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

WION Fineprint: Uncertainty over Brexit; PM Theresa May faces no-confidence motion

Breaking News: UK judge orders Vijay Mallya's extradition

The European Court of Justice ruled Monday that Britain could halt withdrawal from the EU without seeking the approval of fellow member states, in a victory for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-through-london-in-support-of-brexit-ahead-of-crucial-vote-182758">anti-Brexit campaigners</a>.

"The United Kingdom is free to revoke unilaterally the notification of its intention to withdraw from the EU," the European Court of Justice said, in response to a suit from a group of Scottish politicians.

"Such a revocation, decided in accordance with its own national constitutional requirements, would have the effect that the United Kingdom remains in the EU under terms that are unchanged as regards its status as a member State," the court ruled.

Following a 2016 referendum, Britain declared its intention to quit the European Union on March 29 last year, triggering the "Article 50" EU treaty procedure that would see it definitively leave two years later, on the same date next year.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government insists it has no intention of halting the process and has agreed a draft withdrawal agreement with the 27 remaining member states.

The withdrawal agreement is expected to go before the British parliament for approval on Tuesday.

If, as appears likely, it is rejected it would raise fears that Britain could crash out of the union on March 29 without a deal or that it could revoke or postpone Brexit in order to hold another referendum.

The court's ruling will be welcomed by campaigners for a second referendum, but May's government insists it has no intention of reversing course, whatever the court in Luxembourg might say.

"We don't want to stay in the EU. We voted very clearly," Environment Secretary Michael Gove, an influential cabinet Brexiteer, told BBC radio.

"This case is all very well but it doesn't alter either the result of the referendum or the clear intention of the government to leave.

"It's the intent of the government to honour that referendum mandate."

The European Court of Justice ruled Monday that Britain could halt withdrawal from the EU without seeking the approval of fellow member states, in a victory for anti-Brexit campaigners.

The European Court of Justice ruled Monday that Britain could halt withdrawal from the EU without seeking the approval of fellow member states, in a victory for anti-Brexit campaigners. "The United Kingdom is free to revoke unilaterally the notification of its intention to withdraw from the EU," the European Court of Justice said, in response to a suit from a group of Scottish politicians. "Such a revocation, decided in accordance with its own national constitutional requirements, would have the effect that the United Kingdom remains in the EU under terms that are unchanged as regards its status as a member State," the court ruled. Following a 2016 referendum, Britain declared its intention to quit the European Union on March 29 last year, triggering the "Article 50" EU treaty procedure that would see it definitively leave two years later, on the same date next year. British Prime Minister Theresa May's government insists it has no intention of halting the process and has agreed a draft withdrawal agreement with the 27 remaining member states. The withdrawal agreement is expected to go before the British parliament for approval on Tuesday. If, as appears likely, it is rejected it would raise fears that Britain could crash out of the union on March 29 without a deal or that it could revoke or postpone Brexit in order to hold another referendum. The court's ruling will be welcomed by campaigners for a second referendum, but May's government insists it has no intention of reversing course, whatever the court in Luxembourg might say. "We don't want to stay in the EU. We voted very clearly," Environment Secretary Michael Gove, an influential cabinet Brexiteer, told BBC radio. "This case is all very well but it doesn't alter either the result of the referendum or the clear intention of the government to leave. "It's the intent of the government to honour that referendum mandate."

EU Court rules Britain can revoke Brexit unilaterally

Manchester United earned their first Premier League win in five games with a comfortable 4-1 victory over bottom side Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday.

With record signing Paul Pogba on the bench once more, United wasted no time in finding their rhythm, as Ashley Young scored his first goal in all competitons for United since 2017 to break the deadlock in the 13th minute.

Juan Mata stroked home a second to score his 50th Premier League goal in the 28th minute, before Romelu Lukaku scored his first home goal since March to make it 3-0 before halftime.

Coming into the encounter with a negative goal difference, United were in need of a confidence-building performance and a contest against the Premier League's most porous defence was just what the doctor ordered.

Fulham remained under the cosh after the break but managed a consolation through Aboubakar Kamara's penalty.

But Andre-Frank Anguissa was sent off for Fulham before Marcus Rashford scored a fourth late on to complete a miserable afternoon for Claudio Ranieri's strugglers.

A first three points in the league since early November ensured United climbed to sixth, seven points off the top four, with Chelsea in fifth not in action until later on Saturday.

Fulham remain bottom, three points from the safety zone.

"The players have shown they can be a better team than they are," manager Jose Mourinho said. "At times it was beautiful football. The first half was perfect. We were really good. We needed it."

Lukaku's inclusion was one of four changes to the side that drew against Arsenal in midweek, meaning Mourinho has made 50 changes to his starting line-up already this season.

One of those other changes, Young, got the ball rolling, nutmegging his marker to slot home, before an equally fine finish from Mata saw him reach his goalscoring half century.

Fulham goalkeeper Sergio Rico was then called into a action once more, keeping out a fierce Rashford strike, before Mata cut the ball back for Lukuku to score his first Old Trafford goal in 997 minutes in all competitions.

"The first half was only Manchester United with powerful qualities," Ranieri said. "Second half was much better. We had the desire to do our best."

After the break, Ander Herrera missed a glorious chance to make it four, before the Spaniard felled Kamara in the box to concede a penalty, which Kamara converted with ease.

Anguissa's red card after earning his second yellow made things yet more difficult for Fulham, before Rashford completed the rout eight minutes from time, squeezing his effort in at the near post.

Manchester United earned their first Premier League win in five games with a comfortable 4-1 victory over bottom side Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday. With record signing Paul Pogba on the bench once more, United wasted no time in finding their rhythm, as Ashley Young scored his first goal in all competitons for United since 2017 to break the deadlock in the 13th minute.

Manchester United earned their first Premier League win in five games with a comfortable 4-1 victory over bottom side Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday. With record signing Paul Pogba on the bench once more, United wasted no time in finding their rhythm, as Ashley Young scored his first goal in all competitons for United since 2017 to break the deadlock in the 13th minute. Juan Mata stroked home a second to score his 50th Premier League goal in the 28th minute, before Romelu Lukaku scored his first home goal since March to make it 3-0 before halftime. Coming into the encounter with a negative goal difference, United were in need of a confidence-building performance and a contest against the Premier League's most porous defence was just what the doctor ordered. Fulham remained under the cosh after the break but managed a consolation through Aboubakar Kamara's penalty. But Andre-Frank Anguissa was sent off for Fulham before Marcus Rashford scored a fourth late on to complete a miserable afternoon for Claudio Ranieri's strugglers. A first three points in the league since early November ensured United climbed to sixth, seven points off the top four, with Chelsea in fifth not in action until later on Saturday. Fulham remain bottom, three points from the safety zone. "The players have shown they can be a better team than they are," manager Jose Mourinho said. "At times it was beautiful football. The first half was perfect. We were really good. We needed it." Lukaku's inclusion was one of four changes to the side that drew against Arsenal in midweek, meaning Mourinho has made 50 changes to his starting line-up already this season. One of those other changes, Young, got the ball rolling, nutmegging his marker to slot home, before an equally fine finish from Mata saw him reach his goalscoring half century. Fulham goalkeeper Sergio Rico was then called into a action once more, keeping out a fierce Rashford strike, before Mata cut the ball back for Lukuku to score his first Old Trafford goal in 997 minutes in all competitions. "The first half was only Manchester United with powerful qualities," Ranieri said. "Second half was much better. We had the desire to do our best." After the break, Ander Herrera missed a glorious chance to make it four, before the Spaniard felled Kamara in the box to concede a penalty, which Kamara converted with ease. Anguissa's red card after earning his second yellow made things yet more difficult for Fulham, before Rashford completed the rout eight minutes from time, squeezing his effort in at the near post.

Manchester United crush Fulham for first league win in five games

London pub displays 95 Christmas trees, 21,500 fairy lights

The European Court of Justice is expected to announce on Monday whether or not Britain can unilaterally halt its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-urges-lawmakers-to-back-her-brexit-deal-but-rebels-remain-unconvinced-181914">march towards Brexit</a>, a day before a make-or-break vote by MPs on the divorce deal.

Europe's top court has been asked to rule on whether, having activated the so-called "Article 50" countdown towards departure, London could simply stop the clock.

One of the Union's advocates general, a senior legal adviser, has already issued an opinion suggesting that Britain can indeed unilaterally suspend its departure.

But the court must first confirm it accepts jurisdiction in the case, which is based on a request lodged by a group of anti-Brexit Scottish politicians.

The court is due to say on Monday whether the 26 judges accept jurisdiction and issue a ruling.

The next day the British parliament votes on the draft divorce plan, with Prime Minister Theresa May currently struggling to sell the deal.

May insists she has no plans to reverse Brexit, despite parliamentary opposition to her withdrawal deal from both pro- and anti-Europe MPs. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The court could also decide Brexit can only be postponed or halted by unanimous agreement of all 27 other EU member states -- or otherwise go ahead on March 29.

The European Court of Justice is expected to announce on Monday whether or not Britain can unilaterally halt its march towards Brexit, a day before a make-or-break vote by MPs on the divorce deal.

The European Court of Justice is expected to announce on Monday whether or not Britain can unilaterally halt its march towards Brexit, a day before a make-or-break vote by MPs on the divorce deal. Europe's top court has been asked to rule on whether, having activated the so-called "Article 50" countdown towards departure, London could simply stop the clock. One of the Union's advocates general, a senior legal adviser, has already issued an opinion suggesting that Britain can indeed unilaterally suspend its departure. But the court must first confirm it accepts jurisdiction in the case, which is based on a request lodged by a group of anti-Brexit Scottish politicians. The court is due to say on Monday whether the 26 judges accept jurisdiction and issue a ruling. The next day the British parliament votes on the draft divorce plan, with Prime Minister Theresa May currently struggling to sell the deal. May insists she has no plans to reverse Brexit, despite parliamentary opposition to her withdrawal deal from both pro- and anti-Europe MPs. The court could also decide Brexit can only be postponed or halted by unanimous agreement of all 27 other EU member states -- or otherwise go ahead on March 29.

Can UK renounce Brexit? EU court to decide on Monday

The wife of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uae-court-sentences-british-student-to-life-for-spying-178638">British scholar </a>who was sentenced to life for spying in the United Arab Emirates accused the Foreign Office on Thursday of ignoring her pleas for help.

The sentencing of 31-year-old Matthew Hedges on Wednesday shocked Britain and put political pressure on Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Britain views the UAE as a strategic Middle East ally which it supplies with arms.

Hedges's wife Daniela Tejada said upon her return from Dubai that the Foreign Office was putting its diplomatic interests above those of an innocent citizen who was placed under arbitrary arrest.

"I got the impression that they were putting their interests with the UAE above a British citizen's rightful freedom and his welfare and his right to just a fair trial, just to freedom," Tejada told BBC Radio's Today programme.

"They were stepping on eggshells instead of taking a firm stance."

Hedges was detained at Dubai airport on May 5 while researching the UAE's foreign and internal security policies after the Arab Spring revolutions of 2011.

Hunt began to speak out about the case after Hedges's family went public with news of his arrest in October.

The scholar was released on bail on October 29 and top British officials appeared stunned by Wednesday's court decision.

Prime Minister Theresa May told a session of parliament she was "deeply disappointed" and instructed the Foreign Office to "continue to press this matter at the highest level with the Emiratis".

Hunt himself issued a statement minutes after the sentencing saying he was "deeply shocked".

Tejada said she pleaded with the Foreign Office to force the UAE to release Hedges from solitary confinement throughout his pre-trial detention.

"They just disregarded my requests. They said that it wasn't part of their job, that it wasn't part of their duty."

Her voice broke down several times as she described the fear that gripped her husband during the sentencing.

"He was very, very scared when he was standing in front of the judge," said Tejada.

"He started shaking when the translator told him the sentence. He actually had to ask to double-check if he had heard right."

The wife of a British scholar who was sentenced to life for spying in the United Arab Emirates accused the Foreign Office on Thursday of ignoring her pleas for help.

The wife of a British scholar who was sentenced to life for spying in the United Arab Emirates accused the Foreign Office on Thursday of ignoring her pleas for help. The sentencing of 31-year-old Matthew Hedges on Wednesday shocked Britain and put political pressure on Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. Britain views the UAE as a strategic Middle East ally which it supplies with arms. Hedges's wife Daniela Tejada said upon her return from Dubai that the Foreign Office was putting its diplomatic interests above those of an innocent citizen who was placed under arbitrary arrest. "I got the impression that they were putting their interests with the UAE above a British citizen's rightful freedom and his welfare and his right to just a fair trial, just to freedom," Tejada told BBC Radio's Today programme. "They were stepping on eggshells instead of taking a firm stance." Hedges was detained at Dubai airport on May 5 while researching the UAE's foreign and internal security policies after the Arab Spring revolutions of 2011. Hunt began to speak out about the case after Hedges's family went public with news of his arrest in October. The scholar was released on bail on October 29 and top British officials appeared stunned by Wednesday's court decision. Prime Minister Theresa May told a session of parliament she was "deeply disappointed" and instructed the Foreign Office to "continue to press this matter at the highest level with the Emiratis". Hunt himself issued a statement minutes after the sentencing saying he was "deeply shocked". Tejada said she pleaded with the Foreign Office to force the UAE to release Hedges from solitary confinement throughout his pre-trial detention. "They just disregarded my requests. They said that it wasn't part of their job, that it wasn't part of their duty." Her voice broke down several times as she described the fear that gripped her husband during the sentencing. "He was very, very scared when he was standing in front of the judge," said Tejada. "He started shaking when the translator told him the sentence. He actually had to ask to double-check if he had heard right."

Wife of UK scholar jailed in UAE blames London

Bitcoin fell below US $5,000 on Monday for the first time in over a year, slumping to a fresh 13-month low on the Bitstamp platform as a broad sell-off in cryptocurrencies sparked last week gathered momentum.

As of 1645 GMT the original cryptocurrency was down 8.7 per cent at US $5,100, after breaching the landmark for the first time since October 12, 2017.

Traders said selling was largely sentiment-driven and cited fears that Thursday's "hard fork" in bitcoin cash, where the smaller coin split into two separate currencies, could destabilise others.

Bitcoin fell below US $5,000 on Monday for the first time in over a year, slumping to a fresh 13-month low on the Bitstamp platform as a broad sell-off in cryptocurrencies sparked last week gathered momentum.

Bitcoin fell below US $5,000 on Monday for the first time in over a year, slumping to a fresh 13-month low on the Bitstamp platform as a broad sell-off in cryptocurrencies sparked last week gathered momentum. As of 1645 GMT the original cryptocurrency was down 8.7 per cent at US $5,100, after breaching the landmark for the first time since October 12, 2017. Traders said selling was largely sentiment-driven and cited fears that Thursday's "hard fork" in bitcoin cash, where the smaller coin split into two separate currencies, could destabilise others.

Bitcoin breaches $5,000, plumbs fresh 13-month low

World Toilet Day: London restaurant blocks toilet to highlight lack of access across world

Uber plans for every car on its taxi app in London to be fully electric in 2025 and will add a clean air fee to each trip from early next year, its boss told reporters in the British capital city on Tuesday.

Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi, who pulled out of a Saudi conference after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, also said the firm would wait for answers about the incident before deciding how that might affect Saudi investment in a stock market flotation.

After reports that Uber was looking into acquiring British food courier Deliveroo, Khosrowshahi said the firm was very happy with its Uber Eats equivalent but is talking to many players around the world.

"Is something going to happen with Deliveroo? Who knows," he said.

The rapidly-expanding firm is simultaneously trying to appease regulators in key markets such as London, with initiatives such as on environmentally-friendly vehicles, as well as expanding into new areas ahead of a flotation.

After a media report said the firm was seeking minority stakes in its self-driving car business Advanced Technologies Group, Khosrowshahi said:

"It's going to be part of the family and how the capitalisation looks like is something that we are ultimately open to but it is not an area of focus right now."

In light of the Khashoggi affair, asked about how Uber might handle Saudi investment as part of its IPO, he said:

"First we want to get the facts and we will make that determination about how we go forward, how we raise money going forward, what our post-IPO board make-up is."

"All of those are options and again we make conclusions based on all the facts," he added.

Uber plans for every car on its taxi app in London to be fully electric in 2025 and will add a clean air fee to each trip from early next year, its boss told reporters in the British capital city on Tuesday.

Uber plans for every car on its taxi app in London to be fully electric in 2025 and will add a clean air fee to each trip from early next year, its boss told reporters in the British capital city on Tuesday. Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi, who pulled out of a Saudi conference after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, also said the firm would wait for answers about the incident before deciding how that might affect Saudi investment in a stock market flotation. After reports that Uber was looking into acquiring British food courier Deliveroo, Khosrowshahi said the firm was very happy with its Uber Eats equivalent but is talking to many players around the world. "Is something going to happen with Deliveroo? Who knows," he said. The rapidly-expanding firm is simultaneously trying to appease regulators in key markets such as London, with initiatives such as on environmentally-friendly vehicles, as well as expanding into new areas ahead of a flotation. After a media report said the firm was seeking minority stakes in its self-driving car business Advanced Technologies Group, Khosrowshahi said: "It's going to be part of the family and how the capitalisation looks like is something that we are ultimately open to but it is not an area of focus right now." In light of the Khashoggi affair, asked about how Uber might handle Saudi investment as part of its IPO, he said: "First we want to get the facts and we will make that determination about how we go forward, how we raise money going forward, what our post-IPO board make-up is." "All of those are options and again we make conclusions based on all the facts," he added.

Uber aims to go all-electric in London by 2025

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

"Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country.

During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant.

Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals.

This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan.

Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year.

In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation. Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country. During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant. Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals. This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan. Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year. In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

In London, General Bajwa discusses India's role in Pak-Afghan tensions

WION Gravitas: UK's Princess Eugenie marries Jack Brooksband

London's High Court on Monday blocked an attempt to bring legal action against Alphabet Inc's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-ceo-secretly-met-pentagon-leaders-over-ai-project-report-169834">Google</a> over claims it had collected sensitive data from 4 million iPhone users.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-defends-gmail-data-sharing-gives-few-details-violations-166983">Also read:&nbsp;Google defends Gmail data sharing, gives few details on violations</a>

Google welcomed a decision on Monday by London's High Court.

"The privacy and security of our users are extremely important to us. This claim is without merit, and we're pleased the Court has dismissed it," a Google spokesperson said in answer to a request for comment.

The claimants had said Google had illegally accessed details of iPhone users' internet browsing data by bypassing privacy settings on the Safari browser between June 2011 and February 2012.

Richard Lloyd, a consumer activist who was behind the "Google You Owe Us" court challenge, had estimated that about 4.5 million people had been affected by the "Safari Workaround" and wanted the tech giant to pay out several hundred dollars in damages to each affected individual.

Google had argued the mass case brought by Lloyd was not suitable and should therefore not go ahead.

Lloyd said his group, to which 20,000 people had signed up to, would seek permission to appeal the decision.

"Today’s judgment is extremely disappointing and effectively leaves millions of people without any practical way to seek redress and compensation when their personal data has been misused," he said in a statement.

"Google’s business model is based on using personal data to target adverts to consumers and they must ask permission before using this data. The court accepted that people did not give permission in this case yet slammed the door shut on holding Google to account."

London's High Court on Monday blocked an attempt to bring legal action against Alphabet Inc's Google over claims it had collected sensitive data from 4 million iPhone users.

London's High Court on Monday blocked an attempt to bring legal action against Alphabet Inc's Google over claims it had collected sensitive data from 4 million iPhone users. Also read: Google defends Gmail data sharing, gives few details on violations Google welcomed a decision on Monday by London's High Court. "The privacy and security of our users are extremely important to us. This claim is without merit, and we're pleased the Court has dismissed it," a Google spokesperson said in answer to a request for comment. The claimants had said Google had illegally accessed details of iPhone users' internet browsing data by bypassing privacy settings on the Safari browser between June 2011 and February 2012. Richard Lloyd, a consumer activist who was behind the "Google You Owe Us" court challenge, had estimated that about 4.5 million people had been affected by the "Safari Workaround" and wanted the tech giant to pay out several hundred dollars in damages to each affected individual. Google had argued the mass case brought by Lloyd was not suitable and should therefore not go ahead. Lloyd said his group, to which 20,000 people had signed up to, would seek permission to appeal the decision. "Today’s judgment is extremely disappointing and effectively leaves millions of people without any practical way to seek redress and compensation when their personal data has been misused," he said in a statement. "Google’s business model is based on using personal data to target adverts to consumers and they must ask permission before using this data. The court accepted that people did not give permission in this case yet slammed the door shut on holding Google to account."

London court blocks Google mass legal action over iPhone data collection: Report

A new program called 'Action: The Academy Women's Initiative' will be launched by Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences this year. 
 
The program will be organised in London and Los Angeles this year on October 15th and 30th, respectively. It aims to provide a platform for women filmmakers to connect and share their notions.&nbsp; 
 
"As we continue to advocate for inclusion, we are honoured to bring Academy members and the filmmaking community together to support women in all stages of their careers, especially emerging Academy Gold filmmakers. We are grateful that E! and Swarovski support our commitment to a more inclusive film community," &nbsp;said CEO Dawn Hudson in a statement posted on the official website.&nbsp; 
 
The program is a part of Academy's A2020 program to promote inclusion and increase representation within the greater film community.

Academy Gold Fellowship for Women, the Academy Directory and annual events are also included in the program and will render fellowship to two women filmmakers.

The Los Angeles Women's Lunch, in partnership with E! Entertainment and with the support of Swarovski, will bring together female filmmakers and will feature an on-stage conversation with comedian Hannah Gadsby and writer-actor-producer Lena Waithe.

Academy's branch governor, Susanne Bier will be an eminent guest who will present the award to a US-based filmmaker. this will be for the second time when Academy and Swarovski will host a program together.

A new program called 'Action: The Academy Women's Initiative' will be launched by Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences this year. The program will be organised in London and Los Angeles this year on October 15th and 30th, respectively.

A new program called 'Action: The Academy Women's Initiative' will be launched by Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences this year. The program will be organised in London and Los Angeles this year on October 15th and 30th, respectively. It aims to provide a platform for women filmmakers to connect and share their notions. "As we continue to advocate for inclusion, we are honoured to bring Academy members and the filmmaking community together to support women in all stages of their careers, especially emerging Academy Gold filmmakers. We are grateful that E! and Swarovski support our commitment to a more inclusive film community," said CEO Dawn Hudson in a statement posted on the official website. The program is a part of Academy's A2020 program to promote inclusion and increase representation within the greater film community. Academy Gold Fellowship for Women, the Academy Directory and annual events are also included in the program and will render fellowship to two women filmmakers. The Los Angeles Women's Lunch, in partnership with E! Entertainment and with the support of Swarovski, will bring together female filmmakers and will feature an on-stage conversation with comedian Hannah Gadsby and writer-actor-producer Lena Waithe. Academy's branch governor, Susanne Bier will be an eminent guest who will present the award to a US-based filmmaker. this will be for the second time when Academy and Swarovski will host a program together.

Motion Pictures Academy set to launch a program for women filmmakers

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