UK prime minister Boris Johnson will visit Northern Ireland on Monday and he's likely to deliver a tough message. Can UK afford to pick a fight with EU? For more perspective on this, we're joined by Aleks Eror, Journalist from London.

UK PM Boris Johnson to visit Northern Ireland, likely to deliver a tough message

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that, post-Brexit trading arrangements in Northern Ireland are unviable and need urgent reform to unblock the province's power-sharing assembly.

Post-Brexit Northern Ireland trade agreement unviable, says UK PM Boris Johnson

In Northern Ireland, a major shift is expected as Sinn Fein received a majority of seats in Parliament. This is the defining moment for the British-controlled region. for more perspective on this, we're joined by Aleks Eror, Journalist.

Northern Ireland's 'New Era' begins, Sinn Fein vows to reunify Ireland

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". &nbsp;

At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". &nbsp;

Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. &nbsp;

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In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. &nbsp;

The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland.

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Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. &nbsp;

So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions".

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. Also Read: NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland. Also Read: Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". (With inputs from agencies)

Northern Ireland Brexit issues: As talks resume, UK warns of 'gaps' with EU

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. <o:p></o:p>

Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland. Reacting to those reports, the palace confirmed that the Queen had to cancel the trip as she has been ‘advised to rest’.<o:p></o:p>

"The Queen sends her warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland, and looks forward to visiting in the future," the statement read.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-more-martini-queen-elizabeth-advised-to-cut-down-daily-alcohol-consumption-421737">No more martini: Queen Elizabeth advised to cut down daily alcohol consumption</a></o:p>

She was expected to attend the church service which has been organised to mark the 100th anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland. After her doctors’ advise, the 94-year-old monarch&nbsp;"has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days".<o:p></o:p>

However, the officials have also confirmed that the Queen has not contracted coronavirus, contrary to some of local media reports. The Queen has also been fully vaccinated, which gives her immunity from the virus.<o:p></o:p>

The Queen is currently resting at Windsor Castle, located in west of London. She is "in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements" on Thursday and Friday.

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<o:p></o:p>

This has come a few days after it was reported that the Queen has been advised to let go of her daily glass of martini, and cut back on her alcohol intake.<o:p></o:p>

"Doctors have advised the Queen to forgo alcohol except for special occasions to ensure she is as healthy as possible for her busy autumn schedule and ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next June," sources told Vanity Fair.<o:p></o:p>

Some people had also been raising eyebrows on Queen using a walking stick for some time now.<o:p></o:p>

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland.

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland. Reacting to those reports, the palace confirmed that the Queen had to cancel the trip as she has been ‘advised to rest’. "The Queen sends her warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland, and looks forward to visiting in the future," the statement read. Also read | No more martini: Queen Elizabeth advised to cut down daily alcohol consumption She was expected to attend the church service which has been organised to mark the 100th anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland. After her doctors’ advise, the 94-year-old monarch "has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days". However, the officials have also confirmed that the Queen has not contracted coronavirus, contrary to some of local media reports. The Queen has also been fully vaccinated, which gives her immunity from the virus. The Queen is currently resting at Windsor Castle, located in west of London. She is "in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements" on Thursday and Friday. Also read | 'Deeply disturbing' leak of Queen's funeral plans irks Buckingham Palace This has come a few days after it was reported that the Queen has been advised to let go of her daily glass of martini, and cut back on her alcohol intake. "Doctors have advised the Queen to forgo alcohol except for special occasions to ensure she is as healthy as possible for her busy autumn schedule and ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next June," sources told Vanity Fair. Some people had also been raising eyebrows on Queen using a walking stick for some time now.

Queen Elizabeth cancels Northern Ireland tour as she is 'advised to rest' by doctors

The European Union is offering to reduce custom checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The Brexit trade arrangement for Northern Ireland created a de-facto trade border within the United Kingdom, it required new checkpoints at ports to stop the flow of certain goods into the EU.

EU: European Union to scrap border checks on British goods

The UK government on Monday said it stood ready to abandon a post-Brexit trading accord for Northern Ireland "soon", unless the EU agreed to wholesale changes.

Addressing the annual conference of the ruling Conservative party, Brexit minister David Frost said: "The long bad dream of our EU membership is over.

"The British renaissance has begun," he said, insisting that Brexit was working in terms of recapturing UK sovereignty despite an ongoing supply chain crisis roiling the economy.

But for Northern Ireland in particular, trust in the tricky compromises worked out with Brussels had "collapsed", Frost said, blaming the EU's "heavy-handed actions".

The EU had yet to formally reply to UK proposals made in July to reform the so-called Northern Ireland Protocol, he noted.

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"But from what I hear, I worry that we will not get one which enables the significant change we need.&nbsp;

"So I urge the EU to be ambitious. It's no use tinkering around the edges. &nbsp;We need significant change," Frost said.&nbsp;

"But we cannot wait for ever. Without an agreed solution soon, we will need to act, using the Article 16 safeguard mechanism, to address the impact the protocol is having on Northern Ireland."

The protocol formed part of the UK's drawn-out divorce from the EU, and was designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the bloc's single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland.

But pro-UK unionists in Northern Ireland are opposed, arguing that border checks on goods from mainland Great Britain -- England, Scotland and Wales -- effectively creates a border in the Irish Sea, compromising the province's place in the wider UK.

Brussels insists that the protocol is not up for renegotiation, and could trigger trade reprisals should the UK invoke its Article 16, which would suspend the pact owing to extraordinary circumstances.

"That may in the end be the only way to protect our country our people, our trade, our territorial integrity, the peace process, and the benefits of this great UK of which we are all part," Frost warned.

The UK government on Monday said it stood ready to abandon a post-Brexit trading accord for Northern Ireland "soon", unless the EU agreed to wholesale changes. Addressing the annual conference of the ruling Conservative party, Brexit minister David Frost said: "The long bad dream of our EU membership is over.

The UK government on Monday said it stood ready to abandon a post-Brexit trading accord for Northern Ireland "soon", unless the EU agreed to wholesale changes. Addressing the annual conference of the ruling Conservative party, Brexit minister David Frost said: "The long bad dream of our EU membership is over. "The British renaissance has begun," he said, insisting that Brexit was working in terms of recapturing UK sovereignty despite an ongoing supply chain crisis roiling the economy. But for Northern Ireland in particular, trust in the tricky compromises worked out with Brussels had "collapsed", Frost said, blaming the EU's "heavy-handed actions". The EU had yet to formally reply to UK proposals made in July to reform the so-called Northern Ireland Protocol, he noted. Also read | 'Too soon to tell': Fauci talks about Christmas gatherings as he warns Americans to not be complacent "But from what I hear, I worry that we will not get one which enables the significant change we need. "So I urge the EU to be ambitious. It's no use tinkering around the edges. We need significant change," Frost said. "But we cannot wait for ever. Without an agreed solution soon, we will need to act, using the Article 16 safeguard mechanism, to address the impact the protocol is having on Northern Ireland." The protocol formed part of the UK's drawn-out divorce from the EU, and was designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the bloc's single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland. But pro-UK unionists in Northern Ireland are opposed, arguing that border checks on goods from mainland Great Britain -- England, Scotland and Wales -- effectively creates a border in the Irish Sea, compromising the province's place in the wider UK. Brussels insists that the protocol is not up for renegotiation, and could trigger trade reprisals should the UK invoke its Article 16, which would suspend the pact owing to extraordinary circumstances. "That may in the end be the only way to protect our country our people, our trade, our territorial integrity, the peace process, and the benefits of this great UK of which we are all part," Frost warned.

UK warns EU time running out to fix NI accord

Hillary Clinton, the former US diplomat, has been chosen as the Chancellor of Northern Ireland’s Queen’s University in Belfast.<o:p></o:p>

However, her entrance during her installation ceremony saw cheers, applause and chants of "war criminal".<o:p></o:p>

Clinton was chosen as the first-ever female Chancellor of Queen’s University in 2020. Although her five-year term started last year, her installation was pushed back due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

The US politician took to Twitter to share her happiness about her new role in the university. "Just call me Madam Chancellor,"&nbsp;she tweeted.

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Clinton thanked the authorities for giving her this opportunity. "I am delighted finally to return to Queen’s as the 11th and first female Chancellor... When I was asked the answer was easy. An emphatic yes!," she said.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just call me Madam Chancellor. <a href="https://twitter.com/QUBelfast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@qubelfast</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LoveQUB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LoveQUB</a> 
 
Photos: Andrew Towe/Queen’s University <a href="https://t.co/xl5AhS2RZ1">pic.twitter.com/xl5AhS2RZ1</a>
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) <a href="https://twitter.com/HillaryClinton/status/1441772559100530691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Her installation ceremony comes a little after she received honorary degrees by the University of Oxford on September 24.<o:p></o:p>

"Thrilled to receive an honorary Doctorate of Civil Law on a beautiful day at Oxford University," she wrote in an Instagram post.

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While she was applauded during her degree ceremony, cries of "Shame on Queen's! Shame on you!", "War criminal!" and "Out! Out!" were heard. <o:p></o:p>

People had gathered outside the gates of the university to protest the election of Clinton as the Chancellor.<o:p></o:p>

However, Clinton carried on marching through the gates with a huge smile and a young girl carrying her cape.<o:p></o:p>

Calling Clinton "an internationally recognised public servant who has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to Northern Ireland", Ian Greer, the president and vice-chancellor said, "We are delighted that Secretary Clinton has been able to travel to Belfast to be formally installed as the university’s 11th chancellor."<o:p></o:p>

Hillary Clinton, the former US diplomat, has been chosen as the Chancellor of Northern Ireland’s Queen’s University in Belfast. However, her entrance during her installation ceremony saw cheers, applause and chants of "war criminal".

Hillary Clinton, the former US diplomat, has been chosen as the Chancellor of Northern Ireland’s Queen’s University in Belfast. However, her entrance during her installation ceremony saw cheers, applause and chants of "war criminal". Clinton was chosen as the first-ever female Chancellor of Queen’s University in 2020. Although her five-year term started last year, her installation was pushed back due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The US politician took to Twitter to share her happiness about her new role in the university. "Just call me Madam Chancellor," she tweeted. Also read | Edie Falco to play Hillary Clinton in 'Impeachment: American Crime Story' Clinton thanked the authorities for giving her this opportunity. "I am delighted finally to return to Queen’s as the 11th and first female Chancellor... When I was asked the answer was easy. An emphatic yes!," she said. Just call me Madam Chancellor. @qubelfast #LoveQUB Photos: Andrew Towe/Queen’s University pic.twitter.com/xl5AhS2RZ1 — Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 25, 2021 × Her installation ceremony comes a little after she received honorary degrees by the University of Oxford on September 24. "Thrilled to receive an honorary Doctorate of Civil Law on a beautiful day at Oxford University," she wrote in an Instagram post. Also read | Trump was scared Biden would be replaced with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama, book claims While she was applauded during her degree ceremony, cries of "Shame on Queen's! Shame on you!", "War criminal!" and "Out! Out!" were heard. People had gathered outside the gates of the university to protest the election of Clinton as the Chancellor. However, Clinton carried on marching through the gates with a huge smile and a young girl carrying her cape. Calling Clinton "an internationally recognised public servant who has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to Northern Ireland", Ian Greer, the president and vice-chancellor said, "We are delighted that Secretary Clinton has been able to travel to Belfast to be formally installed as the university’s 11th chancellor."

Hillary Clinton called 'war criminal' as she becomes Chancellor of Queen's University

One third of the people arriving in England and Northern Ireland as the coronavirus Delta variant took off may have broken quarantine rules. As per the figures by BBC, more than 300,000 cases were passed to investigators between March and May.

One third of the people arriving in England and Northern Ireland as the coronavirus Delta variant took off may have broken quarantine rules. As per the figures by BBC, more than 300,000 cases were passed to investigators between March and May. The government was not able to say how many of these were found to have broken the rules or could not be traced. The Home Office has said it aims to pay home visits to all travellers who have been suspected of not following the rules. However, Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said the figures obtained by the BBC "confirm our worst fears" about the government's "lax border policy". Also read | Vietnamese fleeing virus found in refrigerated truck: Media Earlier this year, the government introduced new rules for people arriving from abroad. This was done in an attempt to curb the spread of coronavirus and stop new variants from arriving in the country. People arriving from high-risk countries were deemed "red list" and had to quarantine in a hotel. People coming from "amber list", or medium-risk areas, were required to self-isolate for 10 days and provide evidence of negative Covid tests.

More than 300,000 suspected of breaking quarantine rules in England and Northern Ireland

The UK government has urged the European Union to rewrite the trade deal with Northern Ireland. However, the European Union said that it would not agree to renegotiate the terms of the 2019 deal.

Brexit: UK calls for changes in Northern Ireland Protocol, EU rejects demand

In a recent development, temperatures in Northern Ireland hit record-breaking heights on Saturday as thermometers soared above 30C. Recording a temperature of 31.

In a recent development, temperatures in Northern Ireland hit record-breaking heights on Saturday as thermometers soared above 30C. Recording a temperature of 31.2C, it was the hottest day on record with Ballywatticock, near Newtownards in County Down. The previous high was 30.8C set in the summers of 1976 and 1983. Today is provisionally the hottest day ever recorded in Northern Ireland 📈 😮 Ballywatticock in County Down reached 31.2 °C at 15.40 🌡️ Previously, 30.8 °C was the highest #temperature recorded in Northern Ireland, reached on 12th July 1983 and 30th June 1976 #heatwave pic.twitter.com/pFIDwHmCvG — Met Office (@metoffice) July 17, 2021 × The situation is not just like this in Ireland as the hottest day of the year so far has been provisionally recorded in the other three UK nations too. In England, 30.7C was recorded at Linton-on-Ouse in North Yorkshire; in Wales, Usk in Monmouthshire reached 29C, and in Scotland, 28.2C was recorded in Threave in the Dumfries and Galloway region. In any direct #sunshine today #UV levels will be very high across much of England and Wales ☀️ If you are outside, remember to stay protected in the sun 😎 You can find more advice here 👉 https://t.co/yktBBaIfq6 pic.twitter.com/H2zpoxobwt — Met Office (@metoffice) July 18, 2021 × Also read | No place is safe, reveal scientists amid unprecedented heatwave in parts of US and Canada Meanwhile, climate scientists have said that no place is safe from the kind of extreme heat events that have hit the western US and Canada in recent days. Being deemed as a 'heat dome', it has caused temperatures to rise to almost 50C in Canada and has been linked to hundreds of deaths, melted power lines, buckled roads, and wildfires. Michael E Mann, professor of atmospheric science at Pennsylvania State University and author of The New Climate War, was quoted by the Guardian saying, "We should take this very seriously … You warm up the planet, you’re going to see an increased incidence of heat extreme. Climate models are actually underestimating the impact that climate change is having on events like the unprecedented heatwave we are witnessing out west right now".

Hottest day recorded in Northern Ireland as temperatures soar above 30C

Britain is keeping all options on the table as a response in a dispute with the European Union over part of their Brexit deal covering Northern Ireland, Brexit minister David Frost said on Wednesday, adding that talks were not making much progress.

Frustration in the British government is also rising because London has offered a number of proposals to solve a standoff with the European Union over Northern Ireland but has not had a lot back, Frost added.

"Our position is that we would like to find negotiated agreements that ... bring it back to the sort of light-touch agreement that we thought we were agreeing," Frost told a parliamentary committee.

"Our frustration ... is that we're not getting a lot of traction, and we feel we have put in a lot of ideas and we haven't had very much back to help move these discussions forward, and meanwhile ... time is running out."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he could trigger emergency measures in the Northern Ireland protocol after its implementation at the beginning of this year has seen disruption to trade between Britain and its province. 
 
"All options remain on the table as regards steps forwards. Obviously, we would prefer to find negotiated ways forward if we can. If that's not possible obviously ... other options remain on the table," Frost told a parliamentary committee.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Ireland's foreign minister said on Tuesday that&nbsp;post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland are not a threat to the territorial integrity of the United Kingdom but simply a means of managing disruption from its exit from the European Union.

"Don't know how many times this needs to be said before it's fully accepted as true. NI (Northern Ireland) Protocol is a technical trading arrangement to manage the disruption of Brexit for the island of Ireland to the greatest extent possible," Simon Coveney said on Twitter.

"It's not about constitutional matters," he said, in response to comments by Britain's Brexit minister David Frost at a parliamentary committee.

Britain is keeping all options on the table as a response in a dispute with the European Union over part of their Brexit deal covering Northern Ireland, Brexit minister David Frost said on Wednesday, adding that talks were not making much progress.

Britain is keeping all options on the table as a response in a dispute with the European Union over part of their Brexit deal covering Northern Ireland, Brexit minister David Frost said on Wednesday, adding that talks were not making much progress. Frustration in the British government is also rising because London has offered a number of proposals to solve a standoff with the European Union over Northern Ireland but has not had a lot back, Frost added. "Our position is that we would like to find negotiated agreements that ... bring it back to the sort of light-touch agreement that we thought we were agreeing," Frost told a parliamentary committee. "Our frustration ... is that we're not getting a lot of traction, and we feel we have put in a lot of ideas and we haven't had very much back to help move these discussions forward, and meanwhile ... time is running out." Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he could trigger emergency measures in the Northern Ireland protocol after its implementation at the beginning of this year has seen disruption to trade between Britain and its province. "All options remain on the table as regards steps forwards. Obviously, we would prefer to find negotiated ways forward if we can. If that's not possible obviously ... other options remain on the table," Frost told a parliamentary committee. Meanwhile, Ireland's foreign minister said on Tuesday that post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland are not a threat to the territorial integrity of the United Kingdom but simply a means of managing disruption from its exit from the European Union. "Don't know how many times this needs to be said before it's fully accepted as true. NI (Northern Ireland) Protocol is a technical trading arrangement to manage the disruption of Brexit for the island of Ireland to the greatest extent possible," Simon Coveney said on Twitter. "It's not about constitutional matters," he said, in response to comments by Britain's Brexit minister David Frost at a parliamentary committee.

Not much progress: Britain keeps all options open in Northern Ireland row

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal. 
 
"We need the EU to be pragmatic about the checks that are undertaken and that was always the way the protocol was drafted," International Trade Secretary Liz Truss told Sky News. 
 
"It requires compromise between the parties, and the EU need to be reasonable," Truss said. 
 
Earlier, French European Affairs junior minister Clement Beaune said that current tensions over Brexit between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government and the European Union were 'a test' for Europe.

The tensions between Britain and the EU threatened to overshadow the Group of Seven summit's conclusion on Sunday, with London accusing France of 'offensive' remarks that Northern Ireland was not part of the United Kingdom.

"Mr Johnson thinks that you can sign deals with the Europeans and not respect them and that Europe will not react. It is a test for Europe," Beaune told Europe 1 radio.

"I am telling the British people, (Brexit) commitments must be respected... If it is not the case, retaliatory measures could be taken," Beaune added.

During talks with Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit, Johnson queried how the French president would react if Toulouse sausages could not be sold in Paris markets, echoing London's accusation that the EU is preventing sales of British chilled meats in Northern Ireland.

"In Northern Ireland, there are sausage import problems... Why? Because when you leave the European Union, you have necessarily some (trade) barriers," Beaune said.

"I cannot tell the French or the Europeans that Britain can export via (EU member) Ireland some products, such as meat without any control... That is what it is all about. Brexit has consequences."

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal.

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal. "We need the EU to be pragmatic about the checks that are undertaken and that was always the way the protocol was drafted," International Trade Secretary Liz Truss told Sky News. "It requires compromise between the parties, and the EU need to be reasonable," Truss said. Earlier, French European Affairs junior minister Clement Beaune said that current tensions over Brexit between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government and the European Union were 'a test' for Europe. The tensions between Britain and the EU threatened to overshadow the Group of Seven summit's conclusion on Sunday, with London accusing France of 'offensive' remarks that Northern Ireland was not part of the United Kingdom. "Mr Johnson thinks that you can sign deals with the Europeans and not respect them and that Europe will not react. It is a test for Europe," Beaune told Europe 1 radio. "I am telling the British people, (Brexit) commitments must be respected... If it is not the case, retaliatory measures could be taken," Beaune added. During talks with Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit, Johnson queried how the French president would react if Toulouse sausages could not be sold in Paris markets, echoing London's accusation that the EU is preventing sales of British chilled meats in Northern Ireland. "In Northern Ireland, there are sausage import problems... Why? Because when you leave the European Union, you have necessarily some (trade) barriers," Beaune said. "I cannot tell the French or the Europeans that Britain can export via (EU member) Ireland some products, such as meat without any control... That is what it is all about. Brexit has consequences." (With inputs from agencies)

UK tells EU on Northern Ireland: Be responsible, be reasonable

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU).

The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit.

"I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said.

Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe.

Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington.

The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045]

Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available.

"Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland. PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU). The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit. "I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said. Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea. The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe. Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington. The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045] Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available. "Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel urges 'pragmatic' approach to solve Northern Ireland issue

UK PM Boris Johnson was told by the European Union to implement the Brexit deal he signed to ensure the delicate peace in Northern Ireland. The bloc told the UK that all 27 EU member countries were unified in that position.

The US has expressed concern that dispute between the UK and the EU over implementation of 2020 Brexit deal could undermine 1998 Good Friday peace deal that ended three decades of violence.

After the United Kingdom exited the bloc's orbit on Jan. 1, Johnson has unilaterally delayed the implementation of some provisions of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the deal and his top negotiator has said the protocol is unsustainable.

"The Good Friday Agreement and peace on the island of Ireland are paramount," Ursula von der Leyen said after a meeting with Johnson and European Council President Charles Michel. "Both sides must implement what we agreed on."

"There is complete EU unity on this," she said, adding that the deal had been agreed, signed and ratified by both Johnson's government and the EU.

The 1998 peace deal largely brought an end to the "Troubles" - three decades of conflict between Irish Catholic nationalist militants and pro-British Protestant "loyalist" paramilitaries in which 3,600 people were killed.

Brexit

Though Brexit was not part of the formal agenda for the Group of Seven summit in the English seaside resort of Carbis Bay, it was raised in meetings between Johnson and EU leaders.

French President Emmanuel Macron offered to reset relations with Britain as long as Johnson stands by the Brexit deal.. Johnson also met German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Brexit has strained the situation in Northern Ireland: The EU wants to protect its markets but an effective border in the Irish Sea created by the Northern Ireland Protocol cuts off the British province from the rest of the United Kingdom.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Boris Johnson was told by the European Union to implement the Brexit deal he signed to ensure the delicate peace in Northern Ireland. The bloc told the UK that all 27 EU member countries were unified in that position.

UK PM Boris Johnson was told by the European Union to implement the Brexit deal he signed to ensure the delicate peace in Northern Ireland. The bloc told the UK that all 27 EU member countries were unified in that position. The US has expressed concern that dispute between the UK and the EU over implementation of 2020 Brexit deal could undermine 1998 Good Friday peace deal that ended three decades of violence. After the United Kingdom exited the bloc's orbit on Jan. 1, Johnson has unilaterally delayed the implementation of some provisions of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the deal and his top negotiator has said the protocol is unsustainable. "The Good Friday Agreement and peace on the island of Ireland are paramount," Ursula von der Leyen said after a meeting with Johnson and European Council President Charles Michel. "Both sides must implement what we agreed on." "There is complete EU unity on this," she said, adding that the deal had been agreed, signed and ratified by both Johnson's government and the EU. The 1998 peace deal largely brought an end to the "Troubles" - three decades of conflict between Irish Catholic nationalist militants and pro-British Protestant "loyalist" paramilitaries in which 3,600 people were killed. Brexit Though Brexit was not part of the formal agenda for the Group of Seven summit in the English seaside resort of Carbis Bay, it was raised in meetings between Johnson and EU leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron offered to reset relations with Britain as long as Johnson stands by the Brexit deal.. Johnson also met German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Brexit has strained the situation in Northern Ireland: The EU wants to protect its markets but an effective border in the Irish Sea created by the Northern Ireland Protocol cuts off the British province from the rest of the United Kingdom. (With inputs from agencies)

Implement the Brexit deal, EU tells UK PM Boris Johnson

European Union leaders will threaten British Prime Minister Boris Johnson with a trade war over Northern Ireland, The Times reported on Friday, without citing sources. 
 
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will use one-to-one meetings with Johnson on Saturday to demand that Britain honours the terms of the Brexit deal in relation to Northern Ireland, The Times reported. 
 
Downing Street said that Johnson would dismiss the EU’s threats and make clear he was ready to override a key part of the agreement this month unless the bloc backs down, The Times reported.

European Union leaders will threaten British Prime Minister Boris Johnson with a trade war over Northern Ireland, The Times reported on Friday, without citing sources.

European Union leaders will threaten British Prime Minister Boris Johnson with a trade war over Northern Ireland, The Times reported on Friday, without citing sources. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will use one-to-one meetings with Johnson on Saturday to demand that Britain honours the terms of the Brexit deal in relation to Northern Ireland, The Times reported. Downing Street said that Johnson would dismiss the EU’s threats and make clear he was ready to override a key part of the agreement this month unless the bloc backs down, The Times reported.

EU leaders to threaten UK PM with trade war over Northern Ireland: The Times

The French president Emmanuel Macron has put pressure on UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson after he said that 'nothing is renegotiable' regarding Northern Ireland as the G7 summit of world leaders risked being overshadowed by the bitter standoff over Brexit.

Macron warns Johnson 'no re-negotiation of protocol' over Northern Ireland

France's European affairs minister warned Britain not to play games with special post-Brexit trading rules for Northern Ireland, as fears rise of a summer of violence in the province.

Clement Beaune urged London to be "responsible" over the so-called "protocol" for Northern Ireland, which kept it in the EU single market and customs union despite the UK's departure from the bloc.

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"We cannot accept that there is political game with such a sensitive issue," Beaune said in an interview with a small group of media including AFP in The Hague on Saturday after talks with the Dutch foreign minister.

"This is a central piece of European stability, you cannot play with this. We will never play with that. But we cannot accept that the protocol is taken lightly by any part," he added.

"So I'm just saying, and we are discussing it of course with the British side, do not play with the protocol."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-withdraws-patrol-boats-from-jersey-after-french-brexit-row-383442/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tensions have been mounting in Northern Ireland over the so-called "protocol" that came into effect at the start of 2021, with the worst rioting in years breaking out in April and First Minister Arlene Foster announcing her resignation.

Northern Ireland is still deeply divided between pro-UK mainly Protestant unionists and pro-Ireland largely Catholic nationalists, despite a 1998 peace deal that ended three decades of violence over British rule.

Unionists believe the protocol threatens Northern Ireland's status in the UK and the prospect of union with neighbouring Ireland.

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British Brexit minister David Frost on Monday urged the EU to compromise over the protocol before Northern Ireland enters a tense summer of events marking the Protestant ascendancy over Catholics.

Fears have grown that tensions could soar again around July 12, when pro-UK unionists annually commemorate events in the late 17th century that entrenched Protestant rule over the northern part of Catholic Ireland.

But Beaune, who met Ireland's foreign minister Simon Coveney in Dublin earlier this week along with France' foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, said London should not try to argue in favour of scrapping the protocol.&nbsp;

"The protocol is not a problem. The protocol is the solution to border problems that were created by Brexit," Beaune said.

Ireland's Coveney on Thursday warned Britain that unilaterally overriding the rules would be a "disaster".

France's European affairs minister warned Britain not to play games with special post-Brexit trading rules for Northern Ireland, as fears rise of a summer of violence in the province.

France's European affairs minister warned Britain not to play games with special post-Brexit trading rules for Northern Ireland, as fears rise of a summer of violence in the province. Clement Beaune urged London to be "responsible" over the so-called "protocol" for Northern Ireland, which kept it in the EU single market and customs union despite the UK's departure from the bloc. Also Read | EU mulls 'next steps' as UK responds to Brexit lawsuit "We cannot accept that there is political game with such a sensitive issue," Beaune said in an interview with a small group of media including AFP in The Hague on Saturday after talks with the Dutch foreign minister. "This is a central piece of European stability, you cannot play with this. We will never play with that. But we cannot accept that the protocol is taken lightly by any part," he added. "So I'm just saying, and we are discussing it of course with the British side, do not play with the protocol." Tensions have been mounting in Northern Ireland over the so-called "protocol" that came into effect at the start of 2021, with the worst rioting in years breaking out in April and First Minister Arlene Foster announcing her resignation. Northern Ireland is still deeply divided between pro-UK mainly Protestant unionists and pro-Ireland largely Catholic nationalists, despite a 1998 peace deal that ended three decades of violence over British rule. Unionists believe the protocol threatens Northern Ireland's status in the UK and the prospect of union with neighbouring Ireland. Also Read | Post-Brexit roadmap: Key takeaways from UK-India trade deal British Brexit minister David Frost on Monday urged the EU to compromise over the protocol before Northern Ireland enters a tense summer of events marking the Protestant ascendancy over Catholics. Fears have grown that tensions could soar again around July 12, when pro-UK unionists annually commemorate events in the late 17th century that entrenched Protestant rule over the northern part of Catholic Ireland. But Beaune, who met Ireland's foreign minister Simon Coveney in Dublin earlier this week along with France' foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, said London should not try to argue in favour of scrapping the protocol. "The protocol is not a problem. The protocol is the solution to border problems that were created by Brexit," Beaune said. Ireland's Coveney on Thursday warned Britain that unilaterally overriding the rules would be a "disaster".

France warns UK not to 'play' with N.Ireland Brexit deal

Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster announced her resignation, after facing declining support and an internal party no-confidence vote, at a tense time in the divided British province.

Northern Ireland's first minister Arlene Foster resigns after no-confidence vote

Firefighters in Northern Ireland are spending a second day batting fires across difficult terrain on the Mourne Mountains.&nbsp;

More than 70 firefighters and 10 fire trucks from across Northern Ireland were involved Saturday in trying to contain the wildfire, while helicopters from both Britain and Ireland are set to join the effort.&nbsp;

The wildfire has been raging since Friday morning in the Slieve Donard area, the highest point in Northern Ireland, with a peak of 850 meters (2,780 feet).&nbsp;

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has urged people to stay away from the area as it declared a major incident.&nbsp;

Northern Ireland's first minister, Arlene Foster, said the wildfire is ‘devastating and tragic’, adding that the impact on local wildlife and flora is 'unimaginable’.&nbsp;

Assistant Fire Commander Aidan Jennings said the cause of the wildfire is unknown at present but noted they are 'predominantly caused by human behavior’. He said firefighters are wearing personal protective equipment and travelling for up to an hour and a half to get up the slopes.&nbsp;

"We're working with small pumps out of rivers but predominantly it is a physical, hard, beating-out job up there," he said.&nbsp;

He said the fire was moving quickly, pressed by an easterly wind. The weather has been relatively dry in recent weeks. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Firefighters in Northern Ireland are spending a second day batting fires across difficult terrain on the Mourne Mountains. More than 70 firefighters and 10 fire trucks from across Northern Ireland were involved Saturday in trying to contain the wildfire, while helicopters from both Britain and Ireland are set to join the effort.

Firefighters in Northern Ireland are spending a second day batting fires across difficult terrain on the Mourne Mountains. More than 70 firefighters and 10 fire trucks from across Northern Ireland were involved Saturday in trying to contain the wildfire, while helicopters from both Britain and Ireland are set to join the effort. The wildfire has been raging since Friday morning in the Slieve Donard area, the highest point in Northern Ireland, with a peak of 850 meters (2,780 feet). The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has urged people to stay away from the area as it declared a major incident. Northern Ireland's first minister, Arlene Foster, said the wildfire is ‘devastating and tragic’, adding that the impact on local wildlife and flora is 'unimaginable’. Assistant Fire Commander Aidan Jennings said the cause of the wildfire is unknown at present but noted they are 'predominantly caused by human behavior’. He said firefighters are wearing personal protective equipment and travelling for up to an hour and a half to get up the slopes. "We're working with small pumps out of rivers but predominantly it is a physical, hard, beating-out job up there," he said. He said the fire was moving quickly, pressed by an easterly wind. The weather has been relatively dry in recent weeks.

Wildfire in Northern Ireland declared a 'major incident' 

Northern Ireland has witnessed its worst rioting in years. The Police were targeted with stones and petrol bombs. Children as young as 12 were involved in the clashes. What triggered the rioting?

Gravitas: Police attacked with petrol bombs in Northern Ireland

Britain's prime minister has condemned another night of violence in Northern Ireland, after crowds threw petrol bombs and a bus was set on fire in Belfast.

The violence follows a week of rioting which some have suggested is the first evidence Brexit turbulence may be boiling into unrest in the British province, where post-EU rules are stoking fury among pro-UK sections.

Crowds gathered at Lanark Way in Belfast "where a bus has been set on fire", the Police Service Northern Ireland confirmed, advising people to avoid Springfield and West Circular roads.

"The way to resolve differences is through dialogue, not violence or criminality," PM Boris Johnson tweeted late Wednesday.

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I am deeply concerned by the scenes of violence in Northern Ireland, especially attacks on PSNI who are protecting the public and businesses, attacks on a bus driver and the assault of a journalist. The way to resolve differences is through dialogue, not violence or criminality.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1379895030077394950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He added he was "deeply concerned" by the scenes.

A set of gates on the Lanark Way peace line — walls separating nationalist and unionist groups — were also set alight, according to the BBC's Northern Ireland correspondent.

"Crowds of a few hundred on each side throwing petrol bombs over in both directions," she said in a tweet.

She added a local priest had attempted to stop the violence: "They all greeted him with a friendly 'hi father', then returned to hurling missiles."

The BBC said the arrival of police cars mostly halted the violence.&nbsp;

Translink Metro said bus services in the area had been suspended, Press Association reported.

First Minister Arlene Foster said: "This is not protest. This is vandalism and attempted murder. These actions do not represent unionism or loyalism."

Northern Ireland endured 30 years of sectarian conflict that killed 3,500 people.

Unionist paramilitaries, British security forces and armed nationalists — seeking to unite the territory with the Republic of Ireland — waged battle until a landmark peace deal in 1998.

The accord let unionists and nationalists coexist by blurring the status of the region, dissolving border checks with fellow European Union member Ireland.

Following the shock 2016 Brexit result, a special "protocol" was agreed that shifted checks away from the land border.

Britain's prime minister has condemned another night of violence in Northern Ireland, after crowds threw petrol bombs and a bus was set on fire in Belfast. The violence follows a week of rioting which some have suggested is the first evidence Brexit turbulence may be boiling into unrest in the British province, where post-EU rules are stoking fury among pro-UK sections.

Britain's prime minister has condemned another night of violence in Northern Ireland, after crowds threw petrol bombs and a bus was set on fire in Belfast. The violence follows a week of rioting which some have suggested is the first evidence Brexit turbulence may be boiling into unrest in the British province, where post-EU rules are stoking fury among pro-UK sections. Crowds gathered at Lanark Way in Belfast "where a bus has been set on fire", the Police Service Northern Ireland confirmed, advising people to avoid Springfield and West Circular roads. "The way to resolve differences is through dialogue, not violence or criminality," PM Boris Johnson tweeted late Wednesday. I am deeply concerned by the scenes of violence in Northern Ireland, especially attacks on PSNI who are protecting the public and businesses, attacks on a bus driver and the assault of a journalist. The way to resolve differences is through dialogue, not violence or criminality. — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 7, 2021 × He added he was "deeply concerned" by the scenes. A set of gates on the Lanark Way peace line — walls separating nationalist and unionist groups — were also set alight, according to the BBC's Northern Ireland correspondent. "Crowds of a few hundred on each side throwing petrol bombs over in both directions," she said in a tweet. She added a local priest had attempted to stop the violence: "They all greeted him with a friendly 'hi father', then returned to hurling missiles." The BBC said the arrival of police cars mostly halted the violence. Translink Metro said bus services in the area had been suspended, Press Association reported. First Minister Arlene Foster said: "This is not protest. This is vandalism and attempted murder. These actions do not represent unionism or loyalism." Northern Ireland endured 30 years of sectarian conflict that killed 3,500 people. Unionist paramilitaries, British security forces and armed nationalists — seeking to unite the territory with the Republic of Ireland — waged battle until a landmark peace deal in 1998. The accord let unionists and nationalists coexist by blurring the status of the region, dissolving border checks with fellow European Union member Ireland. Following the shock 2016 Brexit result, a special "protocol" was agreed that shifted checks away from the land border.

British PM condemns latest Northern Ireland violence

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests.&nbsp;

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Frost again defended Britain's unilateral move to smooth post-Brexit trade between Britain and Northern Ireland, over which the EU has promised to launch legal action for breaching the terms of the Brexit deal.&nbsp;

Since Britain left the EU last year, relations between the two have soured, with both sides accusing the other of acting in bad faith in relation to part of their trade agreement that covers goods movements to Northern Ireland.&nbsp;

Frost, who led Britain's negotiations to secure a trade deal with the bloc, was appointed as a minister and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's main point man for future ties with the EU earlier this year and looks set to take a firmer approach.&nbsp;

"I hope they will shake off any remaining ill will towards us for leaving, and instead build a friendly relationship, between sovereign equals," he wrote in an opinion piece.&nbsp;

"That is what I will be working towards, acting constructively when we can, standing up for our interests when we must – as a sovereign country in full control of our own destiny."&nbsp;

He again defended the British government's extension of a grace period for checks on some food products imported by retailers to Northern Ireland as being 'lawful and consistent with the progressive and good faith implementation' of part of the post-Brexit trade deal called the Northern Ireland protocol.&nbsp;

But he added, "Without this threat of disruption, we can continue our discussions with the EU to resolve difficulties arising from the protocol constructively and we aim to do so."&nbsp;

Northern Ireland's future was bitterly contested during the Brexit negotiations. London ultimately agreed to leave the British-ruled province aligned to the EU's single market for goods to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, fearing it could be detrimental to the 1998 peace agreement that ended decades of conflict in the province.&nbsp;

This has required checks on some items arriving in Northern Ireland from elsewhere in the United Kingdom, which some businesses say has made it difficult to bring in supplies. To address that issue, the British government extended the grace period for some checks until October 1.&nbsp;

The EU disputes that the grace period extension was in line with the agreement, saying London should honour what it signed up to. It has promised to launch legal action, or a so-called 'infringement procedure' against Britain.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests.

The European Union should shake off its ill will and build a good relationship with Britain as sovereign equals, Britain's top EU adviser David Frost said on Sunday, promising to stand up for the country's interests. Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Frost again defended Britain's unilateral move to smooth post-Brexit trade between Britain and Northern Ireland, over which the EU has promised to launch legal action for breaching the terms of the Brexit deal. Since Britain left the EU last year, relations between the two have soured, with both sides accusing the other of acting in bad faith in relation to part of their trade agreement that covers goods movements to Northern Ireland. Frost, who led Britain's negotiations to secure a trade deal with the bloc, was appointed as a minister and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's main point man for future ties with the EU earlier this year and looks set to take a firmer approach. "I hope they will shake off any remaining ill will towards us for leaving, and instead build a friendly relationship, between sovereign equals," he wrote in an opinion piece. "That is what I will be working towards, acting constructively when we can, standing up for our interests when we must – as a sovereign country in full control of our own destiny." He again defended the British government's extension of a grace period for checks on some food products imported by retailers to Northern Ireland as being 'lawful and consistent with the progressive and good faith implementation' of part of the post-Brexit trade deal called the Northern Ireland protocol. But he added, "Without this threat of disruption, we can continue our discussions with the EU to resolve difficulties arising from the protocol constructively and we aim to do so." Northern Ireland's future was bitterly contested during the Brexit negotiations. London ultimately agreed to leave the British-ruled province aligned to the EU's single market for goods to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, fearing it could be detrimental to the 1998 peace agreement that ended decades of conflict in the province. This has required checks on some items arriving in Northern Ireland from elsewhere in the United Kingdom, which some businesses say has made it difficult to bring in supplies. To address that issue, the British government extended the grace period for some checks until October 1. The EU disputes that the grace period extension was in line with the agreement, saying London should honour what it signed up to. It has promised to launch legal action, or a so-called 'infringement procedure' against Britain. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain asks EU to shake off ill will over post-Brexit trade 

In October of last year, the EU started legal proceedings against the U.K. after the government put forward a bill that would have overridden the same deal over Northern Ireland.

UK denies breaking EU treaty over Northern Ireland

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