Although the gap between rich and poor has widened in the European Union over the past decades, the bloc is a world leader in fighting inequality, experts say.

Unequal between EU members&nbsp;

The internationally accepted Gini coefficient formula that measures income disparities gives the 28-nation EU, as a whole, one of the best rankings in the world for equality, alongside that of Canada.

Both are rated at a rounded-off 31 out of 100 in the ranking (2017), in which higher indexes indicate greater levels of inequality.

But the scores of various countries within the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-conservatives-battle-brexit-ballot-bloodbath-217888">European Union</a> differ markedly, with some of those of the former communist states in Eastern Europe bringing down the average.

Bulgaria has the highest level of inequality with a Gini index of 40, according to the EU's statistics office Eurostat.

It is followed by the former Soviet states of Lithuania and Latvia, and then Spain, Portugal and Greece. Britain and Romania -- another former Soviet satellite -- are next, both measuring 33.&nbsp;

Germany, France and Poland do slightly better, averaging around 29.

Topping the list as the most egalitarian are the three former communist countries of Slovakia (23), Slovenia and the Czech Republic, both around 24.

They are followed by Nordic countries Sweden, Denmark and Finland, along with Belgium, The Netherlands and Austria, all scoring between 26 and 28.

Four decades of widening&nbsp;

While Europe has been more successful than most regions in containing income inequality rises seen around the world, inequalities increased in most of its countries over 1980-2017, according to the World Inequality Lab (WIL).

"The European top one per cent grew more than two times faster than the bottom 50 per cent," the Paris-based group of experts said in an April report.

It pointed to a focus on reducing inequalities between EU member states rather than within the countries themselves.

The largest rise was in formerly communist eastern European countries that were the most egalitarian during the 1980s and moved towards capitalism in the 1990s.

Here "privatisations associated with the transition from socialism to capitalism have benefited a small elite," the report said.

The tax effect&nbsp;

In Western Europe the richest 10 per cent earn, on average, seven times more than the poorest 50 per cent before taxes, WIL said. However, after tax, this is only five times more -- a drop of 29 per cent.

The post-tax adjustment is 23 per cent in southern and northern Europe and 15 per cent in the east.

While Western European countries tend to impose higher taxes on higher incomes, many eastern countries -- such as the Baltic states, Bulgaria and Romania -- have a flat tax rate, meaning poor and rich pay the same percentage.

The lack of progressive taxation in some countries, in a context of economic competition, contributes to inequalities, including by undermining financing for public services, WIL said.

Europe still top of the class&nbsp;

Despite a rise in inequality, the EU fares better than the United States, it said. The bloc's education and health systems are more egalitarian and social benefits play a major role.

Since 1980 the revenues of the poorest half of the European population increased by 37 per cent while they stagnated in the United States.

Meanwhile, the income of 0.01 per cent of the most well-off increased by more than 300 per cent in the United States, twice as much as Europe.

The Gini index put the United States at 39, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), eight points higher than the EU.

Most of the OECD's non-European members have a higher coefficient than the EU, for example, 33 in Australia, 34 in Japan and as high as 62 in South Africa.&nbsp;

Although the gap between rich and poor has widened in the European Union over the past decades, the bloc is a world leader in fighting inequality, experts say. Unequal between EU members The internationally accepted Gini coefficient formula that measures income disparities gives the 28-nation EU, as a whole, one of the best rankings in the world for equality, alongside that of Canada.

Although the gap between rich and poor has widened in the European Union over the past decades, the bloc is a world leader in fighting inequality, experts say. Unequal between EU members The internationally accepted Gini coefficient formula that measures income disparities gives the 28-nation EU, as a whole, one of the best rankings in the world for equality, alongside that of Canada. Both are rated at a rounded-off 31 out of 100 in the ranking (2017), in which higher indexes indicate greater levels of inequality. But the scores of various countries within the European Union differ markedly, with some of those of the former communist states in Eastern Europe bringing down the average. Bulgaria has the highest level of inequality with a Gini index of 40, according to the EU's statistics office Eurostat. It is followed by the former Soviet states of Lithuania and Latvia, and then Spain, Portugal and Greece. Britain and Romania -- another former Soviet satellite -- are next, both measuring 33. Germany, France and Poland do slightly better, averaging around 29. Topping the list as the most egalitarian are the three former communist countries of Slovakia (23), Slovenia and the Czech Republic, both around 24. They are followed by Nordic countries Sweden, Denmark and Finland, along with Belgium, The Netherlands and Austria, all scoring between 26 and 28. Four decades of widening While Europe has been more successful than most regions in containing income inequality rises seen around the world, inequalities increased in most of its countries over 1980-2017, according to the World Inequality Lab (WIL). "The European top one per cent grew more than two times faster than the bottom 50 per cent," the Paris-based group of experts said in an April report. It pointed to a focus on reducing inequalities between EU member states rather than within the countries themselves. The largest rise was in formerly communist eastern European countries that were the most egalitarian during the 1980s and moved towards capitalism in the 1990s. Here "privatisations associated with the transition from socialism to capitalism have benefited a small elite," the report said. The tax effect In Western Europe the richest 10 per cent earn, on average, seven times more than the poorest 50 per cent before taxes, WIL said. However, after tax, this is only five times more -- a drop of 29 per cent. The post-tax adjustment is 23 per cent in southern and northern Europe and 15 per cent in the east. While Western European countries tend to impose higher taxes on higher incomes, many eastern countries -- such as the Baltic states, Bulgaria and Romania -- have a flat tax rate, meaning poor and rich pay the same percentage. The lack of progressive taxation in some countries, in a context of economic competition, contributes to inequalities, including by undermining financing for public services, WIL said. Europe still top of the class Despite a rise in inequality, the EU fares better than the United States, it said. The bloc's education and health systems are more egalitarian and social benefits play a major role. Since 1980 the revenues of the poorest half of the European population increased by 37 per cent while they stagnated in the United States. Meanwhile, the income of 0.01 per cent of the most well-off increased by more than 300 per cent in the United States, twice as much as Europe. The Gini index put the United States at 39, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), eight points higher than the EU. Most of the OECD's non-European members have a higher coefficient than the EU, for example, 33 in Australia, 34 in Japan and as high as 62 in South Africa.

European Union rich-poor divide widens but still a worldwide low

Albanian opposition protesters hurled petrol bombs at the entrance of Prime Minister Edi Rama's office on Saturday, after three months of demonstrations calling for him to quit over alleged election fraud and corruption.

Chanting "We want a European Albania", the slogan of pro-democracy protests when the Balkan country dumped communism in 1990, they renewed the call they made since February for snap polls after their lawmakers also cut ties with parliament.

Some protesters, including a group with masked faces, hurled petrol bombs, firecrackers and paint at the entrance of the government building and later at parliament. A dozen policemen and several protesters were hurt, police and reporters said.

During a lull in the attacks at the premier's building, opposition Democratic Party leader Lulzim Basha said they were "determined to keep waging a bigger and more resolute battle as long as the government was keeping Albania apart from Europe".

"We are here with a mission, to liberate Albania from crime and corruption, to make Albania like the rest of Europe," Basha told a crowd of several thousand along the main boulevard.

Recognising progress, the European Commission recommended Albania start accession talks last year, but the European Council delayed the decision for this year in June as Albania overhauls its judiciary to flush out corrupt judges.

Then the crowd moved near the parliament building where a group of protesters kept hurling petrol bombs and firecrackers, to which police responded with tear gas and water jets. After four hours, the crowd moved to the Tirana police precinct to protest the arrest of a Democratic party official.

Calling the opposition's policies "blind", Rama said he was saddened to hear an opposition leader begging the government to quit, and their fire harmed not his government but the country.

The European Union and the United States have called the government legitimate, and have urged the opposition to return to parliament and take part in local elections on June 30.

"The opposition's stated objective to make Albania’s democracy stronger runs counter to the violence currently being perpetrated by protesters," the United States Embassy said in a statement, condemning the violence and calling for restraint.

Albanian opposition protesters hurled petrol bombs at the entrance of Prime Minister Edi Rama's office on Saturday, after three months of demonstrations calling for him to quit over alleged election fraud and corruption.

Albanian opposition protesters hurled petrol bombs at the entrance of Prime Minister Edi Rama's office on Saturday, after three months of demonstrations calling for him to quit over alleged election fraud and corruption. Chanting "We want a European Albania", the slogan of pro-democracy protests when the Balkan country dumped communism in 1990, they renewed the call they made since February for snap polls after their lawmakers also cut ties with parliament. Some protesters, including a group with masked faces, hurled petrol bombs, firecrackers and paint at the entrance of the government building and later at parliament. A dozen policemen and several protesters were hurt, police and reporters said. During a lull in the attacks at the premier's building, opposition Democratic Party leader Lulzim Basha said they were "determined to keep waging a bigger and more resolute battle as long as the government was keeping Albania apart from Europe". "We are here with a mission, to liberate Albania from crime and corruption, to make Albania like the rest of Europe," Basha told a crowd of several thousand along the main boulevard. Recognising progress, the European Commission recommended Albania start accession talks last year, but the European Council delayed the decision for this year in June as Albania overhauls its judiciary to flush out corrupt judges. Then the crowd moved near the parliament building where a group of protesters kept hurling petrol bombs and firecrackers, to which police responded with tear gas and water jets. After four hours, the crowd moved to the Tirana police precinct to protest the arrest of a Democratic party official. Calling the opposition's policies "blind", Rama said he was saddened to hear an opposition leader begging the government to quit, and their fire harmed not his government but the country. The European Union and the United States have called the government legitimate, and have urged the opposition to return to parliament and take part in local elections on June 30. "The opposition's stated objective to make Albania’s democracy stronger runs counter to the violence currently being perpetrated by protesters," the United States Embassy said in a statement, condemning the violence and calling for restraint.

Albanian protesters hurl petrol bombs, seek snap polls

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state.

Following are snapshots of the top three candidates:

Simonyte: liberal with austerity past

Economist Ingrida Simonyte was thrust into the public spotlight when appointed to oversee biting austerity measures during the 2009 global financial crisis. That saw Lithuania's economy shrink by nearly 15 per cent.

She drew sharp criticism for deep cuts to public salaries and state pensions, but her supporters insist bold actions helped return the economy to growth the following year without a currency devaluation.

After conservatives lost elections to leftists in 2012, Simonyte was a central bank deputy governor in 2013-2016, before winning a seat in parliament in 2016.

Charming the media with her sharp sense of humour, she is also an open supporter of gay rights and has many followers among young, urban and liberal voters in the predominantly Catholic country.

The 44-year-old won conservative party primaries last year and is their official nominee, but has never been a party member of the Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats.

Simonyte, who is single, is fluent in English, Russian and Polish as well as her native Lithuanian, and speaks some Swedish. A fan of rock music and ice hockey, she also enjoys reading, Nordic walking and gardening.

Skvernelis: top cop turned premier

Skvernelis joined the police force as a beat officer in 1998, working his way up to deputy national commander after a decade, then police chief in 2011.

His wide-ranging reforms targeted corruption and road safety, making a lasting impression that won him respect and popularity.

Skvernelis launched his political career in 2014 by swapping his uniform for a suit and the office of the interior minister.

He became prime minister after leading the list of the centre-left Lithuanian Farmers and Green Union in the 2016 elections but has also never formally joined the party.

Skvernelis has positioned himself as an alternative to business and political elites, and has pledged to continue fighting corruption and offered generous spending to combat poverty. These measures have won him considerable popularity in rural areas and among older voters.

Never one to shy away from speaking his mind, Skvernelis has had verbal run-ins with several politicians.&nbsp;

For critics, his running feud with President Dalia Grybauskaite, the country’s most popular politician -- and with some journalists -- have raised doubts about whether he possesses the gravitas expected of the head of state.

Skvernelis, 48, speaks Russian, Polish and some English. He is a married and a father of two who enjoys gardening and basketball, Lithuania's national sport.

Nauseda: a moderate voice

Gitanas Nauseda is a political novice who spent most his career in commercial banking, most recently as an advisor to the president of Lithuania's top bank.

For the last decade, he has been in the public eye as an articulate commentator on economic and financial matters and kept a moderate and measured stance on almost all issues.

The 54-year-old is not backed by any major political force and has positioned himself as a figure of compromise, while also describing his views as centre-right.

For his supporters, who include former president Valdas Adamkus, Nauseda is a much needed fresh face with the intellectual capacity and demeanour to bring more harmony into politics.

His critics, however, see him as a two-faced candidate serving big business.

He is fluent in English, German and Russian, is married and a father of two daughters. He enjoys collecting rare books and playing chess.

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state.

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state. Following are snapshots of the top three candidates: Simonyte: liberal with austerity past Economist Ingrida Simonyte was thrust into the public spotlight when appointed to oversee biting austerity measures during the 2009 global financial crisis. That saw Lithuania's economy shrink by nearly 15 per cent. She drew sharp criticism for deep cuts to public salaries and state pensions, but her supporters insist bold actions helped return the economy to growth the following year without a currency devaluation. After conservatives lost elections to leftists in 2012, Simonyte was a central bank deputy governor in 2013-2016, before winning a seat in parliament in 2016. Charming the media with her sharp sense of humour, she is also an open supporter of gay rights and has many followers among young, urban and liberal voters in the predominantly Catholic country. The 44-year-old won conservative party primaries last year and is their official nominee, but has never been a party member of the Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats. Simonyte, who is single, is fluent in English, Russian and Polish as well as her native Lithuanian, and speaks some Swedish. A fan of rock music and ice hockey, she also enjoys reading, Nordic walking and gardening. Skvernelis: top cop turned premier Skvernelis joined the police force as a beat officer in 1998, working his way up to deputy national commander after a decade, then police chief in 2011. His wide-ranging reforms targeted corruption and road safety, making a lasting impression that won him respect and popularity. Skvernelis launched his political career in 2014 by swapping his uniform for a suit and the office of the interior minister. He became prime minister after leading the list of the centre-left Lithuanian Farmers and Green Union in the 2016 elections but has also never formally joined the party. Skvernelis has positioned himself as an alternative to business and political elites, and has pledged to continue fighting corruption and offered generous spending to combat poverty. These measures have won him considerable popularity in rural areas and among older voters. Never one to shy away from speaking his mind, Skvernelis has had verbal run-ins with several politicians. For critics, his running feud with President Dalia Grybauskaite, the country’s most popular politician -- and with some journalists -- have raised doubts about whether he possesses the gravitas expected of the head of state. Skvernelis, 48, speaks Russian, Polish and some English. He is a married and a father of two who enjoys gardening and basketball, Lithuania's national sport. Nauseda: a moderate voice Gitanas Nauseda is a political novice who spent most his career in commercial banking, most recently as an advisor to the president of Lithuania's top bank. For the last decade, he has been in the public eye as an articulate commentator on economic and financial matters and kept a moderate and measured stance on almost all issues. The 54-year-old is not backed by any major political force and has positioned himself as a figure of compromise, while also describing his views as centre-right. For his supporters, who include former president Valdas Adamkus, Nauseda is a much needed fresh face with the intellectual capacity and demeanour to bring more harmony into politics. His critics, however, see him as a two-faced candidate serving big business. He is fluent in English, German and Russian, is married and a father of two daughters. He enjoys collecting rare books and playing chess.

Pro-European Union rivals vye to become Lithuania's next president

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives are facing a battering at this month's European Parliament elections amid the Brexit impasse, presenting their candidates with quite a challenge in the campaign for votes.

With May's authority hanging by a thread, Brexit postponed, voters fed up and eurosceptics deserting the party in droves, according to opinion polls, Ashley Fox, who leads the Conservatives in the outgoing European Parliament, concedes that this election campaign is "difficult".

"I understand why people are angry," the 49-year-old MEP said, drinking a cup of tea in the Conservative Party offices in Bristol, southwest England.

In June 2016, 52 per cent of voters were in favour of Britain leaving the European Union.

Brexit was originally set to happen on March 29 this year. But MPs could not agree on the divorce deal May struck with Brussels and now the departure date has been set back to October 31.

As a result, Britain must take part in the European Parliament elections, being held in the UK on May 23, to elect MEPs who may take their seats for a few months only.

Protest vote fears

The election "will be difficult for my party because electors are frustrated, and we saw that in the local elections," said Fox.

In the local authority polls on May 2, both main parties -- the Conservatives and the Labour opposition -- took a pounding as exasperated voters switched elsewhere.

The Brexit Party, newly formed by eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage, is leading the opinion polls for the European Parliament elections.

"We would prefer that they wouldn't be taking place. But we will fight them," said Fox, as he urged voters not to defect to Farage's single-issue start-up.

A survey by pollsters Opinium, out Sunday in The Observer newspaper, put the Brexit Party on 34 per cent, Labour on 21 per cent, the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats on 12 per cent and the Conservatives on 11 per cent.

The campaigning enthusiasm shown by Fox is not matched by Conservative headquarters in London.

Perhaps sensing which way the wind is blowing, the centre-right party is yet to hold an official campaign launch, leaving the battle to the footsoldiers.

Standing for re-election in the southwest England constituency, which returns six MEPs, Fox has planned a limited campaign focused on social media rather than doorknocking.

He insists that is not out of fear of meeting the voters, but due to the lack of time between now and polling day for elections, he never expected to be standing in.

With less than a fortnight to go until the polls, Stephen Williams, who is standing for the Liberal Democrats, is hoping the centrist party can maintain the impressive resurgence it witnessed in the local elections.

He is out knocking on doors almost every day.

"My main message is: we want to stop Brexit," Williams told AFP while out campaigning in Redcliffe in the heart of Bristol.

Calling at one opulent house, he is met by a young man who seems startled by the knock and uninterested in the election.

But Williams, 52, is used to the hazards of doorknocking: he has been doing it for 35 years and was the Bristol West member of the British parliament from 2005 to 2015.

Brexit 'mess'

The next house offers a more enthusiastic welcome. On the porch, Dan Tyndall, a reverend, willingly shares the candidate's pro-European outlook.

"I hope for something that gives us a very clear indication as to how we can get ourselves out of this mess," the cleric said of the elections.

With a thick wad of leaflets, Williams goes tirelessly from door to door and does not encounter a single Brexiteer.

In Bristol, 62 per cent of voters wanted Britain to remain in the EU.

"The Liberal Democrats are the largest pro-remain party," Williams tells Elizabeth Davies, 57, as her little black dog barks.

Here again, his message falls on receptive ears.

"I have never ever voted Conservative in my entire life and I now can't vote for the Labour Party because they haven't come out as an opposition party," she said.

The two main parties are continuing to negotiate on a possible Brexit compromise, and Labour is pursuing what has been dubbed "constructive ambiguity" on the topic.

Satisfied, Williams presses on with his campaigning, in the hope of securing a seat -- and keeping it if Britain does a U-turn on its Brexit decision.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives are facing a battering at this month's European Parliament elections amid the Brexit impasse, presenting their candidates with quite a challenge in the campaign for votes.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives are facing a battering at this month's European Parliament elections amid the Brexit impasse, presenting their candidates with quite a challenge in the campaign for votes. With May's authority hanging by a thread, Brexit postponed, voters fed up and eurosceptics deserting the party in droves, according to opinion polls, Ashley Fox, who leads the Conservatives in the outgoing European Parliament, concedes that this election campaign is "difficult". "I understand why people are angry," the 49-year-old MEP said, drinking a cup of tea in the Conservative Party offices in Bristol, southwest England. In June 2016, 52 per cent of voters were in favour of Britain leaving the European Union. Brexit was originally set to happen on March 29 this year. But MPs could not agree on the divorce deal May struck with Brussels and now the departure date has been set back to October 31. As a result, Britain must take part in the European Parliament elections, being held in the UK on May 23, to elect MEPs who may take their seats for a few months only. Protest vote fears The election "will be difficult for my party because electors are frustrated, and we saw that in the local elections," said Fox. In the local authority polls on May 2, both main parties -- the Conservatives and the Labour opposition -- took a pounding as exasperated voters switched elsewhere. The Brexit Party, newly formed by eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage, is leading the opinion polls for the European Parliament elections. "We would prefer that they wouldn't be taking place. But we will fight them," said Fox, as he urged voters not to defect to Farage's single-issue start-up. A survey by pollsters Opinium, out Sunday in The Observer newspaper, put the Brexit Party on 34 per cent, Labour on 21 per cent, the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats on 12 per cent and the Conservatives on 11 per cent. The campaigning enthusiasm shown by Fox is not matched by Conservative headquarters in London. Perhaps sensing which way the wind is blowing, the centre-right party is yet to hold an official campaign launch, leaving the battle to the footsoldiers. Standing for re-election in the southwest England constituency, which returns six MEPs, Fox has planned a limited campaign focused on social media rather than doorknocking. He insists that is not out of fear of meeting the voters, but due to the lack of time between now and polling day for elections, he never expected to be standing in. With less than a fortnight to go until the polls, Stephen Williams, who is standing for the Liberal Democrats, is hoping the centrist party can maintain the impressive resurgence it witnessed in the local elections. He is out knocking on doors almost every day. "My main message is: we want to stop Brexit," Williams told AFP while out campaigning in Redcliffe in the heart of Bristol. Calling at one opulent house, he is met by a young man who seems startled by the knock and uninterested in the election. But Williams, 52, is used to the hazards of doorknocking: he has been doing it for 35 years and was the Bristol West member of the British parliament from 2005 to 2015. Brexit 'mess' The next house offers a more enthusiastic welcome. On the porch, Dan Tyndall, a reverend, willingly shares the candidate's pro-European outlook. "I hope for something that gives us a very clear indication as to how we can get ourselves out of this mess," the cleric said of the elections. With a thick wad of leaflets, Williams goes tirelessly from door to door and does not encounter a single Brexiteer. In Bristol, 62 per cent of voters wanted Britain to remain in the EU. "The Liberal Democrats are the largest pro-remain party," Williams tells Elizabeth Davies, 57, as her little black dog barks. Here again, his message falls on receptive ears. "I have never ever voted Conservative in my entire life and I now can't vote for the Labour Party because they haven't come out as an opposition party," she said. The two main parties are continuing to negotiate on a possible Brexit compromise, and Labour is pursuing what has been dubbed "constructive ambiguity" on the topic. Satisfied, Williams presses on with his campaigning, in the hope of securing a seat -- and keeping it if Britain does a U-turn on its Brexit decision.

Theresa May's Conservatives battle Brexit ballot bloodbath

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-may-sacks-defence-minister-williamson-over-huawei-leak-215201">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> should set a date for her departure next week when she meets leaders of an influential group of Conservative lawmakers to address her future, the group's chairman said on Saturday.

Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee, which can make or break party leaders, told BBC Radio that May had been asked to give "clarity" at next Wednesday's meeting after she failed to get her Brexit deal through parliament, leaving the government in a state of limbo.

"It would be strange for that not to result in a clear understanding (of when she will leave) at the end of the meeting," Brady said.

May, who secured the leadership in the chaos that followed Britain's 2016 vote to leave the European Union, has promised to step down if lawmakers back the deal she struck with Brussels to leave the bloc.

But the prime minister has lost heavily on three attempts to get it through parliament, defeated by lawmakers in her own party who want a much more comprehensive break from Brussels and those who want a second referendum to reverse the process.

Brady, head of the group which oversees the party's leadership contests and represents the wishes of backbench lawmakers, said he thought May had been reluctant to set a date because of the impact it would have on any future Brexit vote.

"I think the reticence is the concern that by promising to go on a certain timetable, it might make it less likely she would secure parliamentary approval for the withdrawal agreement, rather than more likely," he said.

Tensions within the Conservative Party have grown after May failed to deliver Brexit on the original deadline of March 29. The prime minister has since opened talks with the opposition Labour Party to try to find a compromise before the next departure date in October.

The deadlock damaged both parties at local elections earlier this month and could have a similar impact when elections are held for the European Parliament on May 23.

One of the Conservative Party's prominent financial backers, Jeremy Hosking, told the Financial Times he had donated 200,000 pounds to Nigel Farage's Brexit party because the European elections had become, by default, a second referendum on Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May should set a date for her departure next week when she meets leaders of an influential group of Conservative lawmakers to address her future, the group's chairman said on Saturday.

British Prime Minister Theresa May should set a date for her departure next week when she meets leaders of an influential group of Conservative lawmakers to address her future, the group's chairman said on Saturday. Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee, which can make or break party leaders, told BBC Radio that May had been asked to give "clarity" at next Wednesday's meeting after she failed to get her Brexit deal through parliament, leaving the government in a state of limbo. "It would be strange for that not to result in a clear understanding (of when she will leave) at the end of the meeting," Brady said. May, who secured the leadership in the chaos that followed Britain's 2016 vote to leave the European Union, has promised to step down if lawmakers back the deal she struck with Brussels to leave the bloc. But the prime minister has lost heavily on three attempts to get it through parliament, defeated by lawmakers in her own party who want a much more comprehensive break from Brussels and those who want a second referendum to reverse the process. Brady, head of the group which oversees the party's leadership contests and represents the wishes of backbench lawmakers, said he thought May had been reluctant to set a date because of the impact it would have on any future Brexit vote. "I think the reticence is the concern that by promising to go on a certain timetable, it might make it less likely she would secure parliamentary approval for the withdrawal agreement, rather than more likely," he said. Tensions within the Conservative Party have grown after May failed to deliver Brexit on the original deadline of March 29. The prime minister has since opened talks with the opposition Labour Party to try to find a compromise before the next departure date in October. The deadlock damaged both parties at local elections earlier this month and could have a similar impact when elections are held for the European Parliament on May 23. One of the Conservative Party's prominent financial backers, Jeremy Hosking, told the Financial Times he had donated 200,000 pounds to Nigel Farage's Brexit party because the European elections had become, by default, a second referendum on Brexit.

Britain's Theresa May should set resignation date next week: Lawmaker

Since the Brexit vote, the UK government has championed the notion of “Global Britain” as a vision for the country’s future outside the EU. But what does Global Britain actually mean?

For the government, it appears to mean a Britain trading freely across the world, as in the days of the empire. For many on the right, membership of the EU has held back the country from doing so and Brexit offers an opportunity to address the problem. As Theresa May put it, "It is time for Britain to get out into the world and rediscover its role as a great, global trading nation."

The government recommends that Britain boosts trade links with the former colonies of the empire – countries that are now members of the Commonwealth (such as India and Nigeria) and/or the so-called “Anglosphere” (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA).

In this way, we are told, Britain will become great again and even help “transform the world for the better”. This sounds reasonable, but scratching beneath the surface reveals that Global Britain is based on little substance and, worse still, a bad imperialist idea.

Alternative to the EU

To begin with, the economic benefits of Global Britain are far from clear. In 2016, the then US president, Barack Obama, stated that Britain would go to the “back of the queue” in trade negotiations should it leave the EU. This is not surprising, given the UK has long been America’s gateway into Europe. Leaving the EU would in effect weaken US bargaining power in Europe and, in turn, erode, rather than strengthen, UK-US trade relations.

Gaining access to the US market would become much harder and would likely lead to Britain accepting US demands on labour and environmental standards, which would be, as a former EU director-general for trade claimed, “tantamount to becoming the 51st state on economic questions without the right to vote”. This is why some argue that if Britain wants to be a great global nation it needs to actually stay in the EU.

The trade potential with other Anglosphere states is also not so obvious, with those countries now set on developing relationships in their own regions. In Australia, for instance, the prevailing view is that the country’s economic future lies in the proposed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership which would include Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea, as well as the 10 ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) member, states: Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Brunei, Myanmar (Burma) and Laos.

There may be more potential with India, the Commonwealth’s most important economy, although there are significant uncertainties. One difficulty is the current UK anti-migration stance, including the decision in 2011 to scrap post-study visas. This has raised concerns in India where leaders have made it clear that visa leniency will be key to a closer trade relationship post-Brexit. Meeting this demand won’t be easy given immigration was one of the concerns that led to the Brexit vote in the first place.

Another concern is that the EU is India’s largest trading partner and the two parties have been in talks about a free trade agreement for more than a decade. Brexit may in fact help in delivering such an agreement, given two main British hurdles to EU negotiations with India: post-study visas and the longstanding demand that India lowers its sky-high tariff on Scotch whisky. Plus, France has been working hard to replace Britain as India’s bridge to Europe.

As for Britain’s former colonies in Africa, most of these are relatively small economies that by no means provide an alternative to the EU’s single market. Besides, European powers are fast losing ground to China on the African continent – especially in Anglophone Africa.

Yearning for empire

Global Britain appears to be more of a neo-colonial fantasy. Rather than being motivated by a clear economic rationale, the project is largely motivated by a nostalgia for the UK’s imperial past evident in the language used by the Brexiteers in the last few years – for example UKIP’s James Carver assertion that, outside the EU, “the world is our oyster, and the Commonwealth remains that precious pearl within”.

This fantasy is symptomatic of, and directly fuels, the “post-colonial melancholia” that has afflicted Britain since the decline of its empire. Perhaps more than any other former European colonial power, Britain has struggled to come to terms with the loss of its imperial possessions and privileges. This is in part due to an education system that says little about the horrors and inequities of British imperialism and, worse still, is encouraged by government to celebrate the empire – the language of Global Britain is testament to that.

Real politik

This Global Britain fantasy is undesirable and self-defeating. For one, it ignores and consciously erases the brutal history of the empire, including its transatlantic slave traders and plunderers and its genocidal settler colonialism in places now called Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA, where indigenous peoples were routinely slaughtered.

This history makes the goal of rediscovering Britain’s role as “a great, global trading nation” not only a shameful approach to international trade post-Brexit but also counterproductive. Why would former colonies embrace a Britain that not only refuses to atone for its colonial sins but worse still, envisions its future as “Empire 2.0”?

The idea of Global Britain is simply the last gasp of a dying empire. Britons can either prolong the agony or work towards a new Britain, one that’s finally come to terms with its colonial past and ready to engage with the world on non-imperialist terms. The EU may or may not be the way forward, but the Global Britain narrative is likely to prove counterproductive either way. 
 
(Mehdi Boussebaa is Professor, University of Glasgow)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexits-global-britain-uk-needs-a-clear-economic-strategy-for-its-trading-future-not-a-dead-colonial-fantasy-116707">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

Since the Brexit vote, the UK government has championed the notion of “Global Britain” as a vision for the country’s future outside the EU. But what does Global Britain actually mean?

Since the Brexit vote, the UK government has championed the notion of “Global Britain” as a vision for the country’s future outside the EU. But what does Global Britain actually mean? For the government, it appears to mean a Britain trading freely across the world, as in the days of the empire. For many on the right, membership of the EU has held back the country from doing so and Brexit offers an opportunity to address the problem. As Theresa May put it, "It is time for Britain to get out into the world and rediscover its role as a great, global trading nation." The government recommends that Britain boosts trade links with the former colonies of the empire – countries that are now members of the Commonwealth (such as India and Nigeria) and/or the so-called “Anglosphere” (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA). In this way, we are told, Britain will become great again and even help “transform the world for the better”. This sounds reasonable, but scratching beneath the surface reveals that Global Britain is based on little substance and, worse still, a bad imperialist idea. Alternative to the EU To begin with, the economic benefits of Global Britain are far from clear. In 2016, the then US president, Barack Obama, stated that Britain would go to the “back of the queue” in trade negotiations should it leave the EU. This is not surprising, given the UK has long been America’s gateway into Europe. Leaving the EU would in effect weaken US bargaining power in Europe and, in turn, erode, rather than strengthen, UK-US trade relations. Gaining access to the US market would become much harder and would likely lead to Britain accepting US demands on labour and environmental standards, which would be, as a former EU director-general for trade claimed, “tantamount to becoming the 51st state on economic questions without the right to vote”. This is why some argue that if Britain wants to be a great global nation it needs to actually stay in the EU. The trade potential with other Anglosphere states is also not so obvious, with those countries now set on developing relationships in their own regions. In Australia, for instance, the prevailing view is that the country’s economic future lies in the proposed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership which would include Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea, as well as the 10 ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) member, states: Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Brunei, Myanmar (Burma) and Laos. There may be more potential with India, the Commonwealth’s most important economy, although there are significant uncertainties. One difficulty is the current UK anti-migration stance, including the decision in 2011 to scrap post-study visas. This has raised concerns in India where leaders have made it clear that visa leniency will be key to a closer trade relationship post-Brexit. Meeting this demand won’t be easy given immigration was one of the concerns that led to the Brexit vote in the first place. Another concern is that the EU is India’s largest trading partner and the two parties have been in talks about a free trade agreement for more than a decade. Brexit may in fact help in delivering such an agreement, given two main British hurdles to EU negotiations with India: post-study visas and the longstanding demand that India lowers its sky-high tariff on Scotch whisky. Plus, France has been working hard to replace Britain as India’s bridge to Europe. As for Britain’s former colonies in Africa, most of these are relatively small economies that by no means provide an alternative to the EU’s single market. Besides, European powers are fast losing ground to China on the African continent – especially in Anglophone Africa. Yearning for empire Global Britain appears to be more of a neo-colonial fantasy. Rather than being motivated by a clear economic rationale, the project is largely motivated by a nostalgia for the UK’s imperial past evident in the language used by the Brexiteers in the last few years – for example UKIP’s James Carver assertion that, outside the EU, “the world is our oyster, and the Commonwealth remains that precious pearl within”. This fantasy is symptomatic of, and directly fuels, the “post-colonial melancholia” that has afflicted Britain since the decline of its empire. Perhaps more than any other former European colonial power, Britain has struggled to come to terms with the loss of its imperial possessions and privileges. This is in part due to an education system that says little about the horrors and inequities of British imperialism and, worse still, is encouraged by government to celebrate the empire – the language of Global Britain is testament to that. Real politik This Global Britain fantasy is undesirable and self-defeating. For one, it ignores and consciously erases the brutal history of the empire, including its transatlantic slave traders and plunderers and its genocidal settler colonialism in places now called Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA, where indigenous peoples were routinely slaughtered. This history makes the goal of rediscovering Britain’s role as “a great, global trading nation” not only a shameful approach to international trade post-Brexit but also counterproductive. Why would former colonies embrace a Britain that not only refuses to atone for its colonial sins but worse still, envisions its future as “Empire 2.0”? The idea of Global Britain is simply the last gasp of a dying empire. Britons can either prolong the agony or work towards a new Britain, one that’s finally come to terms with its colonial past and ready to engage with the world on non-imperialist terms. The EU may or may not be the way forward, but the Global Britain narrative is likely to prove counterproductive either way. (Mehdi Boussebaa is Professor, University of Glasgow) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

UK needs a clear economic strategy for its trading future, not a dead colonial fantasy

The European Union will defend the Iran nuclear accord despite Tehran's decision to backtrack on its commitments in response to US sanctions, diplomats believe, but European powers expect it to collapse without a deal to sell Iranian oil to China or India.

Britain, France and Germany, which signed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-oil-sanctions-wont-go-without-response-iran-213205">2015 deal </a>along with the United States, China and Russia, are determined to show they can compensate for last year's US withdrawal from the accord, protect trade and still prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb.

But with Iran's economy dependent on crude exports that are traded in US dollars, a promised European trade channel to bypass <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-targets-irans-iron-steel-aluminium-copper-sectors-in-new-sanctions-217134">American sanctions</a> has proved complicated, is not yet operational, and may never be able to handle oil sales.

"This situation now risks deteriorating, but it will be step by step and not a collapse all in one go," said a senior European diplomat. A French diplomat talked of a "negative spiral" in which trade in food and medicines was simply not enough, while another European envoy spoke of Iran's "phased exit" from the deal.

The Iran accord, one of the West's biggest foreign policy achievements until US President Donald Trump pulled out in May 2018, lifted punishing United Nations' sanctions on Iran in return for Iranian compliance with the deal.

Iran has met its terms but Trump withdrew because he believes the accord did not curtail Tehran's ballistic missile programme or address Iranian involvement in Syria's civil war, something Europeans argue the 2015 deal was not designed to do.

By reimposing punitive sanctions, the United States says it aims to dramatically weaken Iran's clerical rulers and force Tehran to renegotiate a broader arms control deal.

The European Union says that can still be done without tearing up the nuclear accord, which put strict limits on Iranian enrichment.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned on Wednesday that Tehran could resume enrichment at a higher grade if the European powers, China and Russia did not do more to circumvent US sanctions on banking and energy to boost trade.

Food, medicine not engough

European diplomats and officials reject any ultimatum and some believe they still have time to save the deal. One senior EU official said it is too early to consider European sanctions that can snap back in case of Iranian non-compliance.

"Iran's announcements are not a violation or a withdrawal of the nuclear deal," the senior EU official said. "It is for the International Atomic Energy Agency to assess Iran's compliance ... if Iran breaches the agreement, then we would react."

Others are more pessimistic.

Once Europe's biggest supplier, Iran has seen its exports gradually cut off from European buyers by sanctions, starting last November and then on May 2, when Washington removed the last waivers to Italy and Greece. China, India and Turkey are also among those who lost their waivers this month.

EU officials estimate Iran needs to sell about 1.5 million barrels a day to keep its economy afloat, but sales risk falling below 1 million a day, bringing hardship and potentially economic crisis to Iranians.

The EU's special trade channel, known as INSTEX, was proposed by Russia as a barter system for Iranian oil in exchange for European goods, but it may not be operating before the end of June and its capability is limited.

"INSTEX isn't the solution because it will only serve food and medicine needs, not oil," a second European diplomat said. "Anyway, the structure is not completed."

Chine to rescue?

Led by a German banker, INSTEX relies on Iran to set up a so-called mirror company that must meet international anti-fraud requirements. Officials and diplomats say progress is slow.

Draft laws are still pending, while a lack of transparency in Iran's financial system is also a problem. The US decision to sanction Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), which controls part of Iran's economy, is another complication.

"As a partner to Iran, those who use INSTEX have to be extremely vigilant that at the other end of the operation it doesn't benefit entities linked to the IRGC," the European diplomat said.

Europe's plan B is for China or India to buy Iranian oil.

China, which increased imports of Iranian crude in April, says it opposes unilateral US sanctions against Iran and will defend the rights of its companies. Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the Iran deal should be fully and effectively implemented, although it was not clear what China would do to support it.&nbsp;

India, Iran’s biggest oil client after China, has by contrast almost halved its Iran oil purchase since November. So far, Indian officials have said they will seek oil from other suppliers.

EU officials say Delhi has expressed interest in joining INSTEX to buy Iran's oil, but discussions have barely begun, and questions remain about whether this is even feasible.

"It shows Europe's impotence that they are pushing China and India to do what they can't," said Sanam Vakil, a senior research fellow with the Middle East North Africa Programme at Chatham House.

"I'm not sure the Europeans are thinking in a big way about what to do. It's very clear there are no meaningful economic options they can offer Iran," she said.

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini met Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi on the margins of a China-EU summit in Brussels in April and discussed whether China could buy Iranian oil, three EU officials said.

China can still do that but would risk US sanctions.

Beijing has also held talks with Washington over the issue, the officials said, but it was not clear how far they had progressed.

"The Iranians say the Europeans must do more, but what about the Chinese and the Russians? They have not done much. The Chinese have dragged their feet in several areas because of US sanctions," a third European diplomat said.

Vakil said the three European powers should focus on high-level diplomacy to kick-start negotiations between the deal's remaining stakeholders and Washington to preserve the accord.

"It will (die) without a mandated effort on behalf of the E3 to keep the deal alive," she said.

The European Union will defend the Iran nuclear accord despite Tehran's decision to backtrack on its commitments in response to US sanctions, diplomats believe, but European powers expect it to collapse without a deal to sell Iranian oil to China or India.

The European Union will defend the Iran nuclear accord despite Tehran's decision to backtrack on its commitments in response to US sanctions, diplomats believe, but European powers expect it to collapse without a deal to sell Iranian oil to China or India. Britain, France and Germany, which signed the 2015 deal along with the United States, China and Russia, are determined to show they can compensate for last year's US withdrawal from the accord, protect trade and still prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb. But with Iran's economy dependent on crude exports that are traded in US dollars, a promised European trade channel to bypass American sanctions has proved complicated, is not yet operational, and may never be able to handle oil sales. "This situation now risks deteriorating, but it will be step by step and not a collapse all in one go," said a senior European diplomat. A French diplomat talked of a "negative spiral" in which trade in food and medicines was simply not enough, while another European envoy spoke of Iran's "phased exit" from the deal. The Iran accord, one of the West's biggest foreign policy achievements until US President Donald Trump pulled out in May 2018, lifted punishing United Nations' sanctions on Iran in return for Iranian compliance with the deal. Iran has met its terms but Trump withdrew because he believes the accord did not curtail Tehran's ballistic missile programme or address Iranian involvement in Syria's civil war, something Europeans argue the 2015 deal was not designed to do. By reimposing punitive sanctions, the United States says it aims to dramatically weaken Iran's clerical rulers and force Tehran to renegotiate a broader arms control deal. The European Union says that can still be done without tearing up the nuclear accord, which put strict limits on Iranian enrichment. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned on Wednesday that Tehran could resume enrichment at a higher grade if the European powers, China and Russia did not do more to circumvent US sanctions on banking and energy to boost trade. Food, medicine not engough European diplomats and officials reject any ultimatum and some believe they still have time to save the deal. One senior EU official said it is too early to consider European sanctions that can snap back in case of Iranian non-compliance. "Iran's announcements are not a violation or a withdrawal of the nuclear deal," the senior EU official said. "It is for the International Atomic Energy Agency to assess Iran's compliance ... if Iran breaches the agreement, then we would react." Others are more pessimistic. Once Europe's biggest supplier, Iran has seen its exports gradually cut off from European buyers by sanctions, starting last November and then on May 2, when Washington removed the last waivers to Italy and Greece. China, India and Turkey are also among those who lost their waivers this month. EU officials estimate Iran needs to sell about 1.5 million barrels a day to keep its economy afloat, but sales risk falling below 1 million a day, bringing hardship and potentially economic crisis to Iranians. The EU's special trade channel, known as INSTEX, was proposed by Russia as a barter system for Iranian oil in exchange for European goods, but it may not be operating before the end of June and its capability is limited. "INSTEX isn't the solution because it will only serve food and medicine needs, not oil," a second European diplomat said. "Anyway, the structure is not completed." Chine to rescue? Led by a German banker, INSTEX relies on Iran to set up a so-called mirror company that must meet international anti-fraud requirements. Officials and diplomats say progress is slow. Draft laws are still pending, while a lack of transparency in Iran's financial system is also a problem. The US decision to sanction Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), which controls part of Iran's economy, is another complication. "As a partner to Iran, those who use INSTEX have to be extremely vigilant that at the other end of the operation it doesn't benefit entities linked to the IRGC," the European diplomat said. Europe's plan B is for China or India to buy Iranian oil. China, which increased imports of Iranian crude in April, says it opposes unilateral US sanctions against Iran and will defend the rights of its companies. Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the Iran deal should be fully and effectively implemented, although it was not clear what China would do to support it. India, Iran’s biggest oil client after China, has by contrast almost halved its Iran oil purchase since November. So far, Indian officials have said they will seek oil from other suppliers. EU officials say Delhi has expressed interest in joining INSTEX to buy Iran's oil, but discussions have barely begun, and questions remain about whether this is even feasible. "It shows Europe's impotence that they are pushing China and India to do what they can't," said Sanam Vakil, a senior research fellow with the Middle East North Africa Programme at Chatham House. "I'm not sure the Europeans are thinking in a big way about what to do. It's very clear there are no meaningful economic options they can offer Iran," she said. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini met Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi on the margins of a China-EU summit in Brussels in April and discussed whether China could buy Iranian oil, three EU officials said. China can still do that but would risk US sanctions. Beijing has also held talks with Washington over the issue, the officials said, but it was not clear how far they had progressed. "The Iranians say the Europeans must do more, but what about the Chinese and the Russians? They have not done much. The Chinese have dragged their feet in several areas because of US sanctions," a third European diplomat said. Vakil said the three European powers should focus on high-level diplomacy to kick-start negotiations between the deal's remaining stakeholders and Washington to preserve the accord. "It will (die) without a mandated effort on behalf of the E3 to keep the deal alive," she said.

China and India seen as Europe's last hope to save Iran deal

The European Union and the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Britain on Thursday said they were still committed to the Iran nuclear deal but would not accept ultimatums after Iran announced it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear programme.

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vows-more-sanctions-for-iran-tells-europe-to-stop-doing-business-with-tehran-217159">Tehran's announcement </a>and threat to take more action that could violate the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revues from exports of its industrial metals.

"We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-targets-irans-iron-steel-aluminium-copper-sectors-in-new-sanctions-217134">Iran's performance</a> regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA and the NPT (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons)," the statement read, with JCPOA referring to the Iran nuclear deal.

They said they regretted the re-imposition of sanctions by the United States and added that they remained committed to preserving and fully implementing the Iran nuclear deal.

"We are determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran," said the European states, adding that included getting a special purpose vehicle aimed at enabling business with Iran off the ground.

A year ago, Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the nuclear deal signed by Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States.

The accord relaxed international sanctions on Iran in return for Tehran accepting curbs on its nuclear programme that were designed to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.

Tehran has said it pursued only a peaceful nuclear programme.

The European Union and the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Britain on Thursday said they were still committed to the Iran nuclear deal but would not accept ultimatums after Iran announced it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear programme.

The European Union and the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Britain on Thursday said they were still committed to the Iran nuclear deal but would not accept ultimatums after Iran announced it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear programme. After Tehran's announcement and threat to take more action that could violate the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, US President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revues from exports of its industrial metals. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA and the NPT (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons)," the statement read, with JCPOA referring to the Iran nuclear deal. They said they regretted the re-imposition of sanctions by the United States and added that they remained committed to preserving and fully implementing the Iran nuclear deal. "We are determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran," said the European states, adding that included getting a special purpose vehicle aimed at enabling business with Iran off the ground. A year ago, Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the nuclear deal signed by Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States. The accord relaxed international sanctions on Iran in return for Tehran accepting curbs on its nuclear programme that were designed to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. Tehran has said it pursued only a peaceful nuclear programme.

European Union rejects any ultimatums after Iran's move on nuclear deal

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival.

The centre-left ruling party's Stevo Pendarovski and the right-wing pick Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova finished in a dead heat in the first round of voting last month.

The tie traced the near-even split between the pro-Western and nationalist camps who have clashed over the government's recent move to change the Balkan country's name to North Macedonia which ended a long-running row with Greece.

But a record-low turnout, at barely over 40 per cent, also reflected a failure to galvanise most of the 1.8 million voters.

If voter participation sinks below 40 per cent in Sunday's second-round runoff, the entire poll will be annulled, threatening a new period of political uncertainty in one of Europe's poorest states.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is confident "the elections will succeed". But if not, he said he would call a snap poll for parliament.

The presidential vote would also likely be re-run from the start, though Zaev has floated other options involving constitutional changes.

The presidency is a largely ceremonial role but the office can exercise veto powers that complicate governing.

The current president, opposition-backed Gjorge Ivanov, has been refusing to sign bills since the country changed its name to North Macedonia in protest against the deal.

Election fatigue

The small, landlocked state has weathered repeated bouts of political turmoil in recent years, with nearly 10 elections in the past decade doing little to boost the public's faith in politicians.

Turnout on Sunday will be a "challenge" in light of "election fatigue and low voter enthusiasm", said David Stephenson, a political consultant based in Skopje.

But he said the tight first round could spark more energy for the run-off.

"What's important is to elect a president in a free, fair, and democratic process," he added.

"Failure to do so risks another period of political instability, which would likely harm the country's European perspective and damage economic growth."

Zaev said he would also call an early general election in the event of a loss by 56-year-old Pendarovski, who is championing efforts to forge closer links with the West.

A victory by Siljanovska-Davkova, 63, would be a clear rebuke to a government that staked its reputation on passing the name accord with Greece earlier this year.

The addition of "North" to the country's name was a compromise to end a nearly 30-year identity row with Athens that had blocked Skopje's NATO and EU ambitions.

It remains a divisive topic and a key talking point for the presidential candidates, with Pendarovski for the deal and Siljanovska-Davkova against.

Albanian vote

Macedonia's ethnic Albanian minority, which makes up around a quarter of the population, could prove decisive on Sunday.

Their presidential candidate dropped out of the race after garnering 11 per cent in the first round.

The candidate, Blerim Reka, has not publicly backed either of the two frontrunners by name.

But he has urged Albanians to vote for the "pro-Western agenda", in what is seen as thinly-veiled support for Pendarovski.

The polls will open at 0500 GMT and close at 1700 GMT.

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival.

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival. The centre-left ruling party's Stevo Pendarovski and the right-wing pick Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova finished in a dead heat in the first round of voting last month. The tie traced the near-even split between the pro-Western and nationalist camps who have clashed over the government's recent move to change the Balkan country's name to North Macedonia which ended a long-running row with Greece. But a record-low turnout, at barely over 40 per cent, also reflected a failure to galvanise most of the 1.8 million voters. If voter participation sinks below 40 per cent in Sunday's second-round runoff, the entire poll will be annulled, threatening a new period of political uncertainty in one of Europe's poorest states. Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is confident "the elections will succeed". But if not, he said he would call a snap poll for parliament. The presidential vote would also likely be re-run from the start, though Zaev has floated other options involving constitutional changes. The presidency is a largely ceremonial role but the office can exercise veto powers that complicate governing. The current president, opposition-backed Gjorge Ivanov, has been refusing to sign bills since the country changed its name to North Macedonia in protest against the deal. Election fatigue The small, landlocked state has weathered repeated bouts of political turmoil in recent years, with nearly 10 elections in the past decade doing little to boost the public's faith in politicians. Turnout on Sunday will be a "challenge" in light of "election fatigue and low voter enthusiasm", said David Stephenson, a political consultant based in Skopje. But he said the tight first round could spark more energy for the run-off. "What's important is to elect a president in a free, fair, and democratic process," he added. "Failure to do so risks another period of political instability, which would likely harm the country's European perspective and damage economic growth." Zaev said he would also call an early general election in the event of a loss by 56-year-old Pendarovski, who is championing efforts to forge closer links with the West. A victory by Siljanovska-Davkova, 63, would be a clear rebuke to a government that staked its reputation on passing the name accord with Greece earlier this year. The addition of "North" to the country's name was a compromise to end a nearly 30-year identity row with Athens that had blocked Skopje's NATO and EU ambitions. It remains a divisive topic and a key talking point for the presidential candidates, with Pendarovski for the deal and Siljanovska-Davkova against. Albanian vote Macedonia's ethnic Albanian minority, which makes up around a quarter of the population, could prove decisive on Sunday. Their presidential candidate dropped out of the race after garnering 11 per cent in the first round. The candidate, Blerim Reka, has not publicly backed either of the two frontrunners by name. But he has urged Albanians to vote for the "pro-Western agenda", in what is seen as thinly-veiled support for Pendarovski. The polls will open at 0500 GMT and close at 1700 GMT.

Polarised North Macedonians vote for president

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday urged main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to work with her to break the Brexit deadlock, telling him,&nbsp;"Let's do a deal".

May said she understood why hardcore Brexiteers in her own centre-right Conservative Party, who want a clean break with the European Union, would wince at the prospect of striking a softer agreement with the veteran socialist.

But she insisted the clobbering both main parties took in last week's English local elections had increased the necessity of finding an EU divorce deal that a majority of MPs could get behind, even if many of her own backbenchers were not among them.

"To the leader of the opposition, I say this, let's listen to what the voters said in the elections and put our differences aside for a moment. Let's do a deal," she wrote in The Mail on Sunday newspaper.

May negotiated a withdrawal agreement with Brussels last year but MPs repeatedly voted it down, with large numbers of her own Conservative backbenchers standing against it.

"Regrettably, I have to accept there is no sign of that position changing," May wrote.

Had a withdrawal agreement been signed off, Britain would have left the EU on March 29. Its exit date has twice been postponed and is now set at October 31.

UK 'risks never leaving'

"The government has been in talks with the opposition to try to find a unified, cross-party position," May said.

"Many of my colleagues find this decision uncomfortable. Frankly, it is not what I wanted, either.

"But we have to find a way to break the deadlock - and I believe the results of the local elections give fresh urgency to this.

"We will keep negotiating, and keep trying to find a way through.

"The longer that takes, the greater the risk we will not leave at all. We need to get out of the EU and get a deal over the line."

The Conservatives lost more than a thousand seats in Thursday's English local authority polls, but left-wing Labour failed to capitalise, also losing seats as voters vented their frustration at the Brexit impasse dominating British politics.

The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that the government was prepared to give way to Labour on three areas, customs, goods alignment and workers' rights.

The broadsheet said May would set out plans for a temporary customs arrangement with the EU that would last until the next general election, which must be held by May 2022.

Anger at 'stitch-up'

However, more than 100 opposition lawmakers have written to May and Corbyn to say they would vote against any agreement the pair reach unless it is subject to a referendum.

"The very worst thing we could do at this time is a Westminster stitch-up, whether over the PM's deal or another deal. This risks alienating both those who voted leave in 2016 and those who voted remain," the letter says.

The phrase also appeared on the Sunday newspaper front pages, with The Observer's reading, "Anger grows at May-Corbyn bid to stitch up Brexit deal".

The Sunday Express said, "Brexit deal 'this week'," adding, "Panicking May and Corbyn close to an agreement that angry Brexiteers say is a 'stitch-up'."

Former Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith - who was himself ousted by his own MPs in 2003 - argued it was time to change the leadership, saying backbench MPs needed to "decide that either the prime minister sets the immediate date for departure or, I'm afraid, (we) must do it for her".

The hardcore eurosceptic called May a "caretaker prime minister", telling LBC radio that making fundamental decisions about Brexit under her leadership would, therefore, be "a big mistake".

May has said she will step aside once a Brexit deal has been passed by parliament.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday urged main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to work with her to break the Brexit deadlock, telling him, "Let's do a deal".

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday urged main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to work with her to break the Brexit deadlock, telling him, "Let's do a deal". May said she understood why hardcore Brexiteers in her own centre-right Conservative Party, who want a clean break with the European Union, would wince at the prospect of striking a softer agreement with the veteran socialist. But she insisted the clobbering both main parties took in last week's English local elections had increased the necessity of finding an EU divorce deal that a majority of MPs could get behind, even if many of her own backbenchers were not among them. "To the leader of the opposition, I say this, let's listen to what the voters said in the elections and put our differences aside for a moment. Let's do a deal," she wrote in The Mail on Sunday newspaper. May negotiated a withdrawal agreement with Brussels last year but MPs repeatedly voted it down, with large numbers of her own Conservative backbenchers standing against it. "Regrettably, I have to accept there is no sign of that position changing," May wrote. Had a withdrawal agreement been signed off, Britain would have left the EU on March 29. Its exit date has twice been postponed and is now set at October 31. UK 'risks never leaving' "The government has been in talks with the opposition to try to find a unified, cross-party position," May said. "Many of my colleagues find this decision uncomfortable. Frankly, it is not what I wanted, either. "But we have to find a way to break the deadlock - and I believe the results of the local elections give fresh urgency to this. "We will keep negotiating, and keep trying to find a way through. "The longer that takes, the greater the risk we will not leave at all. We need to get out of the EU and get a deal over the line." The Conservatives lost more than a thousand seats in Thursday's English local authority polls, but left-wing Labour failed to capitalise, also losing seats as voters vented their frustration at the Brexit impasse dominating British politics. The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that the government was prepared to give way to Labour on three areas, customs, goods alignment and workers' rights. The broadsheet said May would set out plans for a temporary customs arrangement with the EU that would last until the next general election, which must be held by May 2022. Anger at 'stitch-up' However, more than 100 opposition lawmakers have written to May and Corbyn to say they would vote against any agreement the pair reach unless it is subject to a referendum. "The very worst thing we could do at this time is a Westminster stitch-up, whether over the PM's deal or another deal. This risks alienating both those who voted leave in 2016 and those who voted remain," the letter says. The phrase also appeared on the Sunday newspaper front pages, with The Observer's reading, "Anger grows at May-Corbyn bid to stitch up Brexit deal". The Sunday Express said, "Brexit deal 'this week'," adding, "Panicking May and Corbyn close to an agreement that angry Brexiteers say is a 'stitch-up'." Former Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith - who was himself ousted by his own MPs in 2003 - argued it was time to change the leadership, saying backbench MPs needed to "decide that either the prime minister sets the immediate date for departure or, I'm afraid, (we) must do it for her". The hardcore eurosceptic called May a "caretaker prime minister", telling LBC radio that making fundamental decisions about Brexit under her leadership would, therefore, be "a big mistake". May has said she will step aside once a Brexit deal has been passed by parliament.

'Let's do a deal' on Brexit: British PM tells Labour

ThyssenKrupp said on Sunday it still saw scope for agreement with European antitrust regulators on a planned joint venture with Tata Steel despite a Financial Times report that Brussels was likely to block the deal.

Tata Steel and ThyssenKrupp have proposed combining their steel operations in Europe to form the region's second-biggest steelmaker. However, the landmark deal has not yet been approved because of concerns about its impact on competition.

Earlier on Sunday, the Financial Times reported that EU antitrust regulators were concerned the deal would lead to less choice and higher prices for steel and were increasingly likely to block it unless the companies offered greater concessions.

A ThyssenKrupp spokesman said: "The Competition Commission has taken the reworked commitments proposed by ThyssenKrupp and Tata Steel as an opportunity to conduct another market test."

"There are still a number of ways to adjust our commitments without compromising the commercial logic of the joint venture."

Late last month, the European Commission extended the deadline for reviewing the planned joint venture by seven working days until June 17.

ThyssenKrupp said further talks were planned with EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager in the coming week.

ThyssenKrupp said on Sunday it still saw scope for agreement with European antitrust regulators on a planned joint venture with Tata Steel despite a Financial Times report that Brussels was likely to block the deal.

ThyssenKrupp said on Sunday it still saw scope for agreement with European antitrust regulators on a planned joint venture with Tata Steel despite a Financial Times report that Brussels was likely to block the deal. Tata Steel and ThyssenKrupp have proposed combining their steel operations in Europe to form the region's second-biggest steelmaker. However, the landmark deal has not yet been approved because of concerns about its impact on competition. Earlier on Sunday, the Financial Times reported that EU antitrust regulators were concerned the deal would lead to less choice and higher prices for steel and were increasingly likely to block it unless the companies offered greater concessions. A ThyssenKrupp spokesman said: "The Competition Commission has taken the reworked commitments proposed by ThyssenKrupp and Tata Steel as an opportunity to conduct another market test." "There are still a number of ways to adjust our commitments without compromising the commercial logic of the joint venture." Late last month, the European Commission extended the deadline for reviewing the planned joint venture by seven working days until June 17. ThyssenKrupp said further talks were planned with EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager in the coming week.

ThyssenKrupp sees room for EU agreement on Tata Steel deal

The United States' allies in Europe have criticised its recent decisions to restrict oil trade with Iran and to limit the extension of waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects.

"We ... take note with regret and concern of the decision by the United States not to extend waivers with regards to trade in oil with Iran," Britain's foreign office said in a joint statement with its German and French counterparts and the European Union.

"We also note with concern the decision by the United States not to fully renew waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects," Britain's foreign office added.

Washington acted on Friday to force Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and expanding its only nuclear power plant, intensifying a campaign aimed at halting Tehran's ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power.

Last week, the United States said it would stop waivers for countries buying Iranian oil, in an attempt to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero.

The United States' allies in Europe have criticised its recent decisions to restrict oil trade with Iran and to limit the extension of waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects.

The United States' allies in Europe have criticised its recent decisions to restrict oil trade with Iran and to limit the extension of waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects. "We ... take note with regret and concern of the decision by the United States not to extend waivers with regards to trade in oil with Iran," Britain's foreign office said in a joint statement with its German and French counterparts and the European Union. "We also note with concern the decision by the United States not to fully renew waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects," Britain's foreign office added. Washington acted on Friday to force Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and expanding its only nuclear power plant, intensifying a campaign aimed at halting Tehran's ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power. Last week, the United States said it would stop waivers for countries buying Iranian oil, in an attempt to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero.

EU and Britain condemn US oil and nuclear sanctions on Iran

Expressing its concern over "persecution of religious minorities" in Pakistan, the European Union (EU) has threatened to suspend all subsidies and trade preferences to Islamabad if it does not take measures to "dismantle" its "discriminatory system".

In a letter to Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, fifty-one members of the European Parliament said, "Over the last few years, religious extremist groups, often with the support of the Pakistani State, have grown in influence, further generating religious prejudices against minorities. Concomitantly, instances of attacks against minorities, their places of worship etc. have also increased year upon year."

"As members of the European Parliament, we would wish to remind the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that the oppression of religious minorities violated the United Nations treaty on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which is the foundation for the International Convent on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), a binding UN human rights agreement. We would be compelled to suspend all subsidies and trade preferences until the effective implementation of the Convention could be assured by the Government of Pakistan," it added.

The Commission held previous and present Pakistan governments responsible for contributing and encouraging "acts of violence against minorities by radical Islamic groups", EP Today reported.

Expressing "grave concern" over the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who had been falsely charged under the draconian blasphemy law, the EU wrote, "The existence of such religious discriminatory laws encourage citizens to engage in intolerant and violent acts against non-Muslims."Citing a report by the NGO, Movement for Solidarity and Peace in Pakistan, EU noted that at least 1000 girls belonging to religious minority groups, Christian and Hindu communities, often minors, are "kidnapped and forced to marry Muslim men every year".&nbsp;

Expressing its concern over "persecution of religious minorities" in Pakistan, the European Union (EU) has threatened to suspend all subsidies and trade preferences to Islamabad if it does not take measures to "dismantle" its "discriminatory system".

Expressing its concern over "persecution of religious minorities" in Pakistan, the European Union (EU) has threatened to suspend all subsidies and trade preferences to Islamabad if it does not take measures to "dismantle" its "discriminatory system". In a letter to Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, fifty-one members of the European Parliament said, "Over the last few years, religious extremist groups, often with the support of the Pakistani State, have grown in influence, further generating religious prejudices against minorities. Concomitantly, instances of attacks against minorities, their places of worship etc. have also increased year upon year." "As members of the European Parliament, we would wish to remind the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that the oppression of religious minorities violated the United Nations treaty on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which is the foundation for the International Convent on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), a binding UN human rights agreement. We would be compelled to suspend all subsidies and trade preferences until the effective implementation of the Convention could be assured by the Government of Pakistan," it added. The Commission held previous and present Pakistan governments responsible for contributing and encouraging "acts of violence against minorities by radical Islamic groups", EP Today reported. Expressing "grave concern" over the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who had been falsely charged under the draconian blasphemy law, the EU wrote, "The existence of such religious discriminatory laws encourage citizens to engage in intolerant and violent acts against non-Muslims."Citing a report by the NGO, Movement for Solidarity and Peace in Pakistan, EU noted that at least 1000 girls belonging to religious minority groups, Christian and Hindu communities, often minors, are "kidnapped and forced to marry Muslim men every year".

Concerned over minority persecution, European Union threatens to suspend all subsidies to Pakistan

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/google-facebook-twitter-have-to-do-more-to-fight-fake-news-european-union-212915&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijmJKSnffhAhUDaI8KHQzpANUQFjAHegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2r-KzzMSaAafQjXa5G7qQ2">Google</a> parent Alphabet on Monday reported that profit in the first three months of this year sagged under the weight of a hefty antitrust fine in the European Union.

Alphabet said that profit in the first-quarter fell 29 percent to $6.7 billion on revenue that climbed 17 percent to $36.3 billion.

The earnings took a hit from a European Commission fine that amounted to $1.7 billion at the end of March, according to the quarterly update.

Google shares were down 7.2 percent to $1,202.39 in after-market trades that followed the release of the earnings report.

Though profits excluding the one-time costs were better than expected, revenue growth was below forecasts for the technology colossus which is the dominant internet search company and operator of the ubiquitous Android mobile operating system.

Chief financial officer Ruth Porat said in the release the results showed "robust growth" led by mobile search, ad revenues from YouTube videos and cloud computing.

"We remain focused on, and excited by, the significant growth opportunities across our businesses," Porat&nbsp;said.

Google's lucrative advertising platform remained the largest revenue driver for Alphabet, delivering more than $30 billion of revenues, but costs rose sharply as well.

Investors seemed concerned that earnings figures showed the growth rate of ad clicks slowed while the trend toward lower-priced mobile ads continued.

Rising cloud

The California giant showed widening losses for its "other bets" including the Waymo self-driving car project, Verily life sciences and services for internet for remote parts of the world and drone delivery.

"Other bets" showed an operating loss of $858 million, up from $571 million a year ago while revenues rose modestly to $170 million.

Some of the projects are moving closer to fruition.

Wing became the first drone delivery company to receive air carrier certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration.

Waymo has begun a limited rollout of its robotaxis in Arizona in partnership with automakers.

And, while the company's Pixel smartphones have seen traction slowed by heavy competition in the premium handset market, it was pleased with momentum for Home devices infused with digital assistant software.

Porat teased a hardware announcement along those lines at Google's annual developers conference next week in its home town of Mountain View, California.

It is seeing growth in cloud computing for businesses, a market where Google is competing against Amazon, Microsoft and others.

"Google Cloud Platform remains one of the fastest growing businesses in Alphabet with strong customer momentum reflected in particular in demand for our computer and data analytics products," Porat said in a call with analysts.

Google planned to continue investing heavily in data centres, engineers, and digital content for streaming video offerings on YouTube.

Google and 'techlash'

But Google continues to face pressure around the world from regulators, notably in Europe amid multiple investigations over alleged abuse of its dominance in internet search, advertising and its mobile system.

The latest fine imposed by Brussels cited Google's AdSense advertising service, saying it illegally restricted client websites from displaying messages from ad service rivals.

Google is separately working to satisfy EU regulators investigating its hugely popular Android devices following a $5 billion fine last year.

This month, Google said it would offer smartphone users five browsers and search engines as part of the company's effort to meet EU competition concerns.

Brussels accused Google of using the Android system's dominance of smartphones and tablets to promote the use of its own Google search engine and Chrome browser and shut out rivals.

In the United States, Google has been a target of President Donald Trump and his allies, accusing the search giant of "bias" and silencing conservative voices, claims denied by the Silicon Valley firm. 
&nbsp;

Google parent Alphabet on Monday reported that profit in the first three months of this year sagged under the weight of a hefty antitrust fine in the European Union.

Google parent Alphabet on Monday reported that profit in the first three months of this year sagged under the weight of a hefty antitrust fine in the European Union. Alphabet said that profit in the first-quarter fell 29 percent to $6.7 billion on revenue that climbed 17 percent to $36.3 billion. The earnings took a hit from a European Commission fine that amounted to $1.7 billion at the end of March, according to the quarterly update. Google shares were down 7.2 percent to $1,202.39 in after-market trades that followed the release of the earnings report. Though profits excluding the one-time costs were better than expected, revenue growth was below forecasts for the technology colossus which is the dominant internet search company and operator of the ubiquitous Android mobile operating system. Chief financial officer Ruth Porat said in the release the results showed "robust growth" led by mobile search, ad revenues from YouTube videos and cloud computing. "We remain focused on, and excited by, the significant growth opportunities across our businesses," Porat said. Google's lucrative advertising platform remained the largest revenue driver for Alphabet, delivering more than $30 billion of revenues, but costs rose sharply as well. Investors seemed concerned that earnings figures showed the growth rate of ad clicks slowed while the trend toward lower-priced mobile ads continued. Rising cloud The California giant showed widening losses for its "other bets" including the Waymo self-driving car project, Verily life sciences and services for internet for remote parts of the world and drone delivery. "Other bets" showed an operating loss of $858 million, up from $571 million a year ago while revenues rose modestly to $170 million. Some of the projects are moving closer to fruition. Wing became the first drone delivery company to receive air carrier certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration. Waymo has begun a limited rollout of its robotaxis in Arizona in partnership with automakers. And, while the company's Pixel smartphones have seen traction slowed by heavy competition in the premium handset market, it was pleased with momentum for Home devices infused with digital assistant software. Porat teased a hardware announcement along those lines at Google's annual developers conference next week in its home town of Mountain View, California. It is seeing growth in cloud computing for businesses, a market where Google is competing against Amazon, Microsoft and others. "Google Cloud Platform remains one of the fastest growing businesses in Alphabet with strong customer momentum reflected in particular in demand for our computer and data analytics products," Porat said in a call with analysts. Google planned to continue investing heavily in data centres, engineers, and digital content for streaming video offerings on YouTube. Google and 'techlash' But Google continues to face pressure around the world from regulators, notably in Europe amid multiple investigations over alleged abuse of its dominance in internet search, advertising and its mobile system. The latest fine imposed by Brussels cited Google's AdSense advertising service, saying it illegally restricted client websites from displaying messages from ad service rivals. Google is separately working to satisfy EU regulators investigating its hugely popular Android devices following a $5 billion fine last year. This month, Google said it would offer smartphone users five browsers and search engines as part of the company's effort to meet EU competition concerns. Brussels accused Google of using the Android system's dominance of smartphones and tablets to promote the use of its own Google search engine and Chrome browser and shut out rivals. In the United States, Google has been a target of President Donald Trump and his allies, accusing the search giant of "bias" and silencing conservative voices, claims denied by the Silicon Valley firm.

European Union fine on Google weighs down parent company Alphabet's profits

British holidaymakers are favouring destinations outside the European Union after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-indian-property-guru-joins-brexit-party-for-european-union-elections-214276&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS37vdwvThAhWQ6XMBHb2xBLgQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3x4zP4G9CosOe80zHTdyps">repeated delays to Brexit</a> discouraged travellers from booking early and prompted them to look further afield, travel firm Thomas Cook said on Monday.

Turkey and Tunisia are among the biggest beneficiaries from the trend towards non-EU bookings, the firm said in a report, with demand for both recovering after security concerns curbed bookings in recent years.

Britain was due to leave the EU on March 29, but an impasse in parliament over the terms of Prime Minister Theresa May's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/british-opposition-leader-jeremy-corbyn-to-boycott-donald-trump-dinner-214210&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS37vdwvThAhWQ6XMBHb2xBLgQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3bNH9YIwIVSKx3IY0h24bL">Brexit deal </a>has delayed departure. A new deadline of October&nbsp;31 was agreed with Brussels.

Thomas Cook, the world's oldest travel company, said it was "clear that the prolonged uncertainty around the manner and timing of Britain's exit from the European Union has led many to delay their decision on when and where they book for their summer holidays."

But a majority of the 3,422 UK holidaymakers surveyed by the company nevertheless said they were more likely to holiday abroad than last year, with a quarter saying that a foreign holiday was higher in their spending priorities than in 2018, compared to just 8 per cent who said it was lower.

"Britain may be living through unique times from a political perspective, however our desire to holiday abroad is clear," said Will Waggott, Chief of Tour Operating for Thomas Cook.

"The political turmoil is having an impact in other ways, revealing itself in a clear shift to non-EU countries."

Thomas Cook said 48 per cent of its UK package holiday bookings for this summer so far were to non-EU destinations, up 10 percentage points on the same time last year.

Turkey has overtaken Greece to be the second most popular destination, with Spain remaining in the top spot.

And a slight increase in "all-inclusive" holidays could reflect a desire for travellers to "lock in" food and drink costs given the possible volatility in the pound, the company said.

Earlier this month easyJet warned that travellers were holding off booking their summer holidays due to uncertainty over how Brexit would go, weakening demand for tickets and thus prices.

British holidaymakers are favouring destinations outside the European Union after repeated delays to Brexit discouraged travellers from booking early and prompted them to look further afield, travel firm Thomas Cook said on Monday.

British holidaymakers are favouring destinations outside the European Union after repeated delays to Brexit discouraged travellers from booking early and prompted them to look further afield, travel firm Thomas Cook said on Monday. Turkey and Tunisia are among the biggest beneficiaries from the trend towards non-EU bookings, the firm said in a report, with demand for both recovering after security concerns curbed bookings in recent years. Britain was due to leave the EU on March 29, but an impasse in parliament over the terms of Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal has delayed departure. A new deadline of October 31 was agreed with Brussels. Thomas Cook, the world's oldest travel company, said it was "clear that the prolonged uncertainty around the manner and timing of Britain's exit from the European Union has led many to delay their decision on when and where they book for their summer holidays." But a majority of the 3,422 UK holidaymakers surveyed by the company nevertheless said they were more likely to holiday abroad than last year, with a quarter saying that a foreign holiday was higher in their spending priorities than in 2018, compared to just 8 per cent who said it was lower. "Britain may be living through unique times from a political perspective, however our desire to holiday abroad is clear," said Will Waggott, Chief of Tour Operating for Thomas Cook. "The political turmoil is having an impact in other ways, revealing itself in a clear shift to non-EU countries." Thomas Cook said 48 per cent of its UK package holiday bookings for this summer so far were to non-EU destinations, up 10 percentage points on the same time last year. Turkey has overtaken Greece to be the second most popular destination, with Spain remaining in the top spot. And a slight increase in "all-inclusive" holidays could reflect a desire for travellers to "lock in" food and drink costs given the possible volatility in the pound, the company said. Earlier this month easyJet warned that travellers were holding off booking their summer holidays due to uncertainty over how Brexit would go, weakening demand for tickets and thus prices.

Britons opt for non-EU holidays in face of Brexit impasse: Report

The EU on Monday extended a ban on selling arms to Myanmar and prolonged sanctions against high-ranking officials over their role in the Rohingya crisis.

The measures, which include an embargo on weapons and other equipment that could be used for repression, will stay in place until at least April 30, 2020.

Some 14 top military and border officials are under individual EU sanctions -- barring them from travelling to or through the European bloc and freezing any assets they hold in Europe -- over alleged human rights violations, including killings and sexual violence.

In August 2017, some 740,000 Rohingya refugees fled a military crackdown in northern Myanmar to cross into Bangladesh, where 300,000 members of the persecuted Muslim minority were already in camps.

Many Rohingya refugees said there had been mass rapes and slaughters, and UN officials have said the crackdown needs a genocide investigation.

The EU on Monday extended a ban on selling arms to Myanmar and prolonged sanctions against high-ranking officials over their role in the Rohingya crisis. The measures, which include an embargo on weapons and other equipment that could be used for repression, will stay in place until at least April 30, 2020.

The EU on Monday extended a ban on selling arms to Myanmar and prolonged sanctions against high-ranking officials over their role in the Rohingya crisis. The measures, which include an embargo on weapons and other equipment that could be used for repression, will stay in place until at least April 30, 2020. Some 14 top military and border officials are under individual EU sanctions -- barring them from travelling to or through the European bloc and freezing any assets they hold in Europe -- over alleged human rights violations, including killings and sexual violence. In August 2017, some 740,000 Rohingya refugees fled a military crackdown in northern Myanmar to cross into Bangladesh, where 300,000 members of the persecuted Muslim minority were already in camps. Many Rohingya refugees said there had been mass rapes and slaughters, and UN officials have said the crackdown needs a genocide investigation.

European Union extends ban on arms sales to Myanmar

An Indian-origin businessman has switched his allegiance from the Conservative Party to join the newly-formed Brexit Party to contest the European Parliament elections next month.

Ajay Jagota, a self-proclaimed housing and property expert, stepped down as chairman of the local South Shields Conservative Association in northern England last year after claiming that the Tory party had failed to address complaints he made about anti-Muslim racism.

The founder of Keep it Simple house lettings outfit had previously signed a joint letter of Tory association chairmen calling on British Prime Minister Theresa May to "recognise the discontent" over her Brexit deal and examine alternatives "that respect (the government's) red lines and offer&nbsp; 
an ambitious and positive global future for our country".

Now, just as campaigning for the European Union (EU) elections intensifies, Jagota has joined ranks with Nigel Farage's new anti-EU Brexit Party and will stand as a Member for the European Parliament (MEP) from London.

"This (Brexit) is such an important issue that for me it was imperative that I did whatever I could to ensure that those 17.4 million people that voted to Leave were not let down," Jagota told The Sunday Telegraph.

"I would have hoped for the Conservative Party to deliver on their manifesto and the referendum result, which we were promised they would.

"Combined with my experience in the Tory party as chairman and now the Brexit issue I felt I could no longer rely on them as a party with the incumbent leader (Theresa May), he said.

Jagota is being seen as one of many deserting the Tories, after reports that the ruling Conservative Party was shedding supporters to the new Brexit Party amid dissatisfaction with May's handling of Brexit.&nbsp;

Britain is forced to contest the EU elections on May 23 as a result of the repeated defeat of the British PM's Brexit withdrawal agreement in the UK Parliament.&nbsp;

After the initial March 29 deadline for Brexit could not be met, the UK sought two further extensions in an attempt to arrive at an exit agreement. The UK is now scheduled to leave the EU by October 31, with cross-party talks ongoing to try and find a breakthrough.

Meanwhile, the growing discontent over the issue has been laid bare as opinion polls suggest a surge of support for the Brexit Party set up by former UK Independence Party (UKIP) chief Nigel Farage with the message of &nbsp;Democracy under Threat.

According to a study by Opinium released on Sunday, Farage's new party is neck and neck with Labour on 28 per cent for next month's European elections, while Tory support collapses to 14 per cent in the May 23 contest.

The poll also found more than half the public (55 per cent) believe the UK should never have held the EU referendum as it has been so difficult to agree a deal.&nbsp;

An Indian-origin businessman has switched his allegiance from the Conservative Party to join the newly-formed Brexit Party to contest the European Parliament elections next month.

An Indian-origin businessman has switched his allegiance from the Conservative Party to join the newly-formed Brexit Party to contest the European Parliament elections next month. Ajay Jagota, a self-proclaimed housing and property expert, stepped down as chairman of the local South Shields Conservative Association in northern England last year after claiming that the Tory party had failed to address complaints he made about anti-Muslim racism. The founder of Keep it Simple house lettings outfit had previously signed a joint letter of Tory association chairmen calling on British Prime Minister Theresa May to "recognise the discontent" over her Brexit deal and examine alternatives "that respect (the government's) red lines and offer an ambitious and positive global future for our country". Now, just as campaigning for the European Union (EU) elections intensifies, Jagota has joined ranks with Nigel Farage's new anti-EU Brexit Party and will stand as a Member for the European Parliament (MEP) from London. "This (Brexit) is such an important issue that for me it was imperative that I did whatever I could to ensure that those 17.4 million people that voted to Leave were not let down," Jagota told The Sunday Telegraph. "I would have hoped for the Conservative Party to deliver on their manifesto and the referendum result, which we were promised they would. "Combined with my experience in the Tory party as chairman and now the Brexit issue I felt I could no longer rely on them as a party with the incumbent leader (Theresa May), he said. Jagota is being seen as one of many deserting the Tories, after reports that the ruling Conservative Party was shedding supporters to the new Brexit Party amid dissatisfaction with May's handling of Brexit. Britain is forced to contest the EU elections on May 23 as a result of the repeated defeat of the British PM's Brexit withdrawal agreement in the UK Parliament. After the initial March 29 deadline for Brexit could not be met, the UK sought two further extensions in an attempt to arrive at an exit agreement. The UK is now scheduled to leave the EU by October 31, with cross-party talks ongoing to try and find a breakthrough. Meanwhile, the growing discontent over the issue has been laid bare as opinion polls suggest a surge of support for the Brexit Party set up by former UK Independence Party (UKIP) chief Nigel Farage with the message of Democracy under Threat. According to a study by Opinium released on Sunday, Farage's new party is neck and neck with Labour on 28 per cent for next month's European elections, while Tory support collapses to 14 per cent in the May 23 contest. The poll also found more than half the public (55 per cent) believe the UK should never have held the EU referendum as it has been so difficult to agree a deal.

British Indian property guru joins Brexit Party for European Union elections

Supporters of an <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-chaos-leaves-scotland-on-independence-tightrope-209951&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2rvTapuvhAhW44XMBHV-YCNoQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0j6IiIxFbTuV5DXkhAb4Re">independent Scotland</a> will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit.&nbsp;

Scots rejected independence in 2014 and support since then has remained stuck at around 45 per cent, opinion polls suggest. But Scots also voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, in which England and Wales voted to leave.

Under the crowd-funded initiative "Voices for Scotland", which has some 100,000 supporters, clipboard-wielding activists will fan out across Scotland to try to boost support for secession to the 50-60 per cent range.

"I get the sense that we are in the death throes of the United Kingdom, that it is a very unstable construct," Maggie Chapman, one of the leaders of Voices for Scotland and also co-convenor of the Scottish Greens, told Reuters.

The launch comes a day after Scotland`s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the country would start preparing for a second referendum on independence before May 2021 without permission from London because of Brexit.

Britain is mired in political chaos after parliament rejected three times the withdrawal deal negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May and other EU leaders, and it is still unclear when or even if it will leave the bloc.

"UK NOT OK"

"One of the things that `no` or undecided voters said to me in 2014, in the run-up to that referendum (on Scottish independence) was `why, what do you want to change, the UK is fine as it is`," said Chapman.

"Brexit tells us that the UK is not OK, not only in terms of economic legitimacy and power but in terms of trust in politics," she said.

Scotland`s "Yes" movement took support for independence to 45 per cent in 2014 from around 23 per cent in 2012.

The new initiative will train campaigners to go out and "listen to what people need to help them become supportive of independence, as well as to persuade them of its merits", Voices for Scotland said in a statement.

It has so far raised about 100,000 pounds ($129,000) to train and support campaigners to spread the word on "every street in Scotland", Chapman said.

Its aim is particularly to target those who are undecided about Scottish independence or "who support the union but have had their faith undermined by recent events."&nbsp;

Supporters of an independent Scotland will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit.

Supporters of an independent Scotland will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit. Scots rejected independence in 2014 and support since then has remained stuck at around 45 per cent, opinion polls suggest. But Scots also voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, in which England and Wales voted to leave. Under the crowd-funded initiative "Voices for Scotland", which has some 100,000 supporters, clipboard-wielding activists will fan out across Scotland to try to boost support for secession to the 50-60 per cent range. "I get the sense that we are in the death throes of the United Kingdom, that it is a very unstable construct," Maggie Chapman, one of the leaders of Voices for Scotland and also co-convenor of the Scottish Greens, told Reuters. The launch comes a day after Scotland`s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the country would start preparing for a second referendum on independence before May 2021 without permission from London because of Brexit. Britain is mired in political chaos after parliament rejected three times the withdrawal deal negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May and other EU leaders, and it is still unclear when or even if it will leave the bloc. "UK NOT OK" "One of the things that `no` or undecided voters said to me in 2014, in the run-up to that referendum (on Scottish independence) was `why, what do you want to change, the UK is fine as it is`," said Chapman. "Brexit tells us that the UK is not OK, not only in terms of economic legitimacy and power but in terms of trust in politics," she said. Scotland`s "Yes" movement took support for independence to 45 per cent in 2014 from around 23 per cent in 2012. The new initiative will train campaigners to go out and "listen to what people need to help them become supportive of independence, as well as to persuade them of its merits", Voices for Scotland said in a statement. It has so far raised about 100,000 pounds ($129,000) to train and support campaigners to spread the word on "every street in Scotland", Chapman said. Its aim is particularly to target those who are undecided about Scottish independence or "who support the union but have had their faith undermined by recent events."

Anger over Brexit sparks new grassroots drive for Scottish independence

Spain is readying for one of its most tightly contested national elections in decades, with the result too close to call and at least five parties from across the political spectrum with a chance of being in government.

Sunday`s ballot is set to mark a number of firsts: the first coalition government since Spain`s return to democracy in the late 1970s, the first far-right lawmakers since 1982, and the first campaign since the financial crisis not centred on the economy.

Lengthy coalition talks are expected to follow the vote, feeding into a broader mood of political uncertainty gripping Europe.&nbsp;

Campaigning ends at midnight on Friday, and polling stations will close at 8:00 p.m. (1800 GMT) on Sunday. The count should be all but finalised by midnight.

Here`s what`s at stake:&nbsp;

WHO WILL WIN?

No party will win enough seats to form a government on its own, and opinion polls - the last of which was published on Monday before two televised debates between the leaders of four of the five main parties - point to a deeply fragmented parliament.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez`s Socialists are in the lead and tipped to win just under 30 per cent of votes, according to a poll of polls by newspaper El Pais.

That would give them the best chance of leading a coalition government, but as they would need to team up with one or more allies, there is no guarantee this would work.

Several other scenarios - including a right-wing coalition or a repeat election - remain possible, and it could be months before a new prime minister is chosen.

For now, a range of possible outcomes are all within opinion polls` margin of error.&nbsp;

WHY IS THIS SO COMPLEX?&nbsp;

Final polls put the proportion of undecided or wavering voters as high as four in ten.&nbsp;

Pollsters have also been struggling to predict how well new far-right party Vox will fare, though all agree it will get lawmakers, the first of that political hue in almost four decades.&nbsp;

The impact of Monday`s and Tuesday`s election debates, from which Vox was excluded on legal grounds, is a further unknown.

Many political analysts say the candidate who performed best was Pablo Iglesias, leader of anti-austerity party Podemos - which had been losing a lot of ground in opinion polls.

The 350 deputies in Spain`s lower house are elected in 52 constituencies, whose size varies widely.

As the number of contenders has increased, forecasting the winners have got tougher, particularly in small rural areas.

Parties unused to coalition-building are also unlikely to strike any post-election deal in Madrid that might jeopardize their chances in local and regional ballots due on May 26.&nbsp;

Furthermore, most parties are either undergoing internal upheavals or have new leaders, meaning much could still change in terms of strategy and alliances.

Spaniards will also elect 208 representatives to the Senate, which has a low political profile and has been controlled by the conservative PP since 2011.&nbsp;

WHO WILL BE PRIME MINISTER?

Under the most optimistic scenario for the Socialists, Sanchez could stay on as prime minister with just one ally, Podemos.

But opinion polls show the Socialists and Podemos are likely to need the backing of smaller, nationalist parties, possibly from Catalonia, which would replicate the combination that allowed Sanchez to become prime minister in June.

Concessions the smaller parties would seek in return - and pressure from right-wing parties already accusing Sanchez of being a "traitor" for being open to dialogue with Catalan secessionists - make any such alliance a tough though not impossible ask.

According to final polls, the three rightist parties combined - the PP, centre-right Ciudadanos and Vox - would not have a parliamentary majority. But that is also a margin-of-error call.

One scenario of a likely majority would be between Ciudadanos and the Socialists. But Ciudadanos chief Albert Rivera has ruled out a deal with Sanchez who - while not excluding the option altogether - said on Tuesday such a pact was not part of his plans either.

As the clear poll leader, Sanchez is looking to retain as much leeway as possible to explore alternative options, none of which appear ideal.

One outcome does seem certain, however: confirmation of the end of the two-party system that began with Spain`s return to democracy and started unravelling in 2015.&nbsp;

WHAT ARE THE MAIN ISSUES FOR VOTERS?

The campaign has focused on identity and values, relegating the economy to a rare subsidiary role.

Catalonia`s independence drive, which has polarised the nation as well as the region, is a high-profile factor, especially with 12 of its former leaders standing trial.

PP, Ciudadanos and Vox are competing for the anti-separatist vote but the Socialists, after refusing to give in to Catalan demands to secure their backing for the budget, will also aim to use the issue to their advantage.&nbsp;

With the rise of Vox and with PP veering to the right and the Socialists campaigning on a progressive stance, the parties are differentiating themselves on issues ranging from women`s rights to the removal of former dictator Francisco Franco`s remains from a grand mausoleum.

All the main parties have traded accusations of corruption, while the economy, forecast to grow a relatively robust 2.2 per cent this year, has been a largely peripheral campaign issue.&nbsp;

WHY SHOULD MARKETS AND THE EU CARE?

Spain has had a succession of minority or caretaker governments over the past three years, meaning structural reforms have been delayed.

And, while the Socialists have managed to adopt some economic measures including an increase in pensions and minimum wages, their rolling over of the 2018 budget means a number of tax hikes will not enter force, making it harder to cut the deficit from 2018`s 2.48 per cent of economic output. 
&nbsp;

Spain is readying for one of its most tightly contested national elections in decades, with the result too close to call and at least five parties from across the political spectrum with a chance of being in government.

Spain is readying for one of its most tightly contested national elections in decades, with the result too close to call and at least five parties from across the political spectrum with a chance of being in government. Sunday`s ballot is set to mark a number of firsts: the first coalition government since Spain`s return to democracy in the late 1970s, the first far-right lawmakers since 1982, and the first campaign since the financial crisis not centred on the economy. Lengthy coalition talks are expected to follow the vote, feeding into a broader mood of political uncertainty gripping Europe. Campaigning ends at midnight on Friday, and polling stations will close at 8:00 p.m. (1800 GMT) on Sunday. The count should be all but finalised by midnight. Here`s what`s at stake: WHO WILL WIN? No party will win enough seats to form a government on its own, and opinion polls - the last of which was published on Monday before two televised debates between the leaders of four of the five main parties - point to a deeply fragmented parliament. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez`s Socialists are in the lead and tipped to win just under 30 per cent of votes, according to a poll of polls by newspaper El Pais. That would give them the best chance of leading a coalition government, but as they would need to team up with one or more allies, there is no guarantee this would work. Several other scenarios - including a right-wing coalition or a repeat election - remain possible, and it could be months before a new prime minister is chosen. For now, a range of possible outcomes are all within opinion polls` margin of error. WHY IS THIS SO COMPLEX? Final polls put the proportion of undecided or wavering voters as high as four in ten. Pollsters have also been struggling to predict how well new far-right party Vox will fare, though all agree it will get lawmakers, the first of that political hue in almost four decades. The impact of Monday`s and Tuesday`s election debates, from which Vox was excluded on legal grounds, is a further unknown. Many political analysts say the candidate who performed best was Pablo Iglesias, leader of anti-austerity party Podemos - which had been losing a lot of ground in opinion polls. The 350 deputies in Spain`s lower house are elected in 52 constituencies, whose size varies widely. As the number of contenders has increased, forecasting the winners have got tougher, particularly in small rural areas. Parties unused to coalition-building are also unlikely to strike any post-election deal in Madrid that might jeopardize their chances in local and regional ballots due on May 26. Furthermore, most parties are either undergoing internal upheavals or have new leaders, meaning much could still change in terms of strategy and alliances. Spaniards will also elect 208 representatives to the Senate, which has a low political profile and has been controlled by the conservative PP since 2011. WHO WILL BE PRIME MINISTER? Under the most optimistic scenario for the Socialists, Sanchez could stay on as prime minister with just one ally, Podemos. But opinion polls show the Socialists and Podemos are likely to need the backing of smaller, nationalist parties, possibly from Catalonia, which would replicate the combination that allowed Sanchez to become prime minister in June. Concessions the smaller parties would seek in return - and pressure from right-wing parties already accusing Sanchez of being a "traitor" for being open to dialogue with Catalan secessionists - make any such alliance a tough though not impossible ask. According to final polls, the three rightist parties combined - the PP, centre-right Ciudadanos and Vox - would not have a parliamentary majority. But that is also a margin-of-error call. One scenario of a likely majority would be between Ciudadanos and the Socialists. But Ciudadanos chief Albert Rivera has ruled out a deal with Sanchez who - while not excluding the option altogether - said on Tuesday such a pact was not part of his plans either. As the clear poll leader, Sanchez is looking to retain as much leeway as possible to explore alternative options, none of which appear ideal. One outcome does seem certain, however: confirmation of the end of the two-party system that began with Spain`s return to democracy and started unravelling in 2015. WHAT ARE THE MAIN ISSUES FOR VOTERS? The campaign has focused on identity and values, relegating the economy to a rare subsidiary role. Catalonia`s independence drive, which has polarised the nation as well as the region, is a high-profile factor, especially with 12 of its former leaders standing trial. PP, Ciudadanos and Vox are competing for the anti-separatist vote but the Socialists, after refusing to give in to Catalan demands to secure their backing for the budget, will also aim to use the issue to their advantage. With the rise of Vox and with PP veering to the right and the Socialists campaigning on a progressive stance, the parties are differentiating themselves on issues ranging from women`s rights to the removal of former dictator Francisco Franco`s remains from a grand mausoleum. All the main parties have traded accusations of corruption, while the economy, forecast to grow a relatively robust 2.2 per cent this year, has been a largely peripheral campaign issue. WHY SHOULD MARKETS AND THE EU CARE? Spain has had a succession of minority or caretaker governments over the past three years, meaning structural reforms have been delayed. And, while the Socialists have managed to adopt some economic measures including an increase in pensions and minimum wages, their rolling over of the 2018 budget means a number of tax hikes will not enter force, making it harder to cut the deficit from 2018`s 2.48 per cent of economic output.

Explainer: Why Spain's election is so open, and how it may pan out

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson.

Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

"So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate."

The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley.&nbsp;

He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium.

Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China.

Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues.

In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU.

The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand.

The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said.

"We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said.

Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock.

The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data."

Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker. "So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate." The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley. He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium. Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China. Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues. In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU. The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand. The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said. "We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said. Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock. The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data." Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

Donald Trump vows to hit back at European Union as tariffs bite Harley-Davidson

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue.

The former Financial Times and Daily Telegraph journalist, 53, joined the new party formed by 11 cross-party europhile MPs, to run in the upcoming European Parliament elections.

She is the younger sister of former foreign secretary Boris, who is favourite to take over as prime minister after current leader Theresa May steps down once the first phase of Brexit is completed.

"I'm sure that Boris understands why this is not a vote against Boris," she said, telling London's Evening Standard newspaper she felt "impelled to stand up and be counted for what I believe in".

The ardent European Union supporter once said she would "walk down Whitehall in my birthday suit to stop Brexit."

She now writes a weekly column in The Mail on Sunday, and was unveiled on a roster of candidates for Change UK at an event in Bristol in southwest England.

Boris Johnson was a key figure helping swing the 2016 referendum vote in favour of Leave.

He has criticised May's withdrawal deal struck with the EU for keeping Britain too closely tied to the bloc, putting him at odds with other members of his family.

His brother Jo, also a Conservative politician, quit as a minister in November, believing May's deal would sever too many ties with the EU.

He has since backed calls for a second referendum on the issue.

The power of Brexit to cut across family bonds -- even if on the same side -- was also evident earlier this month.

Annunziata Rees-Mogg, brother of influential Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, announced she was leaving the party to stand as a candidate for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party.

Her brother tweeted that "Annunziata would be a brilliant prime minister but I hope as a Tory".

It was revealed she has been a member of the Conservatives since the age of five.

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue.

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue. The former Financial Times and Daily Telegraph journalist, 53, joined the new party formed by 11 cross-party europhile MPs, to run in the upcoming European Parliament elections. She is the younger sister of former foreign secretary Boris, who is favourite to take over as prime minister after current leader Theresa May steps down once the first phase of Brexit is completed. "I'm sure that Boris understands why this is not a vote against Boris," she said, telling London's Evening Standard newspaper she felt "impelled to stand up and be counted for what I believe in". The ardent European Union supporter once said she would "walk down Whitehall in my birthday suit to stop Brexit." She now writes a weekly column in The Mail on Sunday, and was unveiled on a roster of candidates for Change UK at an event in Bristol in southwest England. Boris Johnson was a key figure helping swing the 2016 referendum vote in favour of Leave. He has criticised May's withdrawal deal struck with the EU for keeping Britain too closely tied to the bloc, putting him at odds with other members of his family. His brother Jo, also a Conservative politician, quit as a minister in November, believing May's deal would sever too many ties with the EU. He has since backed calls for a second referendum on the issue. The power of Brexit to cut across family bonds -- even if on the same side -- was also evident earlier this month. Annunziata Rees-Mogg, brother of influential Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, announced she was leaving the party to stand as a candidate for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party. Her brother tweeted that "Annunziata would be a brilliant prime minister but I hope as a Tory". It was revealed she has been a member of the Conservatives since the age of five.

Sibling rivalry behind Britain's Brexit politics

Google, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-rights-groups-hit-out-at-singapores-fake-news-bill-207343">Facebook</a> and Twitter have to do more to tackle fake news ahead of key European Parliament elections next month, the European Commission said on Tuesday, as its latest report showed a lack of progress in some areas.

The monthly reports follow a pledge made by the tech giants and advertising trade bodies in October last year to combat the spread of fake news and avoid more heavy-handed regulations.

The EU has warned of foreign interference during campaigning for the European Parliament elections and national elections in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Poland, Portugal and Ukraine in recent and coming months.

"Further technical improvements, as well as sharing of methodology and data sets for fake accounts, are necessary to allow third-party experts, fact-checkers and researchers to carry out the independent evaluation," the EU executive said.

The Commission said Google had made insufficient progress in defining issue-based advertising. The report covered actions taken by the companies in March.

It said Facebook, which took down eight coordinated inauthentic behaviour networks originating in North Macedonia, Kosovo and Russia, failed to disclose whether these affected EU users.

Twitter also fell short because it did not provide details on its measures against spam and fake accounts and also did not report on any action to improve the scrutiny of ad placements.

Google, Facebook and Twitter have to do more to tackle fake news ahead of key European Parliament elections next month, the European Commission said on Tuesday, as its latest report showed a lack of progress in some areas.

Google, Facebook and Twitter have to do more to tackle fake news ahead of key European Parliament elections next month, the European Commission said on Tuesday, as its latest report showed a lack of progress in some areas. The monthly reports follow a pledge made by the tech giants and advertising trade bodies in October last year to combat the spread of fake news and avoid more heavy-handed regulations. The EU has warned of foreign interference during campaigning for the European Parliament elections and national elections in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Poland, Portugal and Ukraine in recent and coming months. "Further technical improvements, as well as sharing of methodology and data sets for fake accounts, are necessary to allow third-party experts, fact-checkers and researchers to carry out the independent evaluation," the EU executive said. The Commission said Google had made insufficient progress in defining issue-based advertising. The report covered actions taken by the companies in March. It said Facebook, which took down eight coordinated inauthentic behaviour networks originating in North Macedonia, Kosovo and Russia, failed to disclose whether these affected EU users. Twitter also fell short because it did not provide details on its measures against spam and fake accounts and also did not report on any action to improve the scrutiny of ad placements.

Google, Facebook, Twitter have to do more to fight fake news: European Union

Czech billionaire Prime Minister Andrej Babis said Saturday he would not resign if indicted for his alleged role in a two-million-euro EU subsidy fraud.

Police this week recommended that Babis be indicted over the case which could see him and several others, including family members, spending five to ten years in prison.

"I would not resign because I have been saying from the beginning that this is a political process," Babis told the DNES broadsheet which he owns.

The 64-year-old agro-chemicals mogul pegged by Forbes as the second-wealthiest Czech is suspected of abusing EU funds to build the luxury Stork Nest resort and farm near Prague in 2007.

He allegedly took the farm out of his sprawling Agrofert food, chemicals and media holding to make it eligible for a subsidy awarded to small companies before eventually putting it back.

Charged by police in 2017, Babis and several others -- including his wife, brother-in-law and daughter -- are suspected of subsidy fraud and harming the EU's financial interests.

"If I weren't in politics, nobody would have heard about the Stork Nest," Babis told DNES.

"People keep plotting affairs against me, delving into the past. This affair is 12 years old," he said, calling charges against his family "incredible filth".

President Milos Zeman, who could remove the embattled prime minister, said Thursday he would not do so.

"An indicted prime minister is not a sentenced prime minister," said the 74-year-old pro-Russian, pro-Chinese veteran left-winger and a staunch Babis ally.&nbsp;

The prime minister's populist ANO movement leads a minority coalition government with leftwing Social Democrats.

It also has tacit backing from the Communists -- a first in the post-Communist country's history.

Late last year, the government survived a confidence vote after media reported that Babis aides had taken his son Andrej Babis Jr. to Russian-occupied Crimea against the son's wishes to hinder the fraud probe.

ANO currently has the highest backing by far of any Czech party, despite the Stork Nest affair and allegations that Babis was a Communist secret police agent in the 1980s.

ANO was credited with 33 per cent backing in a March-April poll by the Kantar CZ agency for Czech Television, ahead of the second-placed Pirates party with 19 per cent.

Czech billionaire Prime Minister Andrej Babis said Saturday he would not resign if indicted for his alleged role in a two-million-euro EU subsidy fraud. Police this week recommended that Babis be indicted over the case which could see him and several others, including family members, spending five to ten years in prison.

Czech billionaire Prime Minister Andrej Babis said Saturday he would not resign if indicted for his alleged role in a two-million-euro EU subsidy fraud. Police this week recommended that Babis be indicted over the case which could see him and several others, including family members, spending five to ten years in prison. "I would not resign because I have been saying from the beginning that this is a political process," Babis told the DNES broadsheet which he owns. The 64-year-old agro-chemicals mogul pegged by Forbes as the second-wealthiest Czech is suspected of abusing EU funds to build the luxury Stork Nest resort and farm near Prague in 2007. He allegedly took the farm out of his sprawling Agrofert food, chemicals and media holding to make it eligible for a subsidy awarded to small companies before eventually putting it back. Charged by police in 2017, Babis and several others -- including his wife, brother-in-law and daughter -- are suspected of subsidy fraud and harming the EU's financial interests. "If I weren't in politics, nobody would have heard about the Stork Nest," Babis told DNES. "People keep plotting affairs against me, delving into the past. This affair is 12 years old," he said, calling charges against his family "incredible filth". President Milos Zeman, who could remove the embattled prime minister, said Thursday he would not do so. "An indicted prime minister is not a sentenced prime minister," said the 74-year-old pro-Russian, pro-Chinese veteran left-winger and a staunch Babis ally. The prime minister's populist ANO movement leads a minority coalition government with leftwing Social Democrats. It also has tacit backing from the Communists -- a first in the post-Communist country's history. Late last year, the government survived a confidence vote after media reported that Babis aides had taken his son Andrej Babis Jr. to Russian-occupied Crimea against the son's wishes to hinder the fraud probe. ANO currently has the highest backing by far of any Czech party, despite the Stork Nest affair and allegations that Babis was a Communist secret police agent in the 1980s. ANO was credited with 33 per cent backing in a March-April poll by the Kantar CZ agency for Czech Television, ahead of the second-placed Pirates party with 19 per cent.

Czech PM Andrej Babis says won't resign if indicted over EU fraud

By Jonathan Perraton 
 
EU leaders have agreed on a short extension to Brexit until October 31 at the latest, in order to give the British parliament time to seal a deal. This date avoids the UK still being a member when the next EU budget cycle starts – but what does it mean for the “divorce bill”, the money the UK will pay the EU after its departure?

The withdrawal agreement, which provides the legal framework for the UK’s exit from the European Union, includes arrangements to determine its financial settlement with the EU.

The essential principles of the financial settlement have been set out for months and the EU has made it clear that it regards the withdrawal agreement as settled. If and when the British parliament does agree on a Brexit deal, this financial settlement is likely to apply – but it won’t change directly as a result of the extension from the original March 29 Brexit date to October 31.

The final figure is yet to be determined, both because of uncertainties over future developments – including of course the date when the UK actually leaves the EU – and also because the bill is to be settled in euros and therefore depends on the future exchange rate between the pound and the euro.

Under the financial settlement, the UK will continue to participate in the EU’s budgets over 2019 and 2020, which takes us up to the end of the current EU budget cycle. This can be seen as the UK simply honouring the commitments it made as an EU member state at the start of the current EU budget round, and continuing to receive agreed funds through payments from the Common Agricultural Policy, structural funds and other EU programmes.

A key principle is that the UK should not pay more than it would have done as an EU member, nor should it be expected to make any payments earlier than it would have been required to do as a member. The UK’s net payments include its long-negotiated budget rebate. The UK is the third-largest contributor to the EU budget in total. It is a net contributor to the EU budget payments, when the funds the UK receives back are taken into account, although it is only sixth in terms of net payments relative to its GDP.

The key uncertainties over the future payments arise from future contingencies and the final settlement of accounts with the EU. A key principle here is that of the UK not making payments any sooner than it would have done as a member. The annual EU budget makes future expenditure commitments under what are called reste à liquider arrangements, outstanding commitments which have been made but not yet translated into payments.

Under the final settlement, the UK continues to be liable for spending commitments undertaken during the current EU budget round while it has still been a member – although it will also receive back its share of assets including capital in the European Investment Bank. The largest item in the outstanding liabilities is for EU staff pensions and other benefits. EU staff pension commitments are unfunded, meaning the EU has not set aside a provision for these future payments, as it operates on a “pay as you go” system. This means there is uncertainty over the size of future EU pension liabilities and therefore the UK’s future commitments to paying them.

Estimating the final bill

HM Treasury has estimated the total payments will be around £35-£39 billion. The independent Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) has also produced similar estimates. Crucially, the most recent OBR estimates from March 2019 indicate that most of the final settlement will be made up of the reste à liquider commitments. Settlement of the outstanding net liabilities – including future EU pension liabilities – would account for less than 10 per cent&nbsp;of the total.

Payments from the UK to the EU will continue for many years into the future (up to the 2060s), although the OBR estimates that these would be small with around three-quarters of the payments completed by 2022. There is also uncertainty over the euro-sterling exchange rate and UK economic growth, which determines the relative size of the UK economy and its contribution to the EU budget until 2020 from “own resources”, the payments determined by a member’s gross national income.

In June 2018, parliament’s Public Accounts Committee questioned the Treasury’s estimates, indicating that payments could be as much as £10 billion higher. In particular, they note potential commitments under the European Development Fund of overseas expenditure on aid programmes.

The next multi-annual financial framework for the EU budget is scheduled for 2021-27. Should the withdrawal agreement eventually be agreed by parliament, a short extension of Brexit beyond October 31 would not lead to large changes in the financial settlement, but a longer extension into 2020 could potentially lead to greater commitments if the UK remains a member into the next budgetary period. 
 
 
(Jonathan Perraton is Senior Lecturer in Economics, University of Sheffield)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-extension-how-much-will-it-actually-cost-the-uk-to-leave-the-eu-115486">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

By Jonathan Perraton EU leaders have agreed on a short extension to Brexit until October 31 at the latest, in order to give the British parliament time to seal a deal.

By Jonathan Perraton EU leaders have agreed on a short extension to Brexit until October 31 at the latest, in order to give the British parliament time to seal a deal. This date avoids the UK still being a member when the next EU budget cycle starts – but what does it mean for the “divorce bill”, the money the UK will pay the EU after its departure? The withdrawal agreement, which provides the legal framework for the UK’s exit from the European Union, includes arrangements to determine its financial settlement with the EU. The essential principles of the financial settlement have been set out for months and the EU has made it clear that it regards the withdrawal agreement as settled. If and when the British parliament does agree on a Brexit deal, this financial settlement is likely to apply – but it won’t change directly as a result of the extension from the original March 29 Brexit date to October 31. The final figure is yet to be determined, both because of uncertainties over future developments – including of course the date when the UK actually leaves the EU – and also because the bill is to be settled in euros and therefore depends on the future exchange rate between the pound and the euro. Under the financial settlement, the UK will continue to participate in the EU’s budgets over 2019 and 2020, which takes us up to the end of the current EU budget cycle. This can be seen as the UK simply honouring the commitments it made as an EU member state at the start of the current EU budget round, and continuing to receive agreed funds through payments from the Common Agricultural Policy, structural funds and other EU programmes. A key principle is that the UK should not pay more than it would have done as an EU member, nor should it be expected to make any payments earlier than it would have been required to do as a member. The UK’s net payments include its long-negotiated budget rebate. The UK is the third-largest contributor to the EU budget in total. It is a net contributor to the EU budget payments, when the funds the UK receives back are taken into account, although it is only sixth in terms of net payments relative to its GDP. The key uncertainties over the future payments arise from future contingencies and the final settlement of accounts with the EU. A key principle here is that of the UK not making payments any sooner than it would have done as a member. The annual EU budget makes future expenditure commitments under what are called reste à liquider arrangements, outstanding commitments which have been made but not yet translated into payments. Under the final settlement, the UK continues to be liable for spending commitments undertaken during the current EU budget round while it has still been a member – although it will also receive back its share of assets including capital in the European Investment Bank. The largest item in the outstanding liabilities is for EU staff pensions and other benefits. EU staff pension commitments are unfunded, meaning the EU has not set aside a provision for these future payments, as it operates on a “pay as you go” system. This means there is uncertainty over the size of future EU pension liabilities and therefore the UK’s future commitments to paying them. Estimating the final bill HM Treasury has estimated the total payments will be around £35-£39 billion. The independent Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) has also produced similar estimates. Crucially, the most recent OBR estimates from March 2019 indicate that most of the final settlement will be made up of the reste à liquider commitments. Settlement of the outstanding net liabilities – including future EU pension liabilities – would account for less than 10 per cent of the total. Payments from the UK to the EU will continue for many years into the future (up to the 2060s), although the OBR estimates that these would be small with around three-quarters of the payments completed by 2022. There is also uncertainty over the euro-sterling exchange rate and UK economic growth, which determines the relative size of the UK economy and its contribution to the EU budget until 2020 from “own resources”, the payments determined by a member’s gross national income. In June 2018, parliament’s Public Accounts Committee questioned the Treasury’s estimates, indicating that payments could be as much as £10 billion higher. In particular, they note potential commitments under the European Development Fund of overseas expenditure on aid programmes. The next multi-annual financial framework for the EU budget is scheduled for 2021-27. Should the withdrawal agreement eventually be agreed by parliament, a short extension of Brexit beyond October 31 would not lead to large changes in the financial settlement, but a longer extension into 2020 could potentially lead to greater commitments if the UK remains a member into the next budgetary period. (Jonathan Perraton is Senior Lecturer in Economics, University of Sheffield) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Brexit extension: How much will it actually cost the UK to leave the EU?

British employment has reached a record-high level, shaking off stubborn uncertainty surrounding the UK's departure from the European Union, official data showed on Tuesday.

"The level of employment in the UK increased by 179,000 to a record high of 32.72 million people in the three months to February 2019," the Office for National Statistics said in a statement.

That was the highest level since records began in 1971, according to the ONS.

The unemployment rate remained at 3.9 per cent, the lowest level since 1975.

"The UK job market remained encouragingly buoyant in February, with a combination of rising employment and falling unemployment pushing pay up at one of the fastest rates seen since the global financial crisis over 10 years ago," noted Christopher Williamson, a chief business economist at IHS Markit.

"However, forward-looking survey data suggest that demand for staff has cooled, which will likely feed through to weaker jobs growth and easing pay pressures in coming months."&nbsp;

European leaders last week agreed with British Prime Minister Theresa May to delay Brexit until October 31 at the latest, saving the continent from a chaotic no-deal departure.

The delay avoids a possible economic calamity on both sides of the Channel but does little to resolve the political morass that has seen May's control over her MPs and cabinet gradually slip.

Following Tuesday's jobs data, analysts at Capital Economics said<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-may-faces-defeat-in-parliament-over-brexit-plan-190530&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjMofuBttThAhU_73MBHXksBkwQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2tKYs9Yi56g_nUsS82WZRa"> Brexit </a>was "not applying the brakes to hiring" just yet in the UK.

"However, we suspect that this could mark the peak of employment growth as the Brexit uncertainty reached its crescendo... and the surveys turned down sharply in March," they added in a note to clients

British employment has reached a record-high level, shaking off stubborn uncertainty surrounding the UK's departure from the European Union, official data showed on Tuesday.

British employment has reached a record-high level, shaking off stubborn uncertainty surrounding the UK's departure from the European Union, official data showed on Tuesday. "The level of employment in the UK increased by 179,000 to a record high of 32.72 million people in the three months to February 2019," the Office for National Statistics said in a statement. That was the highest level since records began in 1971, according to the ONS. The unemployment rate remained at 3.9 per cent, the lowest level since 1975. "The UK job market remained encouragingly buoyant in February, with a combination of rising employment and falling unemployment pushing pay up at one of the fastest rates seen since the global financial crisis over 10 years ago," noted Christopher Williamson, a chief business economist at IHS Markit. "However, forward-looking survey data suggest that demand for staff has cooled, which will likely feed through to weaker jobs growth and easing pay pressures in coming months." European leaders last week agreed with British Prime Minister Theresa May to delay Brexit until October 31 at the latest, saving the continent from a chaotic no-deal departure. The delay avoids a possible economic calamity on both sides of the Channel but does little to resolve the political morass that has seen May's control over her MPs and cabinet gradually slip. Following Tuesday's jobs data, analysts at Capital Economics said Brexit was "not applying the brakes to hiring" just yet in the UK. "However, we suspect that this could mark the peak of employment growth as the Brexit uncertainty reached its crescendo... and the surveys turned down sharply in March," they added in a note to clients

UK employment at record high despite Brexit uncertainty: Govt data

EU summit chair <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leader-donald-tusk-backs-long-delay-if-britain-rethinks-brexit-203291&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi8jY62x9ThAhVv63MBHStwC8YQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Hd_2vyMKYCGqhdQgNBXNp">Donald Tusk </a>called on Tuesday for the "dream" that Britain might give up on leaving the European Union not to be dismissed and urged politicians not to let exhaustion with Brexit negotiations make for a hasty exit.

Giving an account of last week's summit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg,<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-tusk-warns-of-hostile-foreign-funded-parties-ahead-of-eu-parliamentary-elections-201348&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi8jY62x9ThAhVv63MBHStwC8YQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1fdinUFtg3LqaABTC60k1M"> European Council </a>President Tusk said he was responding to a statement by one national leader who had warned "dreamers" not to think "Brexit could be reversed".

"At this rather difficult moment in our history, we need dreamers and dreams. We cannot give in to fatalism. At least I will not stop dreaming about a better and united Europe," said Tusk, long a vocal proponent of Britain having a chance to stay.

It was not immediately clear which leader he was referring to, but French President Emmanuel Macron stood out at the summit for pushing for Britain to be given only a few weeks more to decide whether to leave on negotiated terms or without them. The summit compromised by giving Britain another six months.

Tusk said, "I know that, on both sides of the Channel, everyone, including myself, is exhausted with Brexit, which is completely understandable. However, this is not an excuse to say, "let's get it over with", just because we're tired."

EU summit chair Donald Tusk called on Tuesday for the "dream" that Britain might give up on leaving the European Union not to be dismissed and urged politicians not to let exhaustion with Brexit negotiations make for a hasty exit.

EU summit chair Donald Tusk called on Tuesday for the "dream" that Britain might give up on leaving the European Union not to be dismissed and urged politicians not to let exhaustion with Brexit negotiations make for a hasty exit. Giving an account of last week's summit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, European Council President Tusk said he was responding to a statement by one national leader who had warned "dreamers" not to think "Brexit could be reversed". "At this rather difficult moment in our history, we need dreamers and dreams. We cannot give in to fatalism. At least I will not stop dreaming about a better and united Europe," said Tusk, long a vocal proponent of Britain having a chance to stay. It was not immediately clear which leader he was referring to, but French President Emmanuel Macron stood out at the summit for pushing for Britain to be given only a few weeks more to decide whether to leave on negotiated terms or without them. The summit compromised by giving Britain another six months. Tusk said, "I know that, on both sides of the Channel, everyone, including myself, is exhausted with Brexit, which is completely understandable. However, this is not an excuse to say, "let's get it over with", just because we're tired."

I will not stop dreaming about a united Europe: Tusk on possible Brexit U-turn

European Union countries on Monday gave the final green light for Brussels to open trade talks with Washington, despite France's opposition, several EU sources told AFP.

The EU's 28 member states had struggled for months to agree on a mandate to open trans-Atlantic talks, with some fearing the delay would restart a trade war with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-slams-huawei-for-hiring-former-obama-cyber-security-official-210479">US President Donald Trump</a>.

EU sources said France voted against the mandate and Belgium abstained during a meeting of EU ministers in Luxembourg.

Pursuing a limited trade deal is a key element of a truce negotiated in July that came close to imploding last week after the US threatened $11 billion in fresh trade tariffs against Europe.

Paris voted against the mandate worried about domestic blowback just months ahead of European elections, set for May 23 to 26.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has insisted on the US first signing back up to the Paris climate accord after Trump dumped the pact in 2017, infuriating Macron.

But only a qualified majority of EU members was needed to support the talks, meaning France's "non" remained largely symbolic.

European Union countries on Monday gave the final green light for Brussels to open trade talks with Washington, despite France's opposition, several EU sources told AFP.

European Union countries on Monday gave the final green light for Brussels to open trade talks with Washington, despite France's opposition, several EU sources told AFP. The EU's 28 member states had struggled for months to agree on a mandate to open trans-Atlantic talks, with some fearing the delay would restart a trade war with US President Donald Trump. EU sources said France voted against the mandate and Belgium abstained during a meeting of EU ministers in Luxembourg. Pursuing a limited trade deal is a key element of a truce negotiated in July that came close to imploding last week after the US threatened $11 billion in fresh trade tariffs against Europe. Paris voted against the mandate worried about domestic blowback just months ahead of European elections, set for May 23 to 26. French President Emmanuel Macron has insisted on the US first signing back up to the Paris climate accord after Trump dumped the pact in 2017, infuriating Macron. But only a qualified majority of EU members was needed to support the talks, meaning France's "non" remained largely symbolic.

European Union green lights trade talks with Washington: Sources

The UK government decided to put on hold all emergency planning for a no-deal Brexit following the agreement by European Union (EU) leaders to extend the withdrawal process to October 31 despite committing 1.5 billion pounds to preparations.

The Guardian reported Friday the British government has stood down an army of 6,000 civil servants who had been preparing for a no-deal Brexit.&nbsp;

The civil servants who had been seconded from elsewhere will now return to their normal duties, but there is no clear role for an estimated 4,500 new recruits.

The contingency operations have impacted nearly all departments in the civil service and elsewhere in the public sector including traffic, hospitals and schools.

The UK government has spent 1.5 billion pounds on plans to mitigate the effects of the UK crashing out of the EU without an agreement, and thousands of civil servants were assigned to the project. But the government has relaxed its contingency plans after EU leaders on Thursday agreed to postpone the Brexit deadline to Oct. 31, ending the possibility of a no-deal Brexit on April 12.

The new deadline hands Prime Minister Theresa May extra time to try to get her original deal passed through parliament - once again or to make amendments to the deal if it fails to pass, plunging the country into further uncertainty.

The UK government decided to put on hold all emergency planning for a no-deal Brexit following the agreement by European Union (EU) leaders to extend the withdrawal process to October 31 despite committing 1.

The UK government decided to put on hold all emergency planning for a no-deal Brexit following the agreement by European Union (EU) leaders to extend the withdrawal process to October 31 despite committing 1.5 billion pounds to preparations. The Guardian reported Friday the British government has stood down an army of 6,000 civil servants who had been preparing for a no-deal Brexit. The civil servants who had been seconded from elsewhere will now return to their normal duties, but there is no clear role for an estimated 4,500 new recruits. The contingency operations have impacted nearly all departments in the civil service and elsewhere in the public sector including traffic, hospitals and schools. The UK government has spent 1.5 billion pounds on plans to mitigate the effects of the UK crashing out of the EU without an agreement, and thousands of civil servants were assigned to the project. But the government has relaxed its contingency plans after EU leaders on Thursday agreed to postpone the Brexit deadline to Oct. 31, ending the possibility of a no-deal Brexit on April 12. The new deadline hands Prime Minister Theresa May extra time to try to get her original deal passed through parliament - once again or to make amendments to the deal if it fails to pass, plunging the country into further uncertainty.

UK government halts no-deal Brexit contingency plans

The leaders of the remaining 27 countries in the European Union and British Prime Minister Theresa May have agreed to a "flexible extension" of Brexit until October 31, EU chairman Donald Tusk said early Thursday.

United Kingdom get flexible Brexit extension

UK PM Theresa May briefs MPs on Brexit extension. Watch complete video to know more.

UK PM May briefs MPs on Brexit extension

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-says-view-on-second-brexit-referendum-has-not-changed-209308">Brexit</a> by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-meet-to-decide-another-brexit-delay-209279">chaotic no-deal departure</a> at the end of the week.

The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections.

Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet.&nbsp;

"This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution."

France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21.

Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year.

But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time.

May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid".

Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel.&nbsp;

May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through.

'As soon as possible'

But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise.

As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible".

"I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said.

She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections.

For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid.

EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30.

A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than."

"If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated.

EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget.

May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate.

"We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week. The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections. Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet. "This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution." France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21. Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year. But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time. May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid". Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel. May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through. 'As soon as possible' But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise. As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible". "I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said. She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections. For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid. EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30. A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than." "If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated. EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget. May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate. "We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European Union gives Britain six-month delay to Brexit date

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