India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a joint press conference on Thursday (October 9) in Mumbai. Modi said, "The largest and most influential delegation from the education sector so far has come with Prime Minister Starmer. It is a matter of great joy that now nine universities from the UK are going to open campuses in India. The Gurugram campus of Southampton University was recently inaugurated, and the first group of students has also taken admission."<h2>Modi, Starmer hold joint press conference</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the CEO Summit in Mumbai, emphasised that India and the UK are "natural partners" with shared values. He highlighted the significance of their partnership, saying that it plays a key role in bringing stability to a volatile global landscape. "In July, during my visit to the UK, we signed the historic Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), marking a major step forward in India-UK relations," said Modi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rawalpindi-chicken-tikka-to-balakot-tiramisu-indian-army-officer-shares-menu-naming-dishes-after-terror-targets-hit-during-op-sindoor-1759990693510">Rawalpindi Chicken Tikka to Balakot Tiramisu: Indian Army officer shares menu naming dishes after terror targets hit during Op Sindoor</a>&nbsp;The two leaders held a bilateral meeting in Mumbai, where Starmer urged for the swift implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that both nations finalised earlier this year. Starmer called the FTA, which was signed in July 2024, "a crucial deal." He noted that it represents the largest agreement the UK has made since leaving the European Union and the most significant trade deal India has ever negotiated. This agreement aims to increase bilateral trade between the countries by £25.5 billion annually.<h2>‘India-UK economic partnership enters new phase’</h2>During his visit, Starmer also announced that three major productions from India's Yash Raj Films (YRF) will begin filming at various locations in the UK starting in 2026. He also took part in lighting diyas in Mumbai to mark Diwali, symbolizing the strong cultural ties between the two nations.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Piyush Goyal, Union minister of Commerce and Industry wrote on X, “India-UK economic partnership enters a new phase! Thrilled to announce the signing of the Terms of Reference to reposition the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). This institutional reset is a game-changer, strengthening our framework for strategic engagement, driving the implementation of the India-UK CETA, and boosting our joint ambition to significantly enhance our bilateral trade.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India-UK economic partnership enters a new phase! 🇮🇳🤝🇬🇧 Thrilled to announce the signing of the Terms of Reference to reposition the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). This institutional reset is a game-changer, strengthening our framework for strategic engagement,… <a href="https://t.co/6f4zZTr9Cq">pic.twitter.com/6f4zZTr9Cq</a>&mdash; Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1976165314674225286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

'Natural Partners': 9 UK universities to open campus in India, Indian instructors to train UK pilots, says PM Modi

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a joint press conference on Thursday (October 9) in Mumbai. Modi said, "The largest and most influential delegation from the education sector so far has come with Prime Minister Starmer. It is a matter of great joy that now nine universities from the UK are going to open campuses in India. The Gurugram campus of Southampton University was recently inaugurated, and the first group of students has also taken admission." Modi, Starmer hold joint press conference Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the CEO Summit in Mumbai, emphasised that India and the UK are "natural partners" with shared values. He highlighted the significance of their partnership, saying that it plays a key role in bringing stability to a volatile global landscape. "In July, during my visit to the UK, we signed the historic Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), marking a major step forward in India-UK relations," said Modi. Also Read: Rawalpindi Chicken Tikka to Balakot Tiramisu: Indian Army officer shares menu naming dishes after terror targets hit during Op Sindoor The two leaders held a bilateral meeting in Mumbai, where Starmer urged for the swift implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that both nations finalised earlier this year. Starmer called the FTA, which was signed in July 2024, "a crucial deal." He noted that it represents the largest agreement the UK has made since leaving the European Union and the most significant trade deal India has ever negotiated. This agreement aims to increase bilateral trade between the countries by £25.5 billion annually. ‘India-UK economic partnership enters new phase’ During his visit, Starmer also announced that three major productions from India's Yash Raj Films (YRF) will begin filming at various locations in the UK starting in 2026. He also took part in lighting diyas in Mumbai to mark Diwali, symbolizing the strong cultural ties between the two nations. Meanwhile, Piyush Goyal, Union minister of Commerce and Industry wrote on X, “India-UK economic partnership enters a new phase! Thrilled to announce the signing of the Terms of Reference to reposition the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). This institutional reset is a game-changer, strengthening our framework for strategic engagement, driving the implementation of the India-UK CETA, and boosting our joint ambition to significantly enhance our bilateral trade.”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is on his first visit to India held bilateral discussions with India Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai on Thursday (October 9)

Modi-Starmer meeting: 9 UK universities to open campus in India, Indian instructors to train UK pilots, says PM Modi

Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, visited Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studio on Wednesday during his visit to Mumbai. YRF is considered one of the most prominent production houses in Bollywood, with its studio serving as a key hub for the Indian film industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;During his visit to the YRF studios, Kramer met Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji and YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani. Mukerji is married to YRF head Aditya Chopra and is one of the top actresses of Bollywood.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mukerji gave Starmer a visit to the YRF studio during his visit. The PM also watched a movie with the actor and Widhani.<h2>Kramer’s visit to Mumbai&nbsp;</h2>The visit aims at strengthening cultural ties and promoting collaboration between the British and Indian film industries. Starmer, who flew in from London earlier in the day, drove to the YRF Studios amid heavy police security.&nbsp;His visit to the facility is seen as a step toward fostering creative partnerships, including potential joint film projects and cultural exchange programmes.&nbsp;Security arrangements were increased in key locations ahead of the UK PM’s visit to the studio.&nbsp;

YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani along with PM Starmer and Rani Mukerji

Starmer’s visit is being seen as a significant step towards strengthening India-UK diplomatic and cultural relations, combining film, sport, and commerce under a single strategic agenda. Starmer also participated in a football showcase event organised by the English Premier League at Cooperage football ground in South Mumbai on Wednesday. The event aimed to promote sports diplomacy and strengthen ties between the UK and India in the field of football. Former England international Michael Owen also attended the event, alongside local football enthusiasts and young players.

Bollywood star Rani Mukerji gave the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer a tour of Yash Raj Films studio during his visit to Mumbai on Wednesday. Starmer is in India to strengthen UK-India's cultural and diplomatic relations. 

Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, visited Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studio on Wednesday during his visit to Mumbai. YRF is considered one of the most prominent production houses in Bollywood, with its studio serving as a key hub for the Indian film industry. During his visit to the YRF studios, Kramer met Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji and YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani. Mukerji is married to YRF head Aditya Chopra and is one of the top actresses of Bollywood. Mukerji gave Starmer a visit to the YRF studio during his visit. The PM also watched a movie with the actor and Widhani. Kramer’s visit to Mumbai The visit aims at strengthening cultural ties and promoting collaboration between the British and Indian film industries. Starmer, who flew in from London earlier in the day, drove to the YRF Studios amid heavy police security. His visit to the facility is seen as a step toward fostering creative partnerships, including potential joint film projects and cultural exchange programmes. Security arrangements were increased in key locations ahead of the UK PM’s visit to the studio.

Bollywood star Rani Mukerji gave the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer a tour of Yash Raj Films studio during his visit to Mumbai on Wednesday. Starmer is in India to strengthen UK-India's cultural and diplomatic relations.&nbsp;

UK PM Keir Starmer visits Yash Raj Studio, watches a film with Rani Mukerji

UK's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has made it clear that the government will not ease visa restrictions for India as he arrives in the country to strengthen ties and promote the trade deal. As part of a delegation that includes over 100 business and cultural leaders, Starmer is aiming to boost UK investment and counter slow economic growth. While he acknowledged the significant potential for trade and cultural collaboration with India, Starmer emphasised that the focus would remain on enhancing business connections and creating opportunities for job growth, rather than on revising visa policies. He clarified that visas were not a factor in the trade agreement, which aims to make UK goods like cars and whisky more affordable in India, while reducing the cost of importing Indian textiles and jewellery.&nbsp;The trade agreement, signed in July, also includes a provision that exempts Indian workers on short-term visas from paying social security for three years, but the government has confirmed there will be no broader changes to immigration policy. The Labour government has shown its intent to reduce immigration levels and recently announced strict rules regarding settlement status. Starmer reiterated that visas were not linked to the trade deal and stressed there were no plans to introduce additional visa pathways for Indian workers or students. When asked about attracting tech talent in light of changes to the US's H-1B visa policy, Starmer expressed a desire to attract global talent but again dismissed any notion of introducing new visa routes specifically for India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-the-pm-in-the-cockpit-keir-starmer-begins-two-day-india-visit-his-video-from-plane-goes-viral-watch-1759886129089">'This is the PM in the cockpit': Keir Starmer addresses co-passengers in plane to India as he begins two-day state visit</a>&nbsp;British Airways is among the UK businesses traveling with the Prime Minister, announcing plans to add a third daily flight between Delhi and Heathrow. Manchester Airport is also set to introduce a new direct route to Delhi as part of the strengthened bilateral ties. While in India, the Prime Minister is expected to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had earlier sent birthday greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Starmer, however, made it clear he would not be following suit, saying that he had not and would not send such congratulations to Putin. On the subject of India's purchase of Russian oil, Starmer said that the UK's focus was on tracking the so-called "shadow fleet" of tankers transporting Russian oil, a key area where the UK has played a leading role in international efforts.

UK visa rules to ease for Indians? What UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Day 1 of India visit

UK's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has made it clear that the government will not ease visa restrictions for India as he arrives in the country to strengthen ties and promote the trade deal. As part of a delegation that includes over 100 business and cultural leaders, Starmer is aiming to boost UK investment and counter slow economic growth. While he acknowledged the significant potential for trade and cultural collaboration with India, Starmer emphasised that the focus would remain on enhancing business connections and creating opportunities for job growth, rather than on revising visa policies. He clarified that visas were not a factor in the trade agreement, which aims to make UK goods like cars and whisky more affordable in India, while reducing the cost of importing Indian textiles and jewellery. The trade agreement, signed in July, also includes a provision that exempts Indian workers on short-term visas from paying social security for three years, but the government has confirmed there will be no broader changes to immigration policy. The Labour government has shown its intent to reduce immigration levels and recently announced strict rules regarding settlement status. Starmer reiterated that visas were not linked to the trade deal and stressed there were no plans to introduce additional visa pathways for Indian workers or students. When asked about attracting tech talent in light of changes to the US's H-1B visa policy, Starmer expressed a desire to attract global talent but again dismissed any notion of introducing new visa routes specifically for India. Also Read: 'This is the PM in the cockpit': Keir Starmer addresses co-passengers in plane to India as he begins two-day state visit British Airways is among the UK businesses traveling with the Prime Minister, announcing plans to add a third daily flight between Delhi and Heathrow. Manchester Airport is also set to introduce a new direct route to Delhi as part of the strengthened bilateral ties. While in India, the Prime Minister is expected to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had earlier sent birthday greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Starmer, however, made it clear he would not be following suit, saying that he had not and would not send such congratulations to Putin. On the subject of India's purchase of Russian oil, Starmer said that the UK's focus was on tracking the so-called "shadow fleet" of tankers transporting Russian oil, a key area where the UK has played a leading role in international efforts.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer denies plans to ease UK visa rules for India, focusing instead on trade, investment, and job creation as part of the new UK-India agreement

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 17) during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign. He said, “We will speak to President Xi on Friday (September 18) regarding this issue. TikTok helped me a lot with my presidential campaign. I like TikTok, it has tremendous value. I used TikTok very legitimately and it did a good job for me.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-putin-let-me-down-trump-expresses-disappointment-amid-failing-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-as-uk-pm-demands-more-pressure-on-moscow-1758204605950">'Putin let me down': Trump in UK, admits Russia-Ukraine war is not easy to solve; UK PM demands 'more pressure' on Moscow</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;We have a deal on TikTok ... We have a group of very big companies that want to buy it,&quot; says US President Donald Trump <a href="https://t.co/bSoIQq5lub">pic.twitter.com/bSoIQq5lub</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1967961221912727583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Tuesday (September 16), President Donald Trump announced that the deadline for TikTok's potential ban in the United States would be extended again, this time until December 2025. He also said that a deal had been reached between the US and China over TikTok, with an ‘American buyer’ set to be revealed soon. The US has long insisted that TikTok's ownership should be transferred to an American company due to concerns over national security.&nbsp;Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that Trump was prepared to “let TikTok go dark” while finalising the agreement. Speaking to reporters ahead of his trip to the UK, Trump confirmed that the deal was in place, adding that he would speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, September 19, to finalize the details. "We have a deal on TikTok, I’ve reached an agreement with China, and I’ll be speaking to President Xi on Friday (September 19) to confirm everything," Trump told the press.&nbsp;This announcement came just one day after Bessent confirmed that a "framework" agreement had been established following two days of discussions with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Madrid. Bessent noted that the Wednesday (September 17), deadline for the TikTok shutdown had prompted the Chinese government to work toward a resolution, with a potential 90-day extension to finalise the deal. If this happens, it would mark the third time the deadline has been pushed back, extending the total delay to 270 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Bessent did not offer further details about the talks, he emphasized that the final agreement would maintain the “Chinese characteristics” of TikTok while addressing US concerns about national security. He also reiterated that Trump was prepared to allow the app to go offline if necessary during the negotiations. This marks the second time this year that both sides have claimed to be on the verge of a deal, following a previous attempt in March that ultimately fell through.

'I like TikTok. It helped me with my presidential campaign': US President Donald Trump ahead of deal with China

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 17) during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign. He said, “We will speak to President Xi on Friday (September 18) regarding this issue. TikTok helped me a lot with my presidential campaign. I like TikTok, it has tremendous value. I used TikTok very legitimately and it did a good job for me.” Also Read: 'Putin let me down': Trump in UK, admits Russia-Ukraine war is not easy to solve; UK PM demands 'more pressure' on Moscow

US President Donald Trump during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign and that he will speak to President Xi on Friday regarding the issue

One of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s top aides, Paul Ovenden, has resigned after it emerged he had exchanged sexually explicit messages about the veteran left-wing MP Diane Abbott. In a fresh blow to the beleaguered prime minister, Ovenden announced he was leaving his role as Downing Street’s director of strategy to avoid becoming a “distraction” after his 2017 messages became public. Ovenden, a former journalist, has worked for Labour for more than a decade and had reportedly exchanged emails with a colleague at the time that included sexually explicit remarks about Abbott. Ovenden is not well known, but commentators familiar with the workings of Downing Street say his departure is highly significant. He was seen as one of the key figures in the operation.&nbsp;Ovenden’s exit comes after Angela Rayner quit this month and Peter Mandelson was sacked last week as Britain’s ambassador to the US.The sequence of events piles pressure on the prime minister, who is facing the ire of Labour backbenchers over his leadership as the party has been consistently lagging behind Reform UK in polls. There are speculations that he could be forced out after May’s local elections if the results are as bad for Labour as expected, said a Guardian report.&nbsp;WATCH: Turkiye's Opposition Leader Accuses Erdogan of Staging a Judicial Coup<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-s-opposition-leader-accuses-erdogan-of-staging-a-judicial-coup-1757953365929/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-s-opposition-leader-accuses-erdogan-of-staging-a-judicial-coup-1757953365929/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“I am accused of eight years ago as a junior press officer sharing with a female colleague the details of a silly conversation that I was party to with other female staff members,” Ovenden told ITV News.“Before summer, I had announced to some of my colleagues my intention to leave government. Though the messages long pre-date my current employment and relationship with the prime minister, I’ve brought forward my resignation to avoid distracting from the vital work this government is doing to positively change people’s lives,” he added.“While it is chilling that a private conversation from nearly a decade ago can do this sort of damage, I am also truly, deeply sorry for it and the hurt it will cause,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Appalling and unacceptable messages,’ says govt spokesperson</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, a government spokesperson called the messages appalling and unacceptable.&nbsp;Diane Abbott, the first black woman to be elected to parliament, is a trailblazer who has faced horrendous abuse throughout her political career. These kinds of comments have no place in our politics, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;Abbott is currently sitting as an independent after she was suspended by Labour for standing by a controversial letter she wrote in 2023 comparing different types of racism based on colour. She was suspended from the parliamentary Labour Party in 2023 after writing the letter to The Observer.She apologised for any anguish caused by the remarks and was readmitted to the party before the 2024 general election.She has been a critic of Starmer’s leadership and has joined Labour MPs in warning that May’s local elections are a make-or-break moment for the PM.

The sequence of events piles pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is facing the increasing ire of Labour backbenchers over his leadership as the party has been consistently lagging behind Reform UK in polls.

One of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s top aides, Paul Ovenden, has resigned after it emerged he had exchanged sexually explicit messages about the veteran left-wing MP Diane Abbott. In a fresh blow to the beleaguered prime minister, Ovenden announced he was leaving his role as Downing Street’s director of strategy to avoid becoming a “distraction” after his 2017 messages became public. Ovenden, a former journalist, has worked for Labour for more than a decade and had reportedly exchanged emails with a colleague at the time that included sexually explicit remarks about Abbott. Ovenden is not well known, but commentators familiar with the workings of Downing Street say his departure is highly significant. He was seen as one of the key figures in the operation. Ovenden’s exit comes after Angela Rayner quit this month and Peter Mandelson was sacked last week as Britain’s ambassador to the US. The sequence of events piles pressure on the prime minister, who is facing the ire of Labour backbenchers over his leadership as the party has been consistently lagging behind Reform UK in polls. There are speculations that he could be forced out after May’s local elections if the results are as bad for Labour as expected, said a Guardian report. WATCH: Turkiye's Opposition Leader Accuses Erdogan of Staging a Judicial Coup https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-s-opposition-leader-accuses-erdogan-of-staging-a-judicial-coup-1757953365929/embed “I am accused of eight years ago as a junior press officer sharing with a female colleague the details of a silly conversation that I was party to with other female staff members,” Ovenden told ITV News. “Before summer, I had announced to some of my colleagues my intention to leave government. Though the messages long pre-date my current employment and relationship with the prime minister, I’ve brought forward my resignation to avoid distracting from the vital work this government is doing to positively change people’s lives,” he added. “While it is chilling that a private conversation from nearly a decade ago can do this sort of damage, I am also truly, deeply sorry for it and the hurt it will cause,” he added. ‘Appalling and unacceptable messages,’ says govt spokesperson Meanwhile, a government spokesperson called the messages appalling and unacceptable. Diane Abbott, the first black woman to be elected to parliament, is a trailblazer who has faced horrendous abuse throughout her political career. These kinds of comments have no place in our politics, the spokesperson added. Abbott is currently sitting as an independent after she was suspended by Labour for standing by a controversial letter she wrote in 2023 comparing different types of racism based on colour. She was suspended from the parliamentary Labour Party in 2023 after writing the letter to The Observer. She apologised for any anguish caused by the remarks and was readmitted to the party before the 2024 general election. She has been a critic of Starmer’s leadership and has joined Labour MPs in warning that May’s local elections are a make-or-break moment for the PM.

The sequence of events piles pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is facing the increasing ire of Labour backbenchers over his leadership as the party has been consistently lagging behind Reform UK in polls.

More trouble for Starmer, top aide resigns over his sexually explicit messages about Diane Abbott

More than 50,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats since Keir Starmer became UK prime minister, confirm official figures released by the Home Office on Tuesday. The data shows that 50,271 people, most of whom successfully claimed asylum, have arrived in the UK from France since Labour won the general election in July 2024. Besides, a total of 474 people arrived on Monday.&nbsp;Starmer avoided repeating the last government’s promise to “stop the boats” but promised to “smash the gangs” behind Channel crossings. But the figures show that despite the initiatives by the Home Office, the number of people who arrived via small boats in the first half of this year was 48% higher than in the same period last year.&nbsp;Rishi Sunak, the last Conservative prime minister, took 603 days in office to pass the 50,000 milestone, while it took Boris Johnson 1,066 days during the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;<h2>‘Deport now, appeal later’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The Home Office has also expanded its “deport now, appeal later” scheme, under which foreign criminals have been deported before their appeals have been heard.Official figures from Monday suggested 49,797 people had crossed in small boats from northern France.The numbers denote that criminal gangs have got an absolute foothold in the trafficking of people across the Channel.&nbsp;<h2>Badenoch claims would reduce boat arrivals to zero</h2>&nbsp;Kemi Badenoch claimed she would reduce the number of boat arrivals to zero “quickly” by reigniting the £700 million Rwanda deportation scheme and opening detention centres for asylum seekers.Addressing journalists on the Isle of Wight, the Conservative leader said, “My team are now looking at what we can do in terms of detention centres, but [also] stopping people from coming here in the first place: if they think they’re going to be sent to Rwanda and not get here, get a free hotel, get benefits, then they won’t come here.”&nbsp;<h2>Asylum seekers lived in taxpayer-funded hotels for over a year</h2>&nbsp;Asylum seekers are not allowed to work until their claims are considered, and many lived in taxpayer-funded hotels for more than a year because of the asylum backlog.French authorities confirmed a woman died on Monday while trying to board a boat to make the crossing to the UK. The woman died on Malo Beach in Dunkirk.According to the International Organization for Migration, a UN agency, at least 20 people have died this year attempting to cross the Channel.

In comparison, data shows that Rishi Sunak, the last Conservative prime minister, took 603 days in office to pass the 50,000 milestone, while it took Boris Johnson 1,066 days during the Covid-19 pandemic.

More than 50,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats since Keir Starmer became UK prime minister, confirm official figures released by the Home Office on Tuesday. The data shows that 50,271 people, most of whom successfully claimed asylum, have arrived in the UK from France since Labour won the general election in July 2024. Besides, a total of 474 people arrived on Monday. Starmer avoided repeating the last government’s promise to “stop the boats” but promised to “smash the gangs” behind Channel crossings. But the figures show that despite the initiatives by the Home Office, the number of people who arrived via small boats in the first half of this year was 48% higher than in the same period last year. Rishi Sunak, the last Conservative prime minister, took 603 days in office to pass the 50,000 milestone, while it took Boris Johnson 1,066 days during the Covid-19 pandemic. ‘Deport now, appeal later’ The Home Office has also expanded its “deport now, appeal later” scheme, under which foreign criminals have been deported before their appeals have been heard. Official figures from Monday suggested 49,797 people had crossed in small boats from northern France. The numbers denote that criminal gangs have got an absolute foothold in the trafficking of people across the Channel. Badenoch claims would reduce boat arrivals to zero Kemi Badenoch claimed she would reduce the number of boat arrivals to zero “quickly” by reigniting the £700 million Rwanda deportation scheme and opening detention centres for asylum seekers. Addressing journalists on the Isle of Wight, the Conservative leader said, “My team are now looking at what we can do in terms of detention centres, but [also] stopping people from coming here in the first place: if they think they’re going to be sent to Rwanda and not get here, get a free hotel, get benefits, then they won’t come here.” Asylum seekers lived in taxpayer-funded hotels for over a year Asylum seekers are not allowed to work until their claims are considered, and many lived in taxpayer-funded hotels for more than a year because of the asylum backlog. French authorities confirmed a woman died on Monday while trying to board a boat to make the crossing to the UK. The woman died on Malo Beach in Dunkirk. According to the International Organization for Migration, a UN agency, at least 20 people have died this year attempting to cross the Channel.

In comparison, data shows that Rishi Sunak, the last Conservative prime minister, took 603 days in office to pass the 50,000 milestone, while it took Boris Johnson 1,066 days during the Covid-19 pandemic.

People crossing Channel in small boats rise 48% to over 50,000 in Labour rule; Starmer accused of failure

In a major diplomatic show off, India and the United Kingdom have finalised their long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a historic shift in both nations’ post-pandemic economic strategy. The deal which was signed in London by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, is being touted as the UK’s largest post-Brexit trade pact and India’s most significant bilateral trade agreement in over a decade.&nbsp;So, what exactly is in the deal? Who stands to benefit the most? And why is this agreement being described as a strategic milestone beyond just trade?<h2>All about $34 billion deal</h2>At the heart of the deal lies a sharp ambition, first is to add over ₹2.86 lakh crore ($34.3 billion) to annual bilateral trade. British officials estimate it could inject up to £4.8 billion ($6.2 billion) into the UK’s GDP. For India, the agreement opens up new gateways for goods, services, and labour mobility in one of Europe’s richest markets. Both governments are framing this FTA as a partnership of equals, one designed to fuel growth, investment, and political trust.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the agreement as a “defining moment” for India’s global trade strategy. “This deal reflects India’s commitment to rules-based international trade and deepens our economic partnership with a trusted democratic partner,” he said while addressing the press after signing the historic deal.&nbsp;On the other hand, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a “major win for British jobs, exports, and future growth,” adding that the agreement “symbolises a new era of collaboration with India, rooted in fairness and opportunity.”<h2>What does India gain?</h2>Indian exporters are arguably the biggest immediate winners. The agreement provides tariff-free access for 99 per cent of Indian goods entering the UK. This particularly benefiting sectors such as textiles, engineering products, jewellery, pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicles. As many of these categories earlier faced high duties in the UK previously, making them less competitive. With those barriers gone, Indian producers now have a cost advantage over rivals.&nbsp;Moreover, Indian service providers, especially in Information Technology, legal, telecom, and finance, will be able to tap into Britain’s competitive services market with fewer regulatory hurdles. The deal also includes a social security agreement to prevent Indian professionals on short-term UK assignments from paying into Britain’s pension system, reducing the cost of cross-border work.<h2>What does the UK gain?</h2>On the other hand, Britain has secured significant tariff reductions on its iconic exports. The most high-profile win is whisky. India’s steep 150 per cent import duty on Scotch will be cut to 75 per cent immediately and gradually lowered to 40 per cent over the next ten years. UK-made electric vehicles and luxury cars which are currently facing 100–110 per cent import duties will see those tariffs come down to 10 per cent, though under a strict quota system.&nbsp;Sectors like aerospace, medical equipment, and packaged food products will also benefit from greater access to Indian markets. The UK has also pushed for digital trade norms and intellectual property protections that align with its broader global trade agenda.<h2>What does the trade data shows?</h2>The UK has long run a trade deficit with India, it imports more from India than it exports to it. While Britain has seen rising exports of services to India, the goods trade has tilted heavily in India’s favour in recent years. The new FTA seeks to balance that by creating better access for UK goods and increasing the services pie for both countries.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Year</td><td>UK Goods Exports</td><td>UK Services Exports</td><td>UK Goods Imports</td><td>UK Services Imports</td><td>UK Trade Deficit</td></tr><tr><td>2015</td><td>£3.5 bn ($4.6 bn)</td><td>£3.5 bn ($4.6 bn)</td><td>£5 bn ($6.5 bn)</td><td>£3.5 bn ($4.6 bn)</td><td>-£2.5 bn ($3.2 bn)</td></tr><tr><td>2020</td><td>£4 bn ($5.2 bn)</td><td>£4 bn ($5.2 bn)</td><td>£7 bn ($9.1 bn)</td><td>£5 bn ($6.5 bn)</td><td>-£4 bn ($5.2 bn)</td></tr><tr><td>2023</td><td>£6.5 bn ($8.4 bn)</td><td>£5.5 bn ($7.1 bn)</td><td>£9 bn ($11.7 bn)</td><td>£7 bn ($9.1 bn)</td><td>-£5 bn ($6.5 bn)</td></tr><tr><td>2024</td><td>£7.5 bn ($9.8 bn)</td><td>£6 bn ($7.8 bn)</td><td>£10.5 bn ($13.7 bn)</td><td>£8 bn ($10.4 bn)</td><td>-£5.5 bn ($7.2 bn)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: Office for National Statistics, UK (2024), via Bloomberg,

This persistent trade imbalance of about £5.5 billion ($7.2 billion) in 2024. It further reinforces that why the UK is keen to rebalance flows. India, meanwhile, benefits from consistent export growth, especially in technology and pharmaceuticals.&nbsp;Despite strong diplomatic ties, India still accounts for a relatively small portion of the UK’s overall trade volumes. A second data snapshot helps illustrate the scope of the opportunity.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>Exports Share</td><td>Imports Share</td></tr><tr><td>1. EU</td><td>47.7%</td><td>53.1%</td></tr><tr><td>2. US</td><td>16.2%</td><td>9.7%</td></tr><tr><td>3. Germany</td><td>8.8%</td><td>12.1%</td></tr><tr><td>4. Netherlands</td><td>7.6%</td><td>8.3%</td></tr><tr><td>5. Ireland</td><td>6.5%</td><td>—</td></tr><tr><td>6. India</td><td>1.9%</td><td>1.8%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: Office for National Statistics, UK (2024).&nbsp;

This data underscores how India ranks far behind the UK’s top trade partners, a gap that this FTA hopes to narrow. By easing tariffs, expanding service access, and encouraging labour mobility, the deal is expected to help India climb these rankings over time.<h2>A deeper play in a divided world</h2>Beyond the numbers, the timing of the deal is geopolitically significant. Both nations are responding to rising global protectionism and trade fragmentation. India is trying to diversify its export markets beyond China and the US, while the UK is looking to prove that post-Brexit trade diplomacy can work.&nbsp;This agreement is also symbolic as it positions India as a central partner in Britain’s Indo-Pacific tilt and reinforces the idea of “trusted democracies” building long-term trade resilience. Labour mobility, sustainable supply chains, and green tech collaboration are all expected to grow under the FTA’s framework.<h2>What happens next?</h2>The deal must now be ratified by both countries’ parliaments. Officials say the agreement could come into effect by early 2026. Meanwhile, parallel discussions on investment protection, carbon border tax alignment, and digital tax policy are still ongoing.&nbsp;Once implemented, this pact could become a blueprint for future India–EU and India–US trade deals, particularly in how it balances tariffs, services, and labour flows while respecting national policy space.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;

The deal must now be ratified by both countries’ parliaments. Officials say the agreement could come into effect by early 2026. Meanwhile, parallel discussions on investment protection, carbon border tax alignment, and digital tax policy are still ongoing.

In a major diplomatic show off, India and the United Kingdom have finalised their long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a historic shift in both nations’ post-pandemic economic strategy. The deal which was signed in London by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, is being touted as the UK’s largest post-Brexit trade pact and India’s most significant bilateral trade agreement in over a decade. So, what exactly is in the deal? Who stands to benefit the most? And why is this agreement being described as a strategic milestone beyond just trade? All about $34 billion deal At the heart of the deal lies a sharp ambition, first is to add over ₹2.86 lakh crore ($34.3 billion) to annual bilateral trade. British officials estimate it could inject up to £4.8 billion ($6.2 billion) into the UK’s GDP. For India, the agreement opens up new gateways for goods, services, and labour mobility in one of Europe’s richest markets. Both governments are framing this FTA as a partnership of equals, one designed to fuel growth, investment, and political trust. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the agreement as a “defining moment” for India’s global trade strategy. “This deal reflects India’s commitment to rules-based international trade and deepens our economic partnership with a trusted democratic partner,” he said while addressing the press after signing the historic deal. On the other hand, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a “major win for British jobs, exports, and future growth,” adding that the agreement “symbolises a new era of collaboration with India, rooted in fairness and opportunity.” What does India gain? Indian exporters are arguably the biggest immediate winners. The agreement provides tariff-free access for 99 per cent of Indian goods entering the UK. This particularly benefiting sectors such as textiles, engineering products, jewellery, pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicles. As many of these categories earlier faced high duties in the UK previously, making them less competitive. With those barriers gone, Indian producers now have a cost advantage over rivals. Moreover, Indian service providers, especially in Information Technology, legal, telecom, and finance, will be able to tap into Britain’s competitive services market with fewer regulatory hurdles. The deal also includes a social security agreement to prevent Indian professionals on short-term UK assignments from paying into Britain’s pension system, reducing the cost of cross-border work. What does the UK gain? On the other hand, Britain has secured significant tariff reductions on its iconic exports. The most high-profile win is whisky. India’s steep 150 per cent import duty on Scotch will be cut to 75 per cent immediately and gradually lowered to 40 per cent over the next ten years. UK-made electric vehicles and luxury cars which are currently facing 100–110 per cent import duties will see those tariffs come down to 10 per cent, though under a strict quota system. Sectors like aerospace, medical equipment, and packaged food products will also benefit from greater access to Indian markets. The UK has also pushed for digital trade norms and intellectual property protections that align with its broader global trade agenda. What does the trade data shows? The UK has long run a trade deficit with India, it imports more from India than it exports to it. While Britain has seen rising exports of services to India, the goods trade has tilted heavily in India’s favour in recent years. The new FTA seeks to balance that by creating better access for UK goods and increasing the services pie for both countries.

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