Hundreds of thousands of protesters swamped London on Saturday demanding another referendum on EU membership amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-pushes-for-brexit-deal-with-new-timetable-204984">political paralysis over Brexit</a>, in one of the country's biggest protests in decades.

Organisers said about a million people opposed to Britain leaving the European Union joined what they called the "Put it to the People" march, descending on the capital by road and rail from across the country.

Wielding an array of anti-Brexit signs and EU flags, they first gathered at Hyde Park before walking the approximately two-mile route to Westminster -- whistling, cheering and chanting.

"It's terrible," protester Emma Sword told AFP of the current political gridlock.&nbsp;

"We need to revoke Article 50 and if we can't do that, then we need the people's vote," she said, referring to the EU legal mechanism Britain invoked for Brexit.

At the endpoint of the march outside parliament, speakers including Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and opposition Labour deputy leader Tom Watson rallied the crowds through the afternoon.&nbsp;

"We've seen how the government has ignored our warnings time and time again," said Khan.&nbsp;

"It's time to say loud and clear: enough is enough."

A host of other political figures also joined the demonstration, including Independent Group MPs who quit Britain's two mainstream parties -- the Conservatives and Labour -- earlier this year in protest at their Brexit policies.

"This cause is actually bigger than any political party, it is bigger than any tribalism, and it is what unites us," said Anna Soubry, one of the breakaway lawmakers.

'The message is clear'

A majority of MPs voted against holding another referendum on the issue earlier this month, and it remains a longshot bid by Remainers.

But with the protest coming just days after EU leaders granted a delay to Brexit, people are increasingly hopeful they could still force a public vote.

"The message is clear: stop Brexit," said the leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable, who led the march as it set off at lunchtime.

"We are now a Remain country. Nearly 90 per cent of young voters who weren't allowed to vote in 2016 would vote to remain," he added.

Science student Calypso Latham, 19, echoed the point.

"I was too young to vote in the last referendum," she told the BBC.

"It's going to affect my career with research grants so I definitely wanted to come and protest."

This week's agreed delay to Brexit, which was set for March 29, has prompted Prime Minister Theresa May to make a renewed bid to win MPs' backing for her divorce deal.

If she succeeds, Britain will depart on May 22 under the terms of the withdrawal agreement the prime minister struck with Brussels last year.

But if lawmakers defeat the accord again, as expected, London must outline a new plan or face a no-deal Brexit as early as April 12 -- unless it decides to request another extension and hold European Parliament elections in May.

'Final say'

Called by the People's Vote pressure group, Saturday's protest follows a similar demonstration in October that drew an estimated half a million people.

Organisers arranged hundreds of coaches and even chartered a train to bring protesters from all corners of the country to the capital.

Stephen Goodall, a 96-year-old World War II veteran, travelled 200 miles (300 kilometres) by train from southwest England alongside four generations of his family including his great-granddaughter.

"I am an old man and the outcome won't affect me -- but it will affect my family and many people that I know for years to come," he said.

May has repeatedly ruled out holding another poll on the issue, claiming it would renege on promises to honour the 2016 referendum result.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the main opposition Labour Party appears divided on the issue, with some MPs in favour while others representing Leave-supporting areas in central and northern England are bitterly opposed.

Watson, the deputy leader, said he had now decided to campaign for a referendum "reluctantly" and would only back May's deal if it was also put to the people.

"It can only begin to bring the country back together again if we all have a final say -- and then live with the result," he said.

"I trust the people I represent. And only they can sort this mess out."

Hundreds of thousands of protesters swamped London on Saturday demanding another referendum on EU membership amid political paralysis over Brexit, in one of the country's biggest protests in decades.

Hundreds of thousands of protesters swamped London on Saturday demanding another referendum on EU membership amid political paralysis over Brexit, in one of the country's biggest protests in decades. Organisers said about a million people opposed to Britain leaving the European Union joined what they called the "Put it to the People" march, descending on the capital by road and rail from across the country. Wielding an array of anti-Brexit signs and EU flags, they first gathered at Hyde Park before walking the approximately two-mile route to Westminster -- whistling, cheering and chanting. "It's terrible," protester Emma Sword told AFP of the current political gridlock. "We need to revoke Article 50 and if we can't do that, then we need the people's vote," she said, referring to the EU legal mechanism Britain invoked for Brexit. At the endpoint of the march outside parliament, speakers including Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and opposition Labour deputy leader Tom Watson rallied the crowds through the afternoon. "We've seen how the government has ignored our warnings time and time again," said Khan. "It's time to say loud and clear: enough is enough." A host of other political figures also joined the demonstration, including Independent Group MPs who quit Britain's two mainstream parties -- the Conservatives and Labour -- earlier this year in protest at their Brexit policies. "This cause is actually bigger than any political party, it is bigger than any tribalism, and it is what unites us," said Anna Soubry, one of the breakaway lawmakers. 'The message is clear' A majority of MPs voted against holding another referendum on the issue earlier this month, and it remains a longshot bid by Remainers. But with the protest coming just days after EU leaders granted a delay to Brexit, people are increasingly hopeful they could still force a public vote. "The message is clear: stop Brexit," said the leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable, who led the march as it set off at lunchtime. "We are now a Remain country. Nearly 90 per cent of young voters who weren't allowed to vote in 2016 would vote to remain," he added. Science student Calypso Latham, 19, echoed the point. "I was too young to vote in the last referendum," she told the BBC. "It's going to affect my career with research grants so I definitely wanted to come and protest." This week's agreed delay to Brexit, which was set for March 29, has prompted Prime Minister Theresa May to make a renewed bid to win MPs' backing for her divorce deal. If she succeeds, Britain will depart on May 22 under the terms of the withdrawal agreement the prime minister struck with Brussels last year. But if lawmakers defeat the accord again, as expected, London must outline a new plan or face a no-deal Brexit as early as April 12 -- unless it decides to request another extension and hold European Parliament elections in May. 'Final say' Called by the People's Vote pressure group, Saturday's protest follows a similar demonstration in October that drew an estimated half a million people. Organisers arranged hundreds of coaches and even chartered a train to bring protesters from all corners of the country to the capital. Stephen Goodall, a 96-year-old World War II veteran, travelled 200 miles (300 kilometres) by train from southwest England alongside four generations of his family including his great-granddaughter. "I am an old man and the outcome won't affect me -- but it will affect my family and many people that I know for years to come," he said. May has repeatedly ruled out holding another poll on the issue, claiming it would renege on promises to honour the 2016 referendum result. Meanwhile, the main opposition Labour Party appears divided on the issue, with some MPs in favour while others representing Leave-supporting areas in central and northern England are bitterly opposed. Watson, the deputy leader, said he had now decided to campaign for a referendum "reluctantly" and would only back May's deal if it was also put to the people. "It can only begin to bring the country back together again if we all have a final say -- and then live with the result," he said. "I trust the people I represent. And only they can sort this mess out."

Anti-Brexit protesters stage mass rally in London

Non-bailable warrant issued against Nirav Modi's wife

Absconding Indian billionare Nirav Modi arrested in London

Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi arrested in London

PNB scam accused Nirav Modi got tracked by reporters in London

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-faces-heavy-defeat-in-parliament-as-brexit-crisis-grips-britain-202344">Brexit could be reversed</a> if lawmakers reject the government's exit deal, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Sunday after two major eurosceptic factions in parliament warned that Prime Minister Theresa May was facing a heavy defeat.

Just 19 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU on March 29, May is scrambling — so far unsuccessfully — to secure last-minute changes to an EU exit treaty before parliament votes on Tuesday on whether to approve the deal.

If she fails, lawmakers are expected to force May to seek a delay to Brexit which some say could see the 2016 decision to leave the bloc reversed. Others argue that, without a delay, Britain faces an economic shock if it leaves without a deal.

"We have an opportunity now to leave on March 29 or shortly thereafter and it's important we grasp that opportunity because there is wind in the sails of people trying to stop Brexit," Hunt told the BBC. "We are in very perilous waters."

The United Kingdom’s labyrinthine crisis over EU membership is approaching its finale with an extraordinary array of options including a delay, a last-minute deal, no-deal Brexit, a snap election or even another referendum.

The ultimate outcome remains unclear, though most diplomats and investors say Brexit will define the United Kingdom's prosperity for generations to come.

The government has previously tried to use the risk of Brexit being reversed as a way to convince eurosceptics to back May's deal despite their deep reservations about it.

"If you want to stop Brexit you only need to do three things: kill this deal, get an extension, and then have a second referendum. Within three weeks, those people could have two of those three things ... and quite possibly the third one could be on the way."

Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) which props up May's minority government, and Steve Baker, a leading figure in the large eurosceptic faction of her Conservative party, warned, "the political situation is grim".

"An unchanged withdrawal agreement will be defeated firmly by a sizeable proportion of Conservatives and the DUP if it is again presented to the Commons," they wrote in the Sunday Telegraph.

The opposition Labour Party's Brexit spokesman, Keir Starmer, said his party should support staying in the EU if there was a second referendum.

However, he said the party would not be seeking to secure support in parliament for a second referendum on Tuesday.

The Sunday Times said May was battling to save her job as aides were considering persuading her to offer to resign in a bid to get the deal approved. The newspaper also said cabinet ministers had spoken about whether to insist she goes as early as this week.

Total uncertainty

Parliament rejected May's deal by 230 votes on January 15, prompting her to return to Brussels in search of changes to address the so-called Irish backstop - an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Many British lawmakers object to the policy on the grounds that it could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely and cleave Northern Ireland away from the rest of the country.

But May's attempts to get the clause rewritten have so far failed to yield any result.

Hunt said Tuesday's vote would definitely go ahead, and that it was too soon to say that negotiations with the EU had "run into the sands". He said realism and a lot of work was needed from both Britain and the EU to get a deal.

If lawmakers reject May's deal on Tuesday, she has promised to let them vote the next day on whether to leave without a deal on March 29. If they reject that, then on Thursday they are due to vote on a "limited" delay.

France's EU affairs minister Nathalie Loiseau told France Inter radio that she did not see any value in extending the window for talks.

"More time, to do what? We've had two years ... If there's nothing new, more time will not do anything other than usher in more uncertainty, and uncertainty just creates anxiety," Loiseau said. "It's not time that we need, but a decision."

Amid the political chaos, many company chiefs are aghast at London’s handling of Brexit and say it has already damaged Britain’s reputation as Europe’s pre-eminent destination for foreign investment.

"Business is holding its breath ahead of the votes in parliament this week, knowing that if Brexit has taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected," said James Stewart, head of Brexit at KPMG UK.

"Companies are now split on whether an extension to the Brexit timeline is a good thing. Some of those who prepared early are locked into March specific contingency plans. Those carrying additional inventory know an extension will squeeze their cash flow for longer."

Brexit could be reversed if lawmakers reject the government's exit deal, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Sunday after two major eurosceptic factions in parliament warned that Prime Minister Theresa May was facing a heavy defeat.

Brexit could be reversed if lawmakers reject the government's exit deal, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Sunday after two major eurosceptic factions in parliament warned that Prime Minister Theresa May was facing a heavy defeat. Just 19 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU on March 29, May is scrambling — so far unsuccessfully — to secure last-minute changes to an EU exit treaty before parliament votes on Tuesday on whether to approve the deal. If she fails, lawmakers are expected to force May to seek a delay to Brexit which some say could see the 2016 decision to leave the bloc reversed. Others argue that, without a delay, Britain faces an economic shock if it leaves without a deal. "We have an opportunity now to leave on March 29 or shortly thereafter and it's important we grasp that opportunity because there is wind in the sails of people trying to stop Brexit," Hunt told the BBC. "We are in very perilous waters." The United Kingdom’s labyrinthine crisis over EU membership is approaching its finale with an extraordinary array of options including a delay, a last-minute deal, no-deal Brexit, a snap election or even another referendum. The ultimate outcome remains unclear, though most diplomats and investors say Brexit will define the United Kingdom's prosperity for generations to come. The government has previously tried to use the risk of Brexit being reversed as a way to convince eurosceptics to back May's deal despite their deep reservations about it. "If you want to stop Brexit you only need to do three things: kill this deal, get an extension, and then have a second referendum. Within three weeks, those people could have two of those three things ... and quite possibly the third one could be on the way." Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) which props up May's minority government, and Steve Baker, a leading figure in the large eurosceptic faction of her Conservative party, warned, "the political situation is grim". "An unchanged withdrawal agreement will be defeated firmly by a sizeable proportion of Conservatives and the DUP if it is again presented to the Commons," they wrote in the Sunday Telegraph. The opposition Labour Party's Brexit spokesman, Keir Starmer, said his party should support staying in the EU if there was a second referendum. However, he said the party would not be seeking to secure support in parliament for a second referendum on Tuesday. The Sunday Times said May was battling to save her job as aides were considering persuading her to offer to resign in a bid to get the deal approved. The newspaper also said cabinet ministers had spoken about whether to insist she goes as early as this week. Total uncertainty Parliament rejected May's deal by 230 votes on January 15, prompting her to return to Brussels in search of changes to address the so-called Irish backstop - an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Many British lawmakers object to the policy on the grounds that it could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely and cleave Northern Ireland away from the rest of the country. But May's attempts to get the clause rewritten have so far failed to yield any result. Hunt said Tuesday's vote would definitely go ahead, and that it was too soon to say that negotiations with the EU had "run into the sands". He said realism and a lot of work was needed from both Britain and the EU to get a deal. If lawmakers reject May's deal on Tuesday, she has promised to let them vote the next day on whether to leave without a deal on March 29. If they reject that, then on Thursday they are due to vote on a "limited" delay. France's EU affairs minister Nathalie Loiseau told France Inter radio that she did not see any value in extending the window for talks. "More time, to do what? We've had two years ... If there's nothing new, more time will not do anything other than usher in more uncertainty, and uncertainty just creates anxiety," Loiseau said. "It's not time that we need, but a decision." Amid the political chaos, many company chiefs are aghast at London’s handling of Brexit and say it has already damaged Britain’s reputation as Europe’s pre-eminent destination for foreign investment. "Business is holding its breath ahead of the votes in parliament this week, knowing that if Brexit has taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected," said James Stewart, head of Brexit at KPMG UK. "Companies are now split on whether an extension to the Brexit timeline is a good thing. Some of those who prepared early are locked into March specific contingency plans. Those carrying additional inventory know an extension will squeeze their cash flow for longer."

Brexit may be reversed if MPs reject deal: UK foreign minister

A large group of Pakistan-backed pro-Khalistan activists attacked innocent British-Indian civilians outside the Indian High Commission here on Saturday, possibly as revenge to Indian air strike at a terror camp in Pakistan last month and anti-Pakistan protests that have been taking place across the world.

Wearing turbans, the attackers raised slogans like 'Naraa-e-Taqbeer' and 'Allah-u-Akbar' along with anti-India slogans while targeting the people who were waiting for visa related appointments with officials of the High Commission, witnesses said here on Sunday.

The attackers also carried Khalistani flags.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Pakistan’s ISI backed Khalistanis attacked a number of British Indians who were standing outside the Indian High Commission in London on March 9. The men wearing Sikh turbans raised slogans 'Naraa-e-Taqbeer' &amp; 'Allah-u-Akbar' <a href="https://t.co/7L5Fume7nv">pic.twitter.com/7L5Fume7nv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1104582717784637441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This attack is largely being seen as Pakistan`s counter to the widespread protests which have been taking place globally against its role in the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel.&nbsp;

After Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack, the international community has intensified its pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure on its soil.

In fact, the United States has bluntly told Pakistan to stop providing support and safe haven to terrorists and terror outfits.

India, on February 26, carried out anti-terror air strike at a major terror camp of JeM in Pakistan`s Balakot.

A "large number" of terrorists, including top commanders, were eliminated in the strike, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had told the media hours after the air raid.

India has shared dossiers about Pakistani links to the Pulwama terror attack with Pakistan government as well as several key countries.

India on Saturday sought credible, verifiable and sustained action from Pakistan against terror groups, saying that mere words will not be enough to impress the international community.&nbsp;

"Pakistan will be judged by not the words it speaks but action it takes...The proof of action is not issuing a notification but dismantling infrastructure which should be verified. Pakistan is well aware of its own commitment and concrete action that has to be taken against terrorism... If Pakistan claims to be a 'naya (new) Pakistan with nayi soch (new thought)', it should show 'naya (new) action' against terrorist groups and terror infrastructure on its soil and end cross border terrorism in support of its claims," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Saturday at a media briefing.

A large group of Pakistan-backed pro-Khalistan activists attacked innocent British-Indian civilians outside the Indian High Commission here on Saturday, possibly as revenge to Indian air strike at a terror camp in Pakistan last month and anti-Pakistan protests that have been taking place across the world.

A large group of Pakistan-backed pro-Khalistan activists attacked innocent British-Indian civilians outside the Indian High Commission here on Saturday, possibly as revenge to Indian air strike at a terror camp in Pakistan last month and anti-Pakistan protests that have been taking place across the world. Wearing turbans, the attackers raised slogans like 'Naraa-e-Taqbeer' and 'Allah-u-Akbar' along with anti-India slogans while targeting the people who were waiting for visa related appointments with officials of the High Commission, witnesses said here on Sunday. The attackers also carried Khalistani flags. #WATCH Pakistan’s ISI backed Khalistanis attacked a number of British Indians who were standing outside the Indian High Commission in London on March 9. The men wearing Sikh turbans raised slogans 'Naraa-e-Taqbeer' & 'Allah-u-Akbar' pic.twitter.com/7L5Fume7nv — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2019 × This attack is largely being seen as Pakistan`s counter to the widespread protests which have been taking place globally against its role in the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. After Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack, the international community has intensified its pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure on its soil. In fact, the United States has bluntly told Pakistan to stop providing support and safe haven to terrorists and terror outfits. India, on February 26, carried out anti-terror air strike at a major terror camp of JeM in Pakistan`s Balakot. A "large number" of terrorists, including top commanders, were eliminated in the strike, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had told the media hours after the air raid. India has shared dossiers about Pakistani links to the Pulwama terror attack with Pakistan government as well as several key countries. India on Saturday sought credible, verifiable and sustained action from Pakistan against terror groups, saying that mere words will not be enough to impress the international community. "Pakistan will be judged by not the words it speaks but action it takes...The proof of action is not issuing a notification but dismantling infrastructure which should be verified. Pakistan is well aware of its own commitment and concrete action that has to be taken against terrorism... If Pakistan claims to be a 'naya (new) Pakistan with nayi soch (new thought)', it should show 'naya (new) action' against terrorist groups and terror infrastructure on its soil and end cross border terrorism in support of its claims," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Saturday at a media briefing.

Watch: ISI-backed pro-Khalistanis assault British Indians outside Indian High Commission in London

London's counter-terrorism police said they had launched an investigation into who mailed three small bombs to two airports and a major rail station on Tuesday.

No one was injured by the devices, one of which caused a small fire in an office building at Heathrow airport.

"The Met Police Counter Terrorism Command is treating the incidents as a linked series and is keeping an open mind regarding motives," London's police force said.

They received the first report of a suspicious device at Heathrow at 0955 GMT after staff opened a package which caught fire.

Later, a similar package was identified in the post room of London's busiest rail station, Waterloo, and a third was found in an office at London City airport in east London.

Flights were unaffected, though a light rail line linking London City with central London was temporarily suspended.

Britain is on its second-highest level of terrorism alert, with security services seeing an attack as "highly likely".

In 2017, five attacks in London and Manchester killed a total of 36 people.

London's counter-terrorism police said they had launched an investigation into who mailed three small bombs to two airports and a major rail station on Tuesday. No one was injured by the devices, one of which caused a small fire in an office building at Heathrow airport.

London's counter-terrorism police said they had launched an investigation into who mailed three small bombs to two airports and a major rail station on Tuesday. No one was injured by the devices, one of which caused a small fire in an office building at Heathrow airport. "The Met Police Counter Terrorism Command is treating the incidents as a linked series and is keeping an open mind regarding motives," London's police force said. They received the first report of a suspicious device at Heathrow at 0955 GMT after staff opened a package which caught fire. Later, a similar package was identified in the post room of London's busiest rail station, Waterloo, and a third was found in an office at London City airport in east London. Flights were unaffected, though a light rail line linking London City with central London was temporarily suspended. Britain is on its second-highest level of terrorism alert, with security services seeing an attack as "highly likely". In 2017, five attacks in London and Manchester killed a total of 36 people.

UK police link small bombs sent to London airports and rail hub

Britain's economy came close to stagnating again in February as services companies, preparing for Brexit, cut staff at the fastest rate in more than seven years and consumers reined in their spending, surveys showed on Tuesday.

The figures suggested growth in the world's fifth-biggest economy was near a standstill as Prime Minister Theresa May tried to win last-minute Brexit concessions from Brussels.

IHS Markit, a data firm, said its UK Services Purchasing Managers' Index showed Britain's economy was set to grow by just 0.1 per cent in the first three months of 2019 compared with the last three of 2018.

After touching its lowest level in January since immediately after the Brexit referendum in 2016, the services PMI edged up to 51.3 from 50.1. That was better than the median forecast of 49.9 in a Reuters poll of economists.

But Howard Archer, an economist with EY Item Club, a forecasting firm, said the risk was very real that economic growth in the first quarter of 2019 would be weaker than his existing forecast of 0.2 per cent.

"There is a genuine chance now that the Bank of England will sit tight on interest rates through 2019 – especially if Brexit is delayed and extends the uncertainty," he said.

Separate data on Tuesday showed consumers slowed the increase in their spending in February and focused on buying food, including for stockpiling, rather than non-essential items.

Sterling rose initially on the higher-than-expected PMI reading but soon gave up its gains and was down 0.2 per cent against the U.S. dollar at $1.3158 at 1125 GMT.

BREXIT NEARS, BUT DELAY POSSIBLE

Britain's economy defied forecasts of a recession after the 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union. But growth slowed sharply in late 2018 as worries mounted about the possibility of an abrupt, no-deal Brexit on March 29, and the global economy also weakened.

Carmakers based in Britain fear that their complex supply chains could be damaged by Brexit, and the Bank of England said on Tuesday other European Union countries were not ready for possible financial disruption.

Under pressure from within her Conservative Party, May is still seeking to rework the Brexit deal she agreed with other EU leaders. She has also raised the possibility of a delay of the departure date until June.

IHS Markit said optimism about the year ahead among services -- ranging from giant banks to high-street hairdressers -- had been lower only at the height of the global financial crisis and immediately after the Brexit referendum.

Many investment decisions were on hold and some companies said European clients were delaying committing to new projects in Britain. New export orders among services contracted for the sixth month in a row.

Companies cut jobs at the fastest pace since November 2011, with many opting not to replace people who left voluntarily.

Some companies said Britain's low unemployment rate was making it hard to find skilled staff.

IHS Markit said the main positive in February was the weakest increase in costs for services firms since May last year, opening up scope for offering discounts to clients.

Britain's economy came close to stagnating again in February as services companies, preparing for Brexit, cut staff at the fastest rate in more than seven years and consumers reined in their spending, surveys showed on Tuesday.

Britain's economy came close to stagnating again in February as services companies, preparing for Brexit, cut staff at the fastest rate in more than seven years and consumers reined in their spending, surveys showed on Tuesday. The figures suggested growth in the world's fifth-biggest economy was near a standstill as Prime Minister Theresa May tried to win last-minute Brexit concessions from Brussels. IHS Markit, a data firm, said its UK Services Purchasing Managers' Index showed Britain's economy was set to grow by just 0.1 per cent in the first three months of 2019 compared with the last three of 2018. After touching its lowest level in January since immediately after the Brexit referendum in 2016, the services PMI edged up to 51.3 from 50.1. That was better than the median forecast of 49.9 in a Reuters poll of economists. But Howard Archer, an economist with EY Item Club, a forecasting firm, said the risk was very real that economic growth in the first quarter of 2019 would be weaker than his existing forecast of 0.2 per cent. "There is a genuine chance now that the Bank of England will sit tight on interest rates through 2019 – especially if Brexit is delayed and extends the uncertainty," he said. Separate data on Tuesday showed consumers slowed the increase in their spending in February and focused on buying food, including for stockpiling, rather than non-essential items. Sterling rose initially on the higher-than-expected PMI reading but soon gave up its gains and was down 0.2 per cent against the U.S. dollar at $1.3158 at 1125 GMT. BREXIT NEARS, BUT DELAY POSSIBLE Britain's economy defied forecasts of a recession after the 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union. But growth slowed sharply in late 2018 as worries mounted about the possibility of an abrupt, no-deal Brexit on March 29, and the global economy also weakened. Carmakers based in Britain fear that their complex supply chains could be damaged by Brexit, and the Bank of England said on Tuesday other European Union countries were not ready for possible financial disruption. Under pressure from within her Conservative Party, May is still seeking to rework the Brexit deal she agreed with other EU leaders. She has also raised the possibility of a delay of the departure date until June. IHS Markit said optimism about the year ahead among services -- ranging from giant banks to high-street hairdressers -- had been lower only at the height of the global financial crisis and immediately after the Brexit referendum. Many investment decisions were on hold and some companies said European clients were delaying committing to new projects in Britain. New export orders among services contracted for the sixth month in a row. Companies cut jobs at the fastest pace since November 2011, with many opting not to replace people who left voluntarily. Some companies said Britain's low unemployment rate was making it hard to find skilled staff. IHS Markit said the main positive in February was the weakest increase in costs for services firms since May last year, opening up scope for offering discounts to clients.

UK economy near standstill as Brexit approaches: Survey

Less than a month before <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ready-to-give-uk-more-guarantees-on-brexit-chief-negotiator-michel-barnier-200761">Britain is due to leave the European Union</a>, London and Berlin signed a partnership deal on Monday (March 4) aimed at deepening their business ties, arguing that regardless of Brexit "the 21st century belongs to cities".

Along with other European cities, Berlin is jostling for a piece of London's financial technology industry and has stepped up efforts to promote the German capital as an affordable and creative alternative to other centres.

But Monday's agreement, signed by the two cities' economic development agencies, aims to promote investment both by British companies in Berlin and German companies in London.

"Brexit or no Brexit, we want to show the world that London is open for business, talent and investment from across the world," said Rajesh Agrawal, Deputy Mayor of London for business.

The United Kingdom is due to leave the EU on March 29 but still has no deal in place governing its exit terms, after lawmakers voted in January to reject an agreement Prime Minister Theresa May reached last year with the bloc.

Agrawal said that in all scenarios Brexit was not good for the UK, but added that independent research had shown the British capital would prove more resilient than other regions to Brexit, which Londoners opposed in Britain's 2016 referendum.

He described London and Berlin as like-minded. Both are hubs for technology companies, which the development agencies pledged to support with Monday's deal.

"Of course we are concerned about Brexit," said Knut Hechtfischer, co-founder of Ubitricity, a German firm founded in 2008 that provides charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. He helped promote the Berlin-London partnership.

The founders of Ubitricity had a strikingly simple idea which could end one of the main drawbacks of electric cars especially in large cities, the lack of enough spaces to charge up the vehicles, by putting charging sockets on lamp posts. At the end of 2018 Ubitricity together with its partner, Siemens installed the first charging points in street lights in London.

Hechtfischer said his company was concerned about Brexit, but London would remain an important market regardless of its outcome. "The transformation to electric mobility, the demand for charging infrastructure, which results from it and the need for clean air in inner cities, all these things are universal topics, which have nothing to do with the Brexit," he said, adding: ": "London will still be London whatever politicians decide in March or later. It will be an exciting city it is and it will also be an interesting market for us."

Less than a month before Britain is due to leave the European Union, London and Berlin signed a partnership deal on Monday (March 4) aimed at deepening their business ties, arguing that regardless of Brexit "the 21st century belongs to cities".

Less than a month before Britain is due to leave the European Union, London and Berlin signed a partnership deal on Monday (March 4) aimed at deepening their business ties, arguing that regardless of Brexit "the 21st century belongs to cities". Along with other European cities, Berlin is jostling for a piece of London's financial technology industry and has stepped up efforts to promote the German capital as an affordable and creative alternative to other centres. But Monday's agreement, signed by the two cities' economic development agencies, aims to promote investment both by British companies in Berlin and German companies in London. "Brexit or no Brexit, we want to show the world that London is open for business, talent and investment from across the world," said Rajesh Agrawal, Deputy Mayor of London for business. The United Kingdom is due to leave the EU on March 29 but still has no deal in place governing its exit terms, after lawmakers voted in January to reject an agreement Prime Minister Theresa May reached last year with the bloc. Agrawal said that in all scenarios Brexit was not good for the UK, but added that independent research had shown the British capital would prove more resilient than other regions to Brexit, which Londoners opposed in Britain's 2016 referendum. He described London and Berlin as like-minded. Both are hubs for technology companies, which the development agencies pledged to support with Monday's deal. "Of course we are concerned about Brexit," said Knut Hechtfischer, co-founder of Ubitricity, a German firm founded in 2008 that provides charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. He helped promote the Berlin-London partnership. The founders of Ubitricity had a strikingly simple idea which could end one of the main drawbacks of electric cars especially in large cities, the lack of enough spaces to charge up the vehicles, by putting charging sockets on lamp posts. At the end of 2018 Ubitricity together with its partner, Siemens installed the first charging points in street lights in London. Hechtfischer said his company was concerned about Brexit, but London would remain an important market regardless of its outcome. "The transformation to electric mobility, the demand for charging infrastructure, which results from it and the need for clean air in inner cities, all these things are universal topics, which have nothing to do with the Brexit," he said, adding: ": "London will still be London whatever politicians decide in March or later. It will be an exciting city it is and it will also be an interesting market for us."

As Brexit looms, London and Berlin promote closer business ties

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/if-huawei-is-co-located-with-american-systems-it-would-be-difficult-for-us-to-partner-pompeo-to-hungary-196791">If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary</a>

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence.

Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-9-dead-as-fire-breaks-out-in-karol-baghs-hotel-196800">Delhi: 9 dead as fire breaks out in Karol Bagh hotel</a>

At least nine people died in a massive fire that broke out in Delhi's Karol Bagh Hotel Arpit Palace early Tuesday morning.

While many others were feared trapped inside the hotel, the authorities rescued around 25 people from the site.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783">It's up to Democrats if </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783"> shuts again: Trump</a>

The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-cabinet-ministers-believe-pm-may-preparing-to-resign-report-196794">British cabinet ministers believe PM May preparing to resign: Report</a>

Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">Footballer Emiliano Sala killed by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">head</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">, trunk injuries: Inquest</a>

Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence.

If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence. Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network. Delhi: 9 dead as fire breaks out in Karol Bagh hotel At least nine people died in a massive fire that broke out in Delhi's Karol Bagh Hotel Arpit Palace early Tuesday morning. While many others were feared trapped inside the hotel, the authorities rescued around 25 people from the site. It's up to Democrats if government shuts again: Trump The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there. British cabinet ministers believe PM May preparing to resign: Report Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported. Footballer Emiliano Sala killed by head, trunk injuries: Inquest Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported.

May has rejected the idea of targeting a customs union with the European Union, pouring cold water on hopes from some that she could shift her Brexit policy to win over the opposition Labour Party.

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but has yet to find a deal which is acceptable to both Brussels and lawmakers at home, raising the prospect of a disorderly exit that could damage the world's fifth largest economy.

Meanwhile, Defence minister Gavin Williamson on Monday said in a speech that Britain will use military force to support its interests after Brexit.

Williamson outlined plans to send Britain's new aircraft carrier to the Pacific, where London has been seeking to demonstrate its influence in relation to China, and invest his defence budget in new equipment and cyber capabilities.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported.

Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported. May has rejected the idea of targeting a customs union with the European Union, pouring cold water on hopes from some that she could shift her Brexit policy to win over the opposition Labour Party. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but has yet to find a deal which is acceptable to both Brussels and lawmakers at home, raising the prospect of a disorderly exit that could damage the world's fifth largest economy. Meanwhile, Defence minister Gavin Williamson on Monday said in a speech that Britain will use military force to support its interests after Brexit. Williamson outlined plans to send Britain's new aircraft carrier to the Pacific, where London has been seeking to demonstrate its influence in relation to China, and invest his defence budget in new equipment and cyber capabilities. (With inputs from Reuters)

British cabinet ministers believe PM May preparing to resign: Report

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vadra-appears-before-ed-for-another-day-of-questioning-in-money-laundering-probe-195774">Robert Vadra's questioning</a> by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London.&nbsp;

Alleging that the Gandhi family owns five properties in London, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said these emails were exchanged between March 8, 2010 and April 17, 2010.

"The first email has been sent by Sumit Chadha, who is relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. He has sent it to Robert Vadra only... What tiles should be used in kitchen? How would the bathroom look? All of it is in this email," Patra said.&nbsp;

The email also discussed issues related to painting at one property in London, Patra added.

Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has denied allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed the charges a political witch hunt against him. He has said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

After the first day of his questioning by ED, his lawyer had said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him.

"All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan had told reporters.&nbsp;

As Vadra's questioning continued for second day Thursday, Patra also talked about another email allegedly sent by Vadra on April 15, 2010, saying Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband wrote in that email, "Hi, was not aware that nothing has reached you. Will look into it at the morning and let Manoj sort it out. Will be in London soon too. You take care."

Patra claimed, "Vadra is explaining that he didn't know that the money has not reached Chadha so he would ask Manoj to immediately sort this out".

"Who is this Manoj? Yesterday, we saw in news that Vadra has accepted that Manoj is his employee and Manoj used to write emails for him. This establishes a complete trail between Mr B, Deltabhandari, Manoj and Robert Vadra," he claimed.

Patra alleged some mails were marked to an email ID deltabhandari@hotmail.Com, and said Congress president Rahul Gandhi needs to answer who were Mr M, Mr B and Deltabhandari.

The BJP spokesperson also listed five properties on London that he alleged were owned by the Gandhi family as per media reports.

"The address of five properties have come before us through media... One is on Wellington Road at St John's Wood in London. This property's cost is around Rs 37 crore. Second property has flat numbers 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 and it is on Saratoga Road in London. It looks like there is a property of Gandhi family on each road of London," he alleged.

"You want a house at every place in London so that you can enjoy. You will come here to do photo-ops among the poor of this country. In this new India, every person, big or small, the law will work for everyone the same way," he said.

"Gandhi family will also have to bow down in front of law. The law won't bow to them... The accused have to come before the law and we are seeing that they are coming every day before ED now," he said.

"Rahul Gandhi has said today that if we come to power, we will pick each such RSS person (from the institution) and throw him out. You will throw each RSS or BJP person out, because you need place to keep Rohingyas or Bangladeshis... This is your motive," Patra alleged.

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to Robert Vadra's questioning by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London.

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to Robert Vadra's questioning by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London. Alleging that the Gandhi family owns five properties in London, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said these emails were exchanged between March 8, 2010 and April 17, 2010. "The first email has been sent by Sumit Chadha, who is relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. He has sent it to Robert Vadra only... What tiles should be used in kitchen? How would the bathroom look? All of it is in this email," Patra said. The email also discussed issues related to painting at one property in London, Patra added. Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has denied allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed the charges a political witch hunt against him. He has said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends. After the first day of his questioning by ED, his lawyer had said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him. "All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan had told reporters. As Vadra's questioning continued for second day Thursday, Patra also talked about another email allegedly sent by Vadra on April 15, 2010, saying Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband wrote in that email, "Hi, was not aware that nothing has reached you. Will look into it at the morning and let Manoj sort it out. Will be in London soon too. You take care." Patra claimed, "Vadra is explaining that he didn't know that the money has not reached Chadha so he would ask Manoj to immediately sort this out". "Who is this Manoj? Yesterday, we saw in news that Vadra has accepted that Manoj is his employee and Manoj used to write emails for him. This establishes a complete trail between Mr B, Deltabhandari, Manoj and Robert Vadra," he claimed. Patra alleged some mails were marked to an email ID deltabhandari@hotmail.Com, and said Congress president Rahul Gandhi needs to answer who were Mr M, Mr B and Deltabhandari. The BJP spokesperson also listed five properties on London that he alleged were owned by the Gandhi family as per media reports. "The address of five properties have come before us through media... One is on Wellington Road at St John's Wood in London. This property's cost is around Rs 37 crore. Second property has flat numbers 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 and it is on Saratoga Road in London. It looks like there is a property of Gandhi family on each road of London," he alleged. "You want a house at every place in London so that you can enjoy. You will come here to do photo-ops among the poor of this country. In this new India, every person, big or small, the law will work for everyone the same way," he said. "Gandhi family will also have to bow down in front of law. The law won't bow to them... The accused have to come before the law and we are seeing that they are coming every day before ED now," he said. "Rahul Gandhi has said today that if we come to power, we will pick each such RSS person (from the institution) and throw him out. You will throw each RSS or BJP person out, because you need place to keep Rohingyas or Bangladeshis... This is your motive," Patra alleged.

Robert Vadra questioning: BJP lists nine emails regarding London properties

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/delaying-brexit-would-extend-uncertainty-uk-business-minister-195601">Brexit might be stopped</a> and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal.

Assuring Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar of the solidarity of all other member states as Dublin insists Britain give legal guarantees to avoid disrupting the Northern Ireland border, Tusk told a joint news conference in Brussels that he saw no force capable of blocking a "pro-Brexit" government and opposition.

As British <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-may-seeks-a-border-compromise-in-northern-ireland-195606">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> prepares to meet EU officials in Brussels on Thursday with a mandate from lawmakers to rework the withdrawal treaty she agreed with the Union in November, Tusk and Varadkar both echoed other European leaders in ruling out change to the text, including the Irish "backstop" -- the protocol which parliament roundly rejected last month.

"I hope that tomorrow we will hear from Prime Minister May a realistic suggestion on how to end the impasse," Tusk said.

"I strongly believe that a common solution is possible."

Tusk, the European Council president, said, however, that the EU must step up planning for Britain leaving on March 29 without having a legal agreement: "A sense of responsibility also tells us to prepare for a possible fiasco," he said.

"SPECIAL PLACE IN HELL"

In combative mood, he added that those who promoted Brexit without offering a clear plan for how to unravel safely 46 years of membership deserved "a special place in hell".

A former Polish prime minister, Tusk has been a notable EU voice in encouraging Britons to try to reverse the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum but on Wednesday he was notably downbeat.

"I know that still a very great number of people ... wish for a reversal of this decision. I have always been with you, with all my heart. But the facts are unmistakable."

He said the "pro-Brexit stance" of May and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn meant that "today, there is no political force and no effective leadership for remain".

Varadkar, visiting Brussels a day before May as Ireland strives to protect its interests in the bloc as its former colonial ruler and main trading partner quits, said the Brexit deal made last year was "the best deal possible".

Dublin, he insisted, would not give up on an open-ended backstop obliging Britain to retain many EU rules until a better way could be found to keep goods flowing unchecked across the new EU-UK land border across the island of Ireland.

"We expect that the backstop would never be used," Varadkar said. But, he added: "The instability of UK politics in recent weeks demonstrates exactly why we need a legal guarantee."

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that Brexit might be stopped and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal.

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that Brexit might be stopped and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal. Assuring Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar of the solidarity of all other member states as Dublin insists Britain give legal guarantees to avoid disrupting the Northern Ireland border, Tusk told a joint news conference in Brussels that he saw no force capable of blocking a "pro-Brexit" government and opposition. As British Prime Minister Theresa May prepares to meet EU officials in Brussels on Thursday with a mandate from lawmakers to rework the withdrawal treaty she agreed with the Union in November, Tusk and Varadkar both echoed other European leaders in ruling out change to the text, including the Irish "backstop" -- the protocol which parliament roundly rejected last month. "I hope that tomorrow we will hear from Prime Minister May a realistic suggestion on how to end the impasse," Tusk said. "I strongly believe that a common solution is possible." Tusk, the European Council president, said, however, that the EU must step up planning for Britain leaving on March 29 without having a legal agreement: "A sense of responsibility also tells us to prepare for a possible fiasco," he said. "SPECIAL PLACE IN HELL" In combative mood, he added that those who promoted Brexit without offering a clear plan for how to unravel safely 46 years of membership deserved "a special place in hell". A former Polish prime minister, Tusk has been a notable EU voice in encouraging Britons to try to reverse the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum but on Wednesday he was notably downbeat. "I know that still a very great number of people ... wish for a reversal of this decision. I have always been with you, with all my heart. But the facts are unmistakable." He said the "pro-Brexit stance" of May and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn meant that "today, there is no political force and no effective leadership for remain". Varadkar, visiting Brussels a day before May as Ireland strives to protect its interests in the bloc as its former colonial ruler and main trading partner quits, said the Brexit deal made last year was "the best deal possible". Dublin, he insisted, would not give up on an open-ended backstop obliging Britain to retain many EU rules until a better way could be found to keep goods flowing unchecked across the new EU-UK land border across the island of Ireland. "We expect that the backstop would never be used," Varadkar said. But, he added: "The instability of UK politics in recent weeks demonstrates exactly why we need a legal guarantee."

European Union now sees Brexit as unstoppable, aims to avert 'fiasco'

Leaders of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nato-treated-us-unfairly-says-trump-during-state-of-the-union-address-195468">NATO allies will hold a summit</a> in December in London, Jens Stoltenberg, the Western military alliance's secretary general, said in a statement on Wednesday.

The choice of location has added symbolism, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union next month while asserting that it will retain a key role in the continent's security.

The last NATO summit, at the alliance's Brussels headquarters in July, saw <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-in-vietnam-on-february-27-28-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195467">US President Donald Trump</a> unsettle many European allies, including Germany, with demands that they spend more on their own defence and reduce what he called their dependence on Russia for much of their energy needs.

Stoltenberg said: "We are grateful to the United Kingdom for agreeing to host this meeting in NATO's 70th anniversary year.''

"London was the home of NATO's first headquarters. The United Kingdom was one of the Alliance’s twelve founding members and continues to play a key role in the Alliance, making essential contributions to our shared security.

"The meeting in London will be an opportunity ... to address the security challenges we face now and in the future, and to ensure that NATO continues to adapt in order to keep its population of almost one billion people safe."

Leaders of the NATO allies will hold a summit in December in London, Jens Stoltenberg, the Western military alliance's secretary general, said in a statement on Wednesday.

Leaders of the NATO allies will hold a summit in December in London, Jens Stoltenberg, the Western military alliance's secretary general, said in a statement on Wednesday. The choice of location has added symbolism, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union next month while asserting that it will retain a key role in the continent's security. The last NATO summit, at the alliance's Brussels headquarters in July, saw US President Donald Trump unsettle many European allies, including Germany, with demands that they spend more on their own defence and reduce what he called their dependence on Russia for much of their energy needs. Stoltenberg said: "We are grateful to the United Kingdom for agreeing to host this meeting in NATO's 70th anniversary year.'' "London was the home of NATO's first headquarters. The United Kingdom was one of the Alliance’s twelve founding members and continues to play a key role in the Alliance, making essential contributions to our shared security. "The meeting in London will be an opportunity ... to address the security challenges we face now and in the future, and to ensure that NATO continues to adapt in order to keep its population of almost one billion people safe."

NATO announces December summit in London

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-suffering-from-kidney-stone-195069">Nawaz Sharif has multiple health issues</a> such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney and cardiac problems, but his treatment can be done in Pakistan, head of a medical board that examined the ousted prime minister said Tuesday amid reports that the veteran politician wanted to go to London.&nbsp;

Sharif, 69, is serving a seven-year jail term in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. The Islamabad High Court will hear his bail application on medical grounds on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Professor Dr Mahmood Ayaz, head of the medical board told reporters that Sharif's tests have been done and a final checkup was carried out on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"The recommendations will be sent to the home ministry, who will decide if Nawaz should be shifted from hospital," he said.

He said that as per the protocol, he cannot reveal the test results of the patients.

On Saturday, the deposed prime minister was shifted from Kot Lakhpat prison here to a hospital where he was examined by a three-member medical board.

Geo News, quoting hospital sources, said the three-time prime minister has been diagnosed with a kidney stone, but his blood test, ECG, uric acid and other reports were all clear.

A few days earlier, a team of doctors, including cardiologists, had conducted a medical examination of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz supremo at Kot Lakhpat jail.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government claimed on Monday that Sharif was keen to go to London for treatment.

"Nawaz Sharif is keen to go to London. His medical reports are normal but he wants to go to London," Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan said.

When asked if something was going on between the Sharif family and the government, the minister said: "They (the Sharif family and PML-N) have been blackmailing the government with regard to the health of Nawaz Sharif. They want relief for the Sharif family.&nbsp;

"But after Sharif's medical reports, it has been established that his condition is not serious as he had 'just' a small stone in his kidney which can be operated upon here."

Reacting to the reports, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb told Dawn newspaper that "no backdoor' efforts were underway to secure a deal for the Sharif family.

"It is mere propaganda of our political opponents. Had Mr Sharif wanted a deal he would not have come back from London to go to jail along with his daughter Maryam," she said.&nbsp;

"We want best treatment of Mian Sahib in the light of his test reports," she added.

Earlier, Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rashid urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to take the nation into confidence if any deal with the PML-N was in the making.&nbsp;

"I hope Prime Minister Khan will not mind as there are reports that PML-N and PPP are paying money for striking a deal with the PTI government. If it is true, please take the nation into confidence," Rashid said.&nbsp;

Sharif was tried in three corruption case launched in September, 2017. He was first convicted and sentenced for 10 years in July last year in a case related to Avenfield properties in London. He was also disqualified to hold any public office for 10 years. The Islamabad High Court granted him bail in the case in September last year.

Nawaz Sharif has multiple health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney and cardiac problems, but his treatment can be done in Pakistan, head of a medical board that examined the ousted prime minister said Tuesday amid reports that the veteran politician wanted to go to London.

Nawaz Sharif has multiple health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney and cardiac problems, but his treatment can be done in Pakistan, head of a medical board that examined the ousted prime minister said Tuesday amid reports that the veteran politician wanted to go to London. Sharif, 69, is serving a seven-year jail term in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. The Islamabad High Court will hear his bail application on medical grounds on Wednesday. Professor Dr Mahmood Ayaz, head of the medical board told reporters that Sharif's tests have been done and a final checkup was carried out on Tuesday. "The recommendations will be sent to the home ministry, who will decide if Nawaz should be shifted from hospital," he said. He said that as per the protocol, he cannot reveal the test results of the patients. On Saturday, the deposed prime minister was shifted from Kot Lakhpat prison here to a hospital where he was examined by a three-member medical board. Geo News, quoting hospital sources, said the three-time prime minister has been diagnosed with a kidney stone, but his blood test, ECG, uric acid and other reports were all clear. A few days earlier, a team of doctors, including cardiologists, had conducted a medical examination of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz supremo at Kot Lakhpat jail. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government claimed on Monday that Sharif was keen to go to London for treatment. "Nawaz Sharif is keen to go to London. His medical reports are normal but he wants to go to London," Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan said. When asked if something was going on between the Sharif family and the government, the minister said: "They (the Sharif family and PML-N) have been blackmailing the government with regard to the health of Nawaz Sharif. They want relief for the Sharif family. "But after Sharif's medical reports, it has been established that his condition is not serious as he had 'just' a small stone in his kidney which can be operated upon here." Reacting to the reports, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb told Dawn newspaper that "no backdoor' efforts were underway to secure a deal for the Sharif family. "It is mere propaganda of our political opponents. Had Mr Sharif wanted a deal he would not have come back from London to go to jail along with his daughter Maryam," she said. "We want best treatment of Mian Sahib in the light of his test reports," she added. Earlier, Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rashid urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to take the nation into confidence if any deal with the PML-N was in the making. "I hope Prime Minister Khan will not mind as there are reports that PML-N and PPP are paying money for striking a deal with the PTI government. If it is true, please take the nation into confidence," Rashid said. Sharif was tried in three corruption case launched in September, 2017. He was first convicted and sentenced for 10 years in July last year in a case related to Avenfield properties in London. He was also disqualified to hold any public office for 10 years. The Islamabad High Court granted him bail in the case in September last year.

Nawaz Sharif's treatment can be done in Pakistan, says head of medical board

The pound dropped Monday following weak UK construction data and as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to try and finally unlock the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-trade-minister-says-eu-irresponsible-to-refuse-to-reopen-brexit-deal-194815">Brexit stalemate</a>.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index, featuring large multinationals earning in dollars and euros, climbed to a two-month high above 7,000 points thanks to the weaker pound.

Eurozone stock markets faltered, while Asia mostly advanced.

Oil prices hit the highest levels this year as the crisis in OPEC producer Venezuela fuels concerns over potential tighter crude supplies.&nbsp;

"A minor decline for the pound, one that followed a 10- month low UK construction PMI... allowed the FTSE to hit a fresh two-month high," noted Connor Campbell, financial analyst at Spreadex traders.

The IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction purchasing managers' index fell to 50.6 in January from 52.8 the previous month.

"Uncertainty about Brexit has snuffed out the recovery in the construction sector," said Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics.

"In the unlikely event of a no-deal Brexit, the sector likely will slide into another recession, amid weaker business confidence and tighter credit conditions.&nbsp;

"But provided a deal is signed off, the construction sector likely will enjoy strong growth soon.&nbsp;

"Business investment should rebound later this year, given that firms' profit margins are relatively healthy and their balance sheets are awash with cash," Tombs added.

May on Sunday said she would be "armed with a fresh mandate and new ideas" when she next meets European Union negotiators over her Brexit deal.

EU officials have insisted that the deal -- rejected by British lawmakers -- is not open for renegotiation.

But May wrote in the Sunday Telegraph that she would be "battling for Britain and Northern Ireland" in her efforts to get rid of the agreement's unpopular "backstop" provision.

The so-called backstop is intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border with Ireland, but Brexit supporters fear it will keep Britain tied to the EU's customs rules.

Aside from Brexit, markets continued to feast over strong US jobs data published Friday, helping Asian stock markets to gain in thin trade owing to the three-day Lunar New Year break.

Expectations that the Federal Reserve will take its foot off the gas in raising US interest rates -- and optimism that China and the United States will eventually hammer out a deal to resolve their long-running trade war -- provided support.

The US, the world's biggest economy, added 304,000 new posts in January, almost double what was expected and the strongest reading for almost a year, while growth in pay held steady above inflation.

All three main indices on Wall Street ended with gains Friday, which filtered through to Asia.

The pound dropped Monday following weak UK construction data and as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to try and finally unlock the Brexit stalemate. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index, featuring large multinationals earning in dollars and euros, climbed to a two-month high above 7,000 points thanks to the weaker pound.

The pound dropped Monday following weak UK construction data and as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to try and finally unlock the Brexit stalemate. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index, featuring large multinationals earning in dollars and euros, climbed to a two-month high above 7,000 points thanks to the weaker pound. Eurozone stock markets faltered, while Asia mostly advanced. Oil prices hit the highest levels this year as the crisis in OPEC producer Venezuela fuels concerns over potential tighter crude supplies. "A minor decline for the pound, one that followed a 10- month low UK construction PMI... allowed the FTSE to hit a fresh two-month high," noted Connor Campbell, financial analyst at Spreadex traders. The IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction purchasing managers' index fell to 50.6 in January from 52.8 the previous month. "Uncertainty about Brexit has snuffed out the recovery in the construction sector," said Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics. "In the unlikely event of a no-deal Brexit, the sector likely will slide into another recession, amid weaker business confidence and tighter credit conditions. "But provided a deal is signed off, the construction sector likely will enjoy strong growth soon. "Business investment should rebound later this year, given that firms' profit margins are relatively healthy and their balance sheets are awash with cash," Tombs added. May on Sunday said she would be "armed with a fresh mandate and new ideas" when she next meets European Union negotiators over her Brexit deal. EU officials have insisted that the deal -- rejected by British lawmakers -- is not open for renegotiation. But May wrote in the Sunday Telegraph that she would be "battling for Britain and Northern Ireland" in her efforts to get rid of the agreement's unpopular "backstop" provision. The so-called backstop is intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border with Ireland, but Brexit supporters fear it will keep Britain tied to the EU's customs rules. Aside from Brexit, markets continued to feast over strong US jobs data published Friday, helping Asian stock markets to gain in thin trade owing to the three-day Lunar New Year break. Expectations that the Federal Reserve will take its foot off the gas in raising US interest rates -- and optimism that China and the United States will eventually hammer out a deal to resolve their long-running trade war -- provided support. The US, the world's biggest economy, added 304,000 new posts in January, almost double what was expected and the strongest reading for almost a year, while growth in pay held steady above inflation. All three main indices on Wall Street ended with gains Friday, which filtered through to Asia.

Pound falls as PM May plans fresh Brexit assault

Pakistan on Sunday said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-calls-up-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelani-194700">Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> has boarded a flight to London to attend a summit on Kashmir in the UK.

Dunya News reported that the Foreign Minister will participate in the United Kingdom House of Commons’ debate, slated to be held on February 4.

The official Twitter account of Pakistan Government said, "Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi left for London today to attend functions being organized in connection with Kashmir Solidarity Day. He will also address an international conference on Kashmir in British Parliament."

As per reports, the Foreign Minister will also attend an exhibition on Kashmir in Park Lane on Tuesday, February 5.

Qureshi had in his remarks stated several times that Kashmir has been the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and the stance of the Pakistan government is very clear over the issue.

“Pakistan will continue to extend its political, moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris for their right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions," Qureshi said.

On Saturday, on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Qureshi had made a call to hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani to discuss the current situation in Kashmir.

Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days. Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation with Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest.

Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications".&nbsp;

Pakistan on Sunday said Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has boarded a flight to London to attend a summit on Kashmir in the UK. Dunya News reported that the Foreign Minister will participate in the United Kingdom House of Commons’ debate, slated to be held on February 4.

Pakistan on Sunday said Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has boarded a flight to London to attend a summit on Kashmir in the UK. Dunya News reported that the Foreign Minister will participate in the United Kingdom House of Commons’ debate, slated to be held on February 4. The official Twitter account of Pakistan Government said, "Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi left for London today to attend functions being organized in connection with Kashmir Solidarity Day. He will also address an international conference on Kashmir in British Parliament." As per reports, the Foreign Minister will also attend an exhibition on Kashmir in Park Lane on Tuesday, February 5. Qureshi had in his remarks stated several times that Kashmir has been the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and the stance of the Pakistan government is very clear over the issue. “Pakistan will continue to extend its political, moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris for their right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions," Qureshi said. On Saturday, on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Qureshi had made a call to hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani to discuss the current situation in Kashmir. Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days. Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation with Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest. Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications".

Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi leaves for London to attend conference on Kashmir

It would be irresponsible for the European Union to refuse to reopen negotiations over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-to-be-evacuated-in-case-of-brexit-unrest-report-194679">Britain's exit deal</a>, British trade minister Liam Fox said in an interview aired on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-says-she-will-seek-pragmatic-brexit-solution-in-brussels-194688">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> has said she is seeking changes to the Withdrawal Agreement she agreed with Brussels last year in order to win the support of parliament. The EU has said the deal cannot be renegotiated.

"Are they really saying that they would rather not negotiate and end up in a 'no-deal' position?" Fox told Sky News in a pre-recorded interview. "It is in all our interests to get to that agreement and for the EU to say we are not going to even discuss it seems to me to be quite irresponsible."

With less than two months until Britain is due to leave the European Union on March 29, the opposition Labour Party has said it is now inevitable that the government will have to request an extension to the Article 50 exit negotiation period.

Fox, who has previously spoken out strongly against delaying the exit date, said extending the negotiations without a deal in place would not solve anything, but it was "a very different argument" if Britain just needed more time to get the necessary legislation in place for a smooth exit.

He is the second senior minister to suggest such a delay may be needed, after Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said on Thursday Britain may need time to get legislation through.

"There is a big difference between if we had an agreement and we need some time to get the legalities done, that is one thing," Fox said. "I think to extend simply because we hadn’t reached an agreement would not provide any impetus for that agreement to be reached."

Fox said Britain would "be able to deal" with leaving the bloc without an agreement but it would not be in the country's interests.

It would be irresponsible for the European Union to refuse to reopen negotiations over Britain's exit deal, British trade minister Liam Fox said in an interview aired on Sunday.

It would be irresponsible for the European Union to refuse to reopen negotiations over Britain's exit deal, British trade minister Liam Fox said in an interview aired on Sunday. British Prime Minister Theresa May has said she is seeking changes to the Withdrawal Agreement she agreed with Brussels last year in order to win the support of parliament. The EU has said the deal cannot be renegotiated. "Are they really saying that they would rather not negotiate and end up in a 'no-deal' position?" Fox told Sky News in a pre-recorded interview. "It is in all our interests to get to that agreement and for the EU to say we are not going to even discuss it seems to me to be quite irresponsible." With less than two months until Britain is due to leave the European Union on March 29, the opposition Labour Party has said it is now inevitable that the government will have to request an extension to the Article 50 exit negotiation period. Fox, who has previously spoken out strongly against delaying the exit date, said extending the negotiations without a deal in place would not solve anything, but it was "a very different argument" if Britain just needed more time to get the necessary legislation in place for a smooth exit. He is the second senior minister to suggest such a delay may be needed, after Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said on Thursday Britain may need time to get legislation through. "There is a big difference between if we had an agreement and we need some time to get the legalities done, that is one thing," Fox said. "I think to extend simply because we hadn’t reached an agreement would not provide any impetus for that agreement to be reached." Fox said Britain would "be able to deal" with leaving the bloc without an agreement but it would not be in the country's interests.

UK trade minister says EU 'irresponsible' to refuse to reopen Brexit deal

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-has-a-brexit-message-for-pm-may-irish-backstop-is-our-red-line-193501">EU divorce deal</a>, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-today-on-taking-control-of-brexit-from-government-193557">votes in parliament</a> that could reset the course for Brexit.

With exactly two months to go until Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, May is going to attempt to change the agreement she herself negotiated -- even though Brussels has insisted it will not re-open it.

"We have to have a deal which can carry the support of parliament and that's going to require some changes to the withdrawal agreement," May's spokesman said, as Downing Street tried to seize the initiative back from MPs.

The draft divorce deal was overwhelmingly rejected by lawmakers on January 15 and deeply divided MPs have been coming up with their own ideas to take a different path.

After May opens a day of debate, MPs are set to vote from 1900 GMT on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process.

May's spokesman said she backed a proposed measure that called for the removal of a controversial Irish border "backstop" arrangement written into the divorce deal.

Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative Party are set against the deal due to the backstop, which could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules in order to keep open the border with the Republic of Ireland.

The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland.

The amendment would make clear that the Commons wishes to leave the EU with a deal, confirms the commitment to avoiding border checks and "gives us scope for a new discussion with the EU about how best we achieve that", said May's spokesman.

She told her cabinet that "to win the support of the House of Commons, legal changes to the backstop will be required", he said.

'Groundhog Day'

Confidence in London about being able to change the agreement is met with disbelief in Brussels.

Sabine Weyand, deputy to EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, said: "There's no negotiation between the EU and the UK. That negotiation is finished.

"It does feel like Groundhog Day."

She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants.

A source in French President Emmanuel Macron's office said Tuesday: "The withdrawal agreement and the backstop are not renegotiable."

And Ireland's Europe minister Helen McEntee called for "realism" from London as "there can be no change to the backstop".

No-deal risk&nbsp;

Tuesday's votes are the latest twist in the turmoil that the Brexit vote has unleashed in one of the world's top economies.

Increasing numbers of government ministers have warned they will not accept the prospect of Britain leaving without a deal on March 29, immediately severing all ties with its largest trading partner and threatening economic chaos.

British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar.

One of the amendments which could be voted on Tuesday would open the door for the House of Commons to bring in legislation preventing Britain leaving the EU without a deal by forcing May to delay Brexit for nine months if her deal is not approved before February 26.

It would also give MPs the ability to extend the deadline indefinitely.

The main opposition Labour Party is throwing its weight behind the amendment.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the EU divorce deal, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch votes in parliament that could reset the course for Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the EU divorce deal, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch votes in parliament that could reset the course for Brexit. With exactly two months to go until Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, May is going to attempt to change the agreement she herself negotiated -- even though Brussels has insisted it will not re-open it. "We have to have a deal which can carry the support of parliament and that's going to require some changes to the withdrawal agreement," May's spokesman said, as Downing Street tried to seize the initiative back from MPs. The draft divorce deal was overwhelmingly rejected by lawmakers on January 15 and deeply divided MPs have been coming up with their own ideas to take a different path. After May opens a day of debate, MPs are set to vote from 1900 GMT on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process. May's spokesman said she backed a proposed measure that called for the removal of a controversial Irish border "backstop" arrangement written into the divorce deal. Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative Party are set against the deal due to the backstop, which could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules in order to keep open the border with the Republic of Ireland. The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland. The amendment would make clear that the Commons wishes to leave the EU with a deal, confirms the commitment to avoiding border checks and "gives us scope for a new discussion with the EU about how best we achieve that", said May's spokesman. She told her cabinet that "to win the support of the House of Commons, legal changes to the backstop will be required", he said. 'Groundhog Day' Confidence in London about being able to change the agreement is met with disbelief in Brussels. Sabine Weyand, deputy to EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, said: "There's no negotiation between the EU and the UK. That negotiation is finished. "It does feel like Groundhog Day." She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants. A source in French President Emmanuel Macron's office said Tuesday: "The withdrawal agreement and the backstop are not renegotiable." And Ireland's Europe minister Helen McEntee called for "realism" from London as "there can be no change to the backstop". No-deal risk Tuesday's votes are the latest twist in the turmoil that the Brexit vote has unleashed in one of the world's top economies. Increasing numbers of government ministers have warned they will not accept the prospect of Britain leaving without a deal on March 29, immediately severing all ties with its largest trading partner and threatening economic chaos. British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar. One of the amendments which could be voted on Tuesday would open the door for the House of Commons to bring in legislation preventing Britain leaving the EU without a deal by forcing May to delay Brexit for nine months if her deal is not approved before February 26. It would also give MPs the ability to extend the deadline indefinitely. The main opposition Labour Party is throwing its weight behind the amendment.

UK PM May seeks to reopen Brexit deal

Former world number one Andy Murray has undergone a hip resurfacing surgery in London, the 31-year-old Scot said on Tuesday.

Murray has struggled to regain form since undergoing hip surgery last year and was knocked out in the first round of the Australian Open earlier this month, having said the tournament could be his last as a professional.

His post on Instagram featured an X-ray picture of his hip.

"I now have a metal hip," Murray wrote in his post.

"Feeling a bit battered and bruised just now but hopefully that will be the end of my hip pain."

In an emotional news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, Murray announced he would retire this year, preferably after a farewell appearance at Wimbledon.

The two-time Olympic champion told BBC this month that surgery was the only option if he wanted to extend his career.

"There is a strong possibility I won't come back and play after an operation. I want to play tennis, but not with the hip I have right now," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtNiST6FrYn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtNiST6FrYn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtNiST6FrYn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtNiST6FrYn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I underwent a hip resurfacing surgery in London yesterday morning...feeling a bit battered and bruised just now but hopefully that will be the end of my hip pain 😀 I now have a metal hip as you can see in the 2nd photo 👉👉 and I look like I've got a bit of a gut in photo 1😂</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/andymurray/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Andy Murray</a> (@andymurray) on <time datetime="2019-01-29T08:18:42+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 29, 2019 at 12:18am PST</time>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The ATP Tour posted a tweet in support for Murray: "Get well soon Andy, we know you will do everything to get back on tour!"

Three-time Grand Slam Murray initially had surgery on his right hip in January 2018 and has played 15 matches since returning to action last June.

He was due to play in next month's Marseille Open but withdrew from the tournament last week.

Former world number one Andy Murray has undergone a hip resurfacing surgery in London, the 31-year-old Scot said on Tuesday. Murray has struggled to regain form since undergoing hip surgery last year and was knocked out in the first round of the Australian Open earlier this month, having said the tournament could be his last as a professional.

Former world number one Andy Murray has undergone a hip resurfacing surgery in London, the 31-year-old Scot said on Tuesday. Murray has struggled to regain form since undergoing hip surgery last year and was knocked out in the first round of the Australian Open earlier this month, having said the tournament could be his last as a professional. His post on Instagram featured an X-ray picture of his hip. "I now have a metal hip," Murray wrote in his post. "Feeling a bit battered and bruised just now but hopefully that will be the end of my hip pain." In an emotional news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, Murray announced he would retire this year, preferably after a farewell appearance at Wimbledon. The two-time Olympic champion told BBC this month that surgery was the only option if he wanted to extend his career. "There is a strong possibility I won't come back and play after an operation. I want to play tennis, but not with the hip I have right now," he said. View this post on Instagram I underwent a hip resurfacing surgery in London yesterday morning...feeling a bit battered and bruised just now but hopefully that will be the end of my hip pain 😀 I now have a metal hip as you can see in the 2nd photo 👉👉 and I look like I've got a bit of a gut in photo 1😂 A post shared by Andy Murray (@andymurray) on Jan 29, 2019 at 12:18am PST × The ATP Tour posted a tweet in support for Murray: "Get well soon Andy, we know you will do everything to get back on tour!" Three-time Grand Slam Murray initially had surgery on his right hip in January 2018 and has played 15 matches since returning to action last June. He was due to play in next month's Marseille Open but withdrew from the tournament last week.

British tennis star Andy Murray undergoes hip surgery in London, informs fans via Instagram

Gravitas: US based cyber expert claims EVMs hackable

Fineprint: Congress leader Kapil Sibal attends EVM 'Hackathon' in London

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim.

Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best".

Upskirting is the invasive act of taking a photograph underneath a person’s skirt without their permission.

Members of the upper House of Lords on Tuesday gave the bill the final seal of approval, and it now only requires the formality of Royal Assent.

Prime Minister Theresa May personally backed the legislation, saying the&nbsp;practice left victims "feeling degraded and distressed".

The bill was briefly held up last year when a single MP blocked it by shouting "Object!" during a parliamentary vote.

Christopher Chope, a member of May's Conservative Party, claimed he was objecting to the manner in which the bill was introduced, but was met with cries of "shame" from MPs.

Martin tweeted that she was "over the moon" about the vote, adding "I AM EXHAUSTED AND SO HAPPY!".

From Liverpool in northwest England, Martin was attending a music festival in London's Hyde Park when a man rubbed against her while his friend lurked nearby.

"Five minutes later, I saw that his friend... Was watching a picture taken very close to a woman's crotch," she told AFP earlier.

"I knew it was me immediately." Martin grabbed the phone and showed the image to police officers, but "they said 'we can't really help you'." She then decided to campaign to make it illegal, collecting more than 100,000 signatures of support in an online petition.&nbsp;

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim. Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best".

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim. Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best". Upskirting is the invasive act of taking a photograph underneath a person’s skirt without their permission. Members of the upper House of Lords on Tuesday gave the bill the final seal of approval, and it now only requires the formality of Royal Assent. Prime Minister Theresa May personally backed the legislation, saying the practice left victims "feeling degraded and distressed". The bill was briefly held up last year when a single MP blocked it by shouting "Object!" during a parliamentary vote. Christopher Chope, a member of May's Conservative Party, claimed he was objecting to the manner in which the bill was introduced, but was met with cries of "shame" from MPs. Martin tweeted that she was "over the moon" about the vote, adding "I AM EXHAUSTED AND SO HAPPY!". From Liverpool in northwest England, Martin was attending a music festival in London's Hyde Park when a man rubbed against her while his friend lurked nearby. "Five minutes later, I saw that his friend... Was watching a picture taken very close to a woman's crotch," she told AFP earlier. "I knew it was me immediately." Martin grabbed the phone and showed the image to police officers, but "they said 'we can't really help you'." She then decided to campaign to make it illegal, collecting more than 100,000 signatures of support in an online petition.

'Upskirting' becomes illegal across the UK

The pound edged down Wednesday after the record defeat of British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan but mostly held its ground as investors consider the next likely developments in the long-running saga.

The sterling tanked to a near two-year low soon after the government's proposal on leaving the European Union was soundly beaten Tuesday evening, but it soon bounced back as traders bet there would not be a "no-deal" exit.

And while it was slightly lower in Asia, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-brexit-is-causing-turmoil-for-the-pound-and-other-markets-189974">the pound managed to avoid the sort of pummelling</a> many had predicted, and analysts say the positive news is that the options for the future are narrowing.

With May expected to win a vote of no confidence called by the opposition Labour Party on Wednesday, the talk will move to what happens next.

Analysts say May could ask to delay Britain's March 29 exit from the bloc as she looks for a more palatable agreement from her EU peers, while there is growing speculation of a general election and even another referendum.

"Momentum is shifting away from the harder Brexit route and towards a number of options ranging from postponement and second referendum. That is pound supportive," said Gavin Friend at National Australia Bank.

But he added: "I don't see the pound rallying much until markets are sure the (ruling) Conservatives have seen off the confidence motion."

Meanwhile, London may still leave the bloc without a backup.

"We cannot ignore the fact that it takes very little effort for no-deal, whilst it takes a vast amount of effort to avoid it," warned Neil Wilson, chief market analyst at Markets.com.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-china-trade-shock-rattles-european-stocks-commodities-190200">Asian equity markets</a> mostly rose after Tuesday's rally that was fuelled by Chinese plans to cut taxes in a bid to support the stuttering economy.

However, traders are growing increasingly worried about the lack of movement in the US over the government shutdown, which is now in its fourth week, with both sides digging their heels in.

Tokyo ended off 0.6 per cent, but Hong Kong rose 0.2 per cent to build on Tuesday's two per cent rally while Shanghai was flat.

Sydney and Seoul each rose 0.4 per cent, while Singapore added 0.3 per cent and Wellington put on 0.7 per cent with Mumbai 0.2 per cent higher.

Investors are now gearing up for the start of the corporate earnings season and some are concerned that the effects of recent soft economic data globally — as well as the China-US trade war — will begin to show up in accounts.

While it was slightly lower in Asia, the pound managed to avoid the sort of pummelling many had predicted.

The pound edged down Wednesday after the record defeat of British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan but mostly held its ground as investors consider the next likely developments in the long-running saga. The sterling tanked to a near two-year low soon after the government's proposal on leaving the European Union was soundly beaten Tuesday evening, but it soon bounced back as traders bet there would not be a "no-deal" exit. And while it was slightly lower in Asia, the pound managed to avoid the sort of pummelling many had predicted, and analysts say the positive news is that the options for the future are narrowing. With May expected to win a vote of no confidence called by the opposition Labour Party on Wednesday, the talk will move to what happens next. Analysts say May could ask to delay Britain's March 29 exit from the bloc as she looks for a more palatable agreement from her EU peers, while there is growing speculation of a general election and even another referendum. "Momentum is shifting away from the harder Brexit route and towards a number of options ranging from postponement and second referendum. That is pound supportive," said Gavin Friend at National Australia Bank. But he added: "I don't see the pound rallying much until markets are sure the (ruling) Conservatives have seen off the confidence motion." Meanwhile, London may still leave the bloc without a backup. "We cannot ignore the fact that it takes very little effort for no-deal, whilst it takes a vast amount of effort to avoid it," warned Neil Wilson, chief market analyst at Markets.com. Asian equity markets mostly rose after Tuesday's rally that was fuelled by Chinese plans to cut taxes in a bid to support the stuttering economy. However, traders are growing increasingly worried about the lack of movement in the US over the government shutdown, which is now in its fourth week, with both sides digging their heels in. Tokyo ended off 0.6 per cent, but Hong Kong rose 0.2 per cent to build on Tuesday's two per cent rally while Shanghai was flat. Sydney and Seoul each rose 0.4 per cent, while Singapore added 0.3 per cent and Wellington put on 0.7 per cent with Mumbai 0.2 per cent higher. Investors are now gearing up for the start of the corporate earnings season and some are concerned that the effects of recent soft economic data globally — as well as the China-US trade war — will begin to show up in accounts.

Pound stands firm after May loss, Asian equity markets rise

Gravitas: House of Commons set to vote for Theresa May's Brexit deal today

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday.

"No deal will be far more likely if MPs (Members of Parliament) reject the government's Brexit deal later this month," Barclay wrote in the Daily Express newspaper.&nbsp;

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday.

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday. "No deal will be far more likely if MPs (Members of Parliament) reject the government's Brexit deal later this month," Barclay wrote in the Daily Express newspaper.

UK Brexit minister: No-deal EU exit 'far more likely' if parliament rejects PM May's deal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/london-2-arrested-in-connection-with-gatwick-airport-drone-disruption-185743">Two persons, a man and woman arrested</a> in connection with the drone scare at London's Gatwick airport, were released without charge on Sunday, police said.

"Both people have fully co-operated with our enquiries and I am satisfied that they are no longer suspects in the drone incidents at Gatwick," Sussex Police detective chief superintendent Jason Tingley said in a statement.

Gatwick airport was partially opened on Friday morning for flight operations as thousands of passengers remained stranded in London during the Christmas holiday season.

Gatwick, situated in west London is Britain's second biggest airport after Heathrow. Flight activity was hit after two drones were spotted on Thursday leading the airport to be shutdown.&nbsp;

Flights were halted at 2103 GMT on Wednesday after two drones were spotted near the airfield.

Flying drones within the 1 km airport boundary is illegal in Britain, punishable by five years in prison. Police officals had said on Thursday that it was a deliberate attempt by someone to fly the drones as it shutdown the airport.

(With inputs from AFP)

Two persons, a man and woman arrested in connection with the drone scare at London's Gatwick airport, were released without charge on Sunday, police said. "Both people have fully co-operated with our enquiries and I am satisfied that they are no longer suspects in the drone incidents at Gatwick," Sussex Police detective chief superintendent Jason Tingley said in a statement.

Two persons, a man and woman arrested in connection with the drone scare at London's Gatwick airport, were released without charge on Sunday, police said. "Both people have fully co-operated with our enquiries and I am satisfied that they are no longer suspects in the drone incidents at Gatwick," Sussex Police detective chief superintendent Jason Tingley said in a statement. Gatwick airport was partially opened on Friday morning for flight operations as thousands of passengers remained stranded in London during the Christmas holiday season. Gatwick, situated in west London is Britain's second biggest airport after Heathrow. Flight activity was hit after two drones were spotted on Thursday leading the airport to be shutdown. Flights were halted at 2103 GMT on Wednesday after two drones were spotted near the airfield. Flying drones within the 1 km airport boundary is illegal in Britain, punishable by five years in prison. Police officals had said on Thursday that it was a deliberate attempt by someone to fly the drones as it shutdown the airport. (With inputs from AFP)

Gatwick airport drone probe: Arrested pair released without any charge

British Prime Minister Theresa May said that police powers over the flying of drones could be extended after the <a href="http://13.232.42.114/world/army-joins-drone-hunt-after-london-airport-shutdown-185599">country's second biggest airport was closed</a> due to unknown operators flying the devices within its airspace.

"I feel for all those passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted by this drone activity and the action that's had to be taken in response to it," the British prime minister said, adding,"w've already passed legislation in relation to the use of drones, the activity we've seen is illegal and those who are caught endangering aircraft can face up to five years in prison."

"We're consulting on further aspects of this, including further police powers," May said.

As thousands of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/flights-grounded-at-britains-gatwick-airport-over-drone-sighting-185467">passengers waited at Gatwick Airport</a>, south of London, police hunted unsuccessfully for the operators of the large drones, which reappeared near the airfield every time the airport tried to reopen the runway.

Police said there was no indication of a terrorist motive behind the devices, which first appeared on Wednesday night.&nbsp;Britain sent troops to its second-biggest airport after an unprecedented attempt to cripple Christmas travel with large drones forced all flights to be cancelled on Thursday.

"The assessment earlier on today was that we wouldn't be using firearms," detective chief superintendent Jason Tingley said late on Thursday. "This is continually reviewed so you will know and have seen that we have firearm officers deployed."

Europe's air traffic control agency Eurocontrol said the airport would remain closed until 0600 GMT on Friday.

The armed forces were also deployed to help resolve the situation.

"We are there to assist and do everything we can," defence minister Gavin Williamson told reporters.

Drones were seen as recently as the last hour, a Gatwick spokesman said at about 2200 GMT on Thursday, more than 24 hours after their first sighting.

The airport said flights would remain shut down for the rest of the evening on a day when 115,000 people were scheduled to pass through, many en route to seasonal breaks.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said that police powers over the flying of drones could be extended after the country's second biggest airport was closed due to unknown operators flying the devices within its airspace.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said that police powers over the flying of drones could be extended after the country's second biggest airport was closed due to unknown operators flying the devices within its airspace. "I feel for all those passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted by this drone activity and the action that's had to be taken in response to it," the British prime minister said, adding,"w've already passed legislation in relation to the use of drones, the activity we've seen is illegal and those who are caught endangering aircraft can face up to five years in prison." "We're consulting on further aspects of this, including further police powers," May said. As thousands of passengers waited at Gatwick Airport, south of London, police hunted unsuccessfully for the operators of the large drones, which reappeared near the airfield every time the airport tried to reopen the runway. Police said there was no indication of a terrorist motive behind the devices, which first appeared on Wednesday night. Britain sent troops to its second-biggest airport after an unprecedented attempt to cripple Christmas travel with large drones forced all flights to be cancelled on Thursday. "The assessment earlier on today was that we wouldn't be using firearms," detective chief superintendent Jason Tingley said late on Thursday. "This is continually reviewed so you will know and have seen that we have firearm officers deployed." Europe's air traffic control agency Eurocontrol said the airport would remain closed until 0600 GMT on Friday. The armed forces were also deployed to help resolve the situation. "We are there to assist and do everything we can," defence minister Gavin Williamson told reporters. Drones were seen as recently as the last hour, a Gatwick spokesman said at about 2200 GMT on Thursday, more than 24 hours after their first sighting. The airport said flights would remain shut down for the rest of the evening on a day when 115,000 people were scheduled to pass through, many en route to seasonal breaks.

Watch: Police power may be increased to combat drone activity, says PM Theresa May after Gatwick airport shutdown

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britain-not-planning-second-referendum-on-brexit-minister-184494">a second referendum</a>, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics.

"Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street.

"Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," she will say, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward".

She will warn that another referendum would also "further divide our country at the very moment we should be working to unite it".

Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in 2016 and is set to leave on March 29 next year, although May is struggling to get parliament to accept a divorce agreement she struck last month.

May has faced calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse but has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics.

Campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea is being taken seriously.

"A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter.

"Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said.

Dozens of MPs from all the main parties also support a second referendum, as do former prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair.

There have also been reports that government officials are considering giving the public a vote.

May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo.

If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain will crash out of the European Union regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis.

But former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner, said anyone considering a second referendum was "out of their minds".

"A second referendum would provoke instant, deep and ineradicable feelings of betrayal," he wrote on Monday in his weekly column in the Daily Telegraph.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting a second referendum, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting a second referendum, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street. "Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," she will say, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward". She will warn that another referendum would also "further divide our country at the very moment we should be working to unite it". Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in 2016 and is set to leave on March 29 next year, although May is struggling to get parliament to accept a divorce agreement she struck last month. May has faced calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse but has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics. Campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea is being taken seriously. "A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter. "Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said. Dozens of MPs from all the main parties also support a second referendum, as do former prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair. There have also been reports that government officials are considering giving the public a vote. May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo. If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain will crash out of the European Union regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis. But former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner, said anyone considering a second referendum was "out of their minds". "A second referendum would provoke instant, deep and ineradicable feelings of betrayal," he wrote on Monday in his weekly column in the Daily Telegraph.

UK PM May to warn against 'damage' of second Brexit vote

EU leaders rejected a plea by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-in-dates-from-leave-shock-to-no-confidence-vote-183632">Theresa May</a> on Thursday to help her sell her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-due-to-vote-on-brexit-bill-in-january-183760">Brexit deal to parliament</a>, warning she must set out exactly what she wants -- and announcing they would step up contingency plans in case the deal collapses.

The British prime minister came to a Brussels summit a day after seeing off a challenge to her leadership by her own Conservative MPs, but still facing huge opposition to the divorce deal with the EU.

She told the other 27 leaders the agreement could still pass the House of Commons next month if they helped her reassure lawmakers over a controversial "backstop" clause on Ireland, a British official said.

But European sources said the atmosphere in the room was tense, with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other leaders repeatedly interrupting May to ask exactly what she wanted.

European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters afterwards: "Our UK friends need to say what they want instead of asking us what we want."

He added: "Theresa May has led a courageous fight, but unfortunately we are not seeing the results."

May floated the idea of setting a target date to agree a free trade deal with the EU if one had not been agreed by the end of a post-Brexit transition period, to avoid Britain falling into the backstop.

Many of her MPs fear the arrangement for Britain to enter a temporary customs union with the EU to avoid border checks with Ireland could become permanent.

But European leaders have said they will not accept a time limit, and after May left agreed a statement that the Brexit deal "is not open for renegotiation".

With May having promised to have something to offer MPs before they finally vote on the Brexit deal by January 21, Juncker said she would have to come up with proposals in the next few weeks if she wanted Europe's support.

However, he said he would publish further plans on Wednesday to protect European businesses and citizens in case the deal fails, and Britain exits on March 29 with no new arrangements place.

Deal 'a trap'

May told EU leaders they must help her "change the perception that the backstop could be a trap from which the UK cannot escape", adding: "Until we do, the deal -- our deal -- is at risk."

"With the right assurances, this deal can be passed. Indeed it is the only deal that is capable of getting through my parliament," she told them.

But while an early draft of the summit conclusions had said the EU "stands ready to examine whether any further assurances can be provided" on the backstop, this was removed from the final published version.

Juncker did offer one olive branch, promising that talks on the future trading relationship -- a deal on which would undermine the need for the backstop -- would start as soon as MPs and the European Parliament approved the Brexit deal.

The summit statement also confirmed the backstop would only "apply temporarily" and that EU members would work to "conclude expeditiously" the new trade deal.

But this is not the legally binding promise sought by Brexiteers and the Northern Irish party that props up May's government -- without which they have warned they will not support the deal.

Crushing defeat

May arrived in Brussels wounded by a confidence vote in her party on Wednesday night, which she won but in which more than one-third of her MPs voted against her.

The move was sparked by her decision to delay a parliamentary vote on the Brexit deal planned for Tuesday, amid fears of a crushing defeat. It has been delayed to next month.

But ahead of the confidence vote May was forced to confirm she would not fight the next general election planned for 2022.

Instead, she said her focus was on salvaging her plan for an orderly Brexit. Before the EU leaders savaged her plan, she had admitted she did not expect "an immediate breakthrough".

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who earlier met with May on the sidelines of the summit, stressed again the backstop must be part of the deal.

"As the EU we are very keen to offer explanations, assurances, clarifications, anything that may assist MPs to understand the agreement, and hopefully to support it. But the backstop is not on the table," he said.

EU leaders rejected a plea by Theresa May on Thursday to help her sell her Brexit deal to parliament, warning she must set out exactly what she wants -- and announcing they would step up contingency plans in case the deal collapses.

EU leaders rejected a plea by Theresa May on Thursday to help her sell her Brexit deal to parliament, warning she must set out exactly what she wants -- and announcing they would step up contingency plans in case the deal collapses. The British prime minister came to a Brussels summit a day after seeing off a challenge to her leadership by her own Conservative MPs, but still facing huge opposition to the divorce deal with the EU. She told the other 27 leaders the agreement could still pass the House of Commons next month if they helped her reassure lawmakers over a controversial "backstop" clause on Ireland, a British official said. But European sources said the atmosphere in the room was tense, with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other leaders repeatedly interrupting May to ask exactly what she wanted. European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters afterwards: "Our UK friends need to say what they want instead of asking us what we want." He added: "Theresa May has led a courageous fight, but unfortunately we are not seeing the results." May floated the idea of setting a target date to agree a free trade deal with the EU if one had not been agreed by the end of a post-Brexit transition period, to avoid Britain falling into the backstop. Many of her MPs fear the arrangement for Britain to enter a temporary customs union with the EU to avoid border checks with Ireland could become permanent. But European leaders have said they will not accept a time limit, and after May left agreed a statement that the Brexit deal "is not open for renegotiation". With May having promised to have something to offer MPs before they finally vote on the Brexit deal by January 21, Juncker said she would have to come up with proposals in the next few weeks if she wanted Europe's support. However, he said he would publish further plans on Wednesday to protect European businesses and citizens in case the deal fails, and Britain exits on March 29 with no new arrangements place. Deal 'a trap' May told EU leaders they must help her "change the perception that the backstop could be a trap from which the UK cannot escape", adding: "Until we do, the deal -- our deal -- is at risk." "With the right assurances, this deal can be passed. Indeed it is the only deal that is capable of getting through my parliament," she told them. But while an early draft of the summit conclusions had said the EU "stands ready to examine whether any further assurances can be provided" on the backstop, this was removed from the final published version. Juncker did offer one olive branch, promising that talks on the future trading relationship -- a deal on which would undermine the need for the backstop -- would start as soon as MPs and the European Parliament approved the Brexit deal. The summit statement also confirmed the backstop would only "apply temporarily" and that EU members would work to "conclude expeditiously" the new trade deal. But this is not the legally binding promise sought by Brexiteers and the Northern Irish party that props up May's government -- without which they have warned they will not support the deal. Crushing defeat May arrived in Brussels wounded by a confidence vote in her party on Wednesday night, which she won but in which more than one-third of her MPs voted against her. The move was sparked by her decision to delay a parliamentary vote on the Brexit deal planned for Tuesday, amid fears of a crushing defeat. It has been delayed to next month. But ahead of the confidence vote May was forced to confirm she would not fight the next general election planned for 2022. Instead, she said her focus was on salvaging her plan for an orderly Brexit. Before the EU leaders savaged her plan, she had admitted she did not expect "an immediate breakthrough". Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who earlier met with May on the sidelines of the summit, stressed again the backstop must be part of the deal. "As the EU we are very keen to offer explanations, assurances, clarifications, anything that may assist MPs to understand the agreement, and hopefully to support it. But the backstop is not on the table," he said.

EU leaders reject PM Theresa May's plea over Brexit deal

london

London, News on London, stories on London, articles on London, London stories at Wion, London news, London latest news