Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that.&nbsp;

At the 2009 Copenhagen climate conference, rich nations promised to provide annual funding of $100 billion from 2020, for poorer nations to counteract the effects of climate change. &nbsp;

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has said progress has been "disappointing", with developing countries receiving $79.6 billion in 2019.

"I think getting it all done this week is going to be a stretch," Johnson told reporters as he travelled to New York on Sunday to attend the UN General Assembly (UNGA), according to PA news agency.&nbsp;

He added that he saw the chances of getting it done before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November as "six out of 10".&nbsp;

"It's going to be tough but people need to understand that this is crucial for the world," he said.&nbsp;

He added that there were "real signs of progress" from China, the world's biggest emitter of carbon dioxide, even as COP26 president Alok Sharma said Sunday that Chinese President Xi Jinping had not yet confirmed his attendance at the conference.

Johnson will convene Monday's meeting of leaders along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. &nbsp; 
"We only have a short time left. World leaders must deliver on their climate commitments ahead of @COP26," Johnson said in a tweet.

The UN climate fund is the main financing tool for the Paris Agreement, which calls for capping the rise in global temperatures at "well below" two degrees Celsius, and 1.5 C if possible.

The treaty calls for billions of dollars annually for poor nations already coping with floods, heatwaves, rising seas and superstorms made worse by climate change.

As well attending the UNGA, Johnson will visit the White House on his trip, days after the announcement of a new US-Australia-Britain security pact caused a deep rift with ally France.&nbsp;

He will also meet Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his scepticism on climate change, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.&nbsp;

Asked if he would challenge Bezos on how much tax Amazon pays in the United Kingdom and workers rights, Johnson said he "certainly" would.&nbsp;

"But I will also be congratulating him on his massive forestry initiative. He's putting a huge amount into planting trees around the world," he said.

Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that.

Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that. At the 2009 Copenhagen climate conference, rich nations promised to provide annual funding of $100 billion from 2020, for poorer nations to counteract the effects of climate change. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has said progress has been "disappointing", with developing countries receiving $79.6 billion in 2019. "I think getting it all done this week is going to be a stretch," Johnson told reporters as he travelled to New York on Sunday to attend the UN General Assembly (UNGA), according to PA news agency. He added that he saw the chances of getting it done before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November as "six out of 10". "It's going to be tough but people need to understand that this is crucial for the world," he said. He added that there were "real signs of progress" from China, the world's biggest emitter of carbon dioxide, even as COP26 president Alok Sharma said Sunday that Chinese President Xi Jinping had not yet confirmed his attendance at the conference. Johnson will convene Monday's meeting of leaders along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "We only have a short time left. World leaders must deliver on their climate commitments ahead of @COP26," Johnson said in a tweet. The UN climate fund is the main financing tool for the Paris Agreement, which calls for capping the rise in global temperatures at "well below" two degrees Celsius, and 1.5 C if possible. The treaty calls for billions of dollars annually for poor nations already coping with floods, heatwaves, rising seas and superstorms made worse by climate change. As well attending the UNGA, Johnson will visit the White House on his trip, days after the announcement of a new US-Australia-Britain security pact caused a deep rift with ally France. He will also meet Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his scepticism on climate change, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Asked if he would challenge Bezos on how much tax Amazon pays in the United Kingdom and workers rights, Johnson said he "certainly" would. "But I will also be congratulating him on his massive forestry initiative. He's putting a huge amount into planting trees around the world," he said.

Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges

Amid growing criticism of UK’s handling of the evacuation process in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday defended their airlift operation saying that “the culmination of a mission, unlike anything we've seen in our lifetimes.”

Like the United States, UK has also been facing criticism for failing to pre-empt the quick takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban forces and not making adequate preparations for the smooth evacuation of British nationals and vulnerable Afghans.

In a video clip uploaded to Twitter, he said, “UK troops and officials have worked around the clock to a remorseless deadline in harrowing conditions. They have expended all the patience and care and thought they possess to help people in fear for their lives.”

“They’ve seen at first-hand barbaric terrorist attacks on the queues of people they were trying to comfort, as well as on our American friends. They didn't flinch. They kept calm. They got on with the job. It’s thanks to their colossal exertions that this country has now processed, checked, vetted and airlifted more than 15,000 people to safety in less than two weeks.”

On Saturday, the final British troops and diplomatic staff were airlifted from Kabul, culminating a chaotic two weeks&nbsp;of the evacuation process which saw thousands of Afghans fleeing, fearing the Taliban rule.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-few-hours-after-bidens-warning-409224">Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning</a>

However, as per reports, over 150 British nationals and more than 1,000 Afghans who assisted the western forces have been left behind.&nbsp;

Johnson said however that while Britain would not have wished to leave Afghanistan in the way it did, the armed forces should still be proud of their achievements.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said it had worked tirelessly to evacuate people but it had always cautioned that it would not be able to help everyone. The spokesperson declined to give any further details on the process.

Britain`s defence minister, Ben Wallace, predicted last week that time had run out to evacuate around 1,000 Afghans who were eligible to come to Britain, including former staff to the UK.

(with inputs from agencies)

Amid growing criticism of UK’s handling of the evacuation process in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday defended their airlift operation saying that “the culmination of a mission, unlike anything we've seen in our lifetimes.

Amid growing criticism of UK’s handling of the evacuation process in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday defended their airlift operation saying that “the culmination of a mission, unlike anything we've seen in our lifetimes.” Like the United States, UK has also been facing criticism for failing to pre-empt the quick takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban forces and not making adequate preparations for the smooth evacuation of British nationals and vulnerable Afghans. In a video clip uploaded to Twitter, he said, “UK troops and officials have worked around the clock to a remorseless deadline in harrowing conditions. They have expended all the patience and care and thought they possess to help people in fear for their lives.” “They’ve seen at first-hand barbaric terrorist attacks on the queues of people they were trying to comfort, as well as on our American friends. They didn't flinch. They kept calm. They got on with the job. It’s thanks to their colossal exertions that this country has now processed, checked, vetted and airlifted more than 15,000 people to safety in less than two weeks.” On Saturday, the final British troops and diplomatic staff were airlifted from Kabul, culminating a chaotic two weeks of the evacuation process which saw thousands of Afghans fleeing, fearing the Taliban rule. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning However, as per reports, over 150 British nationals and more than 1,000 Afghans who assisted the western forces have been left behind. Johnson said however that while Britain would not have wished to leave Afghanistan in the way it did, the armed forces should still be proud of their achievements. A Foreign Office spokesperson said it had worked tirelessly to evacuate people but it had always cautioned that it would not be able to help everyone. The spokesperson declined to give any further details on the process. Britain`s defence minister, Ben Wallace, predicted last week that time had run out to evacuate around 1,000 Afghans who were eligible to come to Britain, including former staff to the UK. (with inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson defends Kabul evacuation amid criticism

The fate of a&nbsp;doomed&nbsp;eight-year-old&nbsp;alpaca&nbsp;named Geronimo has triggered an&nbsp;outcry&nbsp;against&nbsp;British&nbsp;Prime Minister Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;after his government ordered the animal be put down because of positive tests for bovine tuberculosis.

The order to kill the&nbsp;alpaca&nbsp;prompted pleas from owner Helen Macdonald for&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;and his wife Carrie to show mercy, prompting some celebrities to demand the prime minister swerve away from what they cast as a public relations disaster.

A march on&nbsp;Johnson's Downing Street base by fans of Geronimo is planned for Monday and more than 97,000 people have signed a petition calling for the creature to be saved.

As ministers insisted Geronimo must be put down,&nbsp;Johnson's 80-year-old father Stanley appealed for the "judicial execution" to be avoided so Geronimo could live in peace in the English county of Gloucestershire.

"I hope and believe his execution can be avoided even at this late stage,"&nbsp;Johnson's father was quoted saying in The Sun tabloid, adding he hoped owner Macdonald would block agriculture ministry staff from "carrying out their absurd murderous errand".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-faces-backbench-rebellion-over-hunger-poverty-in-home-counties-402384">Also read |&nbsp;UK PM faces ‘backbench’ rebellion over hunger, poverty in home counties&nbsp;</a>

Macdonald, a veterinary nurse, said the&nbsp;alpaca&nbsp;was negative when he was brought in from New Zealand and she had spent thousands of pounds on a failed court battle to save the animal. She told The Sun she would "take a bullet" for the&nbsp;alpaca.

Agriculture Secretary George Eustice said that while the fate of Geronimo was sad, the rules were clear that animals which tested positive for bovine Tuberculosis had to killed.

British&nbsp;ministers have been grilled over the fate of Geronimo for days.

Interviewed on Sky Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: "It's obviously difficult because there's a lot of people invested emotionally in a story of an animal, but there's a policy, and there's a reason why the policy shouldn't be stopped."

Macdonald did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The fate of a doomed eight-year-old alpaca named Geronimo has triggered an outcry against British Prime Minister Boris Johnson after his government ordered the animal be put down because of positive tests for bovine tuberculosis.

The fate of a doomed eight-year-old alpaca named Geronimo has triggered an outcry against British Prime Minister Boris Johnson after his government ordered the animal be put down because of positive tests for bovine tuberculosis. The order to kill the alpaca prompted pleas from owner Helen Macdonald for Johnson and his wife Carrie to show mercy, prompting some celebrities to demand the prime minister swerve away from what they cast as a public relations disaster. A march on Johnson's Downing Street base by fans of Geronimo is planned for Monday and more than 97,000 people have signed a petition calling for the creature to be saved. As ministers insisted Geronimo must be put down, Johnson's 80-year-old father Stanley appealed for the "judicial execution" to be avoided so Geronimo could live in peace in the English county of Gloucestershire. "I hope and believe his execution can be avoided even at this late stage," Johnson's father was quoted saying in The Sun tabloid, adding he hoped owner Macdonald would block agriculture ministry staff from "carrying out their absurd murderous errand". Also read | UK PM faces ‘backbench’ rebellion over hunger, poverty in home counties Macdonald, a veterinary nurse, said the alpaca was negative when he was brought in from New Zealand and she had spent thousands of pounds on a failed court battle to save the animal. She told The Sun she would "take a bullet" for the alpaca. Agriculture Secretary George Eustice said that while the fate of Geronimo was sad, the rules were clear that animals which tested positive for bovine Tuberculosis had to killed. British ministers have been grilled over the fate of Geronimo for days. Interviewed on Sky Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: "It's obviously difficult because there's a lot of people invested emotionally in a story of an animal, but there's a policy, and there's a reason why the policy shouldn't be stopped." Macdonald did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Doomed alpaca triggers outcry against British PM Johnson

Despite a spike in cases to levels unseen for months,&nbsp;British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will urge caution on Monday as he is expected to confirm plans to remove nearly all the coronavirus restrictions in England from July 19.

On what he calls a 'one-way road to freedom',&nbsp;Johnson set out proposals to eliminate rules on mask-wearing and social contact&nbsp;and the instruction to work from home&nbsp;earlier this week.

The PM will announce his final decision at a news conference on Monday. In a statement released late on Sunday, he said, "The global pandemic is not over yet." 
 
"Cases will rise as we unlock, so as we confirm our plans today, our message will be clear. Caution is absolutely vital, and we must all take responsibility so we don’t undo our progress." 
 
Britain has implemented one of the world's fastest vaccination programmes, with more than 87% of adults having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 66% having received two. 
 
Nevertheless, recent weeks have seen a striking surge of infections, to rates unseen since the winter. 
 
The government argues that even though cases have surged, deaths and hospitalisations remain far lower than before, proof that the vaccines are saving lives and it is safer to open up.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite a spike in cases to levels unseen for months, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will urge caution on Monday as he is expected to confirm plans to remove nearly all the coronavirus restrictions in England from July 19.

Despite a spike in cases to levels unseen for months, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will urge caution on Monday as he is expected to confirm plans to remove nearly all the coronavirus restrictions in England from July 19. On what he calls a 'one-way road to freedom', Johnson set out proposals to eliminate rules on mask-wearing and social contact and the instruction to work from home earlier this week. The PM will announce his final decision at a news conference on Monday. In a statement released late on Sunday, he said, "The global pandemic is not over yet." "Cases will rise as we unlock, so as we confirm our plans today, our message will be clear. Caution is absolutely vital, and we must all take responsibility so we don’t undo our progress." Britain has implemented one of the world's fastest vaccination programmes, with more than 87% of adults having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 66% having received two. Nevertheless, recent weeks have seen a striking surge of infections, to rates unseen since the winter. The government argues that even though cases have surged, deaths and hospitalisations remain far lower than before, proof that the vaccines are saving lives and it is safer to open up. (With inputs from agencies)

As England set for rule easing, PM Johnson warns pandemic not over

To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy,&nbsp;British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities.

The prime minister has said he wants to tackle regional inequalities and make sure areas outside of the economic powerhouse, London, have more opportunities.&nbsp;Johnson had&nbsp;won 2019 elections, all thanks to voters in struggling regions of England.

In a speech next week, PM&nbsp;will explain how a new High Streets strategy will help local communities thrive&nbsp;by allowing dining on pavements, helping eateries to serve more customers. Under the plans, local sports facilities will receive a 25 million pound ($35 million) boost. 
 
A statement by his office said on Saturday, temporary permissions given to pubs during the pandemic, allowing them to serve 'takeaway pints' will also be extended for another year. 
 
"The Prime Minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society,&nbsp;one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed," a government spokesperson said in the statement. 
 
As part of his plan, Johnson has announced a series of urban renewal projects worth 830 million pounds in towns and cities away from London, as well as establishing of eight Freeports in England. He also&nbsp;backs green technology jobs. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities.

To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities. The prime minister has said he wants to tackle regional inequalities and make sure areas outside of the economic powerhouse, London, have more opportunities. Johnson had won 2019 elections, all thanks to voters in struggling regions of England. In a speech next week, PM will explain how a new High Streets strategy will help local communities thrive by allowing dining on pavements, helping eateries to serve more customers. Under the plans, local sports facilities will receive a 25 million pound ($35 million) boost. A statement by his office said on Saturday, temporary permissions given to pubs during the pandemic, allowing them to serve 'takeaway pints' will also be extended for another year. "The Prime Minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society, one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed," a government spokesperson said in the statement. As part of his plan, Johnson has announced a series of urban renewal projects worth 830 million pounds in towns and cities away from London, as well as establishing of eight Freeports in England. He also backs green technology jobs. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM to announce high street regeneration plans next week

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said. 
 
The remaining legal restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are due to be lifted on July 19, with the decision whether to go ahead scheduled for July 12. 
 
Data suggests that cases will continue to rise as restrictions are eased, but the link to hospitalisations and deaths has been weakened by the vaccination programme, the government said. 
 
People will learn to live with COVID-19 as they do already with flu, Johnson is expected to say, meaning that hospitalisations, serious illness and deaths will continue but at a much lower level than before widespread vaccination. 
 
"Thanks to the successful rollout of our vaccination programme, we are progressing cautiously through our roadmap," Johnson said in a statement. 
 
"But I must stress that the pandemic is not over and that cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks. 
 
"As we begin to learn to live with this virus, we must all continue to carefully manage the risks from COVID-19 and exercise judgement when going about our lives." 
 
The take-up of vaccines in Britain has been strong, with 86% of adults receiving a first dose and 64% receiving two doses as of Sunday, government data shows. 
 
However, cases of COVID-19 have risen in recent weeks, driven by the now-dominant Delta variant, and the final step of lockdown easing was delayed by four weeks to enable more people to be vaccinated. 
 
Data from Public Health England shows that vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation from this variant, the government said. 
 
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Sunday face masks would no longer be mandatory after the final step in lockdown easing. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said. The remaining legal restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are due to be lifted on July 19, with the decision whether to go ahead scheduled for July 12. Data suggests that cases will continue to rise as restrictions are eased, but the link to hospitalisations and deaths has been weakened by the vaccination programme, the government said. People will learn to live with COVID-19 as they do already with flu, Johnson is expected to say, meaning that hospitalisations, serious illness and deaths will continue but at a much lower level than before widespread vaccination. "Thanks to the successful rollout of our vaccination programme, we are progressing cautiously through our roadmap," Johnson said in a statement. "But I must stress that the pandemic is not over and that cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks. "As we begin to learn to live with this virus, we must all continue to carefully manage the risks from COVID-19 and exercise judgement when going about our lives." The take-up of vaccines in Britain has been strong, with 86% of adults receiving a first dose and 64% receiving two doses as of Sunday, government data shows. However, cases of COVID-19 have risen in recent weeks, driven by the now-dominant Delta variant, and the final step of lockdown easing was delayed by four weeks to enable more people to be vaccinated. Data from Public Health England shows that vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation from this variant, the government said. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Sunday face masks would no longer be mandatory after the final step in lockdown easing. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson to set out plans for final step of easing Covid lockdown

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules. 
 
The Sun newspaper, which published the photographs of Matt Hancock and the aide on its front page, said the images were taken last month, before the government lifted rules banning intimate contact with people outside a person's household. 
 
The aide had been a friend of Hancock's before she was appointed to his staff. Hancock is married. 
 
"I accept that I breached the social distancing guidance in these circumstances," Hancock said. "I have let people down and am very sorry. I remain focused on working to get the country out of this pandemic, and would be grateful for privacy for my family on this personal matter." 
 
Hancock, 42, has been at the centre of the government's fight against the pandemic, often appearing on television to tell the public to follow strict rules and to defend his department against criticism of its response to the crisis. 
 
A spokesperson for Johnson said the prime minister had accepted Hancock's apology, had full confidence in him, and 'considers the matter closed'. 
 
The opposition Labour Party called on Johnson to fire Hancock and demanded an investigation into whether he breached the code governing the behaviour of ministers. 
 
"This matter is definitely not closed, despite the government's attempts to cover it up," a Labour spokesperson said. "Matt Hancock appears to have been caught breaking the laws he created, while having a secret relationship with an aide he appointed to a taxpayer-funded job."

(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules. The Sun newspaper, which published the photographs of Matt Hancock and the aide on its front page, said the images were taken last month, before the government lifted rules banning intimate contact with people outside a person's household. The aide had been a friend of Hancock's before she was appointed to his staff. Hancock is married. "I accept that I breached the social distancing guidance in these circumstances," Hancock said. "I have let people down and am very sorry. I remain focused on working to get the country out of this pandemic, and would be grateful for privacy for my family on this personal matter." Hancock, 42, has been at the centre of the government's fight against the pandemic, often appearing on television to tell the public to follow strict rules and to defend his department against criticism of its response to the crisis. A spokesperson for Johnson said the prime minister had accepted Hancock's apology, had full confidence in him, and 'considers the matter closed'. The opposition Labour Party called on Johnson to fire Hancock and demanded an investigation into whether he breached the code governing the behaviour of ministers. "This matter is definitely not closed, despite the government's attempts to cover it up," a Labour spokesperson said. "Matt Hancock appears to have been caught breaking the laws he created, while having a secret relationship with an aide he appointed to a taxpayer-funded job." (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson stands by health secretary, who broke COVID-19 rules by kissing aide

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce on Monday that the end of COVID-19 restrictions will be delayed following concern about the rapid rise of infections of the Delta variant of the coronavirus. 
 
Under a roadmap outlined by Johnson back in February, the government signalled all social restrictions imposed to control the spread of the disease would be lifted 'no earlier' than June 21, when pubs, clubs and other hospitality venues could fully reopen. 
 
But, in recent weeks there has been a fast growth again in the number of new cases caused by the Delta variant, first discovered in India, which health officials believe to be 60% more transmissible than the previous dominant strain and scientists warn could trigger a third wave of infections. 
 
Johnson has refused to deny suggestions in the British media that the end of lockdown would be delayed by up to a month, saying in recent days there was 'serious concern' about rising infections and hospitalisations. 
 
"We're continuing to look at the data, no final decision has been taken and the right time to fill everybody in on what we're going to do with ... June the 21st is tomorrow," Johnson told reporters at the conclusion of the Group of Seven leader's summit on Sunday. 
 
"That's when we'll be putting out the whole package of information so that everybody can see it together." 
 
On Sunday, Britain recorded 7,490 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths, with the number of new infections rising almost 50% between June 7 and 13 compared with the previous week. Hospitalisations were up 15% between June 2 and 8 compared with the previous seven days. 
 
The government has stressed any easing of restrictions would be irreversible, meaning it would always act with caution. 
 
The hesitancy comes despite Britain having one of the fastest rollouts of COVID-19 vaccinations in the world, with more than 41 million people having had their first shot. Nearly 30 million receiving both doses - about 56% of the adult population. 
 
Foreign minister Dominic Raab said the critical issue was data on the link between transmission of the virus and hospitalisations. 
 
"We know we've made great progress and weakening the link between transmission ... and hospitalisation and of course those who are more seriously sick," he told BBC TV on Sunday. "The question is whether we've severed and broken it." 
 
Hospitality bosses have said there must be more government support for businesses to keep them afloat if the lockdown restrictions are kept in place. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce on Monday that the end of COVID-19 restrictions will be delayed following concern about the rapid rise of infections of the Delta variant of the coronavirus.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce on Monday that the end of COVID-19 restrictions will be delayed following concern about the rapid rise of infections of the Delta variant of the coronavirus. Under a roadmap outlined by Johnson back in February, the government signalled all social restrictions imposed to control the spread of the disease would be lifted 'no earlier' than June 21, when pubs, clubs and other hospitality venues could fully reopen. But, in recent weeks there has been a fast growth again in the number of new cases caused by the Delta variant, first discovered in India, which health officials believe to be 60% more transmissible than the previous dominant strain and scientists warn could trigger a third wave of infections. Johnson has refused to deny suggestions in the British media that the end of lockdown would be delayed by up to a month, saying in recent days there was 'serious concern' about rising infections and hospitalisations. "We're continuing to look at the data, no final decision has been taken and the right time to fill everybody in on what we're going to do with ... June the 21st is tomorrow," Johnson told reporters at the conclusion of the Group of Seven leader's summit on Sunday. "That's when we'll be putting out the whole package of information so that everybody can see it together." On Sunday, Britain recorded 7,490 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths, with the number of new infections rising almost 50% between June 7 and 13 compared with the previous week. Hospitalisations were up 15% between June 2 and 8 compared with the previous seven days. The government has stressed any easing of restrictions would be irreversible, meaning it would always act with caution. The hesitancy comes despite Britain having one of the fastest rollouts of COVID-19 vaccinations in the world, with more than 41 million people having had their first shot. Nearly 30 million receiving both doses - about 56% of the adult population. Foreign minister Dominic Raab said the critical issue was data on the link between transmission of the virus and hospitalisations. "We know we've made great progress and weakening the link between transmission ... and hospitalisation and of course those who are more seriously sick," he told BBC TV on Sunday. "The question is whether we've severed and broken it." Hospitality bosses have said there must be more government support for businesses to keep them afloat if the lockdown restrictions are kept in place. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM set to announce delay to end of COVID-19 restrictions

Britain will do 'whatever it takes' to protect its territorial integrity in a trade dispute with the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday, threatening emergency measures if no solution was found. 
 
The threat by Johnson seemed to break a temporary truce in a war of words over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issues with Northern Ireland, the focus for tensions since Britain completed its exit from the EU late last year. 
 
Despite US&nbsp;President Joe Biden encouraging them to find a compromise, Johnson used a G7 summit to indicate no softening in his position on what is called the Northern Ireland protocol that covers border issues with the British province. 
 
"I think we can sort it out but ... it is up to our EU friends and partners to understand that we will do whatever it takes," Johnson told Sky News. 
 
"I think if the protocol continues to be applied in this way, then we will obviously not hesitate to invoke Article 16," he added, referring to a safeguard clause that allows either side to take measures if they believe the agreement is leading to economic, societal or environment difficulties. 
 
"I've talked to some of our friends here today, who do seem to misunderstand that the UK is a single country, a single territory. I just need to get that into their heads." 
 
His comments came after he met French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and top EU officials Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel at a Group of Seven summit in southwestern England. 
 
The EU told the British government once again that it must implement the Brexit deal in full and introduce checks on certain goods moving from Britain to Northern Ireland. Britain repeated its call for urgent and innovative solutions to ease the friction. 
 
The province has an open border with EU member Ireland so the Northern Ireland protocol was agreed as a way to preserve the bloc's single market after Britain left. 
 
The protocol essentially kept the province in the EU’s customs union and adhering to many of the single market rules, creating a regulatory border in the Irish Sea between the British province and the rest of the United Kingdom. 
 
Since Britain exited the bloc's orbit, Johnson has unilaterally delayed the implementation of some provisions of the protocol, including checks on chilled meats, such as sausages moving from the mainland to Northern Ireland, saying it was causing disruption to some supplies to the province. 
 
"Both sides must implement what we agreed on," von der Leyen, European Commission president, said after meeting Johnson alongside Michel, the European Council president. 
 
"There is complete EU unity on this," she said, adding that the deal had been agreed, signed and ratified by both Johnson's government and the bloc. 
 
Germany's Merkel said the two sides could find pragmatic solutions on technical questions, while the EU protected its single market. 
 
Earlier this week, talks between the two sets of negotiators ended in an exchange of threats over the so-called 'sausage wars'. An EU official said at the G7 that there was a need for the rhetoric to be toned down. 
 
The head of the World Trade Organization said she hoped the tensions would not escalate into a trade war. 
 
The United States has also expressed grave concern the dispute could undermine the 1998 Good Friday peace deal. 
 
That agreement largely brought an end to the 'Troubles' - three decades of conflict between Irish Catholic nationalist militants and pro-British Protestant 'loyalist' paramilitaries in which 3,600 people were killed. 
 
Though Brexit was not part of the formal agenda for the G7 summit in the English seaside resort of Carbis Bay, it has more than once threatened to cloud the meeting. 
 
France's Macron offered to reset relations with Britain as long as Johnson stood by the Brexit deal - a characterisation of the meeting that was rejected by the British team. 
 
Brexit has also strained the situation in Northern Ireland, where the pro-British 'unionist' community say they are now split off from the rest of the United Kingdom and the Brexit deal breaches the 1998 peace deal. But the open border between the province and Ireland was a key principle of the Good Friday deal.

Britain will do 'whatever it takes' to protect its territorial integrity in a trade dispute with the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday, threatening emergency measures if no solution was found.

Britain will do 'whatever it takes' to protect its territorial integrity in a trade dispute with the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday, threatening emergency measures if no solution was found. The threat by Johnson seemed to break a temporary truce in a war of words over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issues with Northern Ireland, the focus for tensions since Britain completed its exit from the EU late last year. Despite US President Joe Biden encouraging them to find a compromise, Johnson used a G7 summit to indicate no softening in his position on what is called the Northern Ireland protocol that covers border issues with the British province. "I think we can sort it out but ... it is up to our EU friends and partners to understand that we will do whatever it takes," Johnson told Sky News. "I think if the protocol continues to be applied in this way, then we will obviously not hesitate to invoke Article 16," he added, referring to a safeguard clause that allows either side to take measures if they believe the agreement is leading to economic, societal or environment difficulties. "I've talked to some of our friends here today, who do seem to misunderstand that the UK is a single country, a single territory. I just need to get that into their heads." His comments came after he met French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and top EU officials Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel at a Group of Seven summit in southwestern England. The EU told the British government once again that it must implement the Brexit deal in full and introduce checks on certain goods moving from Britain to Northern Ireland. Britain repeated its call for urgent and innovative solutions to ease the friction. The province has an open border with EU member Ireland so the Northern Ireland protocol was agreed as a way to preserve the bloc's single market after Britain left. The protocol essentially kept the province in the EU’s customs union and adhering to many of the single market rules, creating a regulatory border in the Irish Sea between the British province and the rest of the United Kingdom. Since Britain exited the bloc's orbit, Johnson has unilaterally delayed the implementation of some provisions of the protocol, including checks on chilled meats, such as sausages moving from the mainland to Northern Ireland, saying it was causing disruption to some supplies to the province. "Both sides must implement what we agreed on," von der Leyen, European Commission president, said after meeting Johnson alongside Michel, the European Council president. "There is complete EU unity on this," she said, adding that the deal had been agreed, signed and ratified by both Johnson's government and the bloc. Germany's Merkel said the two sides could find pragmatic solutions on technical questions, while the EU protected its single market. Earlier this week, talks between the two sets of negotiators ended in an exchange of threats over the so-called 'sausage wars'. An EU official said at the G7 that there was a need for the rhetoric to be toned down. The head of the World Trade Organization said she hoped the tensions would not escalate into a trade war. The United States has also expressed grave concern the dispute could undermine the 1998 Good Friday peace deal. That agreement largely brought an end to the 'Troubles' - three decades of conflict between Irish Catholic nationalist militants and pro-British Protestant 'loyalist' paramilitaries in which 3,600 people were killed. Though Brexit was not part of the formal agenda for the G7 summit in the English seaside resort of Carbis Bay, it has more than once threatened to cloud the meeting. France's Macron offered to reset relations with Britain as long as Johnson stood by the Brexit deal - a characterisation of the meeting that was rejected by the British team. Brexit has also strained the situation in Northern Ireland, where the pro-British 'unionist' community say they are now split off from the rest of the United Kingdom and the Brexit deal breaches the 1998 peace deal. But the open border between the province and Ireland was a key principle of the Good Friday deal.

'Whatever it takes', UK PM Johnson warns EU over post-Brexit trade

The UK's chief negotiator called on the European Union to show 'pragmatism and common sense',&nbsp;instead of threatening to retaliate, as the two sides meet to resolve differences over the deal that was supposed to keep trade flowing after Brexit.

David Frost made the comments after his EU counterpart said the bloc was ready to act 'firmly and resolutely' if the UK fails to honor its commitments under the divorce agreement.

The two men are scheduled to meet on Wednesday in London amid rising tensions over implementation of the deal in Northern Ireland, the only part of the UK that shares a land border with the bloc.

Central to the talks are provisions of the deal that effectively created a customs border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, angering many pro-British residents of the island.

While Britain has called for compromise, the EU says the new rules are needed to protect the bloc's single market. Both sides fear the tensions could fuel a return to violence in Northern Ireland.

"Further threats of legal action and trade retaliation from the EU won't make life any easier for the shopper in Strabane, who can't buy their favorite product," Frost said, referring to a town in Northern Ireland.

"What is needed is pragmatism and common sense solutions to resolve the issues as they are before us. This work is important, and it is ever more urgent."

The divorce deal, which took effect on January&nbsp;1, included a number of grace periods that gave Britain time to put in place new systems to check a variety of goods coming into Northern Ireland to ensure they comply with EU rules. Those grace periods are now ending, causing headaches for businesses and consumers in Northern Ireland.

The UK angered Brussels earlier this year when it unilaterally extended the grace period covering many supermarket items, delaying the required inspections for six months. The EU has threatened legal action over that decision.

The Daily Telegraph, a British newspaper, reported on Tuesday that the UK may also extend the grace period covering chilled meats such as sausages and ground beef, which is scheduled to end at the end of this month.

Maros Sefcovic, the EU's chief negotiator, cautioned against such action, saying the two sides should strive to achieve 'mutually agreed compliance paths'.

"If this does not happen, and if the UK takes further unilateral action over the coming weeks, the EU will not be shy in reacting swiftly, firmly and resolutely to ensure that the UK abides by its international law obligations," Sefcovic wrote on Tuesday in the Telegraph.

While Sefcovic didn't specify what those actions might be, the Times of London quoted an unidentified EU official as saying the bloc was ready to impose trade sanctions and retaliatory tariffs.

Sefcovic described the so-called Northern Ireland protocol as an opportunity that will give the region access to more than 500 million customers in both the UK and European Union. But Frost said compromise is needed to make this a reality.

The UK has sent 10 papers to the EU offering solutions to many of the issues that divide the two sides, but has received no written responses from the bloc, he said.

"When I meet Maros Sefcovic later today my message will be clear: time is short and practical solutions are needed now to make the Protocol work," Frost said.

Britain accused the EU of taking an unnecessarily 'purist approach' to the new rules. "There's no case whatsoever for preventing chilled meats from being sold in Northern Ireland," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman, Max Blain.

"We are working very hard to try and resolve these issues consensually. Time is starting to run out and solutions are urgently needed," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK's chief negotiator called on the European Union to show 'pragmatism and common sense', instead of threatening to retaliate, as the two sides meet to resolve differences over the deal that was supposed to keep trade flowing after Brexit.

The UK's chief negotiator called on the European Union to show 'pragmatism and common sense', instead of threatening to retaliate, as the two sides meet to resolve differences over the deal that was supposed to keep trade flowing after Brexit. David Frost made the comments after his EU counterpart said the bloc was ready to act 'firmly and resolutely' if the UK fails to honor its commitments under the divorce agreement. The two men are scheduled to meet on Wednesday in London amid rising tensions over implementation of the deal in Northern Ireland, the only part of the UK that shares a land border with the bloc. Central to the talks are provisions of the deal that effectively created a customs border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, angering many pro-British residents of the island. While Britain has called for compromise, the EU says the new rules are needed to protect the bloc's single market. Both sides fear the tensions could fuel a return to violence in Northern Ireland. "Further threats of legal action and trade retaliation from the EU won't make life any easier for the shopper in Strabane, who can't buy their favorite product," Frost said, referring to a town in Northern Ireland. "What is needed is pragmatism and common sense solutions to resolve the issues as they are before us. This work is important, and it is ever more urgent." The divorce deal, which took effect on January 1, included a number of grace periods that gave Britain time to put in place new systems to check a variety of goods coming into Northern Ireland to ensure they comply with EU rules. Those grace periods are now ending, causing headaches for businesses and consumers in Northern Ireland. The UK angered Brussels earlier this year when it unilaterally extended the grace period covering many supermarket items, delaying the required inspections for six months. The EU has threatened legal action over that decision. The Daily Telegraph, a British newspaper, reported on Tuesday that the UK may also extend the grace period covering chilled meats such as sausages and ground beef, which is scheduled to end at the end of this month. Maros Sefcovic, the EU's chief negotiator, cautioned against such action, saying the two sides should strive to achieve 'mutually agreed compliance paths'. "If this does not happen, and if the UK takes further unilateral action over the coming weeks, the EU will not be shy in reacting swiftly, firmly and resolutely to ensure that the UK abides by its international law obligations," Sefcovic wrote on Tuesday in the Telegraph. While Sefcovic didn't specify what those actions might be, the Times of London quoted an unidentified EU official as saying the bloc was ready to impose trade sanctions and retaliatory tariffs. Sefcovic described the so-called Northern Ireland protocol as an opportunity that will give the region access to more than 500 million customers in both the UK and European Union. But Frost said compromise is needed to make this a reality. The UK has sent 10 papers to the EU offering solutions to many of the issues that divide the two sides, but has received no written responses from the bloc, he said. "When I meet Maros Sefcovic later today my message will be clear: time is short and practical solutions are needed now to make the Protocol work," Frost said. Britain accused the EU of taking an unnecessarily 'purist approach' to the new rules. "There's no case whatsoever for preventing chilled meats from being sold in Northern Ireland," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman, Max Blain. "We are working very hard to try and resolve these issues consensually. Time is starting to run out and solutions are urgently needed," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK urges EU to show 'common sense' in post-Brexit talks

Ahead of his meeting with G7 leaders, United Kingdom PM Boris Johnson has called the rich country leaders to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022.

UK PM: G7 must ensure full global vaccination by end of 2022

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week. 
 
Johnson will host the first in-person summit in almost two years of G7 leaders, which follows a meeting of the group's finance ministers which wrapped up earlier in the day and said he would seek a pledge to hit the global vaccination goal. 
 
"Vaccinating the world by the end of next year would be the single greatest feat in medical history," Johnson said in a statement. "I’m calling on my fellow G7 leaders to join us to end this terrible pandemic and pledge we will never allow the devastation wreaked by coronavirus to happen again." 
 
The leaders of Germany, France, the United States, Italy, Japan, the European Union and Canada will join Johnson for the three-day summit in Cornwall, southwest England, which begins on Friday. It will be the first overseas trip for US&nbsp;President Joe Biden since he took office in January. 
 
While the richest nations have been vaccinating large numbers of their populations, many poorer countries have not had the same access to vaccines. And health experts have warned that unless more COVID-19 shots were donated, the virus will continue to spread and mutate. 
 
US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in London for the finance ministers meeting, said it was urgent for the richest nations to promote vaccinations in poorer countries that could not afford to buy them. 
 
She also repeated the US&nbsp;position that patent rights should be removed for the vaccines, and said they were doing everything they could to address supply chain problems that were preventing a build-up of shots in other parts of the world. 
 
Britain has ordered more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for its population of 67 million and says it will donate any shots it does not need. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week. Johnson will host the first in-person summit in almost two years of G7 leaders, which follows a meeting of the group's finance ministers which wrapped up earlier in the day and said he would seek a pledge to hit the global vaccination goal. "Vaccinating the world by the end of next year would be the single greatest feat in medical history," Johnson said in a statement. "I’m calling on my fellow G7 leaders to join us to end this terrible pandemic and pledge we will never allow the devastation wreaked by coronavirus to happen again." The leaders of Germany, France, the United States, Italy, Japan, the European Union and Canada will join Johnson for the three-day summit in Cornwall, southwest England, which begins on Friday. It will be the first overseas trip for US President Joe Biden since he took office in January. While the richest nations have been vaccinating large numbers of their populations, many poorer countries have not had the same access to vaccines. And health experts have warned that unless more COVID-19 shots were donated, the virus will continue to spread and mutate. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in London for the finance ministers meeting, said it was urgent for the richest nations to promote vaccinations in poorer countries that could not afford to buy them. She also repeated the US position that patent rights should be removed for the vaccines, and said they were doing everything they could to address supply chain problems that were preventing a build-up of shots in other parts of the world. Britain has ordered more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for its population of 67 million and says it will donate any shots it does not need. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Johnson calls on G7 to vaccinate world by end of 2022

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson married his fiancee Carrie Symonds in a secret ceremony at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday.

UK PM Johnson marries fiancee in secret ceremony

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades.&nbsp;

With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth worst official Covid toll, and Johnson was slow to appreciate the significance of the threat from the virus in early 2020 as it spread from China towards Britain's shores.&nbsp;

Dominic Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, will be quizzed by British lawmakers from 0830 GMT on the lessons that can be learned from the pandemic.&nbsp;

Cummings, who left the government late last year, has said the British health ministry was a 'smoking ruin', that Western governments failed during the crisis, and that the secretive British state was woefully unprepared for the pandemic.&nbsp;

"The Covid plan was supposed to be 'world class' but turned out to be part disaster, part non-existent," Cummings said on May 18 in one of dozens of tweets forming a critique of Britain's response.&nbsp;

"If we'd had the right preparations + competent people in charge, we would probably have avoided lockdown1, *definitely* no need for lockdowns 2&amp;3," he said.&nbsp;

Cummings, played by Benedict Cumberbatch in the film 'Brexit: The Uncivil War', casts the British state as an outdated system run by incompetent amateurs, who are resistant to any innovation that would bring them closer to the modern world.&nbsp;

British officials, he said, failed to learn the early Covid lessons from Asia, were resistant to new ideas from young scientists, overly secretive, overly bureaucratic and lacked any real scrutiny from a compliant domestic media.&nbsp;

Asked about Cummings' criticism, Johnson's spokesman said. "At all times, we have been guided by the data and the latest evidence we had."&nbsp;

In a series of investigations, it was reported how the British government made several errors: it was slow to spot the infections arriving, it was late with a lockdown and it continued to discharge infected hospital patients into care homes.&nbsp;

The government's chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, said in March 2020 that 20,000 deaths would be a good outcome. Soon after, a worst-case scenario prepared by government scientific advisers put the possible death toll at 50,000. The toll is now close to 128,000.&nbsp;

Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were working at pace in the biggest public health crisis in a century.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades. With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth worst official Covid toll, and Johnson was slow to appreciate the significance of the threat from the virus in early 2020 as it spread from China towards Britain's shores. Dominic Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, will be quizzed by British lawmakers from 0830 GMT on the lessons that can be learned from the pandemic. Cummings, who left the government late last year, has said the British health ministry was a 'smoking ruin', that Western governments failed during the crisis, and that the secretive British state was woefully unprepared for the pandemic. "The Covid plan was supposed to be 'world class' but turned out to be part disaster, part non-existent," Cummings said on May 18 in one of dozens of tweets forming a critique of Britain's response. "If we'd had the right preparations + competent people in charge, we would probably have avoided lockdown1, *definitely* no need for lockdowns 2&3," he said. Cummings, played by Benedict Cumberbatch in the film 'Brexit: The Uncivil War', casts the British state as an outdated system run by incompetent amateurs, who are resistant to any innovation that would bring them closer to the modern world. British officials, he said, failed to learn the early Covid lessons from Asia, were resistant to new ideas from young scientists, overly secretive, overly bureaucratic and lacked any real scrutiny from a compliant domestic media. Asked about Cummings' criticism, Johnson's spokesman said. "At all times, we have been guided by the data and the latest evidence we had." In a series of investigations, it was reported how the British government made several errors: it was slow to spot the infections arriving, it was late with a lockdown and it continued to discharge infected hospital patients into care homes. The government's chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, said in March 2020 that 20,000 deaths would be a good outcome. Soon after, a worst-case scenario prepared by government scientific advisers put the possible death toll at 50,000. The toll is now close to 128,000. Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were working at pace in the biggest public health crisis in a century. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Covid 'disaster' to be laid bare by PM Johnson's ex-chief adviser Dominic Cummings

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds have sent wedding invitations to family and friends for July 30, 2022, The Sun newspaper reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

Details of the couple’s wedding destination remains a closely guarded secret, according to the British tabloid.

In February 2020, Johnson and Symonds said&nbsp;they were engaged to be married.&nbsp;

Johnson, 56, and Symonds, 33, have been living together in Downing Street since Johnson became prime minister in 2019. They share a son named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, born last year.&nbsp;

Johnson, known for his rumpled appearance and flamboyant oratory, was previously married to Marina Wheeler, and they had four children together. They announced in September 2018 that they had separated and would divorce after 25 years of marriage.&nbsp;

Johnson was also married once before Wheeler to Allegra Mostyn-Owen, and Symonds will be his third wife.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds have sent wedding invitations to family and friends for July 30, 2022, The Sun newspaper reported on Sunday.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds have sent wedding invitations to family and friends for July 30, 2022, The Sun newspaper reported on Sunday. Details of the couple’s wedding destination remains a closely guarded secret, according to the British tabloid. In February 2020, Johnson and Symonds said they were engaged to be married. Johnson, 56, and Symonds, 33, have been living together in Downing Street since Johnson became prime minister in 2019. They share a son named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, born last year. Johnson, known for his rumpled appearance and flamboyant oratory, was previously married to Marina Wheeler, and they had four children together. They announced in September 2018 that they had separated and would divorce after 25 years of marriage. Johnson was also married once before Wheeler to Allegra Mostyn-Owen, and Symonds will be his third wife. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Prime Minister Johnson to wed fiancee Symonds next summer: Report

Johnson & Johnson Coronavirus vaccine has shown an overall 66% efficacy in preventing moderate to severe COVID-19. Although the trial results indicate that it is less effective against the virus variant first discovered in South Africa.

Single-dose Johnson & Johnson Coronavirus vaccine shows 66% efficacy

Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi. 
&nbsp; 
Announcing the development, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Due to the global Covid 19 situation, it has been decided that this year there will not be a foreign head of state or head of govt as the chief guest at our republic day event".

India had extended an invite to UK PM Boris Johnson to be the guest at the Republic Day that had accepted and confirmed that he will be coming. But earlier this month he had informed the Indian PM of his inability to come due to the new strain of Covid virus that had emerged in the UK.&nbsp;

This is the 4th time in history that no foreign guest will be present at India's republic day.&nbsp;

The last time it had happened was in the year 1966, and before that in 1953 and 1952.

The choice of republic day guest showcases New Delhi's closeness with the country. Indian PM Modi had invited US President Barack Obama as the chief guest in 2015, which sent the message of growing ties Delhi Washington partnership.&nbsp;

In 2018, all members of the ASEAN grouping were invited, creating history since never before 10 heads of govt/states were present at the parade together.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi. Announcing the development, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Due to the global Covid 19 situation, it has been decided that this year there will not be a foreign head of state or head of govt as the chief guest at our republic day event". India had extended an invite to UK PM Boris Johnson to be the guest at the Republic Day that had accepted and confirmed that he will be coming. But earlier this month he had informed the Indian PM of his inability to come due to the new strain of Covid virus that had emerged in the UK. This is the 4th time in history that no foreign guest will be present at India's republic day. The last time it had happened was in the year 1966, and before that in 1953 and 1952. The choice of republic day guest showcases New Delhi's closeness with the country. Indian PM Modi had invited US President Barack Obama as the chief guest in 2015, which sent the message of growing ties Delhi Washington partnership. In 2018, all members of the ASEAN grouping were invited, creating history since never before 10 heads of govt/states were present at the parade together.

Covid-19 shadow on 72nd Republic Day: No foreign head of state to attend the event

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal.

The deal gives EU boats a lot of access to the UK’s waters for fishing. Some British politicians also lashed out at Johnson, calling him a sell out.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/it-was-worth-fighting-for-this-brexit-deal-says-eu-commission-chief-352201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UK is set to leave EU’s Common Fisheries Policy on December 31. Under the new trade deal which was confirmed on December 24, the current rules are set to remain as is for the upcoming 5.5 years - the transition period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

As time goes by, the EU and UK will hold annual discussions on the bloc’s access to British waters.

The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations claimed that the fishing industry had been sacrificed by Johnson. 
 
For instance - in the Celtic Sea haddock, the UK’s share will increase from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, which leaves 80 per cent in the mercy of EU fleets for the next five years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a> 
 
"In the end-game, the prime minister made the call and caved in on fish, despite the rhetoric and assurances," the group said. "There will of course be an extensive public relations exercise to portray the deal as a fabulous victory, but it will inevitably be seen by the fishing industry as a defeat”, it added. 
The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum. 
&nbsp;

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal.

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal. The deal gives EU boats a lot of access to the UK’s waters for fishing. Some British politicians also lashed out at Johnson, calling him a sell out. The UK is set to leave EU’s Common Fisheries Policy on December 31. Under the new trade deal which was confirmed on December 24, the current rules are set to remain as is for the upcoming 5.5 years - the transition period. Also read: Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says As time goes by, the EU and UK will hold annual discussions on the bloc’s access to British waters. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations claimed that the fishing industry had been sacrificed by Johnson. For instance - in the Celtic Sea haddock, the UK’s share will increase from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, which leaves 80 per cent in the mercy of EU fleets for the next five years. Also read: Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date "In the end-game, the prime minister made the call and caved in on fish, despite the rhetoric and assurances," the group said. "There will of course be an extensive public relations exercise to portray the deal as a fabulous victory, but it will inevitably be seen by the fishing industry as a defeat”, it added. The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum.

Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen

After the UK clinched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-is-done-uk-clinches-brexit-agreement-with-eu-ahead-of-december-31-deadline-352125">Brexit </a>deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have&nbsp;taken back control of our laws and our destiny."

Watch:

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PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal".

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The deal is done. <a href="https://t.co/zzhvxOSeWz">pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1342123159181516802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We will be your ally, your supporter, your number one market - this country will remain culturally, historically, geologically attached to Europe," PM Johnson said as he sealed the Brexit agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/chief-characters-in-britains-brexit-saga-277805">In Pics: Chief characters in Britain's years-long Brexit saga</a>

Johnson added that post-Brexit trade agreement is a "a good deal for the whole of Europe".

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that she was "confident" the Brexit deal was a "good outcome".

"We will quickly be able to determine whether Germany can support today's result of the negotiations," Merkel said, adding,"I am very confident that we have a good result."

Former British prime ministers David Cameron and Theresa May who had to resign over the Brexit logjam called it a welcome development "Trade deal is very welcome," Cameron said while stating that "good to end a difficult year with some positive news".

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It's good to end a difficult year with some positive news. Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners. Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/David_Cameron/status/1342126305320562688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Very welcome news that the UK &amp; EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal – one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing," former PM May said.

Amid the Brexit celebrations in the UK, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was time for Scotland to be "an independent, European nation".

"Before the spin starts, it's worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland's will," Sturgeon said&nbsp;while asserting that "there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us."&nbsp;

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There will be lots of focus - rightly - on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus - an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people - is cultural vandalism by the UK government. <a href="https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z">https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z</a>
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Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin hailed the Brexit deal saying: "While we will miss the UK from the European Union, the fact that a deal is now in place means we can focus on how we manage good relationship in the years ahead."

After the UK clinched the Brexit deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny." Watch: PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal".

After the UK clinched the Brexit deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny." Watch: PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal". The deal is done. pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) December 24, 2020 × "We will be your ally, your supporter, your number one market - this country will remain culturally, historically, geologically attached to Europe," PM Johnson said as he sealed the Brexit agreement. In Pics: Chief characters in Britain's years-long Brexit saga Johnson added that post-Brexit trade agreement is a "a good deal for the whole of Europe". Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that she was "confident" the Brexit deal was a "good outcome". "We will quickly be able to determine whether Germany can support today's result of the negotiations," Merkel said, adding,"I am very confident that we have a good result." Former British prime ministers David Cameron and Theresa May who had to resign over the Brexit logjam called it a welcome development "Trade deal is very welcome," Cameron said while stating that "good to end a difficult year with some positive news". It's good to end a difficult year with some positive news. Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners. Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team. — David Cameron (@David_Cameron) December 24, 2020 × "Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal – one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing," former PM May said. Amid the Brexit celebrations in the UK, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was time for Scotland to be "an independent, European nation". "Before the spin starts, it's worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland's will," Sturgeon said while asserting that "there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us." There will be lots of focus - rightly - on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus - an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people - is cultural vandalism by the UK government. https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z — Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) December 24, 2020 × Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin hailed the Brexit deal saying: "While we will miss the UK from the European Union, the fact that a deal is now in place means we can focus on how we manage good relationship in the years ahead."

We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny, says UK PM Johnson after Brexit deal

UK PM Boris Johnson doesn't comment on farmers' protest in India. Watch this video to know more

UK PM Boris Johnson doesn't comment on farmers' protest in India

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to soon make an "in-person" visit to India soon, a visit that will focus on strengthening ties even as the UK leaves European Union.&nbsp;

Acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson in said, "We are expecting UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be paying an in-person visit to India in the next few months. Beyond that PM Boris Johnson is very very keen to come to India. So we hope over the next few months we will visits, by both FS Raab and PM Johnson"

The visit could be the first in-person visit, given high-level physical visits have been suspended globally due to COVID pandemic. Amid&nbsp;the pandemic, Indian Prime Minister has had five&nbsp;virtual summits starting with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morison, EU leadership, Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa, Denmark PM&nbsp;

Asked on extradition of Vijay Mallya, the acting British High Commissioner said, "Further legal issue that needs resolution before we will be in a position to extradite him....Extradition can't take place unless that particular legal issue can be resolved...we are trying to resolve the issue as quickly as we can."

The United Kingdom has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Climate Ambition summit that will take place in December. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was in London a few weeks ago as part of his European tour during which cooperation in the Indo Pacific was discussed.&nbsp;

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to soon make an "in-person" visit to India soon, a visit that will focus on strengthening ties even as the UK leaves European Union.

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to soon make an "in-person" visit to India soon, a visit that will focus on strengthening ties even as the UK leaves European Union. Acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson in said, "We are expecting UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be paying an in-person visit to India in the next few months. Beyond that PM Boris Johnson is very very keen to come to India. So we hope over the next few months we will visits, by both FS Raab and PM Johnson" The visit could be the first in-person visit, given high-level physical visits have been suspended globally due to COVID pandemic. Amid the pandemic, Indian Prime Minister has had five virtual summits starting with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morison, EU leadership, Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa, Denmark PM Asked on extradition of Vijay Mallya, the acting British High Commissioner said, "Further legal issue that needs resolution before we will be in a position to extradite him....Extradition can't take place unless that particular legal issue can be resolved...we are trying to resolve the issue as quickly as we can." The United Kingdom has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Climate Ambition summit that will take place in December. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was in London a few weeks ago as part of his European tour during which cooperation in the Indo Pacific was discussed.

British PM Johnson to make 'in-person' visit to India soon

Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday was scolded by the speaker of parliament for showing contempt towards lawmakers. The PM was reprimanded for hurrying through COVID-19 restrictions without taking into account all the factors.

The chief officer of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle told Johnson that he had made rules in a “totally unsatisfactory” way, marking a rare intervention by the speaker.

The PM is set to hold a news conference with the government’s chief scientists today, as the country grapples with a second-wave of COVID-19 infections. Citizens have displayed anger at the idea of reintroducing restrictions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/boris-johnson-starts-shutting-down-britain-again-as-coronavirus-spreads-329383" hreflang="en">Boris Johnson starts shutting down Britain again as coronavirus spreads</a>

"The way in which the government has exercised its powers to make secondary legislation during this crisis has been totally unsatisfactory," Hoyle told parliament.

Hoyle is the highest authority in the House of Commons and moderates debates as the speaker. She said that the government should no longer “treat it with the contempt that it has shown”.

Britain has the worst death toll in all of Europe, and recorded 7,143 new infections on Tuesday, the single highest number of infections so far.

In total, 42,072 people have died in the UK, which the world’s fifth-highest death tally. The UK is looking at new restrictions in the face of rising cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

Johnson had to apologise after the growing anger due to the local lockdown rules, which have caused confusion across the country, and destroyed businesses in the process.

Lawmakers belonging to the Conservative party have threatened to rebel against the government in light of the situation.

"We will do everything we can to save every job," Johnson said.&nbsp; In the second quarter of 2020, the UK’s economy shrank by a record 19.8 per cent.

Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday was scolded by the speaker of parliament for showing contempt towards lawmakers. The PM was reprimanded for hurrying through COVID-19 restrictions without taking into account all the factors.

Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday was scolded by the speaker of parliament for showing contempt towards lawmakers. The PM was reprimanded for hurrying through COVID-19 restrictions without taking into account all the factors. The chief officer of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle told Johnson that he had made rules in a “totally unsatisfactory” way, marking a rare intervention by the speaker. The PM is set to hold a news conference with the government’s chief scientists today, as the country grapples with a second-wave of COVID-19 infections. Citizens have displayed anger at the idea of reintroducing restrictions. Also read: Boris Johnson starts shutting down Britain again as coronavirus spreads "The way in which the government has exercised its powers to make secondary legislation during this crisis has been totally unsatisfactory," Hoyle told parliament. Hoyle is the highest authority in the House of Commons and moderates debates as the speaker. She said that the government should no longer “treat it with the contempt that it has shown”. Britain has the worst death toll in all of Europe, and recorded 7,143 new infections on Tuesday, the single highest number of infections so far. In total, 42,072 people have died in the UK, which the world’s fifth-highest death tally. The UK is looking at new restrictions in the face of rising cases. Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty Johnson had to apologise after the growing anger due to the local lockdown rules, which have caused confusion across the country, and destroyed businesses in the process. Lawmakers belonging to the Conservative party have threatened to rebel against the government in light of the situation. "We will do everything we can to save every job," Johnson said. In the second quarter of 2020, the UK’s economy shrank by a record 19.8 per cent.

UK PM Boris Johnson reprimanded for 'contempt' of parliament

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-trade-deal-brits-do-not-understand-says-french-foreign-minister-325567">Also read|&nbsp;Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister</a>

Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland.

"We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote.

"I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-wont-blink-first-uk-warns-the-eu-on-brexit-trade-negotiations-325513">Also read|&nbsp;'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations</a>

The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe.

Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed.

The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland.

After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1.

'Legal safety net'

"More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement.

Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year.

"But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net".

The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty.

"We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks. Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs. Also read| Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland. "We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote. "I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK." Also read| 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe. Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed. The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland. After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1. 'Legal safety net' "More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement. Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year. "But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net". The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty. "We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12.

He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray.

But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump.

Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone.

"I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers.

But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress.

"I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday.

"When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors."

Growing criticism

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak.

But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures.

In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests.

Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day.

The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes.

While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

"The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television.

"This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce."

Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus.

But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours.

The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment".

He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus.

Deep recession

There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7.

Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak.

There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban.

The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries".

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools.

Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown. Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12. He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray. But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump. Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone. "I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers. But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress. "I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday. "When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors." Growing criticism Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak. But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures. In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests. Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day. The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes. While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. "The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television. "This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce." Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus. But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist. Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours. The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment". He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus. Deep recession There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7. Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak. There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban. The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries". Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools. Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was recuperating Monday at his countryside retreat and remained off work after saying his battle with coronavirus "could have gone either way".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quarantine-measures-taken-according-to-law-says-china-amid-racism-row-against-africans-in-guangzhou-292296" hreflang="en">Quarantine measures taken according to law, says China amid racism row against Africans in Guangzhou</a>

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is currently deputising for him, but the government is set to make a decision this week on whether to maintain Britain's lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-times-of-social-distancing-a-dog-delivers-wine-in-us-292298" hreflang="en">At times of social distancing, a dog delivers wine in US</a>

Confinement measures have been in place since March 20 across the country, where more than 10,000 people have died from COVID-19, making it one of the worst-affected nations in the global pandemic.

Johnson became the most high-profile leader to contract the virus last month and spent a week in hospital -- including three days in intensive care -- before being discharged Sunday.&nbsp;

He thanked medics who cared for him when it "could have gone either way" in a candid video message released Sunday.&nbsp;

The 55-year-old is now staying at Chequers, a 16th-century mansion northwest of London used as a retreat by British premiers for the past century.&nbsp;

He has reportedly been reunited with his pregnant partner Carrie Symonds, who earlier this month reported suffering from coronavirus symptoms herself.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, Johnson spoke to Raab, who he asked to stand in for him when he was admitted to intensive care one week ago.

"The prime minister is focusing on his recovery, and he's not currently carrying out government work," Johnson's spokesman said Monday.&nbsp;

Raab has been chairing the government's daily meetings on coronavirus, but a decision is due on Thursday when the three-week-old nationwide lockdown comes up for review.

Ministers must decide whether to continue demanding people stay at home where necessary, and keep non-essential shops closed.

Given the death toll, has been rising by around 900 per day since last week, few expect the restrictions to be lifted this week.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said in Scotland, "that review is not likely to result in these restrictions being lifted in the very near future".

"There are early optimistic signs that the steps we are taking are working, but until we know more, until we have solid evidence, we must stick with it," she told reporters in Edinburgh.

- 'Saved my life' - &nbsp; 
Johnson's government has faced questions about whether it was too slow to impose the lockdown, keeping pubs, shops and schools open even while they shut across Europe.

According to The Times newspaper, 10 cabinet ministers -- just under half -- are pressing for the lockdown to be eased next month over concern about the economic impact.

The government also remains under pressure as doctors and nurses complain of a lack of protective equipment and a shortage of coronavirus tests.

Johnson tested positive at the end of March, and after 10 days holed up in Downing Street was admitted to hospital. Twenty-four hours later he was moved to intensive care.

He was given oxygen, although he was not put on a ventilator, and in a video message released on Sunday, he said he had been in real danger.

"I hope they won't mind if I mention in particular two nurses who stood by my bedside for 48 hours when things could have gone either way," he said.

He named them as Jenny from New Zealand and Luis from Portugal, both of whom work for Britain's state-run National Health Service (NHS).

He added "the NHS has saved my life, no question".&nbsp;

The parents of Jenny, identified in media as Jenny McGee, spoke of their "exceptional" pride at her role.

"She has told us these things over the years and it doesn't matter what patient she is looking after, this is what she does," her mother Caroline told Television New Zealand.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was recuperating Monday at his countryside retreat and remained off work after saying his battle with coronavirus "could have gone either way".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was recuperating Monday at his countryside retreat and remained off work after saying his battle with coronavirus "could have gone either way". Also read: Quarantine measures taken according to law, says China amid racism row against Africans in Guangzhou Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is currently deputising for him, but the government is set to make a decision this week on whether to maintain Britain's lockdown. Also read: At times of social distancing, a dog delivers wine in US Confinement measures have been in place since March 20 across the country, where more than 10,000 people have died from COVID-19, making it one of the worst-affected nations in the global pandemic. Johnson became the most high-profile leader to contract the virus last month and spent a week in hospital -- including three days in intensive care -- before being discharged Sunday. He thanked medics who cared for him when it "could have gone either way" in a candid video message released Sunday. The 55-year-old is now staying at Chequers, a 16th-century mansion northwest of London used as a retreat by British premiers for the past century. He has reportedly been reunited with his pregnant partner Carrie Symonds, who earlier this month reported suffering from coronavirus symptoms herself. Over the weekend, Johnson spoke to Raab, who he asked to stand in for him when he was admitted to intensive care one week ago. "The prime minister is focusing on his recovery, and he's not currently carrying out government work," Johnson's spokesman said Monday. Raab has been chairing the government's daily meetings on coronavirus, but a decision is due on Thursday when the three-week-old nationwide lockdown comes up for review. Ministers must decide whether to continue demanding people stay at home where necessary, and keep non-essential shops closed. Given the death toll, has been rising by around 900 per day since last week, few expect the restrictions to be lifted this week. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said in Scotland, "that review is not likely to result in these restrictions being lifted in the very near future". "There are early optimistic signs that the steps we are taking are working, but until we know more, until we have solid evidence, we must stick with it," she told reporters in Edinburgh. - 'Saved my life' - Johnson's government has faced questions about whether it was too slow to impose the lockdown, keeping pubs, shops and schools open even while they shut across Europe. According to The Times newspaper, 10 cabinet ministers -- just under half -- are pressing for the lockdown to be eased next month over concern about the economic impact. The government also remains under pressure as doctors and nurses complain of a lack of protective equipment and a shortage of coronavirus tests. Johnson tested positive at the end of March, and after 10 days holed up in Downing Street was admitted to hospital. Twenty-four hours later he was moved to intensive care. He was given oxygen, although he was not put on a ventilator, and in a video message released on Sunday, he said he had been in real danger. "I hope they won't mind if I mention in particular two nurses who stood by my bedside for 48 hours when things could have gone either way," he said. He named them as Jenny from New Zealand and Luis from Portugal, both of whom work for Britain's state-run National Health Service (NHS). He added "the NHS has saved my life, no question". The parents of Jenny, identified in media as Jenny McGee, spoke of their "exceptional" pride at her role. "She has told us these things over the years and it doesn't matter what patient she is looking after, this is what she does," her mother Caroline told Television New Zealand.

Coronavirus: United Kingdom's Johnson recuperates as virus lockdown decision looms

Prime Minister Boris Johnson enters the third day in the intensive care unit on Wednesday battling the coronavirus. Coronavirus has infected more than 55,000 people across the country and killed nearly 6,200. Watch report

UK PM Boris Johnson enters 3rd day in ICU, Is stable & in good spirit

United States President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-space-force-donald-trump-creates-new-warfare-service-branch-of-pentagon-269433">Donald Trump</a> has extended an invitation to the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to visit him in the White House during the new year, Britain's Sunday Times newspaper reported.

According to the report, Trump invited Johnson after the latter recently swept the British elections.

"Some potential dates have been floated in mid-January but nothing has yet been formally agreed. But it is clear that both sides want to make it happen sometime in early 2020," the report quoted a source as saying.

Watch: Gravitas -&nbsp;President Trump impeached in the house

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-president-trump-impeached-in-the-house-269253/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Friday, Johnson won approval for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnsons-brexit-deal-wins-first-vote-in-new-parliament-269404">Brexit deal</a> in the British parliament. His election pledge revolved around Britain's departure from the European Union by January 31

The parliamentary approval followed Johnson's landslide election victory earlier this month.

Amid Brexit plans, Johnson and Trump agreed in a phone call on Monday to pursue an "ambitious" UK-US free trade agreement.

Trump expressed elation after Johnson's win and said that his victory had the cleared the way for a 'massive' trade deal after Brexit.

"This deal has the potential to be far bigger and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-enthusiastic-about-boris-johnsons-victory-but-it-wont-be-smooth-sailing-for-them-269348">more lucrative</a> than any deal that could be made with the EU", Trump had said in a tweet earlier this month.

No formal discussions regarding this visit have taken place yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to visit him in the White House during the new year, Britain's Sunday Times newspaper reported.

United States President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to visit him in the White House during the new year, Britain's Sunday Times newspaper reported. According to the report, Trump invited Johnson after the latter recently swept the British elections. "Some potential dates have been floated in mid-January but nothing has yet been formally agreed. But it is clear that both sides want to make it happen sometime in early 2020," the report quoted a source as saying. Watch: Gravitas - President Trump impeached in the house On Friday, Johnson won approval for the Brexit deal in the British parliament. His election pledge revolved around Britain's departure from the European Union by January 31 The parliamentary approval followed Johnson's landslide election victory earlier this month. Amid Brexit plans, Johnson and Trump agreed in a phone call on Monday to pursue an "ambitious" UK-US free trade agreement. Trump expressed elation after Johnson's win and said that his victory had the cleared the way for a 'massive' trade deal after Brexit. "This deal has the potential to be far bigger and more lucrative than any deal that could be made with the EU", Trump had said in a tweet earlier this month. No formal discussions regarding this visit have taken place yet. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Trump invites Britain's Johnson to White House for new year: Sources

State opening of the U.K. Parliament after the victory of Boris Johnson in recent elections.

Gravitas: The queen outlines Boris Johnson government's agenda

In a ceremony that marks a new parliament, Queen Elizabeth will read&nbsp;out&nbsp;the laws which the government wants the House of Commons to approve and will pinpoint&nbsp;Johnson's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-to-set-out-pm-johnsons-agenda-on-thursday-268326">priorities</a>&nbsp;after winning a commanding majority at last week's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/uk-election-what-boris-johnsons-victory-means-for-britains-place-in-the-world-268495">national election</a>.

The prime minister, who won over many traditional supporters of the main opposition Labour Party in northern and central England, has proclaimed he will lead a "people's government" and will move to fulfil his pledge to "get&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;done".

The&nbsp;Queen's&nbsp;Speech&nbsp;will include new legislation needed to implement the future relationship&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;has promised to agree with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-stop-brexit-uks-johnson-gets-down-to-work-268636">EU</a> by the end of 2020. He plans to pass the laws needed to finalise the divorce agreement by Jan. 31.

He will also cement his commitment to spend more on&nbsp;Britain's&nbsp;much-loved but struggling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-to-set-out-pm-johnsons-agenda-on-thursday-268326">National&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Service</a> by prioritising legislation to guarantee funding increases, rising to an extra 33.9 billion pounds per year by 2023-24.

"The NHS is the single greatest institution in this country," he told a reception of&nbsp;health&nbsp;workers late on Wednesday. "We are now putting the biggest investment in the NHS in living memory. We have to keep that investment going."

On Tuesday,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;told his top team of ministers that they "ain't seen nothing yet folks", warning them that there was much to do to pay back the trust offered his government in the election on Dec. 12 when he won a majority of 80.

After more than three years of debate over&nbsp;Brexit,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;wants to move quickly to try to unite a country riven by disagreements over how, when or whether Britain should leave the EU. Towns, villages and even families have been fractured.

His aides say he is also determined to try to keep the support of those voters in northern and central England, many of whom voted for the governing Conservatives for the first time, by trying to make their lives better.

With a&nbsp;healthy majority, he should be able to fulfil his priority to "get&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;done" and is expected to announce that the divorce agreement, or Withdrawal Agreement Bill, is brought back to parliament before Christmas and then passed quickly.

He will also offer some insight into how he wants to tackle the domestic concerns highlighted in the election campaign.

Beyond increased funding for the NHS, he is also expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-business-seeks-brexit-assurances-after-johnson-win-268132">outline measures</a> to strengthen the justice system, improve transport, better protect those people who rent their homes and kickstart talks to restore the government in Northern Ireland.

In a ceremony that marks a new parliament, Queen Elizabeth will read out the laws which the government wants the House of Commons to approve and will pinpoint Johnson's priorities after winning a commanding majority at last week's national election.

In a ceremony that marks a new parliament, Queen Elizabeth will read out the laws which the government wants the House of Commons to approve and will pinpoint Johnson's priorities after winning a commanding majority at last week's national election. The prime minister, who won over many traditional supporters of the main opposition Labour Party in northern and central England, has proclaimed he will lead a "people's government" and will move to fulfil his pledge to "get Brexit done". The Queen's Speech will include new legislation needed to implement the future relationship Johnson has promised to agree with the EU by the end of 2020. He plans to pass the laws needed to finalise the divorce agreement by Jan. 31. He will also cement his commitment to spend more on Britain's much-loved but struggling National Health Service by prioritising legislation to guarantee funding increases, rising to an extra 33.9 billion pounds per year by 2023-24. "The NHS is the single greatest institution in this country," he told a reception of health workers late on Wednesday. "We are now putting the biggest investment in the NHS in living memory. We have to keep that investment going." On Tuesday, Johnson told his top team of ministers that they "ain't seen nothing yet folks", warning them that there was much to do to pay back the trust offered his government in the election on Dec. 12 when he won a majority of 80. After more than three years of debate over Brexit, Johnson wants to move quickly to try to unite a country riven by disagreements over how, when or whether Britain should leave the EU. Towns, villages and even families have been fractured. His aides say he is also determined to try to keep the support of those voters in northern and central England, many of whom voted for the governing Conservatives for the first time, by trying to make their lives better. With a healthy majority, he should be able to fulfil his priority to "get Brexit done" and is expected to announce that the divorce agreement, or Withdrawal Agreement Bill, is brought back to parliament before Christmas and then passed quickly. He will also offer some insight into how he wants to tackle the domestic concerns highlighted in the election campaign. Beyond increased funding for the NHS, he is also expected to outline measures to strengthen the justice system, improve transport, better protect those people who rent their homes and kickstart talks to restore the government in Northern Ireland.

Brexit and health, Britain's Johnson sets out priorities in Queen's Speech

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has finally approved a controversial report on Russian interference in the UK that he blocked before the election.

UK PM Boris Johnson approves release of Russian interference report following election win

December 13th turns nightmare for Labour party. Labour suffers huge reverses in Northeast UK. #WION #UKElection #BorisJohnson

Conservatives secure thumping majority in UK

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