of headlines and dizzying lurches in sterling, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-alone-will-be-to-blame-for-no-deal-brexit-eu-tells-johnson-246104">battle of Brexit</a> enters the endgame.

Britain's ancient parliament will next week host a historic showdown between Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-british-pm-johnson-suspends-parliament-pound-slums-over-no-brexit-fears-246256">Boris Johnson</a> - who has vowed to leave the European Union on October&nbsp;31, "do or die" - and lawmakers who view themselves as the last bulwark against economic ruin.

Members of parliament, expected to include rebels from the ruling Conservatives, will try to find the majority they need to either topple the government or change the law to prevent Britain withdrawing from the bloc without an exit deal.

They may have just days to stop Johnson and are ready to use every piece of arcane parliamentary process at their disposal.

"We're entering new political terrain in terms of parliamentary politics," said Ruth Fox, director and head of research at pro-democracy charity the Hansard Society.

"Next week we could see an act of parliament the government doesn't want, it may end up with a vote of no confidence in which Conservative MPs bring down their own government, or all the opposition's plans could fall apart."

Johnson, the face of Brexit for many Britons, has staked his political future on taking Britain out of the EU on Oct. 31, with or without a deal to smooth the divorce between the world's fifth-largest economy and its biggest trading partner.

His showdown with parliament will determine the course of Brexit - the United Kingdom's most significant geopolitical decision since World War Two.

Whatever the outcome of the Brexit chess game, it will go down in the history books of the Westminster parliament, which traces its history through the English Civil War and Norman Conquest to the ancient Witan of Anglo-Saxon England.

In a 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 52%, backed Brexit while 16.1 million, or 48%, backed staying in the trading bloc-cum-political project it has been a member of since 1973.

The result divided the population at every level, from the government cabinet table to the family dinner table, and the intervening three years have seen little reconciliation.

The current parliament, for decades defined by loyalties to either the centre-right Conservatives or the centre-left Labour Party, reflects those deep divisions, with a minority government in power and each party internally split over the right approach to Brexit.

Remain alliance

When lawmakers return from their summer break on Sept. 3, those opposed to Johnson's strategy, combining all rival parties and some Conservative rebels, have two main options to try to stop him: change the law, or change the government.

Johnson, a newly-appointed prime minister and Britain's third since the Brexit vote, has dared this so-called "Remain Alliance" to try and stop him, and shown he is prepared to test the limits of his executive power to defeat their efforts.

On Wednesday, he sparked fury by announcing the suspension of parliament for more than a month between mid-September and mid-October, depriving parliament of debating time to put their plans into action - which his opponents decried as an assault on Britain's constitutional integrity, and democracy itself.

"We won't be dictated to anymore," the opposition Labour Party's second most powerful man, John McDonnell, said on Thursday. "Parliament now is reasserting the traditional centuries-old democratic rights of the people."

Johnson denied any impropriety, saying it was in line with the conventions that allow him to set out his new political programme, and insisting there would be time to debate Brexit.

The move has raised the stakes for his opponents, potentially giving them as few as four days in parliament to make their move before the legislature is suspended.

Of the two options at their disposal, the group favours trying to pass a new law that would probably require Johnson to seek a delay to Brexit.

The exact wording of the plan is being kept a closely guarded secret and could go much further, towards stopping Brexit altogether.

But the process, expected to begin next with a request for an emergency debate, is fraught with challenges.

It would require a helping hand from parliament's Speaker John Bercow - who denounced Johnson's move to suspend the assembly - to seize temporary control of the legislative process, as well as several days of parliamentary time, and total unity in order to win votes.

Johnson's Conservatives govern with a working majority of just one seat in the 650-seat chamber thanks to the support of a small Northern Irish Party.

Scottish National Party lawmaker Joanna Cherry, who is also leading a court bid to determine the legality of suspending parliament, told Reuters she believed there were double figures of Conservatives willing to rebel against the government.

"They are going to be pivotal, we have got to get enough Tory (Conservative) rebels, not to bring down their government just to say to the government: you can't have a no-deal Brexit."

Johnson has an armoury of parliamentary devices he can use to stall the process if needed, from jamming the timetable with immovable events to filibustering the legislation in parliament's upper chamber, the House of Lords.

But, the once-unheard of process of passing a law against the government's wishes has a recent precedent - earlier this year legislation demanding that Johnson's predecessor Theresa May delay Brexit was successfully voted through.

Tortured process

The tortured process of seeking to deliver the result of the Brexit referendum has already repeatedly pitted parliament against the government, and parliament has often won.

Lawmakers have forced reluctant ministers to give them a vote to approve any exit deal, and to publish legal advice and official assessments of the impact a no-deal exit would have.

The battle has tested the limits of most lawmakers' knowledge of parliamentary procedures and shown the difficulties of Britain having an uncodified constitution, which is largely upheld through convention and precedent, to the fore.

"People don't really know what the rules are. There are competing versions of what is and what is not proper constitutional conduct," said Andrew Blick, Senior Lecturer in Politics and Contemporary History at King's College London.

"We're experiencing a real conflict between direct democracy as expressed in the referendum, and representative democracy."

The ultimate test of that conflict could come in the shape of a move to topple Johnson's government, initiated by Labour calling a vote of no confidence.

Labour say they will call one when they think they can win it, and want to use a 14-day period after the vote to install their leader Jeremy Corbyn as head of a temporary government with the purpose of delaying Brexit and calling an election.

That plan has already been rejected by parts of the Remain alliance, including some members of Corbyn's own Labour Party, who say his far-left politics are too divisive to lead a cross-party government and his opposition to Brexit has been too weak.

Even if Johnson lost a vote of no confidence he could use the grey areas of untested electoral law, passed in 2011, by refusing to resign. That would deprive opponents of a shot at forming a government and delay an election until after Brexit.

Some argue an election would even play into the hands of a prime minister who has spent his first five weeks in office on a de-facto election campaign.

"Johnson’s real objective is to use Brexit to win a general election, rather than use a general election to secure Brexit," Tom Kibasi, director of the Institute for Public Policy Research wrote in the Guardian newspaper.

"By forcing the hands of his opponents, he has defined the terrain for a 'people versus parliament' election."

After more than 1,000 days of political brawling, hordes of headlines and dizzying lurches in sterling, the battle of Brexit enters the endgame. Britain's ancient parliament will next week host a historic showdown between Prime Minister Boris Johnson - who has vowed to leave the European Union on October 31, "do or die" - and lawmakers who view themselves as the last bulwark against economic ruin.

After more than 1,000 days of political brawling, hordes of headlines and dizzying lurches in sterling, the battle of Brexit enters the endgame. Britain's ancient parliament will next week host a historic showdown between Prime Minister Boris Johnson - who has vowed to leave the European Union on October 31, "do or die" - and lawmakers who view themselves as the last bulwark against economic ruin. Members of parliament, expected to include rebels from the ruling Conservatives, will try to find the majority they need to either topple the government or change the law to prevent Britain withdrawing from the bloc without an exit deal. They may have just days to stop Johnson and are ready to use every piece of arcane parliamentary process at their disposal. "We're entering new political terrain in terms of parliamentary politics," said Ruth Fox, director and head of research at pro-democracy charity the Hansard Society. "Next week we could see an act of parliament the government doesn't want, it may end up with a vote of no confidence in which Conservative MPs bring down their own government, or all the opposition's plans could fall apart." Johnson, the face of Brexit for many Britons, has staked his political future on taking Britain out of the EU on Oct. 31, with or without a deal to smooth the divorce between the world's fifth-largest economy and its biggest trading partner. His showdown with parliament will determine the course of Brexit - the United Kingdom's most significant geopolitical decision since World War Two. Whatever the outcome of the Brexit chess game, it will go down in the history books of the Westminster parliament, which traces its history through the English Civil War and Norman Conquest to the ancient Witan of Anglo-Saxon England. In a 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 52%, backed Brexit while 16.1 million, or 48%, backed staying in the trading bloc-cum-political project it has been a member of since 1973. The result divided the population at every level, from the government cabinet table to the family dinner table, and the intervening three years have seen little reconciliation. The current parliament, for decades defined by loyalties to either the centre-right Conservatives or the centre-left Labour Party, reflects those deep divisions, with a minority government in power and each party internally split over the right approach to Brexit. Remain alliance When lawmakers return from their summer break on Sept. 3, those opposed to Johnson's strategy, combining all rival parties and some Conservative rebels, have two main options to try to stop him: change the law, or change the government. Johnson, a newly-appointed prime minister and Britain's third since the Brexit vote, has dared this so-called "Remain Alliance" to try and stop him, and shown he is prepared to test the limits of his executive power to defeat their efforts. On Wednesday, he sparked fury by announcing the suspension of parliament for more than a month between mid-September and mid-October, depriving parliament of debating time to put their plans into action - which his opponents decried as an assault on Britain's constitutional integrity, and democracy itself. "We won't be dictated to anymore," the opposition Labour Party's second most powerful man, John McDonnell, said on Thursday. "Parliament now is reasserting the traditional centuries-old democratic rights of the people." Johnson denied any impropriety, saying it was in line with the conventions that allow him to set out his new political programme, and insisting there would be time to debate Brexit. The move has raised the stakes for his opponents, potentially giving them as few as four days in parliament to make their move before the legislature is suspended. Of the two options at their disposal, the group favours trying to pass a new law that would probably require Johnson to seek a delay to Brexit. The exact wording of the plan is being kept a closely guarded secret and could go much further, towards stopping Brexit altogether. But the process, expected to begin next with a request for an emergency debate, is fraught with challenges. It would require a helping hand from parliament's Speaker John Bercow - who denounced Johnson's move to suspend the assembly - to seize temporary control of the legislative process, as well as several days of parliamentary time, and total unity in order to win votes. Johnson's Conservatives govern with a working majority of just one seat in the 650-seat chamber thanks to the support of a small Northern Irish Party. Scottish National Party lawmaker Joanna Cherry, who is also leading a court bid to determine the legality of suspending parliament, told Reuters she believed there were double figures of Conservatives willing to rebel against the government. "They are going to be pivotal, we have got to get enough Tory (Conservative) rebels, not to bring down their government just to say to the government: you can't have a no-deal Brexit." Johnson has an armoury of parliamentary devices he can use to stall the process if needed, from jamming the timetable with immovable events to filibustering the legislation in parliament's upper chamber, the House of Lords. But, the once-unheard of process of passing a law against the government's wishes has a recent precedent - earlier this year legislation demanding that Johnson's predecessor Theresa May delay Brexit was successfully voted through. Tortured process The tortured process of seeking to deliver the result of the Brexit referendum has already repeatedly pitted parliament against the government, and parliament has often won. Lawmakers have forced reluctant ministers to give them a vote to approve any exit deal, and to publish legal advice and official assessments of the impact a no-deal exit would have. The battle has tested the limits of most lawmakers' knowledge of parliamentary procedures and shown the difficulties of Britain having an uncodified constitution, which is largely upheld through convention and precedent, to the fore. "People don't really know what the rules are. There are competing versions of what is and what is not proper constitutional conduct," said Andrew Blick, Senior Lecturer in Politics and Contemporary History at King's College London. "We're experiencing a real conflict between direct democracy as expressed in the referendum, and representative democracy." The ultimate test of that conflict could come in the shape of a move to topple Johnson's government, initiated by Labour calling a vote of no confidence. Labour say they will call one when they think they can win it, and want to use a 14-day period after the vote to install their leader Jeremy Corbyn as head of a temporary government with the purpose of delaying Brexit and calling an election. That plan has already been rejected by parts of the Remain alliance, including some members of Corbyn's own Labour Party, who say his far-left politics are too divisive to lead a cross-party government and his opposition to Brexit has been too weak. Even if Johnson lost a vote of no confidence he could use the grey areas of untested electoral law, passed in 2011, by refusing to resign. That would deprive opponents of a shot at forming a government and delay an election until after Brexit. Some argue an election would even play into the hands of a prime minister who has spent his first five weeks in office on a de-facto election campaign. "Johnson’s real objective is to use Brexit to win a general election, rather than use a general election to secure Brexit," Tom Kibasi, director of the Institute for Public Policy Research wrote in the Guardian newspaper. "By forcing the hands of his opponents, he has defined the terrain for a 'people versus parliament' election."

Brexit endgame: It's PM Boris Johnson versus parliament in historic showdown

European countries will step up diplomatic efforts to save the beleaguered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honour-nuclear-deal-and-stop-economic-terrorism-if-you-want-talks-iran-tells-us-246335">Iran nuclear deal</a>, Germany's foreign minister said Friday after talks with Britain and France.&nbsp;

Tensions have spiked recently in the Gulf, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-tanker-switches-course-again-heads-to-turkey-ship-tracking-data-246610">Iran has seized Western tankers</a> as Tehran and Washington have locked horns over the 2015 deal.

US President Donald Trump last year unilaterally pulled out of the accord that handed Iran relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its atomic programme.

The move alarmed European powers, which see the deal as the best way to stop Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, and infuriated the Islamic republic.

The foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany -- the three European parties to the deal -- were joined by EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini for talks on the sidelines of an EU meeting in Helsinki.

Germany's Heiko Maas said the trio wanted to build on the momentum from last weekend's G7 summit, where Trump indicated a willingness to talk to Iran.

"Our priority is to open the dialogue window between the US and Iran," Maas told reporters.

"Especially after the G7 summit in Biarritz we are all of the opinions that the momentum that perhaps exists, the readiness for dialogue on both sides... must now be used."

Mogherini said Thursday the EU would support such a move -- provided the current deal was preserved.&nbsp;

The Europeans have repeatedly said they are committed to saving the deal, but efforts to shield Iran's economy from the reimposition of US sanctions have so far borne little fruit.

"We will be discussing further diplomatic efforts together with the French and the British -- including in the region with all the countries bordering the Gulf," Maas said.

'Build on momentum'

Ahead of the meeting, British foreign minister Dominic Raab also said he wanted to "build on the momentum of the positive G7 talks on Iran".

As well as mooting the summit with his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani, Trump also appeared open to a French suggestion that Iran be given a line of credit to help stabilise its economy.

"The nuclear deal is the only deal on the table that prevents Iran from getting a nuclear weapon and we will continue working together to encourage Iran to uphold the agreement in full," Raab said.

"We also need the broadest international support possible to tackle the threats to international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz."

Britain, along with Australia and Bahrain, has joined Washington's Operation Sentinel mission to protect commercial shipping on the crucial oil trade routes through the Gulf, in particular, the Strait of Hormuz.

Other European countries have been cool on the idea, fearing greater naval presence in the region could risk escalating an already febrile situation.

The idea has been floated of a European observation mission in the Strait, a strategic chokepoint at the mouth of the Gulf, but a number of EU countries have voiced reservations.

Maas said there were still "different views" and stressed nothing should be done that might imperil diplomatic efforts.

Mogherini on Thursday gave a cautious welcome to the idea of US-Iran talks but stressed "first and foremost what is existing needs to be preserved" -- including the 2015 deal.

In response to the US pulling out of the deal and reimposing sanctions, Tehran has breached certain limits on its nuclear production imposed by the accord, but the EU insists it has so far not taken any irreversible steps.

European countries will step up diplomatic efforts to save the beleaguered Iran nuclear deal, Germany's foreign minister said Friday after talks with Britain and France.

European countries will step up diplomatic efforts to save the beleaguered Iran nuclear deal, Germany's foreign minister said Friday after talks with Britain and France. Tensions have spiked recently in the Gulf, where Iran has seized Western tankers as Tehran and Washington have locked horns over the 2015 deal. US President Donald Trump last year unilaterally pulled out of the accord that handed Iran relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its atomic programme. The move alarmed European powers, which see the deal as the best way to stop Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, and infuriated the Islamic republic. The foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany -- the three European parties to the deal -- were joined by EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini for talks on the sidelines of an EU meeting in Helsinki. Germany's Heiko Maas said the trio wanted to build on the momentum from last weekend's G7 summit, where Trump indicated a willingness to talk to Iran. "Our priority is to open the dialogue window between the US and Iran," Maas told reporters. "Especially after the G7 summit in Biarritz we are all of the opinions that the momentum that perhaps exists, the readiness for dialogue on both sides... must now be used." Mogherini said Thursday the EU would support such a move -- provided the current deal was preserved. The Europeans have repeatedly said they are committed to saving the deal, but efforts to shield Iran's economy from the reimposition of US sanctions have so far borne little fruit. "We will be discussing further diplomatic efforts together with the French and the British -- including in the region with all the countries bordering the Gulf," Maas said. 'Build on momentum' Ahead of the meeting, British foreign minister Dominic Raab also said he wanted to "build on the momentum of the positive G7 talks on Iran". As well as mooting the summit with his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani, Trump also appeared open to a French suggestion that Iran be given a line of credit to help stabilise its economy. "The nuclear deal is the only deal on the table that prevents Iran from getting a nuclear weapon and we will continue working together to encourage Iran to uphold the agreement in full," Raab said. "We also need the broadest international support possible to tackle the threats to international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz." Britain, along with Australia and Bahrain, has joined Washington's Operation Sentinel mission to protect commercial shipping on the crucial oil trade routes through the Gulf, in particular, the Strait of Hormuz. Other European countries have been cool on the idea, fearing greater naval presence in the region could risk escalating an already febrile situation. The idea has been floated of a European observation mission in the Strait, a strategic chokepoint at the mouth of the Gulf, but a number of EU countries have voiced reservations. Maas said there were still "different views" and stressed nothing should be done that might imperil diplomatic efforts. Mogherini on Thursday gave a cautious welcome to the idea of US-Iran talks but stressed "first and foremost what is existing needs to be preserved" -- including the 2015 deal. In response to the US pulling out of the deal and reimposing sanctions, Tehran has breached certain limits on its nuclear production imposed by the accord, but the EU insists it has so far not taken any irreversible steps.

Europe to step up diplomatic efforts on Iran crisis: Germany

How can a country leave the European Union? Watch video to know more.

How can a country leave the European Union?

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-confirms-parliament-suspension-until-october-14-246215">Boris Johnson</a> sparked fury Wednesday among pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit by forcing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-approves-british-parliament-suspension-246268">suspension of parliament </a>weeks before Britain's European Union (EU)&nbsp; departure date.

The pound slid on the surprise news, which opponents branded a "coup" and a "declaration of war" but Johnson claimed was necessary to allow him to pursue a "bold and ambitious" new domestic agenda.

It came a day after opposition parties vowed to seek legislative changes to prevent a no-deal Brexit.

Queen Elizabeth II approved the request to end what has been the longest session of parliament in nearly 400 years in the second week of September and reopen it on October 14 — just over two weeks before Brexit.

Thousands of people protested in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities, while an online petition decrying the decision had garnered more than one million signatures within the space of a few hours by late Wednesday.

At the biggest rally, crowds gathered near parliament in London chanting "stop the coup" and waving EU flags.

"Parliament will have the opportunity to debate the government's overall programme, and approach to Brexit," Johnson, who leads the Conservative party, vowed in a letter to MPs.

However, his decision incensed lawmakers vehemently against Britain leaving the EU without a deal on October 31 as they will now have less time to try and thwart such a scenario.

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, denounced the move as "a smash-and-grab against democracy" and reiterated he would call a no-confidence vote in Johnson's government, which commands a majority of just one seat.

Former chancellor Philip Hammond also pledged to keep fighting against no deal.

"It would be a constitutional outrage if parliament were prevented from holding the government to account at a time of national crisis," he said.&nbsp;

'Compliant PM'

US President Donald Trump weighed into the row by praising Johnson as "great" and claiming it would be "very hard" for Corbyn to topple him in a no-confidence vote.

The Labour leader shot back, tweeting Johnson was "a compliant Prime Minister who will hand Britain's public services and protections over to US corporations in a free trade deal".

In the seismic 2016 referendum on Britain's EU membership, 52 percent voted in favour of leaving the bloc, a result that has left parliament and the country bitterly divided.

Johnson insists Britain must leave by the October 31 deadline -- already twice-delayed -- with or without a divorce deal from Brussels.

Parliament has rejected three times the withdrawal agreement struck between Brussels and the government of Johnson's predecessor Theresa May.

Opposition lawmakers called it a "blind Brexit" while eurosceptics objected to a so-called "backstop" provision to keep the Irish border open for people and goods, which would keep Britain closely aligned with the EU.

Johnson wants the EU to drop the backstop measure entirely -- something Brussels has repeatedly ruled out.

In Paris, Britain's Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay told a business conference Wednesday the EU would be blamed for a "lack of flexibility" on the backstop issue in the event of no deal.

The government's chief Brexit adviser David Frost was in Brussels for talks, but an EU summit on October 17-18 will likely determine whether there is any scope for compromise.

If not, Britain will end its four decades of membership without a deal governing future trade relations and citizens' rights.

The pound slumped more than one per cent at one point but shares rose as London-listed multinationals stand to gain from a weaker currency.

'Tinpot dictator'

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon accused Johnson of acting like a "tinpot dictator" by pushing through an "outrageous assault on basic democratic principles".

Meanwhile, Ruth Davidson, the Conservative leader in Scotland, was set to resign Thursday in part due to opposition to Johnson's hardline Brexit strategy, according to reports.

More than 70 parliamentarians have launched a fast-track legal bid at the highest civil court in Scotland, aimed at preventing Johnson from suspending parliament.

Lawyers for Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, said they were also challenging parliament's suspension in English courts.&nbsp;

Parliament typically goes into the recess around the annual party conference season, which kicks off on September 14 and ends on October 2.

Robert Craig, a constitutional expert at Durham University, said there was "theoretically absolutely nothing wrong" with the suspension, noting it was normal for a new leader to start afresh parliamentary session.

"But the reason that it is causing outrage is that it's reducing the number of available days for parliament to stop a no-deal." 
John Bercow, the speaker of parliament's lower House of Commons, who was not forewarned about Johnson's suspension decision, labelled it a "constitutional outrage".

"It is blindingly obvious that the purpose of prorogation now would be to stop parliament debating Brexit," he said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sparked fury Wednesday among pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit by forcing the suspension of parliament weeks before Britain's European Union (EU) departure date.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sparked fury Wednesday among pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit by forcing the suspension of parliament weeks before Britain's European Union (EU) departure date. The pound slid on the surprise news, which opponents branded a "coup" and a "declaration of war" but Johnson claimed was necessary to allow him to pursue a "bold and ambitious" new domestic agenda. It came a day after opposition parties vowed to seek legislative changes to prevent a no-deal Brexit. Queen Elizabeth II approved the request to end what has been the longest session of parliament in nearly 400 years in the second week of September and reopen it on October 14 — just over two weeks before Brexit. Thousands of people protested in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities, while an online petition decrying the decision had garnered more than one million signatures within the space of a few hours by late Wednesday. At the biggest rally, crowds gathered near parliament in London chanting "stop the coup" and waving EU flags. "Parliament will have the opportunity to debate the government's overall programme, and approach to Brexit," Johnson, who leads the Conservative party, vowed in a letter to MPs. However, his decision incensed lawmakers vehemently against Britain leaving the EU without a deal on October 31 as they will now have less time to try and thwart such a scenario. Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, denounced the move as "a smash-and-grab against democracy" and reiterated he would call a no-confidence vote in Johnson's government, which commands a majority of just one seat. Former chancellor Philip Hammond also pledged to keep fighting against no deal. "It would be a constitutional outrage if parliament were prevented from holding the government to account at a time of national crisis," he said. 'Compliant PM' US President Donald Trump weighed into the row by praising Johnson as "great" and claiming it would be "very hard" for Corbyn to topple him in a no-confidence vote. The Labour leader shot back, tweeting Johnson was "a compliant Prime Minister who will hand Britain's public services and protections over to US corporations in a free trade deal". In the seismic 2016 referendum on Britain's EU membership, 52 percent voted in favour of leaving the bloc, a result that has left parliament and the country bitterly divided. Johnson insists Britain must leave by the October 31 deadline -- already twice-delayed -- with or without a divorce deal from Brussels. Parliament has rejected three times the withdrawal agreement struck between Brussels and the government of Johnson's predecessor Theresa May. Opposition lawmakers called it a "blind Brexit" while eurosceptics objected to a so-called "backstop" provision to keep the Irish border open for people and goods, which would keep Britain closely aligned with the EU. Johnson wants the EU to drop the backstop measure entirely -- something Brussels has repeatedly ruled out. In Paris, Britain's Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay told a business conference Wednesday the EU would be blamed for a "lack of flexibility" on the backstop issue in the event of no deal. The government's chief Brexit adviser David Frost was in Brussels for talks, but an EU summit on October 17-18 will likely determine whether there is any scope for compromise. If not, Britain will end its four decades of membership without a deal governing future trade relations and citizens' rights. The pound slumped more than one per cent at one point but shares rose as London-listed multinationals stand to gain from a weaker currency. 'Tinpot dictator' Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon accused Johnson of acting like a "tinpot dictator" by pushing through an "outrageous assault on basic democratic principles". Meanwhile, Ruth Davidson, the Conservative leader in Scotland, was set to resign Thursday in part due to opposition to Johnson's hardline Brexit strategy, according to reports. More than 70 parliamentarians have launched a fast-track legal bid at the highest civil court in Scotland, aimed at preventing Johnson from suspending parliament. Lawyers for Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, said they were also challenging parliament's suspension in English courts. Parliament typically goes into the recess around the annual party conference season, which kicks off on September 14 and ends on October 2. Robert Craig, a constitutional expert at Durham University, said there was "theoretically absolutely nothing wrong" with the suspension, noting it was normal for a new leader to start afresh parliamentary session. "But the reason that it is causing outrage is that it's reducing the number of available days for parliament to stop a no-deal." John Bercow, the speaker of parliament's lower House of Commons, who was not forewarned about Johnson's suspension decision, labelled it a "constitutional outrage". "It is blindingly obvious that the purpose of prorogation now would be to stop parliament debating Brexit," he said.

Brexit: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson sparks outrage after forcing suspension of parliament

Opponents of a no-deal Brexit have accused Boris Johnson of a “coup” against parliament, after it was announced that both the Commons and Lords will be suspended for more than a month in the run-up to the date of EU withdrawal.

Queen approves Boris Johnson request to suspend parliament

Italy's president asked Giuseppe Conte to head up a coalition of the 5-Star Movement and opposition Democratic Party (PD) on Thursday, a move could that could improve in Italy's fractious relations with the European Union.

Markets welcomed the quick end to a three-week political crisis triggered by League leader Matteo Salvini, who pulled his hard-right party out of its governing alliance with 5-Star after weeks of public bickering.

Salvini had wanted fresh polls to capitalise on his party's success in European elections but his plan backfired as 5-Star and the PD, lagging the League in opinion surveys, set aside their long-standing antipathy to form a government.

Italy's 10-year borrowing costs fell to an all-time low at auction on Thursday on the news as the prospect of a snap election retreated.

Conte, who told reporters he would present a cabinet list to the president in the coming days, said his priority was to draft a 2020 budget.

"We must immediately get to work and draw up a budget to avert the VAT hike, protects savers and offers solid prospects for economic growth and social development," he said.

VAT will rise from Jan. 1 unless the government can find 23 billion euros ($26 billion) elsewhere.

The creation of a new government is not yet a done deal, however, and the two parties still need to agree a shared policy platform and divide up cabinet posts.

In a further complication, 5-Star has promised to put the deal with the PD to an online vote of its members. Many 5-Star supporters oppose a pact with the centre-left and a 'yes' vote is not a certainty.

Market reaction

However, investors brushed off those concerns. Conte was seen as a voice of reason within the previous 5-Star/League coalition and investors are betting Italy will get a fiscally prudent government that will avoid confrontation with Europe.

According to the financial daily Il Sole 24 Ore, an early draft of the incoming coalition's policy platform would see it ask the EU for flexibility on the 2020 budget deficit to "reinforce social cohesion" in Italy.

The EU imposes budget rules on member states with the aim of ensuring financial stability in the bloc. It has had a testy relationship with Rome under the outgoing administration, with League leader Salvini blaming EU rules for impoverishing Italians.

Salvini had promised swingeing tax cuts for 2020 that economists warned could put unsustainable pressure on Italy's towering debt mountain.

Italy's battered blue-chip index was headed for its best weekly performance in six months news of Conte's reappointment and bond markets pushed Italy's 10-year borrowing costs to an all-time low.

"We think it will be less challenging to agree on an agenda between M5S (5-Star) and PD because the priorities both political forces have set out seem broadly consistent in many areas, ranging from fiscal policy to Italy's relationship with the EU to a focus on a green economy," UBS Wealth Management Italy's Matteo Ramenghi said.

German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said Conte's appointment was good news for Europe, adding: "I'm glad to see that the government crisis in Italy seems to have come to an end now and that a stable and new, progressive government can take the helm."

Conte, a quietly spoken academic with a penchant for smart suits, waistcoats and cufflinks, has enjoyed high poll ratings since he was plucked from relative obscurity 14 months ago to become premier. While he has no political affiliation he is considered close to 5-Star.

Italy's president asked Giuseppe Conte to head up a coalition of the 5-Star Movement and opposition Democratic Party (PD) on Thursday, a move could that could improve in Italy's fractious relations with the European Union.

Italy's president asked Giuseppe Conte to head up a coalition of the 5-Star Movement and opposition Democratic Party (PD) on Thursday, a move could that could improve in Italy's fractious relations with the European Union. Markets welcomed the quick end to a three-week political crisis triggered by League leader Matteo Salvini, who pulled his hard-right party out of its governing alliance with 5-Star after weeks of public bickering. Salvini had wanted fresh polls to capitalise on his party's success in European elections but his plan backfired as 5-Star and the PD, lagging the League in opinion surveys, set aside their long-standing antipathy to form a government. Italy's 10-year borrowing costs fell to an all-time low at auction on Thursday on the news as the prospect of a snap election retreated. Conte, who told reporters he would present a cabinet list to the president in the coming days, said his priority was to draft a 2020 budget. "We must immediately get to work and draw up a budget to avert the VAT hike, protects savers and offers solid prospects for economic growth and social development," he said. VAT will rise from Jan. 1 unless the government can find 23 billion euros ($26 billion) elsewhere. The creation of a new government is not yet a done deal, however, and the two parties still need to agree a shared policy platform and divide up cabinet posts. In a further complication, 5-Star has promised to put the deal with the PD to an online vote of its members. Many 5-Star supporters oppose a pact with the centre-left and a 'yes' vote is not a certainty. Market reaction However, investors brushed off those concerns. Conte was seen as a voice of reason within the previous 5-Star/League coalition and investors are betting Italy will get a fiscally prudent government that will avoid confrontation with Europe. According to the financial daily Il Sole 24 Ore, an early draft of the incoming coalition's policy platform would see it ask the EU for flexibility on the 2020 budget deficit to "reinforce social cohesion" in Italy. The EU imposes budget rules on member states with the aim of ensuring financial stability in the bloc. It has had a testy relationship with Rome under the outgoing administration, with League leader Salvini blaming EU rules for impoverishing Italians. Salvini had promised swingeing tax cuts for 2020 that economists warned could put unsustainable pressure on Italy's towering debt mountain. Italy's battered blue-chip index was headed for its best weekly performance in six months news of Conte's reappointment and bond markets pushed Italy's 10-year borrowing costs to an all-time low. "We think it will be less challenging to agree on an agenda between M5S (5-Star) and PD because the priorities both political forces have set out seem broadly consistent in many areas, ranging from fiscal policy to Italy's relationship with the EU to a focus on a green economy," UBS Wealth Management Italy's Matteo Ramenghi said. German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said Conte's appointment was good news for Europe, adding: "I'm glad to see that the government crisis in Italy seems to have come to an end now and that a stable and new, progressive government can take the helm." Conte, a quietly spoken academic with a penchant for smart suits, waistcoats and cufflinks, has enjoyed high poll ratings since he was plucked from relative obscurity 14 months ago to become premier. While he has no political affiliation he is considered close to 5-Star.

Italy's Giuseppe  Conte gets green light to form new government

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's suspension of parliament weeks before Britain's EU departure date faced legal challenges on Thursday following a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit.

The Conservative leader announced the surprise decision Wednesday to dismiss parliament -- known as proroguing -- for nearly five weeks next month, claiming it was necessary to allow him to pursue a "bold and ambitious" new domestic agenda.

But the move sent shockwaves through the British political system, which relies on centuries of precedents and conventions instead of a codified constitution.

Opponents labelled the suspension a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage" and it prompted immediate court bids in London and Edinburgh to halt the process.

Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, said she had applied for an urgent judicial review challenging "the effect and the intention" of the suspension.

"We think that this request is illegal," said Miller, who in 2017 successfully won MPs the right to vote on formally starting to leave the EU in a court challenge.

"There is no example in modern history when prorogation has been used in this way," she told BBC radio.

"It is being used to hamper, in our view, parliament legislating against no deal."

Meanwhile, Scottish National Party (SNP) politician Joanna Cherry said lawyers had applied for an urgent interim hearing at Scotland's highest civil court which they hoped would take place as early as Thursday.

However, arch-Brexiteer minister Jacob Rees-Mogg defended the suspension and insisted MPs would still have time to debate Brexit ahead of Britain's October 31 EU departure date.

"The candyfloss of outrage, which is almost entirely confected, is from people who never wanted to leave the European Union," he told BBC radio. 
'National crisis'

Thousands of people protested in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities, while an online petition seeking to block the decision had garnered more than 1.2 million signatures by early Thursday.

At the biggest rally, crowds gathered near parliament in London chanting "stop the coup" and waving EU flags.

Queen Elizabeth II approved the request to end what has been the longest session of parliament in nearly 400 years in the second week of September and reopen it on October 14 — just over two weeks before Brexit.

The House of Commons typically goes into recess around the annual party conference season, which kicks off on September 14 and ends on October 2, but critics slammed this more lengthy break.

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, denounced the move as "a smash-and-grab against democracy" and reiterated that he may call a no-confidence vote in Johnson's government, which commands a majority of just one seat.

Labour's Barry Gardiner said Thursday that the party would push for an emergency debate when parliament returned on Monday to kickstart the legislative process to prevent a no-deal Brexit.

Former Conservative chancellor Philip Hammond also pledged to keep fighting against no deal.

"It would be a constitutional outrage if parliament were prevented from holding the government to account at a time of national crisis," he said.&nbsp; 
The pound remained under pressure Thursday after sliding on news of the suspension.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ruth Davidson, Conservative leader in Scotland, was set to resign in part due to opposition to Johnson's hardline Brexit strategy, according to reports.

'Affront to democracy'

In the seismic 2016 referendum on Britain's EU membership, 52 percent voted in favour of leaving the bloc, a result that has left parliament and the country bitterly divided.

Johnson insists Britain must leave by the October 31 deadline -- already twice-delayed -- with or without a divorce deal from Brussels.

Parliament has rejected three times the withdrawal agreement struck between Brussels and the government of Johnson's predecessor Theresa May.

Opposition lawmakers opposed it as a "blind Brexit" while eurosceptics objected to a so-called "backstop" provision to keep the Irish border open for people and goods, which would keep Britain closely aligned with the EU.

Johnson, who took office barely a month ago, wants the EU to drop the backstop measure entirely -- something Brussels has repeatedly ruled out.

An EU summit on October 17-18 will likely determine whether there is any scope for compromise.

If not, Britain will end its four decades of membership without a deal governing future trade relations and citizens' rights.

The prime minister's move dominated the newspapers Thursday, with The Times saying Johnson had "pushed Britain to the brink of a constitutional crisis".

The Guardian predicted a "historic parliamentary clash" as his opponents seek to prevent a no-deal Brexit, while The Financial Times in an editorial said Johnson's suspension of parliament "is an affront to democracy".

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's suspension of parliament weeks before Britain's EU departure date faced legal challenges on Thursday following a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's suspension of parliament weeks before Britain's EU departure date faced legal challenges on Thursday following a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit. The Conservative leader announced the surprise decision Wednesday to dismiss parliament -- known as proroguing -- for nearly five weeks next month, claiming it was necessary to allow him to pursue a "bold and ambitious" new domestic agenda. But the move sent shockwaves through the British political system, which relies on centuries of precedents and conventions instead of a codified constitution. Opponents labelled the suspension a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage" and it prompted immediate court bids in London and Edinburgh to halt the process. Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, said she had applied for an urgent judicial review challenging "the effect and the intention" of the suspension. "We think that this request is illegal," said Miller, who in 2017 successfully won MPs the right to vote on formally starting to leave the EU in a court challenge. "There is no example in modern history when prorogation has been used in this way," she told BBC radio. "It is being used to hamper, in our view, parliament legislating against no deal." Meanwhile, Scottish National Party (SNP) politician Joanna Cherry said lawyers had applied for an urgent interim hearing at Scotland's highest civil court which they hoped would take place as early as Thursday. However, arch-Brexiteer minister Jacob Rees-Mogg defended the suspension and insisted MPs would still have time to debate Brexit ahead of Britain's October 31 EU departure date. "The candyfloss of outrage, which is almost entirely confected, is from people who never wanted to leave the European Union," he told BBC radio. 'National crisis' Thousands of people protested in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities, while an online petition seeking to block the decision had garnered more than 1.2 million signatures by early Thursday. At the biggest rally, crowds gathered near parliament in London chanting "stop the coup" and waving EU flags. Queen Elizabeth II approved the request to end what has been the longest session of parliament in nearly 400 years in the second week of September and reopen it on October 14 — just over two weeks before Brexit. The House of Commons typically goes into recess around the annual party conference season, which kicks off on September 14 and ends on October 2, but critics slammed this more lengthy break. Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, denounced the move as "a smash-and-grab against democracy" and reiterated that he may call a no-confidence vote in Johnson's government, which commands a majority of just one seat. Labour's Barry Gardiner said Thursday that the party would push for an emergency debate when parliament returned on Monday to kickstart the legislative process to prevent a no-deal Brexit. Former Conservative chancellor Philip Hammond also pledged to keep fighting against no deal. "It would be a constitutional outrage if parliament were prevented from holding the government to account at a time of national crisis," he said. The pound remained under pressure Thursday after sliding on news of the suspension. Meanwhile, Ruth Davidson, Conservative leader in Scotland, was set to resign in part due to opposition to Johnson's hardline Brexit strategy, according to reports. 'Affront to democracy' In the seismic 2016 referendum on Britain's EU membership, 52 percent voted in favour of leaving the bloc, a result that has left parliament and the country bitterly divided. Johnson insists Britain must leave by the October 31 deadline -- already twice-delayed -- with or without a divorce deal from Brussels. Parliament has rejected three times the withdrawal agreement struck between Brussels and the government of Johnson's predecessor Theresa May. Opposition lawmakers opposed it as a "blind Brexit" while eurosceptics objected to a so-called "backstop" provision to keep the Irish border open for people and goods, which would keep Britain closely aligned with the EU. Johnson, who took office barely a month ago, wants the EU to drop the backstop measure entirely -- something Brussels has repeatedly ruled out. An EU summit on October 17-18 will likely determine whether there is any scope for compromise. If not, Britain will end its four decades of membership without a deal governing future trade relations and citizens' rights. The prime minister's move dominated the newspapers Thursday, with The Times saying Johnson had "pushed Britain to the brink of a constitutional crisis". The Guardian predicted a "historic parliamentary clash" as his opponents seek to prevent a no-deal Brexit, while The Financial Times in an editorial said Johnson's suspension of parliament "is an affront to democracy".

Court bids launched to stop Johnson suspending UK parliament

Britain will be solely to blame if it crashes out of the EU in a chaotic "no-deal" Brexit, the bloc told Prime Minister Boris Johnson Tuesday in the latest clash between Brussels and London.

Britain will be solely to blame if it crashes out of the EU in a chaotic "no-deal" Brexit, the bloc told Prime Minister Boris Johnson Tuesday in the latest clash between Brussels and London. With the clock ticking and Johnson adamant the EU must accept significant changes to the existing withdrawal agreement, fears are growing that Britain could leave without a deal, causing major economic turmoil. Days after Johnson and EU Council President Donald Tusk traded jibes over who would be responsible if Britain leaves the bloc on October 31 without an agreement, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker waded into the row. EU countries have challenged Johnson to come up with workable alternatives to the "Irish backstop" arrangements that he insists must be changed and Juncker used a phone call with the British leader to insist the bloc would not be to blame if things fall apart. "He recalled that while the EU is fully prepared for a 'no-deal' scenario, it will do everything it can to avoid such a situation," the commission said in a statement outlining the call. "A 'no-deal' scenario will only ever be the UK's decision, not the EU's." Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage on Tuesday urged Johnson to abandon the existing withdrawal agreement struck by previous premier Theresa May and quit the bloc without a deal. Johnson is adamant the withdrawal agreement struck by May -- rejected by his lawmakers three times -- is dead in the water and changes must be made, particularly on arrangements for the border between EU member Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland. After talks in Paris and Berlin last week and at the G7 at the weekend, Johnson said the chances of reaching a deal with the EU that he can approve were "marginally" higher. Juncker's office said he had "repeated his willingness to work constructively with Prime Minister Johnson and to look at any concrete proposals he may have, as long as they are compatible with the withdrawal agreement". "President Juncker underlined that the EU27's support for Ireland is steadfast and that the EU will continue to be very attentive to Ireland’s interests," the statement said.

UK alone will be to blame for no-deal Brexit: EU tells Prime Minister Johnson

Romania's Social Democrat (PSD) minority government may not survive an expected no-confidence vote next month after its sole potential partner said on Tuesday it would not lend support.

Romania's Social Democrat (PSD) minority government may not survive an expected no-confidence vote next month after its sole potential partner said on Tuesday it would not lend support. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila's government lost its majority on Monday after a junior ally, Liberal party ALDE, quit over policy, leaving the PSD vulnerable as the main opposition party said it planned to launch a no-confidence vote against the government after the summer recess. PSD officials said on Monday they would try to secure the backing of the ethnic Hungarian UDMR party, but the party ruled that out on Tuesday. "Our position is clear, we won't back this PSD minority government. We don't have and won't have any deal with PSD to help them stay afloat... There's no logical reason to do that," ethnic Hungarian UDMR party deputy Attila Korodi told Reuters. EU and US authorities have strongly criticised the governing alliance for an overhaul of Romania's judiciary that they say threatens the rule of law, and for watering down anti-graft legislation. Voters turned on the government in European parliament elections in May, with the PSD's support almost halving while ALDE was unable to reach the threshold to enter the assembly. Korodi said the UDMR would back a government made up of opposition parties until the next general election in 2020. With 31 parliamentary seats, the UDMR could have ensured the PSD has a slim but functioning majority. The PSD is now 25 seats short of a majority. Other smaller opposition parties have said they want to bring the government down and the biggest opposition party, the centrist National Liberal Party (PNL) said it was preparing to draft a no-confidence vote to try to topple the government. "We will be gathering signatures to back a censure motion as of next week," said PNL president Ludovic Orban. "We will file it once we garner 233 signatures, to be sure there's a clear majority able to bring Dancila's government down." A government can be toppled if a majority of Romania's 233 members of parliament vote to back the no-confidence motion. ALDE withdrew from the alliance two days after leader Calin Popescu Tariceanu lost a bid to become the sole pro-government candidate in a presidential election scheduled for November. The PSD instead picked its leader, Dancila, to challenge incumbent Klaus Iohannis. The Romanian leu was 0.2 per cent down on the day, trading at 4.7325 against the euro.

Romanian government looks unlikely to survive confidence vote after it loses an ally

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would do everything necessary to prevent Britain from leaving the European Union without a divorce deal as he prepared to meet senior lawmakers on Tuesday to discuss tactics.

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would do everything necessary to prevent Britain from leaving the European Union without a divorce deal as he prepared to meet senior lawmakers on Tuesday to discuss tactics. The United Kingdom is heading towards a constitutional crisis at home and a showdown with the EU as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pledged to leave the bloc in 66 days without a deal unless it agrees to renegotiate the Brexit divorce. Corbyn said an EU exit without an agreement would leave Britain at the mercy of President Donald Trump and US corporations. "The battle to stop no-deal Brexit isn't a struggle between those who want to leave the EU and those who want continued membership," Corbyn wrote in the Independent newspaper. "It's a battle of the many against the few who are hijacking the referendum result to shift even more power and wealth towards those at the top. That's why the Labour Party will do everything necessary to stop a no-deal bankers' Brexit." Britain is on course for a no-deal exit on October 31 unless parliament can stop it or a new agreement is reached with the EU. The British parliament has rejected three times the withdrawal deal agreed between Johnson's predecessor Theresa May and the EU, deepening a three-year crisis that threatens Britain's status as one of the world's pre-eminent financial centres and a stable destination for foreign investors. Johnson held talks last week with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Council President Donald Tusk about his demand that the Brexit deal on offer is changed to remove the so-called backstop, an insurance policy to prevent the return of a hard border in Ireland. He said on Monday he was prepared to take Brexit talks with the EU down to the last minute. A UK official said Johnson's Brexit adviser David Frost would travel to Brussels on Wednesday for informal discussions. One EU diplomat said Johnson had not made any big mistakes at the G7 summit in France at the weekend, his first outing on the international stage since taking office last month. "The devil is in the detail. If we could get something similar and if this thing would not be called a backstop - we could have success. All this may mean that, in the end, Johnson will have proven himself to be a refined strategist rather than suicidal," the diplomat said. Division over tactics Lawmakers return from their summer break on September 3, reconvening for a fight that will determine the fortunes of the world’s fifth-largest economy. Votes in parliament have shown there is majority support for measures to block or hinder a no-deal exit. But any majority would be unstable, made up of lawmakers from different parties that are ideologically opposed, except when it comes to stopping a disorderly Brexit. Keir Starmer, the Labour Party's Brexit spokesman, said the purpose of Tuesday's meeting with other opposition parties was to agree on a plan for when parliament returns. He said options included passing a law to force the government to seek a delay to Britain’s EU departure or trying to force the government's collapse in a no-confidence vote. The anti-Brexit Liberal Democrat Party, the Scottish National Party, the Welsh nationalist Plaid Cymru and a group of independent lawmakers are due to attend the discussion. But there are continuing splits about tactics. Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson has said Corbyn should drop the idea of trying to become a caretaker prime minister if parliament forces the government's collapse. "I think we are less likely to win that vote of no confidence if there is the prospect of Jeremy Corbyn becoming prime minister," she told Sky News. Parliament usually sits for only two weeks at the start of September before breaking while the parties hold their annual conferences. Conservative Party chairman James Cleverly said the meeting of opposition parties "isn’t about stopping a no-deal Brexit. It’s about stopping Brexit". "People can see that, and it adds to the cynical view that millions of voters have towards politics and politicians."

Britain's Corbyn 'will do everything necessary' to stop no-deal Brexit

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told European Council President Donald Tusk that Britain would be leaving the European Union on Oct. 31 whatever the circumstances, a British official said on Sunday after the two met at a G7 summit in France.

Ahead of the meeting, Tusk and Johnson had sparred over who would be to blame should Britain leave the EU on October&nbsp;31 without a divorce deal in place.

Johnson told Tusk that his preference remained to seek a deal with the EU, and repeated that he would still be willing to sit down and talk with the EU and member states, the official said.

"The PM repeated that we will be leaving the EU on the 31st of October whatever the circumstances, we must respect the referendum result," the official said.

The two will meet again at the United Nations General Assembly next month.

An EU official, who declined to be named, said the meeting had mainly restated known positions.

"We need input from their side. ... What we would ideally have been hoping for and looking for were new elements to unblock the situation, said an EU official. "But, it was absolutely cordial all the time. It was not difficult."

He added that it was reassuring that Johnson had reiterated he wanted to reach a deal.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told European Council President Donald Tusk that Britain would be leaving the European Union on Oct. 31 whatever the circumstances, a British official said on Sunday after the two met at a G7 summit in France.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told European Council President Donald Tusk that Britain would be leaving the European Union on Oct. 31 whatever the circumstances, a British official said on Sunday after the two met at a G7 summit in France. Ahead of the meeting, Tusk and Johnson had sparred over who would be to blame should Britain leave the EU on October 31 without a divorce deal in place. Johnson told Tusk that his preference remained to seek a deal with the EU, and repeated that he would still be willing to sit down and talk with the EU and member states, the official said. "The PM repeated that we will be leaving the EU on the 31st of October whatever the circumstances, we must respect the referendum result," the official said. The two will meet again at the United Nations General Assembly next month. An EU official, who declined to be named, said the meeting had mainly restated known positions. "We need input from their side. ... What we would ideally have been hoping for and looking for were new elements to unblock the situation, said an EU official. "But, it was absolutely cordial all the time. It was not difficult." He added that it was reassuring that Johnson had reiterated he wanted to reach a deal.

UK PM Boris Johnson told Tusk: We leave European Union on October 31 whatever the circumstances

Brazil on Sunday deployed two Hercules C-130 aircraft to douse fires devouring parts of the Amazon rainforest, as hundreds of new blazes were ignited ahead of nationwide protests over the destruction.

Brazil on Sunday deployed two Hercules C-130 aircraft to douse fires devouring parts of the Amazon rainforest, as hundreds of new blazes were ignited ahead of nationwide protests over the destruction. Heavy smoke covered the city of Porto Velho in the northwestern state of Rondonia where the defence ministry said the planes have started dumping thousands of litres of water, amid a global uproar over the worst fires in years. Swathes of the remote region bordering Bolivia have been scorched by the blazes, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky and increasing air pollution across the world's largest rainforest. Experts say increased land clearing during the months-long dry season to make way for crops or grazing has aggravated the problem this year. "It gets worse every year this year, the smoke has been really serious," Deliana Amorim, 46, told AFP in Porto Velho where half a million people live. At least seven states, including Rondonia, have requested the army's help in the Amazon, where more than 43,000 troops are based and available to combat fires, officials said. The fires have triggered a global outcry and are a major topic of concern at the G7 meeting in Biarritz in southern France. World leaders at the summit have agreed to help the countries affected by the fires "as fast as possible," French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday. His remarks come amid an escalating war of words with his Brazilian counterpart Jair Bolsonaro, who he has accused of lying over Brazil's stance on climate change. Bolsonaro has denounced what he calls Macron's "colonialist mentality." Trade deal at risk The fires threaten to torpedo a huge trade agreement between the European Union and South American countries, including Brazil, that took 20 years to negotiate. Pope Francis on Sunday also voiced concern for the rainforest, which he described as a "vital" lung for the planet. The latest official figures show 79,513 forest fires have been recorded in Brazil this year, the highest number of any year since 2013. More than half of the fires are in the massive Amazon basin, where more than 20 million people live. Some 1,130 new fires were ignited between Friday and Saturday, according to Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (INPE). The new data come as protesters plan to take to the streets across Brazil on Sunday after thousands held demonstrations in the country and Europe on Friday.

Brazil's army fights Amazon fires after hundreds of new blazes ignite

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-eu-threatens-trade-retaliation-brazil-sends-army-to-fight-amazon-fires-245212">As European Union threatens trade retaliation, Brazil sends army to fight Amazon fires</a>

European leaders on Friday threatened to tear up a trade deal with South America, reflecting growing international anger at Brazil as a record number of fires in the Amazon rainforest intensified an unfolding environmental crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launches-short-range-missiles-again-complicating-us-attempts-for-talks-245221">North Korea launches short-range missiles again, complicating US attempts for talks</a>

North Korea fired what appears to be two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast on Saturday, the South Korean military said, the latest in a series of launches in recent weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-heaps-another-5-tariff-on-chinese-goods-in-latest-tit-for-tat-escalation-245211">Trump heaps another 5% tariff on Chinese goods in latest tit-for-tat escalation</a>

US President Donald Trump on Friday lashed back at a new round of Chinese tariffs by heaping an additional 5 per cent duty on some $550 billion in targeted Chinese goods in the latest tit-for-tat trade war escalation by the world's two largest economies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-be-honoured-with-uaes-highest-civilian-award-245219">PM Modi to be honoured with UAE's highest civilian award for boosting ties</a>

Indian Prime will be conferred with United Arab Emirates's highest civilian award--the Zayed medal on Saturday. The award was announced in April this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitleys-health-deteriorated-aiims-245239">Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's health deteriorates, says AIIMS sources</a>

Two weeks after being hospitalised, former finance minister Arun Jaitley's health has been deteriorating, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) sources said on Friday.

As European Union threatens trade retaliation, Brazil sends army to fight Amazon fires European leaders on Friday threatened to tear up a trade deal with South America, reflecting growing international anger at Brazil as a record number of fires in the Amazon rainforest intensified an unfolding environmental crisis.

As European Union threatens trade retaliation, Brazil sends army to fight Amazon fires European leaders on Friday threatened to tear up a trade deal with South America, reflecting growing international anger at Brazil as a record number of fires in the Amazon rainforest intensified an unfolding environmental crisis. North Korea launches short-range missiles again, complicating US attempts for talks North Korea fired what appears to be two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast on Saturday, the South Korean military said, the latest in a series of launches in recent weeks. Trump heaps another 5% tariff on Chinese goods in latest tit-for-tat escalation US President Donald Trump on Friday lashed back at a new round of Chinese tariffs by heaping an additional 5 per cent duty on some $550 billion in targeted Chinese goods in the latest tit-for-tat trade war escalation by the world's two largest economies. PM Modi to be honoured with UAE's highest civilian award for boosting ties Indian Prime will be conferred with United Arab Emirates's highest civilian award--the Zayed medal on Saturday. The award was announced in April this year. Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's health deteriorates, says AIIMS sources Two weeks after being hospitalised, former finance minister Arun Jaitley's health has been deteriorating, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) sources said on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Iran's Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-childish-of-us-to-sanction-iran-foreign-minister-zarif-239925">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> will head to East Asia on Sunday, his office said, as part of a diplomatic push to win relief from biting US sanctions.

Zarif would visit China, Japan and Malaysia fresh on the heels of a tour of Western European nations, spokesman Abbas Mousavi said late Friday on the ministry's Telegram channel.

"Bilateral relations and most importantly regional and international issues are some of the topics our foreign minister will discuss with the aforementioned countries' officials during the trip," said Mousavi.

The United States slapped sanctions on Zarif late last month in a bid to target any assets he has in America and squeeze his ability to function as a globe-trotting diplomat.

But Zarif hailed his visit to France on Friday following trips to Finland, Sweden and Norway.

In a post on Twitter, he said "despite US efforts to destroy diplomacy" he met French President Emmanuel Macron, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and had interviews with media in Paris, including AFP.

Iran and its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-documents-show-us-seeks-seizure-of-iranian-tanker-violating-sanctions-243610">arch-foe the United States</a> have been at loggerheads since last year when President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from a 2015 deal under which the Islamic republic agreed to rein in its nuclear activities in return for an easing of sanctions.

Twelve months on from the US pullout, Iran began reducing its commitments by surpassing a uranium enrichment cap and exceeding a limit on its reserves.

The situation has threatened to spiral out of control, with ships attacked in the Gulf, drones downed and oil tankers seized.

During his visit to France, Zarif told AFP in an interview that he was pleased with the efforts of Macron to defuse the crisis.

"President Macron made some suggestions last week to President (Hassan) Rouhani and we believe they are moving in the right direction, although we are not definitely there yet," Zarif said.

Macron has been seeking to roll back some of the US measures imposed as part of Trump's campaign of "maximum pressure" on Iran, which insists its nuclear programme is peaceful.

French diplomats have raised the idea of US waivers on sanctions affecting Iranian oil exports to India and China, or a new credit line for Tehran that could help the struggling economy. 
&nbsp;

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif will head to East Asia on Sunday, his office said, as part of a diplomatic push to win relief from biting US sanctions.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif will head to East Asia on Sunday, his office said, as part of a diplomatic push to win relief from biting US sanctions. Zarif would visit China, Japan and Malaysia fresh on the heels of a tour of Western European nations, spokesman Abbas Mousavi said late Friday on the ministry's Telegram channel. "Bilateral relations and most importantly regional and international issues are some of the topics our foreign minister will discuss with the aforementioned countries' officials during the trip," said Mousavi. The United States slapped sanctions on Zarif late last month in a bid to target any assets he has in America and squeeze his ability to function as a globe-trotting diplomat. But Zarif hailed his visit to France on Friday following trips to Finland, Sweden and Norway. In a post on Twitter, he said "despite US efforts to destroy diplomacy" he met French President Emmanuel Macron, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and had interviews with media in Paris, including AFP. Iran and its arch-foe the United States have been at loggerheads since last year when President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from a 2015 deal under which the Islamic republic agreed to rein in its nuclear activities in return for an easing of sanctions. Twelve months on from the US pullout, Iran began reducing its commitments by surpassing a uranium enrichment cap and exceeding a limit on its reserves. The situation has threatened to spiral out of control, with ships attacked in the Gulf, drones downed and oil tankers seized. During his visit to France, Zarif told AFP in an interview that he was pleased with the efforts of Macron to defuse the crisis. "President Macron made some suggestions last week to President (Hassan) Rouhani and we believe they are moving in the right direction, although we are not definitely there yet," Zarif said. Macron has been seeking to roll back some of the US measures imposed as part of Trump's campaign of "maximum pressure" on Iran, which insists its nuclear programme is peaceful. French diplomats have raised the idea of US waivers on sanctions affecting Iranian oil exports to India and China, or a new credit line for Tehran that could help the struggling economy.

Iran's Javad Zarif heading to Asia in push against US sanctions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-angela-merkel-says-trump-tweets-go-against-what-makes-america-great-237130">German Chancellor Angela&nbsp;Merkel</a>&nbsp;said on Thursday she had not set Britain a 30-day deadline to find a&nbsp;solution&nbsp;for the so-called Irish&nbsp;backstop, saying they could also&nbsp;have&nbsp;time&nbsp;until&nbsp;Oct.&nbsp;31, when Britain is due to leave the European Union.

"I said that what one&nbsp;can&nbsp;achieve in three or two years&nbsp;can&nbsp;also be achieved in 30 days. Better said, one must say that one&nbsp;can&nbsp;also achieve it by&nbsp;October&nbsp;31,"&nbsp;Merkel&nbsp;told a news conference in the Hague.

Merkel&nbsp;had suggested on&nbsp;Wednesday that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-germany-hints-at-compromise-france-tells-uk-no-new-brexit-deal-244700"> Britain and the EU </a>could find a&nbsp;solution&nbsp;to the sticking point of the Irish&nbsp;backstop&nbsp;in the next 30 days, a possible signal she was willing to compromise with Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday she had not set Britain a 30-day deadline to find a solution for the so-called Irish backstop, saying they could also have time until Oct.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday she had not set Britain a 30-day deadline to find a solution for the so-called Irish backstop, saying they could also have time until Oct. 31, when Britain is due to leave the European Union. "I said that what one can achieve in three or two years can also be achieved in 30 days. Better said, one must say that one can also achieve it by October 31," Merkel told a news conference in the Hague. Merkel had suggested on Wednesday that Britain and the EU could find a solution to the sticking point of the Irish backstop in the next 30 days, a possible signal she was willing to compromise with Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

We can have until October 31 for Brexit backstop solution: Merkel

Net&nbsp;immigration&nbsp;to Britain sank to its&nbsp;lowest&nbsp;level&nbsp;since&nbsp;2013&nbsp;during the 12 months to the end of March, driven by a continued fall in the number of immigrants from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-believes-urgent-steps-needed-to-de-escalate-hong-kong-crisis-foreign-policy-chief-243721">European Union</a>&nbsp;since&nbsp;2016's Brexit referendum, official figures showed on Thursday.

Some 612,000 people moved to the United Kingdom during the 12 months to March, while 385,000 people emigrated, reducing&nbsp;net&nbsp;immigration&nbsp;to 226,000, its&nbsp;lowest&nbsp;since&nbsp;the 12 months to the end of&nbsp;December&nbsp;2013, the Office for National Statistics said.

The data are based on a new experimental series that aims to reduce previous flaws that led to an undercounting of EU long-term immigrants and overestimating how many non-EU students remained in Britain after their studies.

Net immigration to Britain sank to its lowest level since 2013 during the 12 months to the end of March, driven by a continued fall in the number of immigrants from the European Union since 2016's Brexit referendum, official figures showed on Thursday.

Net immigration to Britain sank to its lowest level since 2013 during the 12 months to the end of March, driven by a continued fall in the number of immigrants from the European Union since 2016's Brexit referendum, official figures showed on Thursday. Some 612,000 people moved to the United Kingdom during the 12 months to March, while 385,000 people emigrated, reducing net immigration to 226,000, its lowest since the 12 months to the end of December 2013, the Office for National Statistics said. The data are based on a new experimental series that aims to reduce previous flaws that led to an undercounting of EU long-term immigrants and overestimating how many non-EU students remained in Britain after their studies.

Net immigration to UK falls to lowest since December 2013: National survey

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uk-faces-food-fuel-and-drugs-shortages-in-no-deal-brexit-times-citing-official-documents-243834">Brexit</a> ministry said in a statement that the time spent preparing for the meetings in Brussels would be better used in readying the country for leaving the European Union on October 31.

"This decision reflects the fact that the UK's exit from the EU on 31 October is now very close and many of the discussions in EU meetings will be about the future of the union after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-immediately-end-freedom-of-movement-for-people-from-european-union-after-brexit-244264">UK</a> has left," the statement said.

The ministry added that it made sense to "unshackle officials from these EU meetings to enable them to better focus their talents on our immediate national priorities".

"This decision is not intended in any way to frustrate the functioning of the EU.

The UK's vote will be delegated in a way that does not obstruct the ongoing business of the remaining 27 EU members," it added.

Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said: "From now on we will only go to the meetings that really matter, reducing attendance by over half and saving hundreds of hours".

The ministry said decisions on whether or not to attend a particular meeting would be made on a case by case basis.

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-cannot-stop-brexit-johnson-to-tell-macron-and-merkel-243838/amp">Boris Johnson</a>, who came to power nearly a month ago, has promised to take Britain out of the EU on October 31 with or without a divorce deal with Brussels.

EU officials have rejected Johnson's demand to scrap a key part of the draft deal which was agreed by his predecessor Theresa May and has been voted down by Britain's parliament.

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday.

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday. The Brexit ministry said in a statement that the time spent preparing for the meetings in Brussels would be better used in readying the country for leaving the European Union on October 31. "This decision reflects the fact that the UK's exit from the EU on 31 October is now very close and many of the discussions in EU meetings will be about the future of the union after the UK has left," the statement said. The ministry added that it made sense to "unshackle officials from these EU meetings to enable them to better focus their talents on our immediate national priorities". "This decision is not intended in any way to frustrate the functioning of the EU. The UK's vote will be delegated in a way that does not obstruct the ongoing business of the remaining 27 EU members," it added. Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said: "From now on we will only go to the meetings that really matter, reducing attendance by over half and saving hundreds of hours". The ministry said decisions on whether or not to attend a particular meeting would be made on a case by case basis. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who came to power nearly a month ago, has promised to take Britain out of the EU on October 31 with or without a divorce deal with Brussels. EU officials have rejected Johnson's demand to scrap a key part of the draft deal which was agreed by his predecessor Theresa May and has been voted down by Britain's parliament.

UK says to skip most European Union meetings from September 1: government

Britain said Monday it will immediately end freedom of movement for people from the European Union <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uk-faces-food-fuel-and-drugs-shortages-in-no-deal-brexit-times-citing-official-documents-243834">after Brexit on October 31</a>, in a policy shift under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-cannot-stop-brexit-johnson-to-tell-macron-and-merkel-243838">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>.

"Freedom of movement as it currently stands will end on October 31 when the UK leaves the EU," a Downing Street spokeswoman said.

She added the government planned "tougher criminality rules for people entering the UK" as part of the new hardline stance.

"Details of other changes immediately on October 31 for a new immigration system are currently being developed," the spokeswoman said.

The change comes amid growing fears Britain is set to leave the 28-member bloc without a divorce deal in two and a half months.

Around 3.6 million EU citizens already in Britain have been told to apply for "permanent settled status", under an interior ministry scheme started by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May.

So far only around one million have signed up for the status.

May's government said in January that it would end free movement "as soon as possible" after a no-deal Brexit, but keep allowing EU arrivals "for a transitional period only".

Legislation drawn up to deal with the issue is stuck in parliament in the House of Commons gridlock over Brexit.

Johnson has said he favours a skills-based immigration system post-Brexit, but Downing Street is yet to unveil full details.

Critics representing EU citizens claim he is trying to evade parliamentary scrutiny of his changed stance towards new arrivals after Brexit -- and fear those already in Britain could get mistakenly caught out.

"Ending freedom of movement abruptly on Oct 31st will lead to mass discrimination against potentially over 2 million EU citizens," the3million lobby group said on Twitter, calling the move "reckless".

Britain said Monday it will immediately end freedom of movement for people from the European Union after Brexit on October 31, in a policy shift under Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Britain said Monday it will immediately end freedom of movement for people from the European Union after Brexit on October 31, in a policy shift under Prime Minister Boris Johnson. "Freedom of movement as it currently stands will end on October 31 when the UK leaves the EU," a Downing Street spokeswoman said. She added the government planned "tougher criminality rules for people entering the UK" as part of the new hardline stance. "Details of other changes immediately on October 31 for a new immigration system are currently being developed," the spokeswoman said. The change comes amid growing fears Britain is set to leave the 28-member bloc without a divorce deal in two and a half months. Around 3.6 million EU citizens already in Britain have been told to apply for "permanent settled status", under an interior ministry scheme started by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May. So far only around one million have signed up for the status. May's government said in January that it would end free movement "as soon as possible" after a no-deal Brexit, but keep allowing EU arrivals "for a transitional period only". Legislation drawn up to deal with the issue is stuck in parliament in the House of Commons gridlock over Brexit. Johnson has said he favours a skills-based immigration system post-Brexit, but Downing Street is yet to unveil full details. Critics representing EU citizens claim he is trying to evade parliamentary scrutiny of his changed stance towards new arrivals after Brexit -- and fear those already in Britain could get mistakenly caught out. "Ending freedom of movement abruptly on Oct 31st will lead to mass discrimination against potentially over 2 million EU citizens," the3million lobby group said on Twitter, calling the move "reckless".

UK to immediately end freedom of movement for people from European Union after Brexit

Athens has received no request from the Iranian tanker Adrian Darya to dock in Greece, merchant marine minister Ioannis Plakiotakis said Tuesday after a maritime tracker gave the ship's "reported destination" as the Greek port of Kalamata.

"There is officially no request concerning the arrival of the Iranian tanker in a Greek port," Plakiotakis told Greek media.

"We are following its progress and are working with the Greek foreign minister," he said.

The website Marine Traffic placed the supertanker carrying 2.1 million barrels of oil some 100 kilometres (60 miles) northwest of the Algerian port of Oran.

The British Royal Marines seized the ship on July 4 off British territory Gibraltar on suspicion it was shipping oil to Syria in breach of EU sanctions.

After a six-week standoff between Iran and Britain,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/grace-1-tanker-raises-iranian-flag-changes-the-name-to-adrian-darya-1-243853"> the Adrian Darya-1, formerly named the Grace 1</a>, finally set sail overnight Sunday after Gibraltar rejected a US demand to seize the vessel.

Gibraltar's government said it could not seek a court order to detain the supertanker because US sanctions against Iran were not applicable in the European Union.

The British territory authorised the tanker to leave on Thursday after Tehran gave assurances that the oil would not be delivered to Syria.

Iran has repeatedly denied any violations.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday called Gibraltar's decision "very unfortunate", in an implicit rebuke to ally Britain.

Tehran for its part said it has warned Washington against making another attempt to seize the ship, saying such a move would have "grave consequences".

Port authorities in Kalamata, a port in Greece's Peloponnese peninsula, have not confirmed Marine Traffic's information.&nbsp;

An Iranian port authority said the tanker was in international waters, but its destination remained unclear, as did the fate of its cargo.

The Gibraltar authorities have yet to confirm the ship's departure.

The voyage to Kalamata would take around five days, port authorities there said. 
&nbsp;

Athens has received no request from the Iranian tanker Adrian Darya to dock in Greece, merchant marine minister Ioannis Plakiotakis said Tuesday after a maritime tracker gave the ship's "reported destination" as the Greek port of Kalamata.

Athens has received no request from the Iranian tanker Adrian Darya to dock in Greece, merchant marine minister Ioannis Plakiotakis said Tuesday after a maritime tracker gave the ship's "reported destination" as the Greek port of Kalamata. "There is officially no request concerning the arrival of the Iranian tanker in a Greek port," Plakiotakis told Greek media. "We are following its progress and are working with the Greek foreign minister," he said. The website Marine Traffic placed the supertanker carrying 2.1 million barrels of oil some 100 kilometres (60 miles) northwest of the Algerian port of Oran. The British Royal Marines seized the ship on July 4 off British territory Gibraltar on suspicion it was shipping oil to Syria in breach of EU sanctions. After a six-week standoff between Iran and Britain, the Adrian Darya-1, formerly named the Grace 1, finally set sail overnight Sunday after Gibraltar rejected a US demand to seize the vessel. Gibraltar's government said it could not seek a court order to detain the supertanker because US sanctions against Iran were not applicable in the European Union. The British territory authorised the tanker to leave on Thursday after Tehran gave assurances that the oil would not be delivered to Syria. Iran has repeatedly denied any violations. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday called Gibraltar's decision "very unfortunate", in an implicit rebuke to ally Britain. Tehran for its part said it has warned Washington against making another attempt to seize the ship, saying such a move would have "grave consequences". Port authorities in Kalamata, a port in Greece's Peloponnese peninsula, have not confirmed Marine Traffic's information. An Iranian port authority said the tanker was in international waters, but its destination remained unclear, as did the fate of its cargo. The Gibraltar authorities have yet to confirm the ship's departure. The voyage to Kalamata would take around five days, port authorities there said.

'No request' from Iran tanker to dock in Greece: Government

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has fired the opening salvo in his bid to renegotiate Britain's divorce from the European Union, demanding that an insurance policy for the Irish border be removed from the Brexit deal and replaced with a pledge.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has fired the opening salvo in his bid to renegotiate Britain's divorce from the European Union, demanding that an insurance policy for the Irish border be removed from the Brexit deal and replaced with a pledge. After more than three years of Brexit crisis, the United Kingdom is heading towards a showdown with the EU as Johnson has vowed to leave the bloc on October 31 without a deal unless it agrees to renegotiate the divorce terms. The bloc and its leaders have repeatedly refused to reopen the Withdrawal Agreement, which includes a protocol on the Irish border "backstop" that then-prime minister Theresa May agreed in November. In his opening bid to the EU ahead of meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel this week, Johnson wrote a four-page letter to European Council President Donald Tusk setting out his demands. "I propose that the backstop should be replaced with a commitment to put in place (alternative) arrangements as far as possible before the end of the transition period, as part of the future relationship," Johnson wrote. "Time is very short." A diplomat from one EU country told Reuters that Johnson's letter was "pure PR" and not meant to spur constructive talks but rather set the stage for a "blame game" with the EU. Irish source said Johnson had provided no detail on alternative proposals. In a call with Johnson, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar reiterated the EU's position that the Withdrawal Agreement cannot be reopened. The riddle of what to do about Ireland's 500-km (300-mile) land border with the British province of Northern Ireland remains has repeatedly imperilled Brexit talks. The EU wants to ensure that its only land border with the United Kingdom after Brexit does not become a back door for goods to enter the EU's single market - which guarantees the free movement of goods, capital, services, and labour. But Ireland says checks could undermine the 1998 Good Friday agreement, which brought peace after more than 3,600 died in a three-decade conflict between unionists who wanted Northern Ireland to remain British and Irish nationalists who want Northern Ireland to join a united Ireland ruled from Dublin. And the United Kingdom does not want there to be any border - effective or virtual - between Britain and Northern Ireland. Johnson's government is propped up by Northern Irish unionists. Brexit showdown? The backstop was a compromise aimed at squaring the circle: it would keep the United Kingdom in a customs union with the EU until a better solution was found, and keep Northern Ireland aligned to the rules of the EU's single market. Johnson wrote that the backstop was anti-democratic and threatened the United Kingdom's sovereignty as the application of single-market rules in Northern Ireland could divide Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK. "It presents the whole of the UK with the choice of remaining in a customs union and aligned with those rules, or of seeing Northern Ireland gradually detached from the UK economy across a very broad range of areas," Johnson said. "Both of those outcomes are unacceptable to the British government." He also argued that the backstop risked weakening the delicate balance between nationalists and unionists in Northern Ireland. He said the best solution was a pledge to put in place arrangements as far as possible before the end of the transition period, and that this could be agreed as part of a deal on Britain'sfuture relationship with the EU. Dublin does not accept the assertion that the backstop is a threat to peace, an Irish government source said, adding that, while the letter refers to alternative arrangements, it gives no detail of what these might be. Under the current text of the Withdrawal Agreement, the backstop would be invoked at the end of the transition period in 2020, creating a single EU-UK customs territory, including "level playing field" rules ensuring fair competition in areas such as environment, state aid, and labour standards. The clause is designed as a default mechanism to remain in place "unless and until" it is superseded by alternative arrangements that ensure the same outcome. Brexiteers fear that this would keep Britain dependent on rules set from Brussels over which they would have no say, and hinder their efforts to strike trade deals with third countries - one of the key benefits they see from leaving the EU in the first place. Some pro-Brexit politicians have said it would make Britain a "vassal state".

Irish backstop should be replaced: PM Johnson's Brexit bid to EU

Washington's attempts to seize Iran's oil tanker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/detained-iran-tanker-departs-after-gibraltar-rejects-us-demand-243961">Adrian Darya (former Grace 1)</a>, which was released by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gibraltar-rejects-us-demand-to-seize-iranian-oil-tanker-243889">Gibraltar authorities</a> last week and has already left the UK <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/grace-1-tanker-raises-iranian-flag-changes-the-name-to-adrian-darya-1-243853">overseas territory</a>, will have grave consequences, the Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said on Monday.

"If the United States makes such a step, this will jeopardize the security of navigation in international waters. Iran has warned the US authorities, using official channels, specifically the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, that this will have grave consequences," Mousavi said when asked about the possible seizure of the tanker by Washington.

He also stressed that Washington's request for Gibraltar authorities to extend the detention of the vessel was illegal.

The authorities of Gibraltar ruled on August 15 to release the tanker, which was captured on July 4 on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria in violation of EU sanctions. While Gibraltar said that it received assurances from Iran that the tanker was not going to deliver its cargo to Syria, Tehran denied making any promises. Tehran also said the tanker would leave Gibraltar under a new name, Adrian Darya.

Meanwhile, the United States issued on Saturday a warrant to seize the tanker for violating international law by allegedly making illegal oil shipments to Syria. A US court ruled that the vessel, all petroleum on board and $995,000 in cash are subject to confiscation over violation of several US laws on bank fraud and money laundering, as well as International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the law on confiscation for terrorism-related activities.

However, the authorities of Gibraltar have rejected the US request to extend the seizure of the tanker, citing differences in US and European sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;

Washington's attempts to seize Iran's oil tanker Adrian Darya (former Grace 1), which was released by the Gibraltar authorities last week and has already left the UK overseas territory, will have grave consequences, the Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said on Monday.

Washington's attempts to seize Iran's oil tanker Adrian Darya (former Grace 1), which was released by the Gibraltar authorities last week and has already left the UK overseas territory, will have grave consequences, the Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said on Monday. "If the United States makes such a step, this will jeopardize the security of navigation in international waters. Iran has warned the US authorities, using official channels, specifically the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, that this will have grave consequences," Mousavi said when asked about the possible seizure of the tanker by Washington. He also stressed that Washington's request for Gibraltar authorities to extend the detention of the vessel was illegal. The authorities of Gibraltar ruled on August 15 to release the tanker, which was captured on July 4 on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria in violation of EU sanctions. While Gibraltar said that it received assurances from Iran that the tanker was not going to deliver its cargo to Syria, Tehran denied making any promises. Tehran also said the tanker would leave Gibraltar under a new name, Adrian Darya. Meanwhile, the United States issued on Saturday a warrant to seize the tanker for violating international law by allegedly making illegal oil shipments to Syria. A US court ruled that the vessel, all petroleum on board and $995,000 in cash are subject to confiscation over violation of several US laws on bank fraud and money laundering, as well as International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the law on confiscation for terrorism-related activities. However, the authorities of Gibraltar have rejected the US request to extend the seizure of the tanker, citing differences in US and European sanctions against Iran.

Washington's attempt to seize Iran's oil tanker to have grave consequences: Tehran

The Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a diplomatic dispute has departed from Gibraltar after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gibraltar-rejects-us-demand-to-seize-iranian-oil-tanker-243889">British overseas territory rejected a US demand</a> to seize the vessel.

According to the monitoring website Marine Traffic, the supertanker -- which had been detained since July 4 off the coast of Gibraltar -- lifted anchor Sunday evening and started sailing south.

Authorities in the British overseas territory have not confirmed its departure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/grace-1-tanker-raises-iranian-flag-changes-the-name-to-adrian-darya-1-243853">Gibraltar seized the Grace 1</a> on July 4 on suspicion it was transporting oil to Syria in breach of European Union sanctions, triggering a sharp deterioration in relations between Tehran and London. Iran has repeatedly denied any violations.

A Gibraltar judge ordered the tanker released last Thursday, with Iranian officials saying a new crew had arrived to pilot the vessel -- now renamed the Adrian Darya -- and its 2.1 million barrels of oil.

But on Friday, the US Justice Department filed a last-minute request to detain the ship, alleging it was involved in supporting illicit shipments to Syria by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, listed as a terrorist group by Washington.

Gibraltar's government rejected that request, saying it could not seek a court order to detain the supertanker because US sanctions against Iran were not applicable in the European Union.

The vessel had turned east as of early Monday, although its ultimate destination was unclear.

In its decision ordering the release of the tanker, Gibraltar said it had received assurances from Iran that the vessel would not head to any country subject to EU sanctions.

Iran denied it had made any promises about the ship's destination to secure the release.

"Iran has given no assurances over the Grace 1 not going to Syria to secure its release," a state media website quoted foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying.

The US State Department has threatened to issue a visa ban on anyone working on the ship.

The July 4 seizure came amid surging tensions in the Gulf after several alleged Iranian attacks on smaller tankers.

Iran termed the move an "illegal interception" staged by the United States, while Washington cheered it as "excellent news".

Iran subsequently detained the British-flagged tanker Stena Impero in what was seen as a tit-for-tat move.

Ties between Tehran and Washington have frayed since President Donald Trump withdrew last year from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Iran, reimposing crippling unilateral sanctions.

The Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a diplomatic dispute has departed from Gibraltar after the British overseas territory rejected a US demand to seize the vessel.

The Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a diplomatic dispute has departed from Gibraltar after the British overseas territory rejected a US demand to seize the vessel. According to the monitoring website Marine Traffic, the supertanker -- which had been detained since July 4 off the coast of Gibraltar -- lifted anchor Sunday evening and started sailing south. Authorities in the British overseas territory have not confirmed its departure. Gibraltar seized the Grace 1 on July 4 on suspicion it was transporting oil to Syria in breach of European Union sanctions, triggering a sharp deterioration in relations between Tehran and London. Iran has repeatedly denied any violations. A Gibraltar judge ordered the tanker released last Thursday, with Iranian officials saying a new crew had arrived to pilot the vessel -- now renamed the Adrian Darya -- and its 2.1 million barrels of oil. But on Friday, the US Justice Department filed a last-minute request to detain the ship, alleging it was involved in supporting illicit shipments to Syria by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, listed as a terrorist group by Washington. Gibraltar's government rejected that request, saying it could not seek a court order to detain the supertanker because US sanctions against Iran were not applicable in the European Union. The vessel had turned east as of early Monday, although its ultimate destination was unclear. In its decision ordering the release of the tanker, Gibraltar said it had received assurances from Iran that the vessel would not head to any country subject to EU sanctions. Iran denied it had made any promises about the ship's destination to secure the release. "Iran has given no assurances over the Grace 1 not going to Syria to secure its release," a state media website quoted foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying. The US State Department has threatened to issue a visa ban on anyone working on the ship. The July 4 seizure came amid surging tensions in the Gulf after several alleged Iranian attacks on smaller tankers. Iran termed the move an "illegal interception" staged by the United States, while Washington cheered it as "excellent news". Iran subsequently detained the British-flagged tanker Stena Impero in what was seen as a tit-for-tat move. Ties between Tehran and Washington have frayed since President Donald Trump withdrew last year from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Iran, reimposing crippling unilateral sanctions.

Detained Iran tanker departs after Gibraltar rejects US demand

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/kuwait-to-tap-foreign-debt-markets-to-finance-deficit-1708">The Kuwait Investment Authority</a> (KIA) began increasing its exposure to bonds and cash two years ago to boost liquidity in its portfolio as the global economy showed signs of weakness, Kuwaiti newspaper Alqabas reported on Sunday, citing sources.

The report provided rare insight into the strategy of one of the world's biggest sovereign wealth funds, though it did not give a breakdown of KIA's investments in various asset classes.&nbsp;

KIA, in which the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute estimates manage $592 billion of assets, does not publicly disclose its investments or detailed strategy.

The newspaper report said KIA made "calculated exits" from investments it felt were vulnerable to a downturn in global financial markets as the world economy began to show signs of faltering two years ago.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in July cut its forecast for global growth this year and next, warning that further tariffs in the US-China trade dispute or a disorderly British exit from the European Union could slow growth further, weaken investment and disrupt supply chains.

The IMF said that downside risks had intensified and it expected global economic growth of 3.2 per cent&nbsp;in 2019 and 3.5 per cent&nbsp;in 2020, both down by 0.1 percentage points from its April forecast and its fourth downgrade since October.

Despite recent volatility in equity markets, KIA has achieved a 10 per cent&nbsp;return on its investments in US stock markets since the beginning of this year, the report said.

KIA officials were not immediately available to comment.

Kuwaiti news agency KUNA reported in late 2017 that KIA had more than $300 billion of investments in the United States, diversified among stocks, bonds, real estate, and technology.

The fund's investments are spread across more than 120 economies globally.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) began increasing its exposure to bonds and cash two years ago to boost liquidity in its portfolio as the global economy showed signs of weakness, Kuwaiti newspaper Alqabas reported on Sunday, citing sources.

The Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) began increasing its exposure to bonds and cash two years ago to boost liquidity in its portfolio as the global economy showed signs of weakness, Kuwaiti newspaper Alqabas reported on Sunday, citing sources. The report provided rare insight into the strategy of one of the world's biggest sovereign wealth funds, though it did not give a breakdown of KIA's investments in various asset classes. KIA, in which the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute estimates manage $592 billion of assets, does not publicly disclose its investments or detailed strategy. The newspaper report said KIA made "calculated exits" from investments it felt were vulnerable to a downturn in global financial markets as the world economy began to show signs of faltering two years ago. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in July cut its forecast for global growth this year and next, warning that further tariffs in the US-China trade dispute or a disorderly British exit from the European Union could slow growth further, weaken investment and disrupt supply chains. The IMF said that downside risks had intensified and it expected global economic growth of 3.2 per cent in 2019 and 3.5 per cent in 2020, both down by 0.1 percentage points from its April forecast and its fourth downgrade since October. Despite recent volatility in equity markets, KIA has achieved a 10 per cent return on its investments in US stock markets since the beginning of this year, the report said. KIA officials were not immediately available to comment. Kuwaiti news agency KUNA reported in late 2017 that KIA had more than $300 billion of investments in the United States, diversified among stocks, bonds, real estate, and technology. The fund's investments are spread across more than 120 economies globally.

Kuwait sovereign fund in portfolio shift on signs of global economic weakness: Report

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-seeks-ukraine-progress-from-putin-in-rare-pre-g7-talks-243465">French President Emmanuel Macron</a> and German Chancellor Angela Merkel that the Westminster parliament cannot stop Brexit and a new deal must be agreed if Britain is to avoid leaving the EU without one.

In his first trip abroad as leader, Johnson is due to meet his European counterparts ahead of a G7 summit on August 24-26 in Biarritz, France.

He will say that Britain is leaving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/divided-european-union-taps-bulgarias-kristalina-georgieva-as-international-monetary-fund-candidate-240499">the European Union</a> on October 31, with or without a deal, and that the British parliament cannot block that, according to a Downing Street source.

The United Kingdom is heading towards a constitutional crisis at home and a showdown with the EU as Johnson has repeatedly vowed to leave the bloc on October 31 without a deal unless it agrees to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-renegotiate-brexit-withdrawal-agreement-european-commission-president-juncker-to-pm-johnson-238496">renegotiate the Brexit divorce</a>.

After more than three years of Brexit dominating EU affairs, the bloc has repeatedly refused to reopen the Withdrawal Agreement which includes an Irish border insurance policy that Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, agreed in November.

The prime minister is coming under pressure from politicians across the political spectrum to prevent a disorderly departure, with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn vowing to bring down Johnson's government in early September to delay Brexit.

It is, however, unclear if lawmakers have the unity or power to use the British parliament to prevent a no-deal Brexit on October 31 likely to be the United Kingdom's most significant move since World War Two.

Opponents of no-deal say it would be a disaster for what was once one of the West's most stable democracies.

A disorderly divorce, they say, would hurt global growth, send shockwaves through financial markets and weaken London’s claim to be the world’s preeminent financial centre.

Brexit supporters say there may be short-term disruption from a no-deal exit but that the economy will thrive if cut free from what they cast as a doomed experiment in integration that has led to Europe falling behind China and the United States.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel that the Westminster parliament cannot stop Brexit and a new deal must be agreed if Britain is to avoid leaving the EU without one.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel that the Westminster parliament cannot stop Brexit and a new deal must be agreed if Britain is to avoid leaving the EU without one. In his first trip abroad as leader, Johnson is due to meet his European counterparts ahead of a G7 summit on August 24-26 in Biarritz, France. He will say that Britain is leaving the European Union on October 31, with or without a deal, and that the British parliament cannot block that, according to a Downing Street source. The United Kingdom is heading towards a constitutional crisis at home and a showdown with the EU as Johnson has repeatedly vowed to leave the bloc on October 31 without a deal unless it agrees to renegotiate the Brexit divorce. After more than three years of Brexit dominating EU affairs, the bloc has repeatedly refused to reopen the Withdrawal Agreement which includes an Irish border insurance policy that Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, agreed in November. The prime minister is coming under pressure from politicians across the political spectrum to prevent a disorderly departure, with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn vowing to bring down Johnson's government in early September to delay Brexit. It is, however, unclear if lawmakers have the unity or power to use the British parliament to prevent a no-deal Brexit on October 31 likely to be the United Kingdom's most significant move since World War Two. Opponents of no-deal say it would be a disaster for what was once one of the West's most stable democracies. A disorderly divorce, they say, would hurt global growth, send shockwaves through financial markets and weaken London’s claim to be the world’s preeminent financial centre. Brexit supporters say there may be short-term disruption from a no-deal exit but that the economy will thrive if cut free from what they cast as a doomed experiment in integration that has led to Europe falling behind China and the United States.

UK parliament cannot stop Brexit, Boris Johnson to tell Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel

Newly released US&nbsp;court documents show the United States issued a warrant for the seizure of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-giving-gibraltar-assurances-for-release-of-tanker-243388">Iranian tanker that British Royal Marines had seized</a> last month in Gibraltar, citing evidence that it was transporting oil to Syria in violation of US sanctions.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-tanker-freed-by-gibraltar-poised-to-set-sail-243333">oil tanker Grace 1</a>, the more than 2 million barrels of oil it carries and $995,000 are subject to forfeiture based on a complaint by the US government, US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jessie Liu said in a news release on Friday.

The tanker was seized by British Royal Marines at the western mouth of the Mediterranean on July 4 on suspicion of violating European Union sanctions by taking oil to Syria, a close ally of Iran.

In a court document obtained by Reuters, it said there was evidence that showed that the tanker was scheduled to arrive in Syria in early July.

"Charts and electronic equipment recovered from onboard the Grace 1, WhatsApp messages recovered from crewmembers' mobile devices, and crewmembers' statements revealed that the Grace 1 was destined for Port Banias, Syria in violation of US sanctions," the document said.

Watch: Gibraltar court releases Iranian oil tanker Grace 1

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Iran has repeatedly denied that tanker's destination was Syria.

"As we said earlier ... Syria was not its destination and we have upheld the same ... and reiterated that it was nobody's business even if it was Syria," Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency on Friday.

Gibraltar authorities said on Thursday the US Department of Justice had applied to seize the tanker.

Washington had attempted to detain the Grace 1 on the grounds that it had links to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which it has designated a terrorist organization.

"The scheme involves multiple parties affiliated with the IRGC and furthered by the deceptive voyages of the Grace 1," Liu said. "A network of front companies allegedly laundered millions of dollars in support of such shipments."

"A seizure warrant and a forfeiture complaint are merely allegations. The burden to prove forfeitability in a civil forfeiture proceeding is upon the government," the news release said.

Gibraltar, which said it first received a US&nbsp;Department of Justice request to seize the Grace 1 tanker on Thursday, lifted the tanker's detention order later in the same day.,

But the vessel's fate was further complicated by a last-ditch US&nbsp;legal appeal to hold it.

The tanker shifted its position on Friday, but its anchor was still down off Gibraltar and it was unclear if it was ready to set sail soon.

The warrant for the seizure of the tanker, which carries 2.1 million barrels of oil, was issued by the US&nbsp;District Court for the District of Columbia and addressed to "the United States Marshal's Service and/or any other duly authorized law enforcement officer."

Newly released US court documents show the United States issued a warrant for the seizure of an Iranian tanker that British Royal Marines had seized last month in Gibraltar, citing evidence that it was transporting oil to Syria in violation of US sanctions.

Newly released US court documents show the United States issued a warrant for the seizure of an Iranian tanker that British Royal Marines had seized last month in Gibraltar, citing evidence that it was transporting oil to Syria in violation of US sanctions. The oil tanker Grace 1, the more than 2 million barrels of oil it carries and $995,000 are subject to forfeiture based on a complaint by the US government, US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jessie Liu said in a news release on Friday. The tanker was seized by British Royal Marines at the western mouth of the Mediterranean on July 4 on suspicion of violating European Union sanctions by taking oil to Syria, a close ally of Iran. In a court document obtained by Reuters, it said there was evidence that showed that the tanker was scheduled to arrive in Syria in early July. "Charts and electronic equipment recovered from onboard the Grace 1, WhatsApp messages recovered from crewmembers' mobile devices, and crewmembers' statements revealed that the Grace 1 was destined for Port Banias, Syria in violation of US sanctions," the document said. Watch: Gibraltar court releases Iranian oil tanker Grace 1 × Iran has repeatedly denied that tanker's destination was Syria. "As we said earlier ... Syria was not its destination and we have upheld the same ... and reiterated that it was nobody's business even if it was Syria," Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency on Friday. Gibraltar authorities said on Thursday the US Department of Justice had applied to seize the tanker. Washington had attempted to detain the Grace 1 on the grounds that it had links to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which it has designated a terrorist organization. "The scheme involves multiple parties affiliated with the IRGC and furthered by the deceptive voyages of the Grace 1," Liu said. "A network of front companies allegedly laundered millions of dollars in support of such shipments." "A seizure warrant and a forfeiture complaint are merely allegations. The burden to prove forfeitability in a civil forfeiture proceeding is upon the government," the news release said. Gibraltar, which said it first received a US Department of Justice request to seize the Grace 1 tanker on Thursday, lifted the tanker's detention order later in the same day., But the vessel's fate was further complicated by a last-ditch US legal appeal to hold it. The tanker shifted its position on Friday, but its anchor was still down off Gibraltar and it was unclear if it was ready to set sail soon. The warrant for the seizure of the tanker, which carries 2.1 million barrels of oil, was issued by the US District Court for the District of Columbia and addressed to "the United States Marshal's Service and/or any other duly authorized law enforcement officer."

Court documents show US seeks seizure of Iranian tanker violating sanctions

The Gibraltar authorities had said the vessel is loaded to capacity with crude oil enroute to Syria, in breach of European Union (EU) sanctions.

Gibraltar Tanker Row: All 24 Indian crew members released

Western powers on Tuesday urged foes Serbia and Kosovo to reboot their stalled dialogue "with urgency", warning that the lack of progress is hindering their dreams of joining the European Union.&nbsp;

Serbia and its former province Kosovo, which is mainly ethnic Albanian, still have a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbia-puts-forces-on-alert-after-kosovo-police-operation-in-serb-populated-north-222264">bitter and tense relationship </a>two decades after Pristina broke away in a separatist war and went on to declare independence.

EU-led talks to normalise their ties have sputtered out in recent months over a series of diplomatic clashes.&nbsp;

In a joint statement, the governments of the US, UK, France, Germany and Italy called on the neighbours to "restart the EU-led Dialogue with urgency".

"The status quo prevents progress on Kosovo's and Serbia's path towards the European Union (EU)and is simply not sustainable", it added.

The governments said they were willing to become more involved in the talks -&nbsp;but only if "you both signal a willingness to compromise, remove obstacles and resume discussions".

The statement urged each side to extend an olive branch.

"For Kosovo, that means suspending the tariffs imposed on Serbia," the governments said, referring to a 100 per cent tax slapped on Serbian goods last November.

The countries then urged Serbia to halt its "de-recognition campaign against Kosovo", referring to Belgrade's efforts to sway other countries to revoke their recognition of Kosovo's statehood.

After the EU-led talks hit a wall last year, Germany and France took their own initiative to try to restart the dialogue, holding a summit in Berlin in April.

But no progress was made and a planned follow-up meeting in July was later scrapped.

Serbia lost control of Kosovo after a NATO bombing intervention forced its troops to withdraw from a war with ethnic Albanian separatists in 1999.

A decade later Kosovo declared independence, a move recognised by the US and most of Western Europe.

Western powers on Tuesday urged foes Serbia and Kosovo to reboot their stalled dialogue "with urgency", warning that the lack of progress is hindering their dreams of joining the European Union.

Western powers on Tuesday urged foes Serbia and Kosovo to reboot their stalled dialogue "with urgency", warning that the lack of progress is hindering their dreams of joining the European Union. Serbia and its former province Kosovo, which is mainly ethnic Albanian, still have a bitter and tense relationship two decades after Pristina broke away in a separatist war and went on to declare independence. EU-led talks to normalise their ties have sputtered out in recent months over a series of diplomatic clashes. In a joint statement, the governments of the US, UK, France, Germany and Italy called on the neighbours to "restart the EU-led Dialogue with urgency". "The status quo prevents progress on Kosovo's and Serbia's path towards the European Union (EU)and is simply not sustainable", it added. The governments said they were willing to become more involved in the talks - but only if "you both signal a willingness to compromise, remove obstacles and resume discussions". The statement urged each side to extend an olive branch. "For Kosovo, that means suspending the tariffs imposed on Serbia," the governments said, referring to a 100 per cent tax slapped on Serbian goods last November. The countries then urged Serbia to halt its "de-recognition campaign against Kosovo", referring to Belgrade's efforts to sway other countries to revoke their recognition of Kosovo's statehood. After the EU-led talks hit a wall last year, Germany and France took their own initiative to try to restart the dialogue, holding a summit in Berlin in April. But no progress was made and a planned follow-up meeting in July was later scrapped. Serbia lost control of Kosovo after a NATO bombing intervention forced its troops to withdraw from a war with ethnic Albanian separatists in 1999. A decade later Kosovo declared independence, a move recognised by the US and most of Western Europe.

West urges Kosovo, Serbia to restart talks 'with urgency'

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-launches-first-product-with-own-operating-system-242084">Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei</a>.

As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union on October 31, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

Bolton’s two days of talks on Monday and Tuesday, to include a heavy focus on Brexit, reflect the Trump White House’s attempts to solidify ties with the new British government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-stupid-guy-donald-trump-renews-attack-on-uk-ambassador-theresa-may-234370">Trump’s strained relationship with former Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

Bolton is expected to urge British officials to align policy on Iran more closely with that of Washington, which has pressured Tehran with ever-tightening sanctions after Trump withdrew the United States from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-any-external-military-presence-in-gulf-source-of-insecurity-241885">Iran nuclear deal</a>.

Britain has so far backed the European Union in sticking with the nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, but the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has put pressure on London to consider a tougher stance.

British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant vessels.

A senior Trump administration official said Bolton’s argument to the British will be that it would help add pressure on Iran if London would declare the JCPOA dead but that such a decision was not expected soon.

Trump has also pushed Britain to get tougher on China’s Huawei out of concern its next-generation 5G technology represents a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei.

Under former PM May, the British government decided in principle to give Huawei limited access to non-core parts of the 5G network, but the senior US official said Bolton hoped to find a friendlier audience on the topic from the Johnson government. A final British decision has not yet been taken.

Bolton plans to argue that Huawei is an arm of the Chinese government and that its hardware could be used to monitor communications that go through its system.

Trump and New York-born Johnson have spoken frequently on the phone since the new prime minister took power and Trump wants to seal a US-British free trade agreement in order to help cushion Britain when it exits the European Union.

The two leaders are to meet later this month at the G7 summit in Biarritz, France.

Bolton, who met last week in Washington with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, is to have lunch on Monday with Britain’s cabinet secretary, Mark Sedwill, and later meet at No. 10 Downing Street with Edward Lister, who is Johnson’s chief strategic adviser.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Bolton will meet Sajid Javid, Johnson's new finance minister.

On Tuesday, Bolton is due to meet Liz Truss, Britain’s international trade secretary, and Ben Wallace, the new defense secretary, as well as Steve Barclay, the minister for exiting the European Union, among other officials.&nbsp;

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei.

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei. As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union on October 31, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States. Bolton’s two days of talks on Monday and Tuesday, to include a heavy focus on Brexit, reflect the Trump White House’s attempts to solidify ties with the new British government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson after Trump’s strained relationship with former Prime Minister Theresa May. Bolton is expected to urge British officials to align policy on Iran more closely with that of Washington, which has pressured Tehran with ever-tightening sanctions after Trump withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal. Britain has so far backed the European Union in sticking with the nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, but the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has put pressure on London to consider a tougher stance. British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant vessels. A senior Trump administration official said Bolton’s argument to the British will be that it would help add pressure on Iran if London would declare the JCPOA dead but that such a decision was not expected soon. Trump has also pushed Britain to get tougher on China’s Huawei out of concern its next-generation 5G technology represents a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei. Under former PM May, the British government decided in principle to give Huawei limited access to non-core parts of the 5G network, but the senior US official said Bolton hoped to find a friendlier audience on the topic from the Johnson government. A final British decision has not yet been taken. Bolton plans to argue that Huawei is an arm of the Chinese government and that its hardware could be used to monitor communications that go through its system. Trump and New York-born Johnson have spoken frequently on the phone since the new prime minister took power and Trump wants to seal a US-British free trade agreement in order to help cushion Britain when it exits the European Union. The two leaders are to meet later this month at the G7 summit in Biarritz, France. Bolton, who met last week in Washington with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, is to have lunch on Monday with Britain’s cabinet secretary, Mark Sedwill, and later meet at No. 10 Downing Street with Edward Lister, who is Johnson’s chief strategic adviser. Later in the day, Bolton will meet Sajid Javid, Johnson's new finance minister. On Tuesday, Bolton is due to meet Liz Truss, Britain’s international trade secretary, and Ben Wallace, the new defense secretary, as well as Steve Barclay, the minister for exiting the European Union, among other officials.

US security adviser John Bolton to urge tougher UK stance on Iran and China

A no-deal Brexit would hurt Britain more than the rest of Europe no matter how much <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-tells-civil-servants-their-top-priority-is-preparing-for-no-deal-brexit-sky-241873">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>'s government pretends otherwise, outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in remarks published on Saturday.

Britain has been pressing the European Union to amend the terms of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-prime-minister-johnson-urges-lawmakers-to-back-october-31-brexit-241537">Britain's withdrawal agreement</a>, saying Brussels would have to take responsibility for a no-deal Brexit if it does not compromise.

But at the end of the day that would do the most harm to Britain, Juncker told a regional newspaper in the Austrian province of Tyrol, where he regularly spends his summer holiday.

"If it comes to a hard Brexit, that is in no one's interest, but the British would be the big losers. They are acting as though that were not the case but it is," Juncker told the Tiroler Tageszeitung newspaper.

"We are fully prepared even though some in Britain say we are not well set up for a 'no deal'. But I am not taking part in these little summer games," said Juncker, who is due to be succeeded by German conservative Ursula von der Leyen once she has put together her Commission.

The European Union has said the withdrawal agreement negotiated by the previous British administration led by Theresa May will not be re-opened. Johnson says it wants a key element of that deal, the so-called Irish "backstop", to be scrapped.

The backstop, agreed between Brussels and May's government, aims to keep the border between the Republic of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland open, and would effectively keep Northern Ireland within the EU's single market if no alternative arrangement can be found.

"We have made clear that we are not prepared to hold new negotiations on the withdrawal agreement but only to make certain clarifications in the framework of the political declarations that regulate future relations between the United Kingdom and European Union," Juncker said.

"We are well prepared (for no deal) and I hope the British are too." 
&nbsp;

A no-deal Brexit would hurt Britain more than the rest of Europe no matter how much Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government pretends otherwise, outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in remarks published on Saturday.

A no-deal Brexit would hurt Britain more than the rest of Europe no matter how much Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government pretends otherwise, outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in remarks published on Saturday. Britain has been pressing the European Union to amend the terms of Britain's withdrawal agreement, saying Brussels would have to take responsibility for a no-deal Brexit if it does not compromise. But at the end of the day that would do the most harm to Britain, Juncker told a regional newspaper in the Austrian province of Tyrol, where he regularly spends his summer holiday. "If it comes to a hard Brexit, that is in no one's interest, but the British would be the big losers. They are acting as though that were not the case but it is," Juncker told the Tiroler Tageszeitung newspaper. "We are fully prepared even though some in Britain say we are not well set up for a 'no deal'. But I am not taking part in these little summer games," said Juncker, who is due to be succeeded by German conservative Ursula von der Leyen once she has put together her Commission. The European Union has said the withdrawal agreement negotiated by the previous British administration led by Theresa May will not be re-opened. Johnson says it wants a key element of that deal, the so-called Irish "backstop", to be scrapped. The backstop, agreed between Brussels and May's government, aims to keep the border between the Republic of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland open, and would effectively keep Northern Ireland within the EU's single market if no alternative arrangement can be found. "We have made clear that we are not prepared to hold new negotiations on the withdrawal agreement but only to make certain clarifications in the framework of the political declarations that regulate future relations between the United Kingdom and European Union," Juncker said. "We are well prepared (for no deal) and I hope the British are too."

If it comes to hard Brexit, British would be the big losers: European Union's Jean-Claude Juncker tells UK

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will revive the system of business councils used by his predecessor to advise on issues facing the economy as Britain prepares to leave the European Union.

Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU at the end of October, regardless of whether he can secure a transition deal to avoid trade disruption, which is the worst-case scenario for many businesses.

The government led by former Prime Minister Theresa May last year created five business councils who would meet about three times a year - twice with the prime minister and once with a senior minister. They helped provide policy recommendations.

Johnson looks forward "to continuing to drive forward the work of the Business Councils over the coming months," a spokeswoman for the prime minister said.

"The prime minister wants the UK to be the best place to start, to grow and to run a business — there’s no better way to understand important issues affecting the UK business environment and its competitiveness than speaking to employers themselves."

Johnson is seeking to repair his relations with business leaders after he was quoted last year using a strong expletive to condemn business, in response to corporate concerns about the impact a no-deal Brexit would have on the economy.

The throwaway phrase became a symbol of the strains between business leaders and the Conservative Party, which before the EU referendum was a bastion of pro-business positions.

The structure of councils will remain under Johnson's new business adviser, former Sky finance chief Andrew Griffith, according to the Financial Times, which first reported the news.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will revive the system of business councils used by his predecessor to advise on issues facing the economy as Britain prepares to leave the European Union.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will revive the system of business councils used by his predecessor to advise on issues facing the economy as Britain prepares to leave the European Union. Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU at the end of October, regardless of whether he can secure a transition deal to avoid trade disruption, which is the worst-case scenario for many businesses. The government led by former Prime Minister Theresa May last year created five business councils who would meet about three times a year - twice with the prime minister and once with a senior minister. They helped provide policy recommendations. Johnson looks forward "to continuing to drive forward the work of the Business Councils over the coming months," a spokeswoman for the prime minister said. "The prime minister wants the UK to be the best place to start, to grow and to run a business — there’s no better way to understand important issues affecting the UK business environment and its competitiveness than speaking to employers themselves." Johnson is seeking to repair his relations with business leaders after he was quoted last year using a strong expletive to condemn business, in response to corporate concerns about the impact a no-deal Brexit would have on the economy. The throwaway phrase became a symbol of the strains between business leaders and the Conservative Party, which before the EU referendum was a bastion of pro-business positions. The structure of councils will remain under Johnson's new business adviser, former Sky finance chief Andrew Griffith, according to the Financial Times, which first reported the news.

British PM Boris Johnson to reinstate the system of business councils

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