UK's Minister of State Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan speaks to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Australia. While speaking to our correspondent on Indo-UK ties she said, "UK govt has made strong permanent reliance. Both the Euro-Atlantic and Indo Pacific are equally important for UK and global interests. We are proud to be here. I am thrilled to share UK's perspective. Indian Ocean conference is an important part of the India-Pacific region." Watch to know more!

UK's Indo-Pacific Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan speaks to WION on Indo-UK ties, FTA talks

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday, (Feb 7&nbsp;) took&nbsp;a jibe at Labour Party leader Keir Starmer for his&nbsp;stance on gender identity. Sunak joked that the leader of the opposition party could not define what a woman was, as&nbsp;the mother of a murdered transgender attended parliament's&nbsp;question-and-answer session.</p>

<p>Last week, two teenagers were jailed for the murder of Brianna Ghey, who was stabbed 28 times with a hunting knife.</p>

<p>In an exchange with Labour leader Keir Starmer, who had said Ghey's mother was watching, Sunak said "defining a woman" was on the&nbsp;list of Starmer's broken promises, joking&nbsp;it had been "only 99 per cent of a U-turn".</p>

<p>Sunak&nbsp;said "a man is a man and a woman is a woman" and&nbsp;criticised Starmer, saying he "still does not know what a woman is".</p>

<p>In reply, Starmer said,&nbsp;"Of all the weeks to say that, when Brianna's mother is in this chamber. Shame. Parading as a man of integrity when he's got absolutely no responsibility."</p>

<p>Wednesday's jibe appeared to be in reference to a comment from Starmer, when questioned about his views on transgender issues last April, that 99.9 per cent of women "of course haven't got a penis".</p>

<p>Sunak's press secretary said the prime minister had been listing Labour's U-turns and to do so was "totally legitimate". She said she did not accept that it was a transphobic remark.</p>

<p>While a Labour spokeswoman told reporters: "We think the comments from him are deeply offensive to trans people and he should reflect on his response ... and apologise." Ghey's mother was due to meet Starmer after the session.</p>

<p>Sunak did not address Starmer's comment and did not respond to calls from other lawmakers to apologise.</p>

<p>Sky News reported on Wednesday night that the father of the murdered teenager, Peter Spooner, said he was shocked by the prime minister's comments and felt he "should apologise for his remarks".</p>

<p>At the end of the session, Sunak did pay tribute to Ghey's mother, saying: "What happened was an unspeakable and shocking tragedy...</p>

<p>"In the face of that, for her mother to demonstrate the compassion and empathy that she did last weekend, I thought demonstrated the very best of humanity in the face of seeing the very worst of humanity, and she deserves all our admiration and praise for that," said Sunak.</p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday, (Feb 7 ) took a jibe at Labour Party leader Keir Starmer for his stance on gender identity. Sunak joked that the leader of the opposition party could not define what a woman was, as the mother of a murdered transgender attended parliament's question-and-answer session.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday, (Feb 7 ) took a jibe at Labour Party leader Keir Starmer for his stance on gender identity. Sunak joked that the leader of the opposition party could not define what a woman was, as the mother of a murdered transgender attended parliament's question-and-answer session. Last week, two teenagers were jailed for the murder of Brianna Ghey, who was stabbed 28 times with a hunting knife. In an exchange with Labour leader Keir Starmer, who had said Ghey's mother was watching, Sunak said "defining a woman" was on the list of Starmer's broken promises, joking it had been "only 99 per cent of a U-turn". Sunak said "a man is a man and a woman is a woman" and criticised Starmer, saying he "still does not know what a woman is". In reply, Starmer said, "Of all the weeks to say that, when Brianna's mother is in this chamber. Shame. Parading as a man of integrity when he's got absolutely no responsibility." Wednesday's jibe appeared to be in reference to a comment from Starmer, when questioned about his views on transgender issues last April, that 99.9 per cent of women "of course haven't got a penis". Sunak's press secretary said the prime minister had been listing Labour's U-turns and to do so was "totally legitimate". She said she did not accept that it was a transphobic remark. While a Labour spokeswoman told reporters: "We think the comments from him are deeply offensive to trans people and he should reflect on his response ... and apologise." Ghey's mother was due to meet Starmer after the session. Sunak did not address Starmer's comment and did not respond to calls from other lawmakers to apologise. Sky News reported on Wednesday night that the father of the murdered teenager, Peter Spooner, said he was shocked by the prime minister's comments and felt he "should apologise for his remarks". At the end of the session, Sunak did pay tribute to Ghey's mother, saying: "What happened was an unspeakable and shocking tragedy... "In the face of that, for her mother to demonstrate the compassion and empathy that she did last weekend, I thought demonstrated the very best of humanity in the face of seeing the very worst of humanity, and she deserves all our admiration and praise for that," said Sunak.

Sunak makes controversial transgender remark in Commons amid visit by murdered teen's mother

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joked that the leader of the opposition Labour Party could not define what a woman was, during a parliamentary exchange on Wednesday that the mother of a murdered transgender girl had been invited to watch.

UK PM Sunak makes transgender jibe during visit of murdered girl's mother

UK PM Rishi Sunak opens the door to Boris Johnson's political comeback and tells of his pride in their time working together. Sunak admits there are "well-documented differences" between them but revealed he talked to his former boss just a few months ago.

UK PM Rishi Sunak opens door to Boris Johnson

Rishi Sunak is under fire Labour party leader Keir Starmer slammed Sunak in the Parliamentary question hour that was after Sunak joked that the opposition leader could not define what a woman was.

UK PM Rishi Sunak faces calls to apologise to Starmer over trans jibe

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak played quite a gamble on National Television but it turns out that Sunak's wager has invited more criticism than applause and has cost him £1000 as well. During an interview earlier this week prime minister Sunak was asked if he is prepared to bet £1000 pounds on whether the Rwanda deportation plan would start before the UK polls...Watch to know more!

UK PM Rishi Sunak rows back on £1000 Rwanda deportation wager

Rishi Sunak invited Tory backbenchers to dinner at a five-star hotel in London in an attempt to boost the morale of his troops. Watch the video to know more.

UK: Conservative Party faces internal strife; exclusive survey reveals Tory discontent

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<p>The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia. In a <strong><a href="https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/43178/documents/214880/default/">73-page report</a></strong>, the House of Commons Defence Committee said that the country's armed forces had deployed above their capacity in response to the worsening security situation.</p>

<p>"But all have capability shortfalls and stockpile shortages, and are losing personnel faster than they can recruit them," the report said. The committee said that the armed forces are also consistently overstretched, and this has negatively impacted retention as well as delayed the development of warfighting readiness.</p>

<p>"Either the Ministry of Defence must be fully funded to engage in operations whilst also developing warfighting readiness, or the Government must reduce the operational burden on the Armed Forces," the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Sustained ongoing investment needed'</strong></h2>

<p>The defence committee said that to be able to fight a sustained, high-intensity war, the military requires sustained ongoing investment. "There is no easy answer to these problems. We recognise that the Government is considering options for improving recruitment and retention of personnel whilst also aiming to reform its procurement system with a view to building industrial capacity so that munitions stockpiles can be replenished," the committee said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-carry-out-joint-air-raids-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-hit-36-sites-686775">US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites</a></strong></p>

<p>It added that it welcomed the above initiatives but highlighted that previous reforms have not had the desired effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is clear that the Government will never achieve warfighting or strategic readiness without a thriving industrial base and without an offer that can attract, develop and sustain enough service personnel skilled to meet the increasing and evolving military challenges that we as a nation face. These reforms need to work, and at pace," the report further said.</p>

<h2><strong>The concerns about Russia's war in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The committee also said on Saturday that Russia's war in Ukraine, which started in late Feb 2022, has fundamentally changed the threat — demonstrating that Russia has both the capability and intent to prosecute a war in Europe. "This requires a wholesale shift in approach towards warfighting resilience both in the UK and Allies," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv's case of Moscow violating genocide convention moves to top court</strong></p>

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<p>Professor Justin Bronk from the Royal United Services Institute said that when it comes to fighting Russians, “We would have to beat them on the ground, but, ultimately, our armies will never be resourced or the size required to beat them land for land.”</p>

<p>“Our strategy is predicated, as is the entire Western military instrument, on air superiority. Put bluntly, we have a Russia problem if we cannot establish air superiority over where we have to fight,” Professor Bronk said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia.

The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia. In a 73-page report, the House of Commons Defence Committee said that the country's armed forces had deployed above their capacity in response to the worsening security situation. "But all have capability shortfalls and stockpile shortages, and are losing personnel faster than they can recruit them," the report said. The committee said that the armed forces are also consistently overstretched, and this has negatively impacted retention as well as delayed the development of warfighting readiness. "Either the Ministry of Defence must be fully funded to engage in operations whilst also developing warfighting readiness, or the Government must reduce the operational burden on the Armed Forces," the report added. 'Sustained ongoing investment needed' The defence committee said that to be able to fight a sustained, high-intensity war, the military requires sustained ongoing investment. "There is no easy answer to these problems. We recognise that the Government is considering options for improving recruitment and retention of personnel whilst also aiming to reform its procurement system with a view to building industrial capacity so that munitions stockpiles can be replenished," the committee said. Also read | US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites It added that it welcomed the above initiatives but highlighted that previous reforms have not had the desired effect. "It is clear that the Government will never achieve warfighting or strategic readiness without a thriving industrial base and without an offer that can attract, develop and sustain enough service personnel skilled to meet the increasing and evolving military challenges that we as a nation face. These reforms need to work, and at pace," the report further said. The concerns about Russia's war in Ukraine The committee also said on Saturday that Russia's war in Ukraine, which started in late Feb 2022, has fundamentally changed the threat — demonstrating that Russia has both the capability and intent to prosecute a war in Europe. "This requires a wholesale shift in approach towards warfighting resilience both in the UK and Allies," it said. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv's case of Moscow violating genocide convention moves to top court × Professor Justin Bronk from the Royal United Services Institute said that when it comes to fighting Russians, “We would have to beat them on the ground, but, ultimately, our armies will never be resourced or the size required to beat them land for land.” “Our strategy is predicated, as is the entire Western military instrument, on air superiority. Put bluntly, we have a Russia problem if we cannot establish air superiority over where we have to fight,” Professor Bronk said. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain warns it is ‘too weak’ to fight a prolonged war: Report gives details

UK's Home Office flags up major concerns over illegal immigrations. The office released latest figures on illegal immigrants. The figures state that over 3000 Turkish migrants entered UK illegally in 2023. Over 33,000 unable to claim asylum due to illegal migration act. Watch to know more!

UK Home Office: 0ver 33,000 unable to claim asylum due to illegal migration act

According to a new report, a secret plot is being hatched to remove UK PM Rishi Sunak from 10 Downing Street. The plotters are Sunak's colleagues from the Conservative Party itself. Molly Gambhir brings you the details.

Gravitas | The 'conspiracy' to dethrone Rishi Sunak

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has come under renewed pressure to cut immigration in the country. Reports suggest that Britain will need to built at least 156,000 homes a year just to cope with the number of migrants landing up in the country.

Report: UK needs 156,000 new homes a year to house immigrants

Rishi Sunak wins 1st vote in house of lords on Rwanda Asylum law. Sunak wins with decisive vote count of 206 in favour & 84 against. The Rwanda bill proposes to send Asylum seekers arriving in UK back to Rwanda. In 2024, over 1,000 asylum seekers arrived in the UK. Watch to know more!

UK: PM Rishi Sunak wins 1st vote in House of lords on Rwanda Asylum law

The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to announce a comprehensive ban on the sale and purchase of disposable vapes. The government is also seeking to make vaping less appealing to children by restricting some sweet and fruity flavours. Watch to know more!

UK Govt to ban disposable vapes to prevent their use by children

Rishi Sunak wins 1st vote in house of lords on Rwanda Asylum law. Sunak wins with decisive vote count of 206 in favour & 84 against. Rwanda plan is to send Asylum seekers arriving in UK back to Rwanda. In 2024, over 1,000 asylum seekers arrived in the UK. Watch to know more!

UK PM's first victory in new Rwanda Asylum law

A fresh civil war has erupted within the Conservatives after a top ally called for Rishi Sunak to be sacked and replaced. Sunak is facing questions over his leadership among members of the party.

UK: Former Advisor to Conservatives accused of plotting against Rishi Sunak

In a bold move, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has proposed Banning the younger generation from buying cigarettes.

UK Government to ban disposable vapes to prevent use by children

UK PM Rishi Sunak bans disposable vapes in UK to prevent use by children

<p>A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rishi Sunak, who took over the helm of affairs in the UK after Boris Johnson's exit triggered by the 'partygate' scandal and Liz Truss' inability to steer the economy in a better direction, is reportedly being targeted by individuals linked to Suella Braverman, Robert Jenrick and Jacob Rees-Mogg.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak</strong></p>

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<p>Sir Jacob William Rees-Mogg is a British politician and member of the Conservative Party serving as the Member of Parliament for North East Somerset since 2010. While Suella Braverman is a Conservative heavyweight who served as Home Secretary under Prime Minister Liz Truss and is widely seen as a rival to Sunak&nbsp;within the Conservative Party circles.</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>Robert Jenrick served as Minister of State for Immigration from 2022 to 2023 and is reported to be the person who stirred opposition to Sunak's much-debated Rwanda plan to combat illegal immigration in the United Kingdom.</p>

<h2><strong>Spotlight on Tories' showing in May 2024 by-elections</strong></h2>

<p>The Times report claimed that potential&nbsp;poor performance in May's local elections could be the cue to strike Sunak by individuals linked with his Tory colleagues. These colleagues, such as Braverman, are&nbsp;deemed antagonistic towards Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that while Sunak's position is safe for now, those plotting to get rid of him are preparing for a campaign of attrition between now and the local elections on May 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The May by-elections are expected to be the "moment of maximum" danger for the UK prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One senior Tory leader told the publication: "There was a school of thought that Simon Clarke had jumped and expected others to follow and been surprised that no one else had. That is not the case. I expect there to be a constant dribble of people coming forward to call for a change in leadership in a bid to gradually destabilise Sunak in the run-up to the local elections. Once those are over, Sunak could face a challenge. Those who oppose him believe that things can’t get any worse and want him to take ownership of the mess before they seek to install a new leader."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated.

A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to become the prime minister, a report in The Times newspaper indicated. Rishi Sunak, who took over the helm of affairs in the UK after Boris Johnson's exit triggered by the 'partygate' scandal and Liz Truss' inability to steer the economy in a better direction, is reportedly being targeted by individuals linked to Suella Braverman, Robert Jenrick and Jacob Rees-Mogg. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak × Sir Jacob William Rees-Mogg is a British politician and member of the Conservative Party serving as the Member of Parliament for North East Somerset since 2010. While Suella Braverman is a Conservative heavyweight who served as Home Secretary under Prime Minister Liz Truss and is widely seen as a rival to Sunak within the Conservative Party circles. Also read | UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings Robert Jenrick served as Minister of State for Immigration from 2022 to 2023 and is reported to be the person who stirred opposition to Sunak's much-debated Rwanda plan to combat illegal immigration in the United Kingdom. Spotlight on Tories' showing in May 2024 by-elections The Times report claimed that potential poor performance in May's local elections could be the cue to strike Sunak by individuals linked with his Tory colleagues. These colleagues, such as Braverman, are deemed antagonistic towards Sunak. The report added that while Sunak's position is safe for now, those plotting to get rid of him are preparing for a campaign of attrition between now and the local elections on May 2. The May by-elections are expected to be the "moment of maximum" danger for the UK prime minister. One senior Tory leader told the publication: "There was a school of thought that Simon Clarke had jumped and expected others to follow and been surprised that no one else had. That is not the case. I expect there to be a constant dribble of people coming forward to call for a change in leadership in a bid to gradually destabilise Sunak in the run-up to the local elections. Once those are over, Sunak could face a challenge. Those who oppose him believe that things can’t get any worse and want him to take ownership of the mess before they seek to install a new leader." (With inputs from agencies)

Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report

A former adviser to Rishi Sunak who conducted polling for Downing Street is working with a group of Tory rebels plotting to oust the prime minister. Sunak is facing questions over his leadership among members of the party.

UK: Former Adviser to Rishi Sunak working with Tory rebels to oust him

A senior Conservative member of Parliament has publicly called for Rishi Sunak to quit, in the latest sign of the prime minister’s failure to pacify rebellions in the ruling party ahead of an election this year.

UK: Senior Tory MP Simon Clarke calls on Rishi Sunak to resign as prime minister

Fresh trouble for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as the head of UK's budget Watchdog Richard Hughes has called the country's 2025 spending plans unsustainable.

ORB Chief: UK government spending plans unsustainable

Ex-minister asks PM Rishi Sunak to quit, calls UK's spending plan a 'work of fiction'

UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak is facing a rather difficult situation. A new Redfield Wilton poll reveals a record number of Tory voters are switching sides to the right-wing populist reform party. This, as the Tories hit their lowest level of support since sunak assumed the Prime Minister-ship in October of 2022.

Lowest support for tories since Rishi Sunak became PM

<p>House of Lords, the upper but unelected house of the British Parliament on Monday (January 22), voted to delay ratification of the British government's treaty with Rwanda which would enable&nbsp;the British government to send migrants to the African country. The vote is a latest roadblock in British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak plans to 'Stop the Boats', which refers to stemming the number of illegal immigrants coming to British shores either by crossing the English Channel or by other means.</p>

<p>Sunak, whose legislation has drawn wide criticism, had urged the House of Lords to pass the bill saying that the legislation represented the will of the people.</p>

<p>A 214 against 171 vote saw the upper house choosing to delay ratification of the treaty between the UK and Rwanda until the UK government demonstrated that Rwanda would be a safe country for migrants, many of whom may not be Rwandans to start with.</p>

<p>PM Sunak is using his political capital for the passage of the legislation and the treaty with Rwanda has been central to his government's plans to combat the issue of illegal migration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Dropping support for Tories since Rishi Sunak became UK PM</strong></p>

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<p>Sunak won a knife-edge parliamentary vote over the bill the in House of Commons just last week. It is the lower house of the British Parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>Efforts for legal backing</strong></h2>

<p>UK Supreme Court ruled last year the plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda is illegal under international law. The efforts of the Sunak government to pass the legislation are seen by experts as an attempt to give legal backing to the proposed decision. If the bill is passed, it may compel judges to consider Rwanda as a safe third country.</p>

<p>Not only this, the passage of the bill will mean that UK ministers would gain powers to sidestep some sections of international and British human rights legislation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-member-of-taliban-uk-student-on-trial-in-spain-for-joking-on-message-682819">‘I’m member of Taliban’: UK student on trial in Spain for joking on message</a></strong></p>

<p>Many members of the House of Lords are former senior judges. They have already expressed profound unease about the Rwanda plan.</p>

<p>Unlike the House of Commons, the House of Lords doesn't have the power to block the treaty completely. But delay in ratification may mean that critics of the bill, including those in policy-making circles would get a chance for a fresh salvo against the government.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-end-up-in-wrong-countries-after-storm-isha-creates-travel-chaos-in-uk-ireland-682831">Passengers end up in ‘wrong’ countries amid Storm Isha created travel chaos in UK, Ireland</a></strong></p>

<p>The UK is set to hold nationwide elections later this year. The Labour Party is the current favorite to win the elections. The issue of illegal migrants and the legislation around it is likely to become one of the election issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


House of Lords, the upper but unelected house of the British Parliament on Monday (January 22), voted to delay ratification of the British government's treaty with Rwanda which would enable the British government to send migrants to the African country.

House of Lords, the upper but unelected house of the British Parliament on Monday (January 22), voted to delay ratification of the British government's treaty with Rwanda which would enable the British government to send migrants to the African country. The vote is a latest roadblock in British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak plans to 'Stop the Boats', which refers to stemming the number of illegal immigrants coming to British shores either by crossing the English Channel or by other means. Sunak, whose legislation has drawn wide criticism, had urged the House of Lords to pass the bill saying that the legislation represented the will of the people. A 214 against 171 vote saw the upper house choosing to delay ratification of the treaty between the UK and Rwanda until the UK government demonstrated that Rwanda would be a safe country for migrants, many of whom may not be Rwandans to start with. PM Sunak is using his political capital for the passage of the legislation and the treaty with Rwanda has been central to his government's plans to combat the issue of illegal migration. Watch | UK: Dropping support for Tories since Rishi Sunak became UK PM × Sunak won a knife-edge parliamentary vote over the bill the in House of Commons just last week. It is the lower house of the British Parliament. Efforts for legal backing UK Supreme Court ruled last year the plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda is illegal under international law. The efforts of the Sunak government to pass the legislation are seen by experts as an attempt to give legal backing to the proposed decision. If the bill is passed, it may compel judges to consider Rwanda as a safe third country. Not only this, the passage of the bill will mean that UK ministers would gain powers to sidestep some sections of international and British human rights legislation. Also Read | ‘I’m member of Taliban’: UK student on trial in Spain for joking on message Many members of the House of Lords are former senior judges. They have already expressed profound unease about the Rwanda plan. Unlike the House of Commons, the House of Lords doesn't have the power to block the treaty completely. But delay in ratification may mean that critics of the bill, including those in policy-making circles would get a chance for a fresh salvo against the government. Also Read | Passengers end up in ‘wrong’ countries amid Storm Isha created travel chaos in UK, Ireland The UK is set to hold nationwide elections later this year. The Labour Party is the current favorite to win the elections. The issue of illegal migrants and the legislation around it is likely to become one of the election issues. (With inputs from agencies)

British House of Lords decides to delay passing PM Rishi Sunak’s Rwanda plan

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a pivotal Commons vote, emerged victorious over internal party dissidents, securing approval for his contentious Rwanda deportation bill. Sunak's Rwanda policy, which will allow the UK government to send asylum seekers who arrive without permission in Britain to Rwanda, cleared the last obstacle in the Commons. A total of 320 lawmakers voted in favour of the bill against 276.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, 11 Tory MPs dissented. Former home secretary Suella Braverman, who earlier called on Sunak to harden up his stance on the Rwandan bill, and ex-immigration minister Robert Jenrick, also voted against the bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The contentious legislation will now advance to the House of Lords where the bill may face potential amendments. The third reading was a major win for Sunak. If it had failed, the UK Prime Minister would have been in a tough spot with the general elections coming up and his perceived weakening leadership.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sheryl-sandberg-former-coo-of-meta-platforms-announces-exit-from-board-after-12-years-681052">Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta Platforms, announces exit from board after 12 years</a></p>

<p>Even as Conservative rebels threatened to derail the legislation, most from the party opted not to challenge the bill.</p>

<h2><strong>Injunctions by&nbsp;European Court of Human Rights troubling Sunak&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the Rwandan bill was given a green light in the House of Commons, there is a greater worry for Sunak in the form of&nbsp;Injunctions by the European Court of Human Rights which can halt deportations to Rwanda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-attack-in-iran-day-after-deadly-balochistan-strike-report-681019">Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack</a></p>

<p>The government earlier pledged to eliminate this guidance which directed civil servants to comply with these injunctions.</p>

<p>Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has declared willingness to refund UK taxpayers' money if no asylum seekers arrive in the African nation. A total of £240 million is already paid to Rwanda, with an additional £50 million pending.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/election-commission-of-pakistan-warns-of-poll-delay-due-to-symbol-changes-681056">Election Commission of Pakistan warns of poll delay due to symbol changes</a></strong></p>

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<p>The prime minister's allies perceive this outcome as a decisive victory against the right wing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the win, discontent lingers within the Conservative party, with moderates expressing frustration over the damage caused during the rebellion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a pivotal Commons vote, emerged victorious over internal party dissidents, securing approval for his contentious Rwanda deportation bill.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a pivotal Commons vote, emerged victorious over internal party dissidents, securing approval for his contentious Rwanda deportation bill. Sunak's Rwanda policy, which will allow the UK government to send asylum seekers who arrive without permission in Britain to Rwanda, cleared the last obstacle in the Commons. A total of 320 lawmakers voted in favour of the bill against 276. Meanwhile, 11 Tory MPs dissented. Former home secretary Suella Braverman, who earlier called on Sunak to harden up his stance on the Rwandan bill, and ex-immigration minister Robert Jenrick, also voted against the bill. The contentious legislation will now advance to the House of Lords where the bill may face potential amendments. The third reading was a major win for Sunak. If it had failed, the UK Prime Minister would have been in a tough spot with the general elections coming up and his perceived weakening leadership. Also Read | Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta Platforms, announces exit from board after 12 years Even as Conservative rebels threatened to derail the legislation, most from the party opted not to challenge the bill. Injunctions by European Court of Human Rights troubling Sunak Even as the Rwandan bill was given a green light in the House of Commons, there is a greater worry for Sunak in the form of Injunctions by the European Court of Human Rights which can halt deportations to Rwanda. Also Read | Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack The government earlier pledged to eliminate this guidance which directed civil servants to comply with these injunctions. Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has declared willingness to refund UK taxpayers' money if no asylum seekers arrive in the African nation. A total of £240 million is already paid to Rwanda, with an additional £50 million pending. Watch | Election Commission of Pakistan warns of poll delay due to symbol changes × The prime minister's allies perceive this outcome as a decisive victory against the right wing. Despite the win, discontent lingers within the Conservative party, with moderates expressing frustration over the damage caused during the rebellion. (With inputs from agencies)

UK House of Commons OKs bill to send migrants to Rwanda, 320 back PM Rishi Sunak's plan

Rishi Sunak faces revolt over Rwanda policy. Two conservative Deputy Chairmen & Ministerial aide resign. Senior Tory members quit over Rwanda Bill. Watch to know more!

UK: Rishi Sunak's Rwanda deportation bill survives commons vote

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a series of woes ahead of the general elections due later this year. But his biggest source of distress is a revolt by senior mps of his conservative party. The revolt is over Sunak's controversial plan to send asylum-seekers on a one-way trip to Rwanda.

British PM Sunak seeks to save his policy & his skin

The British parliament has debated PM Sunak's Rwanda bill and will come to a decision amid deep divisions on the issue. Sunak hopes the new legislation will boost his 2024 bid and help him fulfil his stop the boats pledge. But why is this bill so significant for Sunak, the conservative party, and voters alike?

WION'S power explainer | British PM Sunak's Rwanda policy

UK: Rishi Sunak faces revolt over Rwanda Policy, senior Tory members quit

<p>More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Voting is a basic right’</strong></h2>

<p>The end to the so-called 15-year limit also brings an end to an almost 20-year court battle by the late Harry Shindler, who challenged the rule in the high court in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Voting is a basic citizenship right regardless of where someone lives,” said co-chair Jane Golding of the campaign group British in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “This is a historic change to the UK franchise after years of campaigning by ourselves and others, particularly long-term campaigner Harry Shindler, who sadly died before he could use his hard-won vote.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK General Elections: Rishi Sunak calls for elections in 2024</strong></p>

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<p>The scrapping of the limit also marks the biggest increase in the British electoral franchise since the introduction of full female suffrage in 1928.</p>

<p>The end of the 15-year rule following the implementation of the Elections Act 2022 last month, is a relief to those who had been repeatedly let down by several UK governments in the last two decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The law allows British citizens worldwide to register to vote online regardless of how long they have been overseas.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-15-other-minister-at-risk-of-losing-2024-general-elections-report-550570">UK PM Rishi Sunak, 15 other ministers at risk of losing 2024 general elections: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The registration will be linked to the addresses in the UK they were either registered to vote at or lived at, enabling them to remain on the electoral roll for up to three years. The electors can also apply online for either a postal or proxy vote after the registration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the government estimates, Tuesday’s change in law could enfranchise around 3.5 million people across the world. The move was also introduced in time for the next general election, the date of which has yet to be decided by the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Votes for Life’ campaign</strong></h2>

<p>The change in the election law also comes after years of campaigning by various advocates, including the long-running “Votes for Life” campaign led by an overseas arm of the Conservatives. It has also been a long-standing Conservative Manifesto commitment.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-indicates-britain-will-likely-go-to-polls-in-last-six-months-of-2024-676621">&nbsp;Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates</a></strong></p>

<p>“From today, millions of British nationals across the world can exercise their right to vote in future general elections and have their say in the way their country should be governed,” said Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The Conservatives have once again shown that we are the party for democracy and protecting an individual’s right to vote.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The enactment also comes despite several attempts to thwart the plans by the opposition Labour Party which introduced the 15-year rule in 2001 and another party Liberal Democrats who opposed changing the rule during the 2010-2015 coalition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights.

More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights. ‘Voting is a basic right’ The end to the so-called 15-year limit also brings an end to an almost 20-year court battle by the late Harry Shindler, who challenged the rule in the high court in 2016. “Voting is a basic citizenship right regardless of where someone lives,” said co-chair Jane Golding of the campaign group British in Europe. She added, “This is a historic change to the UK franchise after years of campaigning by ourselves and others, particularly long-term campaigner Harry Shindler, who sadly died before he could use his hard-won vote.” WATCH | UK General Elections: Rishi Sunak calls for elections in 2024 The scrapping of the limit also marks the biggest increase in the British electoral franchise since the introduction of full female suffrage in 1928. The end of the 15-year rule following the implementation of the Elections Act 2022 last month, is a relief to those who had been repeatedly let down by several UK governments in the last two decades. The law allows British citizens worldwide to register to vote online regardless of how long they have been overseas. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak, 15 other ministers at risk of losing 2024 general elections: Report The registration will be linked to the addresses in the UK they were either registered to vote at or lived at, enabling them to remain on the electoral roll for up to three years. The electors can also apply online for either a postal or proxy vote after the registration. According to the government estimates, Tuesday’s change in law could enfranchise around 3.5 million people across the world. The move was also introduced in time for the next general election, the date of which has yet to be decided by the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. ‘Votes for Life’ campaign The change in the election law also comes after years of campaigning by various advocates, including the long-running “Votes for Life” campaign led by an overseas arm of the Conservatives. It has also been a long-standing Conservative Manifesto commitment. ALSO READ | Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates “From today, millions of British nationals across the world can exercise their right to vote in future general elections and have their say in the way their country should be governed,” said Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, in a statement. He added, “The Conservatives have once again shown that we are the party for democracy and protecting an individual’s right to vote.” The enactment also comes despite several attempts to thwart the plans by the opposition Labour Party which introduced the 15-year rule in 2001 and another party Liberal Democrats who opposed changing the rule during the 2010-2015 coalition. (With inputs from agencies)

Millions of Britons living abroad regain right to vote in UK elections

Facebook ads have emerged featuring Deepfake images of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, research by the communications company, uncovered such 143 fake ads on social network platform.

UK: Fake Rishi Sunak ads spark concerns, Facebook flooded with Deepfake ads of UK PM

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