Climate protesters continue to reach out for landmarks in order to grab attention. Now two UK climate protesters have scaled a major road bridge over the River Thames, days after activists threw tomato soup over Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers" masterpiece. Monday's incident led to huge traffic delays and the bridge had to be closed down.

The Just Stop Oil protesters climbed more than 80 metres&nbsp;up one of the towers of the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge.

"Two people climbed up onto high cables early this morning," Essex Police said on Twitter.

"The QEII bridge is closed to allow us to resolve the situation as safely as possible."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woke-climate-activists-throw-tomato-soup-at-84-million-van-gogh-painting-525661">'Woke' climate activists throw tomato soup at $84 million Van Gogh painting</a>

The bridge, known as the Dartford Crossing, is used by an estimated 160,000 vehicles a day and links up to one of Europe's busiest motorways. It is the only way to cross the Thames to the east of London for several motorists.

One of the protesters, Morgan Trowland, posted on Twitter a clip of himself at the top of the bridge.

"I'm willing to do this 'cos I'm not willing to sit back and see everything burn," he wrote.

39-year-old Morgan, who says he is a bridge design engineer, said, "Our government has enacted suicidal laws to accelerate oil production, killing human life and destroying our environment."

"I can't challenge this madness in my desk job, designing bridges, so I'm taking direct action, occupying the QE2 bridge until the government stops all new oil."

Another protester, identified as Marcus, a 33-year-old teacher, added, "Only direct action will now help to reach the social tipping point we so urgently need."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-van-goghs-sunflowers-climate-activists-spray-paint-on-aston-martin-showroom-in-london-watch-525938">Climate activists spray-paint Aston Martin showroom in London</a>

The police had to close the bridge before dawn, diverting traffic through a tunnel under the river, which is normally only used for northbound traffic.

"This incident may take some time to resolve due to the complexities of safely getting people down from height," an Essex police spokesman added.

The bridge, 30 kilometres (18 miles) east of central London, connects directly at both ends with the M25 London Orbital route.

On Saturday, two protesters who had thrown tomato soup over a van Gogh painting at London's National Gallery appeared in court. While a screen protected the painting, the frame suffered some damage. Meanwhile, nearly 30 demonstrators from the group glued themselves to the tarmac, blocking a major road in east London.

Just Stop Oil says climate change poses an existential crisis for humanity and its direct tactics are justified.

UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman has threatened police action against such protesters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Climate protesters continue to reach out for landmarks in order to grab attention. Now two UK climate protesters have scaled a major road bridge over the River Thames, days after activists threw tomato soup over Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers" masterpiece.

Climate protesters continue to reach out for landmarks in order to grab attention. Now two UK climate protesters have scaled a major road bridge over the River Thames, days after activists threw tomato soup over Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers" masterpiece. Monday's incident led to huge traffic delays and the bridge had to be closed down. The Just Stop Oil protesters climbed more than 80 metres up one of the towers of the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. "Two people climbed up onto high cables early this morning," Essex Police said on Twitter. "The QEII bridge is closed to allow us to resolve the situation as safely as possible." Also Read | 'Woke' climate activists throw tomato soup at $84 million Van Gogh painting The bridge, known as the Dartford Crossing, is used by an estimated 160,000 vehicles a day and links up to one of Europe's busiest motorways. It is the only way to cross the Thames to the east of London for several motorists. One of the protesters, Morgan Trowland, posted on Twitter a clip of himself at the top of the bridge. "I'm willing to do this 'cos I'm not willing to sit back and see everything burn," he wrote. 39-year-old Morgan, who says he is a bridge design engineer, said, "Our government has enacted suicidal laws to accelerate oil production, killing human life and destroying our environment." "I can't challenge this madness in my desk job, designing bridges, so I'm taking direct action, occupying the QE2 bridge until the government stops all new oil." Another protester, identified as Marcus, a 33-year-old teacher, added, "Only direct action will now help to reach the social tipping point we so urgently need." Also Read | Climate activists spray-paint Aston Martin showroom in London The police had to close the bridge before dawn, diverting traffic through a tunnel under the river, which is normally only used for northbound traffic. "This incident may take some time to resolve due to the complexities of safely getting people down from height," an Essex police spokesman added. The bridge, 30 kilometres (18 miles) east of central London, connects directly at both ends with the M25 London Orbital route. On Saturday, two protesters who had thrown tomato soup over a van Gogh painting at London's National Gallery appeared in court. While a screen protected the painting, the frame suffered some damage. Meanwhile, nearly 30 demonstrators from the group glued themselves to the tarmac, blocking a major road in east London. Just Stop Oil says climate change poses an existential crisis for humanity and its direct tactics are justified. UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman has threatened police action against such protesters. (With inputs from agencies)

Just Stop Oil protesters scale Queen Elizabeth II Bridge in London

London's Tower Bridge is one of the country's famous landmarks was stuck open due to "mechanical failures" that caused chaos in traffic in the city.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mining-company-rio-tinto-executives-lose-bonuses-over-destruction-of-ancient-caves-322781" hreflang="en">Mining company Rio Tinto executives lose bonuses over destruction of ancient caves</a>

The famous bridge featuring a drawbridge type movable bridge lifts around 800 times in a year to let the vessels pass by.&nbsp;

According to the bridge's Twitter account, the 240 meter-long bridge remained "locked in a raised position for a period of time" on Saturday before later reopening to pedestrians.&nbsp;

As per the PA Media news agency, the traffic in London was "gridlocked" after Tower Bridge failed to close. Traffic jams featuring motorists and pedestrians had to wait for at least an hour. The police asked the motorists to find alternative routes around the city.&nbsp;

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*only to pedestrians currently. We will keep you posted once reopened to traffic.
— Tower Bridge (@TowerBridge) <a href="https://twitter.com/TowerBridge/status/1297224404536102912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The Bridge experienced technical issues this afternoon and was locked in a raised position for a period of time. It has now reopened. Thanks to all those who fixed it," the bridge's Twitter account said.

The construction of the Tower Bridge began at 1886 and was completed in 1894. The bridge was powered by steam until 1976, after which the hydraulic bascules have been driven by oil and electricity.

London's Tower Bridge is one of the country's famous landmarks was stuck open due to "mechanical failures" that caused chaos in traffic in the city. Also read: Mining company Rio Tinto executives lose bonuses over destruction of ancient caves The famous bridge featuring a drawbridge type movable bridge lifts around 800 times in a year to let the vessels pass by.

London's Tower Bridge is one of the country's famous landmarks was stuck open due to "mechanical failures" that caused chaos in traffic in the city. Also read: Mining company Rio Tinto executives lose bonuses over destruction of ancient caves The famous bridge featuring a drawbridge type movable bridge lifts around 800 times in a year to let the vessels pass by. According to the bridge's Twitter account, the 240 meter-long bridge remained "locked in a raised position for a period of time" on Saturday before later reopening to pedestrians. As per the PA Media news agency, the traffic in London was "gridlocked" after Tower Bridge failed to close. Traffic jams featuring motorists and pedestrians had to wait for at least an hour. The police asked the motorists to find alternative routes around the city. *only to pedestrians currently. We will keep you posted once reopened to traffic. — Tower Bridge (@TowerBridge) August 22, 2020 × "The Bridge experienced technical issues this afternoon and was locked in a raised position for a period of time. It has now reopened. Thanks to all those who fixed it," the bridge's Twitter account said. The construction of the Tower Bridge began at 1886 and was completed in 1894. The bridge was powered by steam until 1976, after which the hydraulic bascules have been driven by oil and electricity.

'Mechanical failures': London's famous Tower Bridge gets stuck open

By Greg Barton

Can prison rehabilitation programmes work, and is it sensible to try and rehabilitate seriously radicalised individuals convicted on terrorism charges?

These are questions not just for Great Britain, in the wake of the second London Bridge attack over the weekend, but for the entire world, including Australia and its near neighbours.

There are no easy answers and no simple options. As the numbers of people detained and eventually released on terrorism charges mount up around the world, so too does the question of what to do with them. Politicians find it easy to speak in terms of “lock them up and throw away the key”. But our legal systems don’t allow this and the results, even if allowed, would almost certainly be worse.

Some answers, and some difficult questions, can be found in the lives of four participants in Saturday’s tragic drama in London: Jack Merritt, Saskia Jones, Marc Conway and James Ford.

All four were participating in an event organised to reflect on the first five years of the University of Cambridge’s Learning Together programme. Merritt was a young graduate who was helping coordinate the program. Jones was a volunteer in the programme. Tragically, their idealism and desire to give back to society saw them lose their lives to a man whom they thought they had been able to help.

Merritt’s father told the media, "Jack lived his principles; he believed in redemption and rehabilitation, not revenge, and he always took the side of the underdog.

In her tribute to her murdered daughter, Jones’s mother said, " Saskia had a great passion for providing invaluable support to victims of criminal injustice, which led her to the point of recently applying for the police graduate recruitment programme, wishing to specialise in victim support."

Jones, 23, and Merritt, 25, were both Cambridge University graduates working at the Learning Together programme. They lost their lives to a knife-wielding terrorist murderer who does not deserve to have his name remembered. Their 28-year-old assailant had been released from prison 12 months earlier, having served but eight years of a 16 year sentence.

In a catastrophic system-failure, his automatic release was processed without his case ever being reviewed by a parole board, despite the sentencing judge identifying him as a serious risk who should only ever be released after careful review. He had gamed the system, presenting himself as repentant and reformed.

In fact, he had never undergone a rehabilitation program in prison and only had cursory processing on his release. Systemic mistakes and the lack of resources to fund sufficient and appropriate rehabilitation programs meant he was one of many whose risk was never adequately assessed.

Conway had formerly served time at a London prison and is now working as a policy officer at the Prison Reform Trust. He witnessed the fatal attack and rushed directly towards the attacker, joining others who sought to pin him down.

Another man participating in the offender rehabilitation event was James Ford. He too saw the attack unfolding and immediately confronted the assailant.

In a deeply tragic irony, the two victims who lost their lives to a man who made a mockery of their idealism were assisted by two others who appear to have genuinely benefited from prison rehabilitation programs. But even here, the complexities and ambiguities of this sort of difficult endeavour were played out as clearly as any playwright could ever conceive of scripting.

Ford was a convicted murderer attending the Learning Together conference on day-release. He had brutally killed 21-year-old Amanda Campion, a young women who was particularly vulnerable because of her intellectual disability. In the eyes of Campion’s family, Ford is no hero.

However, Professor of Criminology at Birmingham City University David Wilson, who chairs the Friends of Grendon Prison program, says that Ford underwent extensive rehabilitation initiatives, including an intensive period of psychotherapy.

On this occasion, the convicted murderer did the right thing. Even though this doesn’t make him a hero, it does give some reason for hope. For Wilson, the murderous terrorist and the convicted murderer who rushed to contain him represent a tale of two prisoners:

I know through my work that people do change and they change as a consequence of innovative but challenging regimes such as the one at HMP Grendon.

In the wake of the attack, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the cases of 74 people released early after being jailed for terror offences will be reviewed. This is certainly sensible and necessary, but much more is required. Indefinite detention is not an option in the majority of cases, and the UK is dealing with hundreds of people convicted of terrorism offences either currently in prison or recently released.&nbsp;

The numbers in Australia are only a fraction of this but still run into the high dozens and are growing every year. For Australia’s near neighbours, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, the numbers, including projected returnees from the Middle East, run into the thousands.

Professor Ian Acheson, who has advised the government on how to handle extremist prisoners, told the BBC it was not “a question of an arms race on sentencing toughness”, but about what is done when offenders are in custody.

Acheson said his panel’s recommendations had been agreed to but not implemented due to “the merry-go-round of political replacements of secretaries of state”, and the “fairly recalcitrant and unwilling bureaucracy”. He also cited “crazy failed and ideological austerity cuts” to the police, prison and probation services. 
 
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-47225797 https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/may/02/criminals-going-unpunished-because-of-cuts-says-police-chief https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/mar/28/britains-police-chiefs-leader-sara-thornton-says-she-wants-end-to-blame-culture

Jack Merritt and Saskia Jones were not naïve idealists. They had studied the problem closely and believed rehabilitation programmes could make a difference. Their tragic deaths speak to the challenges involved. To give up and do nothing is not merely cynical, but self-defeating. Without adequate resourcing and reforms the problem everywhere will only become much worse.

 
(Greg Barton is Chair in Global Islamic Politics, Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/lessons-on-terrorism-and-rehabilitation-from-the-london-bridge-attack-128108"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Greg Barton Can prison rehabilitation programmes work, and is it sensible to try and rehabilitate seriously radicalised individuals convicted on terrorism charges?

By Greg Barton Can prison rehabilitation programmes work, and is it sensible to try and rehabilitate seriously radicalised individuals convicted on terrorism charges? These are questions not just for Great Britain, in the wake of the second London Bridge attack over the weekend, but for the entire world, including Australia and its near neighbours. There are no easy answers and no simple options. As the numbers of people detained and eventually released on terrorism charges mount up around the world, so too does the question of what to do with them. Politicians find it easy to speak in terms of “lock them up and throw away the key”. But our legal systems don’t allow this and the results, even if allowed, would almost certainly be worse. Some answers, and some difficult questions, can be found in the lives of four participants in Saturday’s tragic drama in London: Jack Merritt, Saskia Jones, Marc Conway and James Ford. All four were participating in an event organised to reflect on the first five years of the University of Cambridge’s Learning Together programme. Merritt was a young graduate who was helping coordinate the program. Jones was a volunteer in the programme. Tragically, their idealism and desire to give back to society saw them lose their lives to a man whom they thought they had been able to help. Merritt’s father told the media, "Jack lived his principles; he believed in redemption and rehabilitation, not revenge, and he always took the side of the underdog. In her tribute to her murdered daughter, Jones’s mother said, " Saskia had a great passion for providing invaluable support to victims of criminal injustice, which led her to the point of recently applying for the police graduate recruitment programme, wishing to specialise in victim support." Jones, 23, and Merritt, 25, were both Cambridge University graduates working at the Learning Together programme. They lost their lives to a knife-wielding terrorist murderer who does not deserve to have his name remembered. Their 28-year-old assailant had been released from prison 12 months earlier, having served but eight years of a 16 year sentence. In a catastrophic system-failure, his automatic release was processed without his case ever being reviewed by a parole board, despite the sentencing judge identifying him as a serious risk who should only ever be released after careful review. He had gamed the system, presenting himself as repentant and reformed. In fact, he had never undergone a rehabilitation program in prison and only had cursory processing on his release. Systemic mistakes and the lack of resources to fund sufficient and appropriate rehabilitation programs meant he was one of many whose risk was never adequately assessed. Conway had formerly served time at a London prison and is now working as a policy officer at the Prison Reform Trust. He witnessed the fatal attack and rushed directly towards the attacker, joining others who sought to pin him down. Another man participating in the offender rehabilitation event was James Ford. He too saw the attack unfolding and immediately confronted the assailant. In a deeply tragic irony, the two victims who lost their lives to a man who made a mockery of their idealism were assisted by two others who appear to have genuinely benefited from prison rehabilitation programs. But even here, the complexities and ambiguities of this sort of difficult endeavour were played out as clearly as any playwright could ever conceive of scripting. Ford was a convicted murderer attending the Learning Together conference on day-release. He had brutally killed 21-year-old Amanda Campion, a young women who was particularly vulnerable because of her intellectual disability. In the eyes of Campion’s family, Ford is no hero. However, Professor of Criminology at Birmingham City University David Wilson, who chairs the Friends of Grendon Prison program, says that Ford underwent extensive rehabilitation initiatives, including an intensive period of psychotherapy. On this occasion, the convicted murderer did the right thing. Even though this doesn’t make him a hero, it does give some reason for hope. For Wilson, the murderous terrorist and the convicted murderer who rushed to contain him represent a tale of two prisoners: I know through my work that people do change and they change as a consequence of innovative but challenging regimes such as the one at HMP Grendon. In the wake of the attack, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the cases of 74 people released early after being jailed for terror offences will be reviewed. This is certainly sensible and necessary, but much more is required. Indefinite detention is not an option in the majority of cases, and the UK is dealing with hundreds of people convicted of terrorism offences either currently in prison or recently released. The numbers in Australia are only a fraction of this but still run into the high dozens and are growing every year. For Australia’s near neighbours, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, the numbers, including projected returnees from the Middle East, run into the thousands. Professor Ian Acheson, who has advised the government on how to handle extremist prisoners, told the BBC it was not “a question of an arms race on sentencing toughness”, but about what is done when offenders are in custody. Acheson said his panel’s recommendations had been agreed to but not implemented due to “the merry-go-round of political replacements of secretaries of state”, and the “fairly recalcitrant and unwilling bureaucracy”. He also cited “crazy failed and ideological austerity cuts” to the police, prison and probation services. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-47225797 https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/may/02/criminals-going-unpunished-because-of-cuts-says-police-chief https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/mar/28/britains-police-chiefs-leader-sara-thornton-says-she-wants-end-to-blame-culture Jack Merritt and Saskia Jones were not naïve idealists. They had studied the problem closely and believed rehabilitation programmes could make a difference. Their tragic deaths speak to the challenges involved. To give up and do nothing is not merely cynical, but self-defeating. Without adequate resourcing and reforms the problem everywhere will only become much worse. (Greg Barton is Chair in Global Islamic Politics, Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Lessons on terrorism and rehabilitation from the London Bridge attack

Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Saturday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-vows-review-as-convicted-terrorist-named-in-london-attack-265475">review Britain's sentencing system </a>after a convicted terrorist released early from prison stabbed two people to death and wounded three in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-knife-attack-suspect-was-ex-terror-convict-police-265330">London Bridge </a>attack.

Members of the public were hailed as heroes for preventing even greater loss of life by tackling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-attack-suspect-was-planning-to-go-to-pakistan-for-terrorist-training-police-265412">Usman Khan </a>-- one armed with a five-foot (1.5-metre) narwhal tusk and another with a fire extinguisher -- before police shot him dead.

Video footage of the confrontation showed Khan, 28, being challenged by a man, reportedly a Polish chef, wielding the tusk -- believed to have been grabbed from the historic hall where the stabbings began -- as another person sprayed him with the extinguisher.

Khan had been conditionally released from jail last December after serving less than half of a 16-year prison sentence for terrorism and was wearing a fake explosive device.

On Saturday, the Islamic State group released a statement claiming responsibility for the attack.

"The person who carried out the London attack... was a fighter from the Islamic State, and did so in response to calls to target citizens of coalition countries," IS said, referring to a multi-country alliance against the group.

The incident comes two years after Islamist extremists in a van ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before attacking people at random with knives in nearby Borough Market.

On that occasion, eight people were killed and 48 wounded before the three attackers, who were wearing fake suicide devices, were shot dead by police.

'Investigate fully'&nbsp;

Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said five people had been stabbed inside Fishmonger's Hall by London Bridge before members of the public pursued the attacker. The three survivors remain in the hospital.

Basu added that Khan had been released under "an extensive list of license conditions" with which he had previously been complying.

Police on Saturday searched two properties in Stoke-on-Trent, Khan's home city, and Stafford in central England.

The latest attack came less than two weeks before Britain's general election and thrust the issue of terrorism into the heart of the campaign.

Johnson pledged to introduce minimum 14-year sentences for serious terrorist offences, while some convicted might never be released, and to scrap early release if he wins a majority.&nbsp;

"It's absolutely clear that we can't carry on with the failed approaches of the past," said Johnson, who became leader of the Conservative Party -- which has been in power since 2010 -- in July.

He also spoke to US President Donald Trump Saturday, who "expressed his condolences" over the attack, according to the White House.

But Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn appeared to raise doubts about the Tories' handling of the parole and wider justice system in light of the attack.

"We need to investigate fully the way all aspects of the criminal justice system operate," he said, branding the London Bridge incident "a complete disaster".

'Human spirit'&nbsp;

The first victim of the attack was named as Jack Merritt, a course coordinator at Cambridge University's criminology institute, according to media reports.

The institute hosted a prisoner rehabilitation event at Fishmonger's Hall, a historic building on the north side of the bridge. Khan attended the event reportedly armed with two knives and the fake suicide vest.

As the confrontation moved from inside the hall to the pavement outside, a throng of people could be seen in videos grappling with Khan.

They reportedly included a convicted killer on day-release from prison and other ex-offenders also attending the criminology gathering.

A British Transport Police officer in a suit and tie who also intervened was seen carrying a large knife away.

"As we saw the worst of human kind, we saw the very best of human spirit and London," Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said Saturday as she visited London Bridge.&nbsp;

'Enduring thanks'&nbsp;

Khan, a British national, was handed an indeterminate sentence for the protection of the public in 2012, with at least eight years in prison.

He was part of an eight-man network inspired by Al-Qaeda who had plotted to bomb targets including the London Stock Exchange, and planned to take part in "terrorist training" in Pakistan.

But his sentence was quashed by the Court of Appeal in April 2013 and he received a new 21-year term, comprising a custodial sentence of 16 years and five years on conditional release.

Inmates are usually released half-way through this type of determinate sentence -- and time spent in custody before trial may have been taken into account.

The Parole Board said it had no involvement in his release and that it appeared to have happened automatically as required by law.

Johnson said the cases of other convicted terrorists released early were under urgent review.

The Ministry of Justice is reportedly reviewing the licence conditions of every convicted terrorist released from prison, which is understood to be around 70 people.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Saturday to review Britain's sentencing system after a convicted terrorist released early from prison stabbed two people to death and wounded three in a London Bridge attack.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Saturday to review Britain's sentencing system after a convicted terrorist released early from prison stabbed two people to death and wounded three in a London Bridge attack. Members of the public were hailed as heroes for preventing even greater loss of life by tackling Usman Khan -- one armed with a five-foot (1.5-metre) narwhal tusk and another with a fire extinguisher -- before police shot him dead. Video footage of the confrontation showed Khan, 28, being challenged by a man, reportedly a Polish chef, wielding the tusk -- believed to have been grabbed from the historic hall where the stabbings began -- as another person sprayed him with the extinguisher. Khan had been conditionally released from jail last December after serving less than half of a 16-year prison sentence for terrorism and was wearing a fake explosive device. On Saturday, the Islamic State group released a statement claiming responsibility for the attack. "The person who carried out the London attack... was a fighter from the Islamic State, and did so in response to calls to target citizens of coalition countries," IS said, referring to a multi-country alliance against the group. The incident comes two years after Islamist extremists in a van ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before attacking people at random with knives in nearby Borough Market. On that occasion, eight people were killed and 48 wounded before the three attackers, who were wearing fake suicide devices, were shot dead by police. 'Investigate fully' Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said five people had been stabbed inside Fishmonger's Hall by London Bridge before members of the public pursued the attacker. The three survivors remain in the hospital. Basu added that Khan had been released under "an extensive list of license conditions" with which he had previously been complying. Police on Saturday searched two properties in Stoke-on-Trent, Khan's home city, and Stafford in central England. The latest attack came less than two weeks before Britain's general election and thrust the issue of terrorism into the heart of the campaign. Johnson pledged to introduce minimum 14-year sentences for serious terrorist offences, while some convicted might never be released, and to scrap early release if he wins a majority. "It's absolutely clear that we can't carry on with the failed approaches of the past," said Johnson, who became leader of the Conservative Party -- which has been in power since 2010 -- in July. He also spoke to US President Donald Trump Saturday, who "expressed his condolences" over the attack, according to the White House. But Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn appeared to raise doubts about the Tories' handling of the parole and wider justice system in light of the attack. "We need to investigate fully the way all aspects of the criminal justice system operate," he said, branding the London Bridge incident "a complete disaster". 'Human spirit' The first victim of the attack was named as Jack Merritt, a course coordinator at Cambridge University's criminology institute, according to media reports. The institute hosted a prisoner rehabilitation event at Fishmonger's Hall, a historic building on the north side of the bridge. Khan attended the event reportedly armed with two knives and the fake suicide vest. As the confrontation moved from inside the hall to the pavement outside, a throng of people could be seen in videos grappling with Khan. They reportedly included a convicted killer on day-release from prison and other ex-offenders also attending the criminology gathering. A British Transport Police officer in a suit and tie who also intervened was seen carrying a large knife away. "As we saw the worst of human kind, we saw the very best of human spirit and London," Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said Saturday as she visited London Bridge. 'Enduring thanks' Khan, a British national, was handed an indeterminate sentence for the protection of the public in 2012, with at least eight years in prison. He was part of an eight-man network inspired by Al-Qaeda who had plotted to bomb targets including the London Stock Exchange, and planned to take part in "terrorist training" in Pakistan. But his sentence was quashed by the Court of Appeal in April 2013 and he received a new 21-year term, comprising a custodial sentence of 16 years and five years on conditional release. Inmates are usually released half-way through this type of determinate sentence -- and time spent in custody before trial may have been taken into account. The Parole Board said it had no involvement in his release and that it appeared to have happened automatically as required by law. Johnson said the cases of other convicted terrorists released early were under urgent review. The Ministry of Justice is reportedly reviewing the licence conditions of every convicted terrorist released from prison, which is understood to be around 70 people.

UK's Johnson vows to act as convicted terrorist named in London Bridge attack

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-attack-suspect-was-planning-to-go-to-pakistan-for-terrorist-training-police-265412">convicted terrorist </a>who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012.&nbsp;

Usman Khan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-shooting-armed-man-gunned-down-by-police-265289">who stabbed two people </a>to death at the London Bridge, was arrested along with other accomplices in 2010 by British police after he was found discussing a plot to bomb London Stock Exchange.&nbsp;

"Usman Khan and Nazan Hussain attended Madrassa and were themselves keen to perform acts of terrorism in Kashmir. When they and others, who had been recruited and trained in the Madrassa and had experience in Kashmir, they may return to the UK and perform acts of violent terrorism here," the British judge had said in 2012.&nbsp;

The judge had also said that Usman is so dangerous that he was imposing so-called imprisonment for public protection (IPP) indeterminate sentence of eight years. The judgment meant that Usman will remain in prison as long as he is seen as a danger to the public and the Parole Board would take a call whether to release him or not.&nbsp;

Usman's family originally hailed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the 28-year-old was inspired by terrorist organisation Al Qaeda, especially by militant Anwar al-Awlaki. &nbsp;

He was a part of a militant group from Stokes city in the UK, which formed closed links with militants from Cardiff and London. The London and Welsh parts of the conspiracy were planning to bomb a toilet at the London Stock Exchange. The 28-year-old supported the bombing and was also discussing about plans to bomb pubs.&nbsp;

Usman was also planning to go to Kashmir to participate in a camp of jihadist militants to sharpen his skills, including firearms training and to carry out attacks in Kashmir. &nbsp;

"It was envisaged by them all that ultimately they, and the other recruits, may return to the UK as trained and experienced terrorists available to perform terrorist attacks in this country," the judge had said.

The IPP sentencing was abolished in 2012 after the then British PM David Cameron announced a review of the sentencing in 2011.&nbsp;

Following the abolishment, the appeal court judges in 2013 quashed the indeterminate period of Usman's sentencing and imposed a determinate prison term of 16 years, which meant that Usman could be eligible for release after serving half of his term.&nbsp;

Court of Appeal judges also had said that parole board will decide whether a convict is safe enough to be released. But parole board said on Saturday that they were not involved in the decision to release Usman, adding that he "appears to have been released automatically on licence (as required by law), without ever being referred to the Board."

British PM Boris Johnson, who is seeking another term vowed on Saturday that he would review Britain sentencing system as the convicted terrorist was released early who was responsible for carrying out the attack at the London bridge.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters and ANI) 
&nbsp;

The convicted terrorist who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012.

The convicted terrorist who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012. Usman Khan, who stabbed two people to death at the London Bridge, was arrested along with other accomplices in 2010 by British police after he was found discussing a plot to bomb London Stock Exchange. "Usman Khan and Nazan Hussain attended Madrassa and were themselves keen to perform acts of terrorism in Kashmir. When they and others, who had been recruited and trained in the Madrassa and had experience in Kashmir, they may return to the UK and perform acts of violent terrorism here," the British judge had said in 2012. The judge had also said that Usman is so dangerous that he was imposing so-called imprisonment for public protection (IPP) indeterminate sentence of eight years. The judgment meant that Usman will remain in prison as long as he is seen as a danger to the public and the Parole Board would take a call whether to release him or not. Usman's family originally hailed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the 28-year-old was inspired by terrorist organisation Al Qaeda, especially by militant Anwar al-Awlaki. He was a part of a militant group from Stokes city in the UK, which formed closed links with militants from Cardiff and London. The London and Welsh parts of the conspiracy were planning to bomb a toilet at the London Stock Exchange. The 28-year-old supported the bombing and was also discussing about plans to bomb pubs. Usman was also planning to go to Kashmir to participate in a camp of jihadist militants to sharpen his skills, including firearms training and to carry out attacks in Kashmir. "It was envisaged by them all that ultimately they, and the other recruits, may return to the UK as trained and experienced terrorists available to perform terrorist attacks in this country," the judge had said. The IPP sentencing was abolished in 2012 after the then British PM David Cameron announced a review of the sentencing in 2011. Following the abolishment, the appeal court judges in 2013 quashed the indeterminate period of Usman's sentencing and imposed a determinate prison term of 16 years, which meant that Usman could be eligible for release after serving half of his term. Court of Appeal judges also had said that parole board will decide whether a convict is safe enough to be released. But parole board said on Saturday that they were not involved in the decision to release Usman, adding that he "appears to have been released automatically on licence (as required by law), without ever being referred to the Board." British PM Boris Johnson, who is seeking another term vowed on Saturday that he would review Britain sentencing system as the convicted terrorist was released early who was responsible for carrying out the attack at the London bridge. (with inputs from Reuters and ANI)

UK judge had warned of London Bridge terror convict's plans to carry out attacks in Kashmir

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif was near the site where the stabbing<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-qaeda-inspired-28-year-old-terrorist-who-launched-london-bridge-attack-265486"> incident took place at London Bridge</a> on Friday, Pakistan media reported, adding that the PML-N leader has reached back home safely.

Sharif was on his way to an appointment at London Bridge Hospital on Friday afternoon when the police sealed the area near the hospital because of the stabbing incident, Geo News reported, quoting a source travelling in one of three cars with the former prime minister.

Several people have sustained injuries in the stabbing incident, Metropolitan Police said, adding that they are treating the incident as "terror-related" as a precaution while the circumstances remain unclear.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif was near the site where the stabbing incident took place at London Bridge on Friday, Pakistan media reported, adding that the PML-N leader has reached back home safely.

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif was near the site where the stabbing incident took place at London Bridge on Friday, Pakistan media reported, adding that the PML-N leader has reached back home safely. Sharif was on his way to an appointment at London Bridge Hospital on Friday afternoon when the police sealed the area near the hospital because of the stabbing incident, Geo News reported, quoting a source travelling in one of three cars with the former prime minister. Several people have sustained injuries in the stabbing incident, Metropolitan Police said, adding that they are treating the incident as "terror-related" as a precaution while the circumstances remain unclear.

Nawaz Sharif was near site of stabbing incident at London Bridge

28-year old Usman Khan has been identified as the accused in the attack on London bridge. Usman Khan wanted to start a terror camp in Kashmir. He has spent his teenage years in Pakistan. Watch this video to know more.

Usman Khan: The attacker on London bridge

A man suspected of stabbing two people to death in a terror attack on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-police-shot-dead-knife-man-at-london-bridge-declare-terrorism-incident-265313">London Bridge </a>was a former prisoner convicted for terrorism offences and released last year, police said Saturday.

Police identified the man, who was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-shooting-armed-man-gunned-down-by-police-265289">shot dead </a>by officers after Friday's attack, as 28-year-old Usman Khan, saying they were not actively seeking any other suspects in relation to the incident.

"This individual was known to authorities, having been convicted in 2012 for terrorism offences. He was released from prison in December 2018 on licence," Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said in a statement.

Three more people were wounded in the daylight stabbing spree which revived memories of a three-man attack on London Bridge two years ago that killed eight.

Basu said that Khan had been living in the Staffordshire region of central England and officers were searching an address in that area.

"The circumstances, as we currently understand them, are that the attacker attended an event earlier on Friday afternoon at Fishmonger's Hall called 'Learning Together'," the statement said.

"We believe that the attack began inside before he left the building and proceeded onto London Bridge, where he was detained and subsequently confronted and shot by armed officers."

Fishmonger's Hall is a historic listed building on the north side of the bridge in the centre of the capital.

A man suspected of stabbing two people to death in a terror attack on London Bridge was a former prisoner convicted for terrorism offences and released last year, police said Saturday.

A man suspected of stabbing two people to death in a terror attack on London Bridge was a former prisoner convicted for terrorism offences and released last year, police said Saturday. Police identified the man, who was shot dead by officers after Friday's attack, as 28-year-old Usman Khan, saying they were not actively seeking any other suspects in relation to the incident. "This individual was known to authorities, having been convicted in 2012 for terrorism offences. He was released from prison in December 2018 on licence," Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said in a statement. Three more people were wounded in the daylight stabbing spree which revived memories of a three-man attack on London Bridge two years ago that killed eight. Basu said that Khan had been living in the Staffordshire region of central England and officers were searching an address in that area. "The circumstances, as we currently understand them, are that the attacker attended an event earlier on Friday afternoon at Fishmonger's Hall called 'Learning Together'," the statement said. "We believe that the attack began inside before he left the building and proceeded onto London Bridge, where he was detained and subsequently confronted and shot by armed officers." Fishmonger's Hall is a historic listed building on the north side of the bridge in the centre of the capital.

London knife attack suspect was ex-terror convict, say police

The accused of the knife attack at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-knife-attack-suspect-was-ex-terror-convict-police-265330">London bridge </a>was an ex-prisoner convicted of terrorism offences and released last year, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Police named the suspect as 28-year-old Usman Khan and said that he was convicted in 2012 for terrorism.&nbsp;He was released from prison in December 2018 on parole, Neil Basu, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, said in a statement.

Khan was sentenced to prison to a minimum of eight years and was also found guilty of planning to go to Pakistan to get "terrorist training".&nbsp;

The 28-year-old suspect, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-police-shot-dead-knife-man-at-london-bridge-declare-terrorism-incident-265313">stabbed two people </a>to death on Friday, was shot dead by police.

Three people were also wounded in the incident.&nbsp;

Basu said that the accused had attended an event on Friday afternoon at Fishmonger's Hall, a historical building on the north side of the bridge in the centre of London.&nbsp;

"We believe that the attack began inside before he left the building and proceeded onto London Bridge, where he was detained and subsequently confronted and shot by armed officers," he said.

Eyewitnesses' account claimed that a group of people tried to tackle the suspect on the ground before the cops arrived.&nbsp;

"Everyone was just on top of him trying to bundle him to the ground", tour guide Stevie Hurst, who ran from his car to the place of incident, told BBC radio.&nbsp;

A report claimed that Khan was wearing an electronic tag used to monitor criminal offenders. The police said they believed the accused strapped to his body "hoax explosive device".

The attack took hours before another stabbing incident in the centre of the Dutch city, The Hague, where three minors were assaulted.

The victims were later released from the hospital.&nbsp;

So far, it is unclear whether both incidents were linked to each other.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP)

The accused of the knife attack at London bridge was an ex-prisoner convicted of terrorism offences and released last year, police said on Saturday. Police named the suspect as 28-year-old Usman Khan and said that he was convicted in 2012 for terrorism.

The accused of the knife attack at London bridge was an ex-prisoner convicted of terrorism offences and released last year, police said on Saturday. Police named the suspect as 28-year-old Usman Khan and said that he was convicted in 2012 for terrorism. He was released from prison in December 2018 on parole, Neil Basu, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, said in a statement. Khan was sentenced to prison to a minimum of eight years and was also found guilty of planning to go to Pakistan to get "terrorist training". The 28-year-old suspect, who stabbed two people to death on Friday, was shot dead by police. Three people were also wounded in the incident. Basu said that the accused had attended an event on Friday afternoon at Fishmonger's Hall, a historical building on the north side of the bridge in the centre of London. "We believe that the attack began inside before he left the building and proceeded onto London Bridge, where he was detained and subsequently confronted and shot by armed officers," he said. Eyewitnesses' account claimed that a group of people tried to tackle the suspect on the ground before the cops arrived. "Everyone was just on top of him trying to bundle him to the ground", tour guide Stevie Hurst, who ran from his car to the place of incident, told BBC radio. A report claimed that Khan was wearing an electronic tag used to monitor criminal offenders. The police said they believed the accused strapped to his body "hoax explosive device". The attack took hours before another stabbing incident in the centre of the Dutch city, The Hague, where three minors were assaulted. The victims were later released from the hospital. So far, it is unclear whether both incidents were linked to each other. (with inputs from AFP)

London Bridge attack suspect was planning to go to Pakistan for 'terrorist training': Police

Iconic London Bridge Has Been Cordoned Off By Police After A Stabbing Incident.

Gravitas: London Bridge Stabbing Incident: A Ground Report

British police on Friday shot dead a man who had strapped a fake bomb to his body and stabbed a number of people in what they said was a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-shooting-armed-man-gunned-down-by-police-265289"> terrorism incident</a> in the London Bridge area of the capital.

Police said they had been alerted at just before 2 pm to a stabbing at premises near London Bridge, the scene of a deadly attack by Islamist militants two years ago.

"A male suspect was shot by specialist armed officers from the City of London police and I can confirm that this suspect died at the scene," the United Kingdom's top counter-terrorism officer, Neil Basu, told reporters.

"A number of other people received injuries during this incident," Basu said. "We believe a device that was strapped to the body of the suspect was a hoax explosive device."

A video posted on Twitter showed a group of about half a dozen men wrestling with someone on the ground on the sidewalk of the bridge. One of them backs away from the scene carrying a knife.

As he looks towards the melee, an armed police officer drags another person away from the man on the floor. Soon after, what sound like two gunshots ring out, and the man on the ground stops moving. Reuters could not immediately verify the footage.

Prime Minister returns to London

The ambulance service declared a "major incident" in the area and London Bridge station, a busy commuter hub, was closed.

People in buildings around the scene were evacuated to the north side of the River Thames by security services.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on his way back to Downing Street and Basu said he would be giving him a full briefing.

"I'm being kept updated on the incident at London Bridge and want to thank the police and all emergency services for their immediate response," Johnson said in a statement.

London Bridge was the scene of an attack in June 2017 when three militants drove a van into pedestrians and then attacked people in the surrounding area, killing eight people and injuring at least 48.

Islamic State said its fighters were responsible.

The month before, a suicide bomber killed 22 children and adults and wounded 59 at a packed concert hall in the English city of Manchester, as crowds began leaving a concert by US&nbsp;singer Ariana Grande.

And in March the same year, an attacker stabbed a policeman close to London's parliament buildings after a car ploughed into pedestrians on nearby Westminster Bridge.

Six people died, including the assailant and the policeman he stabbed, and at least 20 were injured in what police called a "marauding terrorist attack".

Earlier this month, Britain had lowered its national terrorism threat level to "substantial" from "severe", its lowest level since 2014.

British police on Friday shot dead a man who had strapped a fake bomb to his body and stabbed a number of people in what they said was a terrorism incident in the London Bridge area of the capital.

British police on Friday shot dead a man who had strapped a fake bomb to his body and stabbed a number of people in what they said was a terrorism incident in the London Bridge area of the capital. Police said they had been alerted at just before 2 pm to a stabbing at premises near London Bridge, the scene of a deadly attack by Islamist militants two years ago. "A male suspect was shot by specialist armed officers from the City of London police and I can confirm that this suspect died at the scene," the United Kingdom's top counter-terrorism officer, Neil Basu, told reporters. "A number of other people received injuries during this incident," Basu said. "We believe a device that was strapped to the body of the suspect was a hoax explosive device." A video posted on Twitter showed a group of about half a dozen men wrestling with someone on the ground on the sidewalk of the bridge. One of them backs away from the scene carrying a knife. As he looks towards the melee, an armed police officer drags another person away from the man on the floor. Soon after, what sound like two gunshots ring out, and the man on the ground stops moving. Reuters could not immediately verify the footage. Prime Minister returns to London The ambulance service declared a "major incident" in the area and London Bridge station, a busy commuter hub, was closed. People in buildings around the scene were evacuated to the north side of the River Thames by security services. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on his way back to Downing Street and Basu said he would be giving him a full briefing. "I'm being kept updated on the incident at London Bridge and want to thank the police and all emergency services for their immediate response," Johnson said in a statement. London Bridge was the scene of an attack in June 2017 when three militants drove a van into pedestrians and then attacked people in the surrounding area, killing eight people and injuring at least 48. Islamic State said its fighters were responsible. The month before, a suicide bomber killed 22 children and adults and wounded 59 at a packed concert hall in the English city of Manchester, as crowds began leaving a concert by US singer Ariana Grande. And in March the same year, an attacker stabbed a policeman close to London's parliament buildings after a car ploughed into pedestrians on nearby Westminster Bridge. Six people died, including the assailant and the policeman he stabbed, and at least 20 were injured in what police called a "marauding terrorist attack". Earlier this month, Britain had lowered its national terrorism threat level to "substantial" from "severe", its lowest level since 2014.

London Bridge attack: Suspect shot dead; police declare 'terrorism' incident

An armed man has been shot in an incident at London Bridge in the centre of the British Capital, police officials said.

"<meta name="uuid" content="uuidcj49FuZiZ5pW" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Police were called at 1:58pm to a stabbing at premises near to London Bridge. Emergency services attended, including officers from the Met and @CoLP&nbsp;.A man has been detained by police. We believe a number of people have been injured. Further info to follow.," Metropolitan police said in a statement on Twitter.

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Police were called at 1:58pm to a stabbing at premises near to London Bridge. 
 
Emergency services attended, including officers from the Met and <a href="https://twitter.com/colp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoLP</a> 
 
A man has been detained by police. We believe a number of people have been injured. Further info to follow.
— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) <a href="https://twitter.com/metpoliceuk/status/1200424686968098816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to media reports, two shots had been fired.&nbsp;

Twitter users also flocked social media claiming shots have been fired and that a large police presence is at the scene.&nbsp;

The London Bridge has been cordoned off by police and ambulance service are present at the scene.

London Bridge was the scene of an attack in June 2017 when three militants drove a van into pedestrians and then attacked people in the surrounding area, killing eight people.

(With inputs from Reuters)

An armed man has been shot in an incident at London Bridge in the centre of the British Capital, police officials said. " Police were called at 1:58pm to a stabbing at premises near to London Bridge.

An armed man has been shot in an incident at London Bridge in the centre of the British Capital, police officials said. " Police were called at 1:58pm to a stabbing at premises near to London Bridge. Emergency services attended, including officers from the Met and @CoLP .A man has been detained by police. We believe a number of people have been injured. Further info to follow.," Metropolitan police said in a statement on Twitter. Police were called at 1:58pm to a stabbing at premises near to London Bridge. Emergency services attended, including officers from the Met and @CoLP A man has been detained by police. We believe a number of people have been injured. Further info to follow. — Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) November 29, 2019 × According to media reports, two shots had been fired. Twitter users also flocked social media claiming shots have been fired and that a large police presence is at the scene. The London Bridge has been cordoned off by police and ambulance service are present at the scene. London Bridge was the scene of an attack in June 2017 when three militants drove a van into pedestrians and then attacked people in the surrounding area, killing eight people. (With inputs from Reuters)

London Bridge incident: Man shot by police after stabbing attack

Commuters at London Bridge station came across a somewhat unusual sight during their morning travels on Friday: a full-scale replica World War Two Spitfire on the concourse of the busy terminal. The replica Supermarine Spitfire from the Imperial War Museums will be on display at the station for 10 days to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy on June 6, 1944.

Replica Spitfire goes on display at London station for D-Day anniversary

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-annouces-resignation-over-brexit-deal-221263">Theresa&nbsp;May</a>&nbsp;bowed out after nearly&nbsp;three&nbsp;years&nbsp;as prime minister on Friday, defeated by her inability to deliver Brexit.

Here are highlights of her&nbsp;tumultuous&nbsp;time in office:

July 13, 2016 - In her first speech as prime minister,&nbsp;May&nbsp;appears in&nbsp;Downing&nbsp;Street, pledging to fight the "burning injustices" that hold people back. She promises "a country that works for everyone" but will, in fact, find herself spending much of her time struggling with Brexit.

Jan 18, 2017 - A triumphant&nbsp;May&nbsp;is portrayed on the front page of the Daily Mail next to the headline "Steel of the New Iron Lady". She has just given a defiant speech, telling Brussels,&nbsp;"No deal for Britain is better than a bad deal for Britain."

May&nbsp;22, 2017 -&nbsp;May&nbsp;is forced to backtrack on an election pledge to force the elderly to pay more for care after her opinion poll lead fell by half. "Nothing has changed," she says to general incredulity.

June 4, 2017 - Responding to Britain's third militant attack in&nbsp;three&nbsp;months - the killing of seven people at London Bridge -&nbsp;May&nbsp;declared "enough is enough" and added,&nbsp;"Defeating this ideology is one of the great challenges of our time."

June 8, 2017 - Despite an apparently impregnable opinion poll lead,&nbsp;May&nbsp;loses her parliamentary majority in a general election called early. Despite repeated promises of a "strong and stable" government, her authority is in tatters.

Oct 3, 2017 -&nbsp;May's big speech to the Conservative Party conference was interrupted by repeated coughing fits, a prankster, and even letters of her slogan falling off the stage scenery. As a bid to reassert herself, it had limited success.

Oct 3, 2018 -&nbsp;May&nbsp;startles the audience at the Conservative Party conference when she appears on stage for a speech jigging to Abba's "Dancing Queen". It was apparently a self-deprecating reference to her dancing during a recent visit to Africa, but she was nonetheless widely mocked.

Dec 14, 2018 - A furious&nbsp;May&nbsp;is embroiled in a public row with Jean-Claude Juncker at a Brussels summit after the EU chief publicly called Britain's Brexit demands "nebulous" and "vague". Juncker joked that they had later kissed and made up, but the incident showed that relations were sub-optimal.

Dec 17, 2018 - At an EU summit in Salzburg, an unforgiving photo shows a red-jacketed&nbsp;May&nbsp;cold-shouldered by a phalanx of male leaders in dark suits.

Jan 19, 2019 - Lawmakers vote down&nbsp;May's Brexit divorce deal by the crushing margin of 432 to 202, the worst such defeat in modern British history. Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn calls a vote of no confidence, which&nbsp;May&nbsp;however survives.

May&nbsp;21, 2019 - In a last roll of the dice,&nbsp;May&nbsp;promises a "new deal" on Brexit. It is immediately rejected by large numbers of Conservative lawmakers and the opposition Labour Party.

May&nbsp;24, 2019 -&nbsp;May&nbsp;announces she will quit on June 7, her voice breaking with emotion during a&nbsp;Downing&nbsp;Street&nbsp;address to the nation. She describes herself as "the second female prime minister, but certainly not the last".

Theresa May bowed out after nearly three years as prime minister on Friday, defeated by her inability to deliver Brexit. Here are highlights of her tumultuous time in office: July 13, 2016 - In her first speech as prime minister, May appears in Downing Street, pledging to fight the "burning injustices" that hold people back.

Theresa May bowed out after nearly three years as prime minister on Friday, defeated by her inability to deliver Brexit. Here are highlights of her tumultuous time in office: July 13, 2016 - In her first speech as prime minister, May appears in Downing Street, pledging to fight the "burning injustices" that hold people back. She promises "a country that works for everyone" but will, in fact, find herself spending much of her time struggling with Brexit. Jan 18, 2017 - A triumphant May is portrayed on the front page of the Daily Mail next to the headline "Steel of the New Iron Lady". She has just given a defiant speech, telling Brussels, "No deal for Britain is better than a bad deal for Britain." May 22, 2017 - May is forced to backtrack on an election pledge to force the elderly to pay more for care after her opinion poll lead fell by half. "Nothing has changed," she says to general incredulity. June 4, 2017 - Responding to Britain's third militant attack in three months - the killing of seven people at London Bridge - May declared "enough is enough" and added, "Defeating this ideology is one of the great challenges of our time." June 8, 2017 - Despite an apparently impregnable opinion poll lead, May loses her parliamentary majority in a general election called early. Despite repeated promises of a "strong and stable" government, her authority is in tatters. Oct 3, 2017 - May's big speech to the Conservative Party conference was interrupted by repeated coughing fits, a prankster, and even letters of her slogan falling off the stage scenery. As a bid to reassert herself, it had limited success. Oct 3, 2018 - May startles the audience at the Conservative Party conference when she appears on stage for a speech jigging to Abba's "Dancing Queen". It was apparently a self-deprecating reference to her dancing during a recent visit to Africa, but she was nonetheless widely mocked. Dec 14, 2018 - A furious May is embroiled in a public row with Jean-Claude Juncker at a Brussels summit after the EU chief publicly called Britain's Brexit demands "nebulous" and "vague". Juncker joked that they had later kissed and made up, but the incident showed that relations were sub-optimal. Dec 17, 2018 - At an EU summit in Salzburg, an unforgiving photo shows a red-jacketed May cold-shouldered by a phalanx of male leaders in dark suits. Jan 19, 2019 - Lawmakers vote down May's Brexit divorce deal by the crushing margin of 432 to 202, the worst such defeat in modern British history. Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn calls a vote of no confidence, which May however survives. May 21, 2019 - In a last roll of the dice, May promises a "new deal" on Brexit. It is immediately rejected by large numbers of Conservative lawmakers and the opposition Labour Party. May 24, 2019 - May announces she will quit on June 7, her voice breaking with emotion during a Downing Street address to the nation. She describes herself as "the second female prime minister, but certainly not the last".

Timeline: Theresa May's three tumultuous years at Downing Street

The mother of the Italian-Moroccan jihadi who helped carry out the London Bridge attack last weekend that killed 8 people has said she is &ldquo;ashamed&rdquo; to mourn her son. 
&nbsp; 
Valeria Khadija Collina spoke in an interview with Italy&#39;s L&#39;Espresso news magazine about her son, Youssef Zaghba, 22, one of the perpetrators of the June 3 attack. 
&nbsp;

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Youssef Zaghba, 22, one of the perpetrators of the London Bridge attack on June 3. (Reuters)
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&nbsp;

.She said she could understand the pain of her son&rsquo;s victims.

&nbsp;&quot;I have no words, it is too big. I say I can understand their pain because as a mother I feel it too,&rdquo; she said. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;But I don&#39;t even have the courage to compare my pain to theirs. It&#39;s as if I were ashamed to say &#39;I&#39;m also a mother, I&#39;m also suffering.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
Collina said she had tried to keep her son from falling under the sway of Islamic State ideology, but the Internet and his London friends changed him. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;When children make mistakes, parents always feel some guilt. But I did my best, and I think he was worn down on the inside,&quot; she said. Collina lives near the northern city of Bologna. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;We always kept track of his friends and made sure he didn&#39;t fall in with the wrong people. But he had Internet and that&#39;s where everything comes from,&quot; she said. 
&nbsp; 
She said she last spoke to her son two days before the attack and that in retrospect she realises it was a &ldquo;goodbye call&quot;.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Even though he didn&#39;t say anything in particular, I could hear it in his voice,&rdquo; she told L&rsquo;Espresso.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Zaghba was stopped at the airport in Bologna in 2016 when he was trying to get to Syria via Turkey, city prosecutor Giuseppe Amato told broadcaster Radio24 on Tuesday. 
&nbsp; 
Italian media said Zaghba was born in the Moroccan city of Fez in 1995 but had broken off relations with his Moroccan father. He lived in Morocco for much of his life but made short visits to his mother. 
&nbsp;

(WION)

'I have no words, it is too big. I say I can understand their pain because as a mother I feel it too,' she told Italy's L'Espresso news magazine

The mother of the Italian-Moroccan jihadi who helped carry out the London Bridge attack last weekend that killed 8 people has said she is “ashamed” to mourn her son. Valeria Khadija Collina spoke in an interview with Italy's L'Espresso news magazine about her son, Youssef Zaghba, 22, one of the perpetrators of the June 3 attack. Youssef Zaghba, 22, one of the perpetrators of the London Bridge attack on June 3. (Reuters) × .She said she could understand the pain of her son’s victims. "I have no words, it is too big. I say I can understand their pain because as a mother I feel it too,” she said. “But I don't even have the courage to compare my pain to theirs. It's as if I were ashamed to say 'I'm also a mother, I'm also suffering.” Collina said she had tried to keep her son from falling under the sway of Islamic State ideology, but the Internet and his London friends changed him. "When children make mistakes, parents always feel some guilt. But I did my best, and I think he was worn down on the inside," she said. Collina lives near the northern city of Bologna. "We always kept track of his friends and made sure he didn't fall in with the wrong people. But he had Internet and that's where everything comes from," she said. She said she last spoke to her son two days before the attack and that in retrospect she realises it was a “goodbye call". “Even though he didn't say anything in particular, I could hear it in his voice,” she told L’Espresso. Zaghba was stopped at the airport in Bologna in 2016 when he was trying to get to Syria via Turkey, city prosecutor Giuseppe Amato told broadcaster Radio24 on Tuesday. Italian media said Zaghba was born in the Moroccan city of Fez in 1995 but had broken off relations with his Moroccan father. He lived in Morocco for much of his life but made short visits to his mother. (WION)

London attacker Youssef Zaghba's mother 'ashamed' to mourn her son

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