<p>Former British Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged the government on Monday (Mar 25)&nbsp;to classify China as "a threat." Duncan Smith, along with two other lawmakers, informed reporters at a press briefing that they have faced harassment, impersonation, and attempted hacking from China for a period of time.</p>

<p>Duncan Smith cited an instance where hackers impersonating him used&nbsp;fraudulent email addresses to correspond with his contacts. These politicians are affiliated with the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, an international advocacy group dedicated to opposing Beijing's expanding influence and highlighting purported human rights violations by the Chinese government.</p>

<p>The United Kingdom (UK) is all set to give details of a cyber security threat that it says is posed by China. British Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is due to make a statement on the issue to parliament, a government official told the news agency Reuters. The official declined to confirm whether Deputy Prime Minister Dowden would announce reprisals including sanctions.</p>

<p>The expected development comes as there have been growing fears about China’s alleged espionage activity in the UK, especially when a researcher at the British Parliament was arrested last year on suspicion of spying for China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-defence-ministry-urged-to-ban-tiktok-amid-fears-of-chinese-espionage-report-701028">UK's defence ministry urged to ban TikTok amid fears of Chinese espionage: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The researcher, who was involved in international affairs issues, had access to several Conservative MPs, a report by the Sunday Times said. The researcher had access to security minister Tom Tugendhat and foreign affairs committee chairwoman Alicia Kearns, among others, the report added.</p>

<p>Ahead of Dowden's statement in Parliament, British media reported that the government is expected to blame Beijing for a hack on the country's Electoral Commission in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Sixth member of 'Russian spy ring' in Britain is charged with espionage</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sixth-member-of-russian-spy-ring-in-britain-is-charged-with-espionage-695170/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In 2023, the government said that Chinese spies were targeting British officials in sensitive positions in politics, defence, and business as part of an increasingly sophisticated spying operation to gain access to secrets.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Chinese embassy in the UK accused London of "making groundless accusations" when the head of MI5 accused China of carrying out an espionage campaign on an "epic scale."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former British Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged the government on Monday (Mar 25) to classify China as "a threat." Duncan Smith, along with two other lawmakers, informed reporters at a press briefing that they have faced harassment, impersonation, and attempted hacking from China for a period of time.

Former British Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged the government on Monday (Mar 25) to classify China as "a threat." Duncan Smith, along with two other lawmakers, informed reporters at a press briefing that they have faced harassment, impersonation, and attempted hacking from China for a period of time. Duncan Smith cited an instance where hackers impersonating him used fraudulent email addresses to correspond with his contacts. These politicians are affiliated with the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, an international advocacy group dedicated to opposing Beijing's expanding influence and highlighting purported human rights violations by the Chinese government. The United Kingdom (UK) is all set to give details of a cyber security threat that it says is posed by China. British Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is due to make a statement on the issue to parliament, a government official told the news agency Reuters. The official declined to confirm whether Deputy Prime Minister Dowden would announce reprisals including sanctions. The expected development comes as there have been growing fears about China’s alleged espionage activity in the UK, especially when a researcher at the British Parliament was arrested last year on suspicion of spying for China. Also read | UK's defence ministry urged to ban TikTok amid fears of Chinese espionage: Report The researcher, who was involved in international affairs issues, had access to several Conservative MPs, a report by the Sunday Times said. The researcher had access to security minister Tom Tugendhat and foreign affairs committee chairwoman Alicia Kearns, among others, the report added. Ahead of Dowden's statement in Parliament, British media reported that the government is expected to blame Beijing for a hack on the country's Electoral Commission in 2021. Also watch | Sixth member of 'Russian spy ring' in Britain is charged with espionage × In 2023, the government said that Chinese spies were targeting British officials in sensitive positions in politics, defence, and business as part of an increasingly sophisticated spying operation to gain access to secrets. Meanwhile, the Chinese embassy in the UK accused London of "making groundless accusations" when the head of MI5 accused China of carrying out an espionage campaign on an "epic scale." (With inputs from agencies)

UK to give details of cyber security threat it says is posed by China

<p>The bright red cross on a white background that is England's national flag should not be messed with, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Friday (March 22), after Nike's blue and purple alteration to the design on soccer shirts left many fans angry.</p>

<p>Nike, which designs and makes the kit for England's national soccer teams, unveiled its new design this week which it said paid homage to the country's 1966 World Cup-winning men's team.</p>

<p>It features the St. George's Cross, a national symbol for centuries, in shades of blue and purple as well as red on the back of the shirt collar. Nike called the change a "playful update" that was meant to "unite and inspire."</p>

<p>But the move has spurred calls from many soccer fans to scrap the new design, saying they want a return to the traditional colours of the cross rather than the new flag which Nike has said "disrupts history with a modern take on a classic".</p>

<p>With an election expected in Britain this year, in which cultural issues are likely to feature prominently, politicians from across the spectrum have weighed in on the debate.</p>

<p>"Well, obviously, I prefer the original," Sunak told reporters. "My general view is that when it comes to our</p>

<p>national flags, we shouldn't mess with them, because they're a source of pride, identity, who we are, and they're perfect as they are."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-were-always-little-bit-behind-rcb-skipper-faf-du-plessis-reflects-on-opening-day-defeat-to-csk-703333">IPL 2024: We were always little bit behind - RCB skipper Faf du Plessis reflects on opening day defeat to CSK</a></p>

<p>Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer told The Sun newspaper that Nike should reconsider the design.</p>

<p>Nike did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday.</p>

<p>"The trim on the cuffs takes its cues from the training gear worn by England's 1966 heroes, with a gradient of blues and reds topped with purple," a spokesperson for the U.S. sportswear giant told media this week. "The same colours also feature an interpretation of the flag of St George."</p>

<p>A user on social media site X posted what they called a playful update to Nike's swoosh logo with a picture of three black stripes - the logo of rival Adidas.</p>


The bright red cross on a white background that is England's national flag should not be messed with, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Friday (March 22), after Nike's blue and purple alteration to the design on soccer shirts left many fans angry.

The bright red cross on a white background that is England's national flag should not be messed with, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Friday (March 22), after Nike's blue and purple alteration to the design on soccer shirts left many fans angry. Nike, which designs and makes the kit for England's national soccer teams, unveiled its new design this week which it said paid homage to the country's 1966 World Cup-winning men's team. It features the St. George's Cross, a national symbol for centuries, in shades of blue and purple as well as red on the back of the shirt collar. Nike called the change a "playful update" that was meant to "unite and inspire." But the move has spurred calls from many soccer fans to scrap the new design, saying they want a return to the traditional colours of the cross rather than the new flag which Nike has said "disrupts history with a modern take on a classic". With an election expected in Britain this year, in which cultural issues are likely to feature prominently, politicians from across the spectrum have weighed in on the debate. "Well, obviously, I prefer the original," Sunak told reporters. "My general view is that when it comes to our national flags, we shouldn't mess with them, because they're a source of pride, identity, who we are, and they're perfect as they are." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: We were always little bit behind - RCB skipper Faf du Plessis reflects on opening day defeat to CSK Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer told The Sun newspaper that Nike should reconsider the design. Nike did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday. "The trim on the cuffs takes its cues from the training gear worn by England's 1966 heroes, with a gradient of blues and reds topped with purple," a spokesperson for the U.S. sportswear giant told media this week. "The same colours also feature an interpretation of the flag of St George." A user on social media site X posted what they called a playful update to Nike's swoosh logo with a picture of three black stripes - the logo of rival Adidas.

Football: Don't mess with the England flag, says PM Rishi Sunak as kit gets update

The UK PM Rishi Sunak plan to deport assylum seekers to Rwanda has faced further delay. The people in the House of Lords voted against a number of changes to the legislation.

UK: Fresh defeats in House of Lords over Rwanda bill, lawmakers reject all 7 bill amendments

UK: Lawmakers reject all seven Rwanda bill amendments, sent back to House of Commons

Rishi Sunak is to introduce a bill in the parliament to fulfill his promise to phase out smoking amongst young people by banning tobacco sales for people below a certain age.

UK to introduce bill to phase out smoking

<p>Former US President Barack Obama on Monday (Mar 18) paid a ‘courtesy visit’ to 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister’s official residence. As per reports, it was an ‘undisclosed private’ meeting, where the duo discussed artificial intelligence. Later, a spokesperson for PM Sunak said Obama “is conducting work of the Obama Foundation.”</p>

<p>The spokesman added: “I think President Obama’s team made contact and obviously the Prime Minister was very happy to meet with him and discuss the work of the Obama Foundation.” The Barack Obama Foundation is a nonprofit organisation ‘focused on social mobility’ and was founded by the former president in 2014.</p>

<p>Obama was seen entering Number 10 as he waved at the reporters outside, and left about an hour later.</p>

<h2><strong>MAGA theories</strong></h2>

<p>Following the meeting, Make America Great Again or MAGA supporters, believed to be loyalists of former president Donald Trump, made speculations regarding why Obama was meeting foreign leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Joe Biden's age a long-standing concern among voters</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-joe-bidens-age-a-long-standing-concern-among-voters-ahead-of-2024-presidential-elections-692836/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Laura Loomer, a popular Trump supporter and conservative journalist, took to X and asked, "Why is Obama having private meetings with world leaders?"</p>

<p>Another user, TheThe1776, claimed the meeting made clear that the current Biden administration was in fact Obama’s ‘third term.’ "Obama meeting officials in a Private meeting should tell everyone that this is Obama's third term and Biden is his puppet/scapegoat," the post said.</p>

<h2><strong>Michelle Obama</strong></h2>

<p>Obama’s private meeting with the UK PM comes amid speculations that his wife Michelle Obama may run for president in the wake of heightened concerns about Joe Biden’s age.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiDnMSwsf-EAxWdxjgGHS69BkQQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bombed-6-muslim-majority-countries-finance-minister-sitharaman-hits-back-at-barack-obama-608598" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bombed-6-muslim-majority-countries-finance-minister-sitharaman-hits-back-at-barack-obama-608598&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDnMSwsf-EAxWdxjgGHS69BkQQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">'Bombed 7 Muslim-majority countries': Finance minister Sitharaman hits back at Barack Obama</a></strong></p>

<p>But the former first lady has so far refrained from announcing it formally. Her office in fact denied the speculations lately.</p>

<h2><strong>Obama’s last trip to UK</strong></h2>

<p>Obama occupied the White House from 2009 to 2017 before he was succeeded by Republican Donald Trump. His last visit to Number 10 came in April 2016, when David Cameron was the UK’s PM. Obama had then warned the UK government against abandoning the European Union ahead of BREXIT calls, saying the move could force Washington DC to put trade deal negotiations on hold.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former US President Barack Obama on Monday (Mar 18) paid a ‘courtesy visit’ to 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister’s official residence. As per reports, it was an ‘undisclosed private’ meeting, where the duo discussed artificial intelligence.

Former US President Barack Obama on Monday (Mar 18) paid a ‘courtesy visit’ to 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister’s official residence. As per reports, it was an ‘undisclosed private’ meeting, where the duo discussed artificial intelligence. Later, a spokesperson for PM Sunak said Obama “is conducting work of the Obama Foundation.” The spokesman added: “I think President Obama’s team made contact and obviously the Prime Minister was very happy to meet with him and discuss the work of the Obama Foundation.” The Barack Obama Foundation is a nonprofit organisation ‘focused on social mobility’ and was founded by the former president in 2014. Obama was seen entering Number 10 as he waved at the reporters outside, and left about an hour later. MAGA theories Following the meeting, Make America Great Again or MAGA supporters, believed to be loyalists of former president Donald Trump, made speculations regarding why Obama was meeting foreign leaders. Watch: Joe Biden's age a long-standing concern among voters × Laura Loomer, a popular Trump supporter and conservative journalist, took to X and asked, "Why is Obama having private meetings with world leaders?" Another user, TheThe1776, claimed the meeting made clear that the current Biden administration was in fact Obama’s ‘third term.’ "Obama meeting officials in a Private meeting should tell everyone that this is Obama's third term and Biden is his puppet/scapegoat," the post said. Michelle Obama Obama’s private meeting with the UK PM comes amid speculations that his wife Michelle Obama may run for president in the wake of heightened concerns about Joe Biden’s age. Also read: 'Bombed 7 Muslim-majority countries': Finance minister Sitharaman hits back at Barack Obama But the former first lady has so far refrained from announcing it formally. Her office in fact denied the speculations lately. Obama’s last trip to UK Obama occupied the White House from 2009 to 2017 before he was succeeded by Republican Donald Trump. His last visit to Number 10 came in April 2016, when David Cameron was the UK’s PM. Obama had then warned the UK government against abandoning the European Union ahead of BREXIT calls, saying the move could force Washington DC to put trade deal negotiations on hold. (With inputs from agencies)

Obama’s ‘private’ meeting with UK PM Sunak sparks various speculations

British PM Rishi Sunak has said that United Kingdom will hopefully begin deporting Asylum Seekers to Rwanda in the spring season. This was the real timeline for Rishi Sunak's Asylum scheme which is currently being debated in Parliament. Watch to know more!

UK: PM Rishi Sunak eyes to push through his flagship 'Rwanda Plan'

Rishi Sunak has insisted that the Conservatives are united despite rampant speculation about a plot to replace him as prime minister before the general election.

UK PM Rishi Sunak insists Tories are ‘absolutely united’

UK: PM Rishi Sunak says committed to start migrant deportations by spring

UK PM Rishi Sunak faces leadership speculation, says 'Tories absolutely united'

In England, the country with the highest quality child care provision in the world has become the biggest expenditures affecting working class families. In the UK, it is becoming very expensive for people.

UK: Sunak govt stare at childcare crisis, report highlights lack of places at nurseries & staff

UK PM Rishi Sunak says, 'Crucial to keep Rwanda plan up & running'

Rishi Sunak insists Tories are ‘absolutely united’ despite rumoured plot to depose him

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has insisted "the economy is turning a corner" as he urged mutinous Tory MPs to "stick to the plan" amid reports of a plot to oust him before the election.

Rishi Sunak urges terrified Tories to 'stick with' his economy plan

UK PM Rishi Sunak urges terrified Tories to 'stick with' his economy plan as he faces flak from MPs

UK: Rishi Sunak urges Tories to 'stick with' his economy plan amid reports of plot to oust him

UK opposition stages 'Chicken' stunt after Prime minister Rishi Sunak rules out May 2 election. The prime minister on Thursday ruled out a snap election on May 2 amid mounting speculation in Westminster that he wanted to coincide with the local elections. Watch in for more details!

UK opposition stages 'Chicken' stunt after Sunak rules out May 2 election

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Thursday that he would not hold a general election in early May, in the strongest indication yet that the national vote would take place later this year.

UK PM Rishi Sunak firmly rules out May 2 general election

UK: Opposition Parties try to provoke Sunak on holding General Elections

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that the country's national election will not coincide with local polls as he rules out holding general elections on May 2nd. With that the conservative leader has put a full stop on several speculations.

UK: Rishi Sunak rules out holding an election in early May, ends speculation around polls

UK: Rishi Sunak rules out holding an election in early May

UK: Rishi Sunak rules out May 2 general election

UK MP Diane Abbott has accused the Speaker of the House of Commons of failing the Democracy. The accusation was made after she was not allowed to speak during a debate. Interestingly the debate was focused on comments that were made about her. Watch to know more!

UK PM Diane Abbott didn't get a chance to speak during a debate that was about her

When it comes to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, there is no end to bad press. In the latest, British media and the public are fuming at the thought of Sunak's wife Akshata Murty being exempt from Inheritance tax. Turns out, Murty won't just be exempt from paying Inheritance tax in the UK, but also India. What gives?

Gravitas: Why Akshata Murty is exempt from paying inheritance tax

UK PM Rishi Sunak under growing pressure from Tories to return Hester's donation

<p>Britain on Wednesday (Mar 13) came up with a new definition of extremism, aiming to address a surge in hate crimes against Jews and Muslims following the Oct 7 Hamas attack&nbsp;on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Extremism's new definition</strong></h2>

<p>As per the UK's new definition of extremism, it "is the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred, or intolerance", that aims to negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; or undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve those results.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vile-abuse-and-hate-forces-uks-first-anti-muslim-hatred-tsar-to-quit-before-taking-office-698937">'Vile' abuse and hate forces UK's first 'anti-Muslim hatred tsar' to quit before taking office</a></strong></p>

<p>"This new definition helps clearly articulate how extremism is evidenced through the public behaviour of extremists that advance their violent, hateful or intolerant aims," reads the UK government website.</p>

<h2><strong>Tackling extremism</strong></h2>

<p>Michael Gove, the communities minister who heads the department that is behind the new definition, said: "Today's measures will ensure that government does not inadvertently provide a platform to those setting out to subvert democracy and deny other people's fundamental rights."</p>

<p>"This is the first in a series of measures to tackle extremism and protect our democracy," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-finds-israels-killing-of-journalist-in-lebanon-a-clear-violation-of-international-law-699846">UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain already proscribes groups involved in terrorism, and that membership&nbsp;or support for such organisations constitutes a criminal offence.</p>

<p>Groups identified as extremist through a "robust" assessment in the coming weeks will be denied government funding or engagement opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Critics warn against it</strong></h2>

<p>Critics, including Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, as per Reuters, have cautioned that the new definition could potentially encroach on freedom of speech.</p>

<p>Archbishop Welby said, "The problem with a top-down definition of extremism is that it catches people who (we) don't want to catch."</p>

<p>"It may accidentally inhibit what we have very preciously in this country, an extraordinarily robust freedom of speech and ability to disagree strongly," he added in a conversation with BBC radio on Wednesday, before the release of the definition.</p>

<p>Furthermore, more than 50 survivors or relatives of victims of Islamist attacks in Britain have criticised politicians for "equating being Muslim with being an extremist".&nbsp;They've signed a letter alleging that this rhetoric inadvertently plays into the hands of militants.</p>

<h2><strong>Extremism in Britain</strong></h2>

<p>This comes as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had previously warned that the nation's multi-ethnic democracy was under deliberate threat from both Islamist and far-right extremists.</p>

<p>According to the Community Security Trust, a Jewish safety watchdog, driven by the Oct 7 attacks, antisemitic incidents in the UK surged by 147 per cent in 2023, reaching record levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tell Mama, a group monitoring anti-Muslim incidents, also reported a 335 per cent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes since the attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain on Wednesday (Mar 13) came up with a new definition of extremism, aiming to address a surge in hate crimes against Jews and Muslims following the Oct 7 Hamas attack on Israel.

Britain on Wednesday (Mar 13) came up with a new definition of extremism, aiming to address a surge in hate crimes against Jews and Muslims following the Oct 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Extremism's new definition As per the UK's new definition of extremism, it "is the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred, or intolerance", that aims to negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; or undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve those results. Also read | 'Vile' abuse and hate forces UK's first 'anti-Muslim hatred tsar' to quit before taking office "This new definition helps clearly articulate how extremism is evidenced through the public behaviour of extremists that advance their violent, hateful or intolerant aims," reads the UK government website. Tackling extremism Michael Gove, the communities minister who heads the department that is behind the new definition, said: "Today's measures will ensure that government does not inadvertently provide a platform to those setting out to subvert democracy and deny other people's fundamental rights." "This is the first in a series of measures to tackle extremism and protect our democracy," he added. Also read | UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law Britain already proscribes groups involved in terrorism, and that membership or support for such organisations constitutes a criminal offence. Groups identified as extremist through a "robust" assessment in the coming weeks will be denied government funding or engagement opportunities. Critics warn against it Critics, including Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, as per Reuters, have cautioned that the new definition could potentially encroach on freedom of speech. Archbishop Welby said, "The problem with a top-down definition of extremism is that it catches people who (we) don't want to catch." "It may accidentally inhibit what we have very preciously in this country, an extraordinarily robust freedom of speech and ability to disagree strongly," he added in a conversation with BBC radio on Wednesday, before the release of the definition. Furthermore, more than 50 survivors or relatives of victims of Islamist attacks in Britain have criticised politicians for "equating being Muslim with being an extremist". They've signed a letter alleging that this rhetoric inadvertently plays into the hands of militants. Extremism in Britain This comes as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had previously warned that the nation's multi-ethnic democracy was under deliberate threat from both Islamist and far-right extremists. According to the Community Security Trust, a Jewish safety watchdog, driven by the Oct 7 attacks, antisemitic incidents in the UK surged by 147 per cent in 2023, reaching record levels. Tell Mama, a group monitoring anti-Muslim incidents, also reported a 335 per cent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes since the attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain redefines 'extremism' in the face of rising hate crimes, critics call it a threat to free speech

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to witness another political storm over his family's wealth. This comes as Sunak's wife Akshata Murty continues to benefit from an inheritance tax lopphole las week.

UK: Rishi Sunak's family to avoid inheritance tax, Akshata Murty to save millions of dollars

Boris Johnson could be drafted in to help save the Conservatives from annihilation at the general election – and prepare for a possible return to politics should the party be wiped out. Watch in for more details!

Will Boris Johnson campaign for Rishi Sunak?

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his UK counterpart Rishi Sunak to discuss the "early conclusion" of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), prompting speculations if the much-expected and equally anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement would be formalised before the respective countries go to polls.</p>

<p>In London's corridors of power, a free trade deal with India would partly mitigate the adverse economic effects of Brexit and would give Sunak's Conservative Party a fresh plank before the January 2025 elections in the UK.</p>

<p>"Had a good conversation with PM Rishi Sunak. We reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and work for early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Aim to complete India-UK Free Trade Agreement before polls in both nations: Lord Tariq Ahmad to WION</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aim-to-complete-india-uk-free-trade-agreement-before-polls-in-both-nations-lord-tariq-ahmad-to-wion-678658/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>An official government readout said that the two leaders "reaffirmed their commitment to continue to strengthen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic partnership".</p>

<p>"They assessed positively the progress made towards early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement," the readout said.</p>

<p>The two leaders also "expressed satisfaction on the progress made under the <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/33838/Roadmap+2030+for+IndiaUK+future+relations+launched+during+IndiaUK+Virtual+Summit+4+May+2021">Roadmap 2030</a>" in sectors such as trade, investment, defence, security, and emerging technologies.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-at-centre-of-tory-breakdown-over-secret-election-talks-with-dominic-cummings-675371">UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi and Sunak also exchanged greetings for&nbsp;the upcoming festive occasion of Holi . "The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest," the readout added.</p>

<h2><strong>India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks</strong></h2>

<p>India and the UK are negotiating a Free Trade Agreement since 2022. The 13th round of negotiations took place from September 18 to December 15, 2023. They succeeded in a fourteenth round in January following which the UK negotiators flew back to London without any public breakthrough announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India on Sunday (March 10) signed a $100 billion Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) bloc. The EFTA is a trade organisation and free trade area consisting of four European states — Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his UK counterpart Rishi Sunak to discuss the "early conclusion" of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), prompting speculations if the much-expected and equally anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement would be formalised before the respective countries go to polls.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his UK counterpart Rishi Sunak to discuss the "early conclusion" of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), prompting speculations if the much-expected and equally anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement would be formalised before the respective countries go to polls. In London's corridors of power, a free trade deal with India would partly mitigate the adverse economic effects of Brexit and would give Sunak's Conservative Party a fresh plank before the January 2025 elections in the UK. "Had a good conversation with PM Rishi Sunak. We reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and work for early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call. Also watch | Aim to complete India-UK Free Trade Agreement before polls in both nations: Lord Tariq Ahmad to WION × An official government readout said that the two leaders "reaffirmed their commitment to continue to strengthen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic partnership". "They assessed positively the progress made towards early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement," the readout said. The two leaders also "expressed satisfaction on the progress made under the Roadmap 2030" in sectors such as trade, investment, defence, security, and emerging technologies. Also read | UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings PM Modi and Sunak also exchanged greetings for the upcoming festive occasion of Holi . "The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest," the readout added. India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks India and the UK are negotiating a Free Trade Agreement since 2022. The 13th round of negotiations took place from September 18 to December 15, 2023. They succeeded in a fourteenth round in January following which the UK negotiators flew back to London without any public breakthrough announced. Meanwhile, India on Sunday (March 10) signed a $100 billion Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) bloc. The EFTA is a trade organisation and free trade area consisting of four European states — Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi, Rishi Sunak eye ‘early conclusion’ of India-UK Free Trade Agreement

Even before beginning his role as Islamophobia adviser to the UK government, the front-runner for the post - Fiyaz Mughal, has decided to step out as he claimed that he was threatened.

UK's next anti-Muslim hatred adviser Fiyaz Mughal quit over extremist threats

<p>United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty said in a recent interview that he is a better cook&nbsp;even though he does not get much time to spend in the kitchen with a busy day job running the country. However, Grazia’s women’s magazine interview of the couple ahead of International Women’s Day also garnered criticism from netizens.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>British Indian couple talk domestic chores and more</strong></h2>

<p>During the joint interview at 10 Downing Street, the couple spoke about their day-to-day lives, daughters Krishna (12) and Anoushka (11), and how the country’s most high-profile couple share domestic duties.</p>

<p>“Rishi is the better cook. I do have a great deal of enthusiasm, but Rishi definitely has more talent in that department,” Murty said. It’s “mainly just breakfast on Saturday mornings now. Gordon Ramsay’s scrambled eggs,” Sunak added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murty, a businesswoman, also said she is “not a morning person,” and that Sunak is the tidier of the two.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-to-exit-us-presidential-race-after-super-tuesday-reports-697227">Nikki Haley announces end of her US presidential campaign, paves way for Biden and Trump rematch</a></strong></p>

<p>To which Sunak said, “But you also just don’t like making the bed and it bugs me. I actually sometimes come up back into the flat from the office after we’ve all left to make the bed because I’ll be irritated if it’s not been made.”</p>

<p>The couple met while they attended Stanford University, and Murty also reportedly said how her untidy habits would annoy him even back then, admitting that she is not the most organised person compared to her husband.</p>

<p>Now, at 43, the couple said that they divide the tasks from her taking charge of the kids’ homework and him taking care of the rest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The couple also shared how they wind down for the day by watching reruns of episodes of the popular sitcom <em>Friends</em>, which they both love. “I’m too exhausted when I get home so I watch an episode of ‘Friends’ and go to bed,” shared the UK PM.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Out of touch’</strong></h2>

<p>While the interview was supposed to be a light-hearted insight into Sunak and Murthy’s lives, most people found it “tone deaf” and “out of touch”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The magazine had interviewed the couple ahead of International Women’s Day to find out how “the country’s most high-profile couple share domestic duties.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK PM also mentioned how in his free time he reorganises the dishwasher after his wife has loaded it. When asked about his favourite chore, he was torn. “Hard choice: dishwasher-stacking, making bed. Both have a satisfying ending,” said Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-bar-entry-of-hate-preachers-amid-shocking-increase-in-extremist-activity-report-696257">UK to bar entry of hate preachers amid 'shocking increase' in extremist activity: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The magazine has reportedly lost around 1,000 followers since the interview and their comments section on social media flooded with criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The net worth of this family is expected to be close to a Billion pounds soon. They are already twice as wealthy as the King,” said Caroline Hirons, a writer and skincare expert, in a comment on Instagram. She added, “Ain’t no-one in this family doing ‘chores’.”</p>

<p>Similarly, several others pointed out how the attempt to make the couple seem more relatable backfired. “It’s like they’ve been given 24 hours to prove they’re real people,” said one user on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interview comes as Sunak is preparing for his first general election as the leader of the Conservative Party, and it may take place during the second half of this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty said in a recent interview that he is a better cook even though he does not get much time to spend in the kitchen with a busy day job running the country.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty said in a recent interview that he is a better cook even though he does not get much time to spend in the kitchen with a busy day job running the country. However, Grazia’s women’s magazine interview of the couple ahead of International Women’s Day also garnered criticism from netizens. British Indian couple talk domestic chores and more During the joint interview at 10 Downing Street, the couple spoke about their day-to-day lives, daughters Krishna (12) and Anoushka (11), and how the country’s most high-profile couple share domestic duties. “Rishi is the better cook. I do have a great deal of enthusiasm, but Rishi definitely has more talent in that department,” Murty said. It’s “mainly just breakfast on Saturday mornings now. Gordon Ramsay’s scrambled eggs,” Sunak added. Murty, a businesswoman, also said she is “not a morning person,” and that Sunak is the tidier of the two. Also Read | Nikki Haley announces end of her US presidential campaign, paves way for Biden and Trump rematch To which Sunak said, “But you also just don’t like making the bed and it bugs me. I actually sometimes come up back into the flat from the office after we’ve all left to make the bed because I’ll be irritated if it’s not been made.” The couple met while they attended Stanford University, and Murty also reportedly said how her untidy habits would annoy him even back then, admitting that she is not the most organised person compared to her husband. Now, at 43, the couple said that they divide the tasks from her taking charge of the kids’ homework and him taking care of the rest. The couple also shared how they wind down for the day by watching reruns of episodes of the popular sitcom Friends, which they both love. “I’m too exhausted when I get home so I watch an episode of ‘Friends’ and go to bed,” shared the UK PM. ‘Out of touch’ While the interview was supposed to be a light-hearted insight into Sunak and Murthy’s lives, most people found it “tone deaf” and “out of touch”. The magazine had interviewed the couple ahead of International Women’s Day to find out how “the country’s most high-profile couple share domestic duties.” The UK PM also mentioned how in his free time he reorganises the dishwasher after his wife has loaded it. When asked about his favourite chore, he was torn. “Hard choice: dishwasher-stacking, making bed. Both have a satisfying ending,” said Sunak. Also Read | UK to bar entry of hate preachers amid 'shocking increase' in extremist activity: Report The magazine has reportedly lost around 1,000 followers since the interview and their comments section on social media flooded with criticism. “The net worth of this family is expected to be close to a Billion pounds soon. They are already twice as wealthy as the King,” said Caroline Hirons, a writer and skincare expert, in a comment on Instagram. She added, “Ain’t no-one in this family doing ‘chores’.” Similarly, several others pointed out how the attempt to make the couple seem more relatable backfired. “It’s like they’ve been given 24 hours to prove they’re real people,” said one user on X. The interview comes as Sunak is preparing for his first general election as the leader of the Conservative Party, and it may take place during the second half of this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Akshata Murty says husband Rishi Sunak is the better cook, tidier; netizens call couple ‘out of touch’

rishi-sunak

Rishi Sunak, News on Rishi Sunak, stories on Rishi Sunak, articles on Rishi Sunak, Rishi Sunak stories at Wion, Rishi Sunak news, Rishi Sunak latest news

rishi sunak