Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to complete one year in office this week. He picked up the reigns from Liz Truss last year.

UK PM Rishi Sunak's popularity dips to all-time low

It has been one-year since Rishi Sunak took over the reigns in the UK. The Prime Minister has come across a series of backtrack waves of crisis on the economic as well as political fronts.

UK: Rishi Sunak completes one year in office, his popularity dips to an all-time low | Race to Power

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's old personal phone number has been leaked online, causing concerns about the security and privacy of government officials.</p>

<p>The breach came to light when pranksters on social media shared audio recordings of Sunak's phone ringing and the Prime Minister's message response,&nbsp;Express.co.uk&nbsp;reported.</p>

<p>The leaked phone number has been in use by the UK Prime Minister for many years, even during his tenure as Chancellor and the leadership election that transpired last year.</p>

<p>When Rishi Sunak assumed office as the Prime Minister a year ago, a new phone number was allocated to him. However, the leaked messages reveal that the old number remains operational, posing potential security risks.</p>

<h2><strong>Downing Street's response</strong></h2>

<p>When approached for comment about the security breach, a Downing Street spokesman refrained from making any statements, stating, "We don't comment on security matters." This response adds an air of mystery to the situation, leaving many to wonder about the extent of the breach's implications.</p>

<p>The leaked phone number has sparked varied reactions, with some considering it a significant security breach and others downplaying its importance. A member of the Tory party on the home affairs committee expressed that while the situation might be inconvenient for the Prime Minister, it might not necessarily qualify as a security breach, as it's possible that many colleagues and friends already had access to the number, not to mention potential hostile intelligence agencies.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-support-canada-amid-row-with-india-over-diplomatic-presence-649485">Also read |&nbsp;US, UK support Canada amid row with India over curtailed diplomatic presence</a></p>

<h2><strong>WhatsApp messages in question</strong></h2>

<p>In an unrelated development, Sunak's testimony to the UK COVID-19 Inquiry revealed that he was unable to provide WhatsApp messages sent from the leaked number. He cited the lack of backups and multiple phone changes over the last three years as the reasons behind his inability to access these messages. This brings up concerns about the preservation and accessibility of government officials' communication records.</p>

<p>The leaking of a UK Prime Minister's phone number is not a novel occurrence. In a similar incident, Prime Minister Boris Johnson was compelled to change his phone number during his tenure after a security breach. Reports from The Guardian indicate that his mobile number had been accessible online for approximately 15 years, emphasising the challenges of safeguarding sensitive contact information for high-ranking officials.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to complete one year in office</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, the breach of a government official's phone number is not limited to Prime Ministers. Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss experienced a personal phone hack, allegedly orchestrated by agents working for Russian President Vladimir Putin. This breach resulted in unauthorised access to classified information, including top-secret details of international negotiations and private messages. The compromised communications also contained discussions with senior foreign ministers concerning international matters such as the conflict in Ukraine and arms shipments.</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's old personal phone number has been leaked online, causing concerns about the security and privacy of government officials. The breach came to light when pranksters on social media shared audio recordings of Sunak's phone ringing and the Prime Minister's message response, Express.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's old personal phone number has been leaked online, causing concerns about the security and privacy of government officials. The breach came to light when pranksters on social media shared audio recordings of Sunak's phone ringing and the Prime Minister's message response, Express.co.uk reported. The leaked phone number has been in use by the UK Prime Minister for many years, even during his tenure as Chancellor and the leadership election that transpired last year. When Rishi Sunak assumed office as the Prime Minister a year ago, a new phone number was allocated to him. However, the leaked messages reveal that the old number remains operational, posing potential security risks. Downing Street's response When approached for comment about the security breach, a Downing Street spokesman refrained from making any statements, stating, "We don't comment on security matters." This response adds an air of mystery to the situation, leaving many to wonder about the extent of the breach's implications. The leaked phone number has sparked varied reactions, with some considering it a significant security breach and others downplaying its importance. A member of the Tory party on the home affairs committee expressed that while the situation might be inconvenient for the Prime Minister, it might not necessarily qualify as a security breach, as it's possible that many colleagues and friends already had access to the number, not to mention potential hostile intelligence agencies. Also read | US, UK support Canada amid row with India over curtailed diplomatic presence WhatsApp messages in question In an unrelated development, Sunak's testimony to the UK COVID-19 Inquiry revealed that he was unable to provide WhatsApp messages sent from the leaked number. He cited the lack of backups and multiple phone changes over the last three years as the reasons behind his inability to access these messages. This brings up concerns about the preservation and accessibility of government officials' communication records. The leaking of a UK Prime Minister's phone number is not a novel occurrence. In a similar incident, Prime Minister Boris Johnson was compelled to change his phone number during his tenure after a security breach. Reports from The Guardian indicate that his mobile number had been accessible online for approximately 15 years, emphasising the challenges of safeguarding sensitive contact information for high-ranking officials. Also watch | UK: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to complete one year in office Additionally, the breach of a government official's phone number is not limited to Prime Ministers. Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss experienced a personal phone hack, allegedly orchestrated by agents working for Russian President Vladimir Putin. This breach resulted in unauthorised access to classified information, including top-secret details of international negotiations and private messages. The compromised communications also contained discussions with senior foreign ministers concerning international matters such as the conflict in Ukraine and arms shipments. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online

After the UK High Court upheld the Home Office's plans to force 39 asylum seekers to return to the Bibby Stockholm barge, the UK Home Office announced additional procedures for asylum seekers who refuse to be placed on the barge on Thursday.

UK government aims to house around 500 male asylum seekers as they return to barge

On a solidarity visit on Wednesday, Joe Biden gave Israel the unwavering support of the US. He also declared that the besieged Palestinian enclave would once again get critical supplies and held Islamist extremists accountable for a deadly missile strike on a Gaza hospital.

UK PM Rishi Sunak to visit Israel, visit to focus on de-escalation | World News | WION

<p>India and the UK are currently engaged in arduous negotiations concerning a free trade agreement, and as stances on key issues harden, it appears increasingly likely that the talks will extend into November, Bloomberg reported citing two individuals with knowledge of the discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although significant headway has been made in the negotiations, with many chapters effectively concluded, both sides, however, have now become entrenched in debates surrounding outstanding matters related to goods, services, and investment. The sources cited by Bloomberg, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, reported the ongoing challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The absence of a breakthrough on these remaining points of contention threatens to prolong the timeline for a trade deal. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously expressed his desire to finalise the agreement by Diwali last year. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had even extended an invitation to his British counterpart, Rishi Sunak, to visit India and sign the deal at the end of October. However, this schedule is now expected to be postponed unless the lingering issues are resolved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Bloomberg report, this week, a team of Indian trade negotiators have arrived in the UK to expedite discussions during the ongoing 13th round of negotiations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both India and the UK are eager to conclude nearly two years of talks concerning this landmark free trade deal. The agreement aims to provide both of these economic powerhouses with expanded access to each other's markets, with the ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade by 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, both nations had exhibited flexibility by making concessions on specific matters. India had agreed to reduce tariffs on British automobiles and scotch whisky, while the UK had been willing to ease certain visa regulations for Indian professionals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, a delegation of 30 UK officials, led by Amanda Brooks, the director general for trade negotiations, had travelled to New Delhi to address the remaining issues. The ultimate fate of this pact will require a political decision from both Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Sunak to navigate any remaining hurdles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from Bloomberg)&nbsp;</i></p>

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India and the UK are currently engaged in arduous negotiations concerning a free trade agreement, and as stances on key issues harden, it appears increasingly likely that the talks will extend into November, Bloomberg reported citing two individuals with knowledge of the discussions.

India and the UK are currently engaged in arduous negotiations concerning a free trade agreement, and as stances on key issues harden, it appears increasingly likely that the talks will extend into November, Bloomberg reported citing two individuals with knowledge of the discussions. Although significant headway has been made in the negotiations, with many chapters effectively concluded, both sides, however, have now become entrenched in debates surrounding outstanding matters related to goods, services, and investment. The sources cited by Bloomberg, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, reported the ongoing challenges. The absence of a breakthrough on these remaining points of contention threatens to prolong the timeline for a trade deal. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously expressed his desire to finalise the agreement by Diwali last year. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had even extended an invitation to his British counterpart, Rishi Sunak, to visit India and sign the deal at the end of October. However, this schedule is now expected to be postponed unless the lingering issues are resolved. According to the Bloomberg report, this week, a team of Indian trade negotiators have arrived in the UK to expedite discussions during the ongoing 13th round of negotiations. Both India and the UK are eager to conclude nearly two years of talks concerning this landmark free trade deal. The agreement aims to provide both of these economic powerhouses with expanded access to each other's markets, with the ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade by 2030. Previously, both nations had exhibited flexibility by making concessions on specific matters. India had agreed to reduce tariffs on British automobiles and scotch whisky, while the UK had been willing to ease certain visa regulations for Indian professionals. Last week, a delegation of 30 UK officials, led by Amanda Brooks, the director general for trade negotiations, had travelled to New Delhi to address the remaining issues. The ultimate fate of this pact will require a political decision from both Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Sunak to navigate any remaining hurdles. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India and UK grapple with trade deal deadlock, talks extend into November: Report 

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold&nbsp;talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak&nbsp;is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced.</p>

<p>Downing Street, however, did not specify which other leaders Sunak will engage with. Instead, it mentioned that the UK Prime Minister will travel "to a number of other regional capitals", whose details have not been released due to security reasons.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit</a></strong></p>

<p>In Israel, Sunak will meet with PM Benjamin Netanyahu as well as the&nbsp;country’s President, Isaac Herzog, on Thursday, according to the details of Sunak's schedule shared by 10, Downing Street.</p>

<h2><strong>Rishi Sunak's Israel visit: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak is set to arrive in Israel right after US President Joe Biden concluded his wartime visit to the country at war with Hamas since October 7. Biden was due to visit the Jordanian capital Amman&nbsp;for a four-way summit with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt and Palestine Authority. But Jordan called off the summit after a hospital in the Gaza Strip was hit by a strike and killed over 500 people, in the deadliest civilian casualty event in the region since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak faces the task of pacifying Arabian leaders whose anti-Israel passions are running high, especially since the Gaza hospital's mass casualty event.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would allow Egypt to deliver limited quantities of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move Cairo later approved from the Rafah border crossing into Gaza.</p>

<p>Downing Street said that Rishi Sunak would push for humanitarian access to Gaza&nbsp;to happen "as soon as possible", an event whose administerial approval has already been given by both Israel and Egypt following US President Joe Biden's visit.</p>

<p>It is noteworthy that the push for humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip was first announced by US State Secretary Antony Blinken on October 17 following days of engagements with leaders in West Asia.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way.</p>
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1714076759963136319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Every civilian death is a tragedy. And too many lives have been lost following Hamas’&nbsp;horrific act of terror," Sunak said in his remarks before taking off from London.</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced. Downing Street, however, did not specify which other leaders Sunak will engage with. Instead, it mentioned that the UK Prime Minister will travel "to a number of other regional capitals", whose details have not been released due to security reasons. Also read | Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit In Israel, Sunak will meet with PM Benjamin Netanyahu as well as the country’s President, Isaac Herzog, on Thursday, according to the details of Sunak's schedule shared by 10, Downing Street. Rishi Sunak's Israel visit: What does it mean? Sunak is set to arrive in Israel right after US President Joe Biden concluded his wartime visit to the country at war with Hamas since October 7. Biden was due to visit the Jordanian capital Amman for a four-way summit with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt and Palestine Authority. But Jordan called off the summit after a hospital in the Gaza Strip was hit by a strike and killed over 500 people, in the deadliest civilian casualty event in the region since the beginning of the war. Sunak faces the task of pacifying Arabian leaders whose anti-Israel passions are running high, especially since the Gaza hospital's mass casualty event. Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would allow Egypt to deliver limited quantities of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move Cairo later approved from the Rafah border crossing into Gaza. Downing Street said that Rishi Sunak would push for humanitarian access to Gaza to happen "as soon as possible", an event whose administerial approval has already been given by both Israel and Egypt following US President Joe Biden's visit. It is noteworthy that the push for humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip was first announced by US State Secretary Antony Blinken on October 17 following days of engagements with leaders in West Asia. Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) October 17, 2023 × "Every civilian death is a tragedy. And too many lives have been lost following Hamas’ horrific act of terror," Sunak said in his remarks before taking off from London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After Biden, Rishi Sunak takes off for wartime Israel visit first, and then wider region

The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is in Israel and he pledged solidarity with Israel even as he announced more humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip in a joint press briefing after their meeting. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his call that this war is not just Israel's battle but the battle of the civilized and free world.

Israel-Palestine War | UK PM Sunak to Israeli PM Netanyahu: 'We want you to win'

In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are holding a press briefing where Netanyahu applauds the unity of the Israeli people during this war.

Israel-Palestine war | Netanyahu: Never seen the people of Israel more united

UK's annual Conservative Party Conference kicked off in Manchester on Sunday The crucial event serves as a platform for Tories to flesh out new policies and party Manifesto. All eyes are now on the Tories again the conference this year is Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's first since he became party leader.

UK PM Rishi Sunak's approval rating drops by 5 points after party meet: YouGov Poll

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flop attempt make&nbsp;a key announcement&nbsp;by using a video transition has transformed him into an unexpected meme sensation. In the original video, which was shared by the Conservative Party, Sunak unveiled a £20 million government grant for the improvement of Blyth's high street and investment in crime reduction, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The town of Blyth is a vital player in the regional economy, and the investment programme will provide a significant opportunity for economic growth in Blyth and the surrounding areas. The grant was intended to assure northern voters that they were a top priority in the government's expenditure plans. The relief road will also alleviate congestion issues in the town and support its economic growth.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-raging-israel-hamas-war-indias-delhi-placed-on-security-alert-646205">Amid raging Israel-Hamas war, India's Delhi placed on security alert</a></p>

<p>This effort came after the Prime Minister faced significant backlash for his recent decision to cancel the HS2 high-speed rail leg to Manchester.</p>

<h2><strong>Awkward video transition</strong></h2>

<p>The video started with Sunak saying, "If you live in or around Blyth, you're going to want to hear this," before delivering a rather unconventional palm slap to the camera and then reappearing soon after in unaltered settings and appearance to complete the announcement.</p>

<p>In the video, Sunak said, "If you live in or around Blyth, you're going to want to hear this," before delivering a rather unconventional palm slap to the camera for a moment and then taking his hand away from the camera, he added, "We're giving your town £20 million to improve things like the high street, safety, and community heritage."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I can only assume Rishi Sunak’s digital communications team hate him. Didn’t even one of them explain to him that this isn’t how/when you use a ‘hand over camera’ transition? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HandOverCameraTransition?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HandOverCameraTransition</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiSunak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiSunak</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeneralElectionNow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeneralElectionNow</a> <a href="https://t.co/8LNIEdCzF3">pic.twitter.com/8LNIEdCzF3</a></p>
— Paul Ilett (@Paul_Ilett) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paul_Ilett/status/1712111850647703879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>But the weird transition has set TikTok and other social media platforms ablaze as users jump into the saga to drop their reactions. TikTok users didn't waste a moment seizing on the awkward transition, turning it into a viral sensation with millions of views.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israeli-commandoes-rescue-250-hostages-in-a-daring-operation-against-hamas-terrorists-646178">Watch | Israeli commandos rescue hostages in daring operation against Hamas</a></p>

<p>Some users, pretending to be caught off guard in front of the camera, took the opportunity to shift the conversation away from Sunak's intended message to a range of other topics. Soon it was a full-blown transition away from politics and to a memedom.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rishi Sunak’s attempt at a video transition has made him viral on TikTok as people globally duet with him - here’s one from Iceland <a href="https://t.co/5F3B3zSv39">pic.twitter.com/5F3B3zSv39</a></p>
— nazir afzal (@nazirafzal) <a href="https://twitter.com/nazirafzal/status/1712367360026272218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not a lot to make us smile currently but here’s Rishi Sunak not understanding how a transition in a video works<a href="https://t.co/P9moanGc2X">pic.twitter.com/P9moanGc2X</a></p>
— nazir afzal (@nazirafzal) <a href="https://twitter.com/nazirafzal/status/1711835019142988202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>What is interesting in this is that Sunak, who previously hinted at a potential ban on TiKToK, has now become a social media star on the same Chinese platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-israel-military-reclaims-base-from-hamas-strikes-intensifies-646221">Israel-Palestine war: Israel military reclaims base from Hamas, strikes intensifies</a></strong></p>

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<p>Sunak indicated that the contentious app could potentially be banned on all British government phones. “We take security of devices seriously,” he reportedly said regarding the possible ban on TikTok and added, “We look also at what our allies are doing. And we’re in the process of doing all of that.”</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flop attempt make a key announcement by using a video transition has transformed him into an unexpected meme sensation. In the original video, which was shared by the Conservative Party, Sunak unveiled a £20 million government grant for the improvement of Blyth's high street and investment in crime reduction, media reports said.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flop attempt make a key announcement by using a video transition has transformed him into an unexpected meme sensation. In the original video, which was shared by the Conservative Party, Sunak unveiled a £20 million government grant for the improvement of Blyth's high street and investment in crime reduction, media reports said. The town of Blyth is a vital player in the regional economy, and the investment programme will provide a significant opportunity for economic growth in Blyth and the surrounding areas. The grant was intended to assure northern voters that they were a top priority in the government's expenditure plans. The relief road will also alleviate congestion issues in the town and support its economic growth. Also Read | Amid raging Israel-Hamas war, India's Delhi placed on security alert This effort came after the Prime Minister faced significant backlash for his recent decision to cancel the HS2 high-speed rail leg to Manchester. Awkward video transition The video started with Sunak saying, "If you live in or around Blyth, you're going to want to hear this," before delivering a rather unconventional palm slap to the camera and then reappearing soon after in unaltered settings and appearance to complete the announcement. In the video, Sunak said, "If you live in or around Blyth, you're going to want to hear this," before delivering a rather unconventional palm slap to the camera for a moment and then taking his hand away from the camera, he added, "We're giving your town £20 million to improve things like the high street, safety, and community heritage." I can only assume Rishi Sunak’s digital communications team hate him. Didn’t even one of them explain to him that this isn’t how/when you use a ‘hand over camera’ transition? #HandOverCameraTransition #RishiSunak #GeneralElectionNow pic.twitter.com/8LNIEdCzF3 — Paul Ilett (@Paul_Ilett) October 11, 2023 × But the weird transition has set TikTok and other social media platforms ablaze as users jump into the saga to drop their reactions. TikTok users didn't waste a moment seizing on the awkward transition, turning it into a viral sensation with millions of views. Watch | Israeli commandos rescue hostages in daring operation against Hamas Some users, pretending to be caught off guard in front of the camera, took the opportunity to shift the conversation away from Sunak's intended message to a range of other topics. Soon it was a full-blown transition away from politics and to a memedom. Rishi Sunak’s attempt at a video transition has made him viral on TikTok as people globally duet with him - here’s one from Iceland pic.twitter.com/5F3B3zSv39 — nazir afzal (@nazirafzal) October 12, 2023 × Not a lot to make us smile currently but here’s Rishi Sunak not understanding how a transition in a video workspic.twitter.com/P9moanGc2X — nazir afzal (@nazirafzal) October 10, 2023 × What is interesting in this is that Sunak, who previously hinted at a potential ban on TiKToK, has now become a social media star on the same Chinese platform. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Israel military reclaims base from Hamas, strikes intensifies × Sunak indicated that the contentious app could potentially be banned on all British government phones. “We take security of devices seriously,” he reportedly said regarding the possible ban on TikTok and added, “We look also at what our allies are doing. And we’re in the process of doing all of that.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak’s flop video transition leaves social media in stitches

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her British counterpart, Rishi Sunak, jointly issued a call to address undocumented migration, and asked other European nations to match the sense of urgency purportedly demonstrated by London and Rome tackling what they describe as a "moral and humanitarian crisis."</p>

<p>In a joint op-ed published in The Times, these leaders, who represent Brothers of Italy and the UK's Conservative Party respectively, affirmed their collaborative efforts to prevent the entry of thousands of migrants into Europe through Italy and their onward journey to the UK.</p>

<h2><strong>'We are two of the closest friends in Europe today'</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak and Meloni expressed their pride in the shared leadership of Italy and the UK, highlighting the alignment of their perspectives and goals across various areas, positioning both nations as close allies in Europe.</p>

<p>"We are proud that Italy and the UK are leading on this together, because in this, and many other areas, our perspectives and our goals are the same. In fact, we are two of the closest friends in Europe today," the two leaders wrote in The Times.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak and Italy PM Giorgia Meloni call for tougher EU action on migration</strong></p>

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<p>Sunak and Meloni characterised migration as a "moral," "humanitarian," and "European crisis" which they said has already claimed the lives of over 2,000 individuals this year alone. The two leaders stressed the immediate need for action and underscored their commitment to seeking comprehensive, enduring solutions to address the world's most pressing global challenges.</p>

<p>This op-ed follows the European Political Community summit in Granada, Spain, held on Thursday, where discussions, or the lack thereof, concerning migration led to tensions between Madrid, London and Rome.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Failing to persuade Spain to prioritise migration on the main agenda, Sunak organised a meeting on the summit's sidelines with Italy, the Netherlands, France, Albania, and the European Commission, resulting in the agreement on an "eight-point plan" aimed at addressing the migration issue.</p>

<p>"Together, the UK and Italy are seeking serious, long-term solutions to the greatest global challenges we face. That’s why we will be putting the focus on illegal migration at today’s summit, and why we’re determined to do whatever it takes to stop the criminal gangs, to end this moral and humanitarian crisis once and for all and to restore legality in migration," they wrote.</p>

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her British counterpart, Rishi Sunak, jointly issued a call to address undocumented migration, and asked other European nations to match the sense of urgency purportedly demonstrated by London and Rome tackling what they describe as a "moral and humanitarian crisis.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her British counterpart, Rishi Sunak, jointly issued a call to address undocumented migration, and asked other European nations to match the sense of urgency purportedly demonstrated by London and Rome tackling what they describe as a "moral and humanitarian crisis." In a joint op-ed published in The Times, these leaders, who represent Brothers of Italy and the UK's Conservative Party respectively, affirmed their collaborative efforts to prevent the entry of thousands of migrants into Europe through Italy and their onward journey to the UK. 'We are two of the closest friends in Europe today' Sunak and Meloni expressed their pride in the shared leadership of Italy and the UK, highlighting the alignment of their perspectives and goals across various areas, positioning both nations as close allies in Europe. "We are proud that Italy and the UK are leading on this together, because in this, and many other areas, our perspectives and our goals are the same. In fact, we are two of the closest friends in Europe today," the two leaders wrote in The Times. Also watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak and Italy PM Giorgia Meloni call for tougher EU action on migration × Sunak and Meloni characterised migration as a "moral," "humanitarian," and "European crisis" which they said has already claimed the lives of over 2,000 individuals this year alone. The two leaders stressed the immediate need for action and underscored their commitment to seeking comprehensive, enduring solutions to address the world's most pressing global challenges. This op-ed follows the European Political Community summit in Granada, Spain, held on Thursday, where discussions, or the lack thereof, concerning migration led to tensions between Madrid, London and Rome. Failing to persuade Spain to prioritise migration on the main agenda, Sunak organised a meeting on the summit's sidelines with Italy, the Netherlands, France, Albania, and the European Commission, resulting in the agreement on an "eight-point plan" aimed at addressing the migration issue. "Together, the UK and Italy are seeking serious, long-term solutions to the greatest global challenges we face. That’s why we will be putting the focus on illegal migration at today’s summit, and why we’re determined to do whatever it takes to stop the criminal gangs, to end this moral and humanitarian crisis once and for all and to restore legality in migration," they wrote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak and Giorgia Meloni: 'We are two of the closest friends in Europe today'

A remark made by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has triggered a new controversy the comment caused an uproar in the transgender community as Sunak shared his stance on the gender debate.

UK PM Rishi Sunak's 'common sense' gender lesson

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2). In his Tory conference speech, Prime Minister Sunak sought to make fun of Sturgeon after she was arrested and questioned as part of the police's investigation into her party,&nbsp;the Scottish National Party's (SNP) finances,&nbsp;dubbed Operation Branchform.</p>

<p>As per the report, Alba Party's General Secretary Chris McEleny reported Sunak to the Scottish Police for contempt of court allegations. "The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak) is commenting on, and making an assumption about a live Police Scotland investigation," McEleny said. “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak”, he added.</p>

<p>Sunak made the comments about Sturgeon as he claimed the union between Scotland and the rest of the UK was “the strongest it has been in a quarter of a century.”</p>

<p>However, McEleny said, “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak.” The Alba General secretary added that as a result, he was “formally complaining about the offence of Contempt of Court”, requesting police to investigate this.</p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2).

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2). In his Tory conference speech, Prime Minister Sunak sought to make fun of Sturgeon after she was arrested and questioned as part of the police's investigation into her party, the Scottish National Party's (SNP) finances, dubbed Operation Branchform. As per the report, Alba Party's General Secretary Chris McEleny reported Sunak to the Scottish Police for contempt of court allegations. "The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak) is commenting on, and making an assumption about a live Police Scotland investigation," McEleny said. “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak”, he added. Sunak made the comments about Sturgeon as he claimed the union between Scotland and the rest of the UK was “the strongest it has been in a quarter of a century.” However, McEleny said, “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak.” The Alba General secretary added that as a result, he was “formally complaining about the offence of Contempt of Court”, requesting police to investigate this. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK PM Sunak reported to Scottish police over comments on Sturgeon

UK's first lady, Akshata Murty made her political debut as she gate-crashed an event hosted by her husband and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Her surprise stage appearance involved a maiden speech at a political event where she narrated anecdotes laden with personal stories.

Akshata Murty takes centrestage at UK PM Rishi Sunak's event

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<p>The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a number of proposals on Wednesday (Oct 4) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester ranging from raising the smoking age by one year every year to lifetime imprisonment for sadistic sexual crimes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the most significant points emerged to be the full-life terms for "sexual and sadistic murders". The British PM described some crimes as "so heinous," that those who commit these crimes should spend the rest of their lives in prison.</p>

<p>"So I can confirm that we will legislate for sexual and sadistic murderers to carry a full life term with no prospect of release," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>'Man is a man and a woman is a woman'</strong></p>

<p>Sunak further said it should not be "controversial for parents to know what their children are being taught in school about relationships."</p>

<p>"We shouldn't get bullied into believing that people can be any sex they want to be, they can't. A man is a man and a woman is a woman, that's just common sense," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The annual Tory conference is akin to the National Executive meets conducted annually in India by the country's principal political parties; Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>'Smoke free generation'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Calling for a "smoke free generation", Sunak said that his government plans to raise the smoking age in the United Kingdom by one year every year. This implies that tobacco will never be legally sold to children aged 14 or less.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So I propose that in future we raise the smoking age by one year every year, that means a 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they and their generation can grow up smoke-free," Sunak said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces pressure over tax cuts, HS2 rail link</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Small boat crossings are 'the evil': Rishi Sunak</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to the issue of illegal migration, which routinely occurs why English Channel crossings via small boats, the British Prime Minister said that his government's policies are focused to curb such forms of entries into the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>"It is non-negotiable that you, the British people, decide who comes here and not criminal gangs," he said, adding that they have a moral obligation to defeat "this evil, and we will."</p>

<p>Small boat crossings are for the first time down 20 per cent this year, he noted.</p>

<p>"Entry into Europe is up. We are by no means where we want to be but don't let anyone tell you we aren't making progress. We are and we will get there."</p>

<p>Touching on the controversial Rwanda plan – sending illegal migrants to third countries – Sunak backed the plan, saying it will bring a decline in English Channel crossings.</p>

<p>"Now I'm confident that once flights start going regularly to Rwanda, the boats will stop coming."</p>

<p>According to official data, a record 45,756 migrants crossed the Channel to the UK in 2022. &nbsp;</p>

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The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a number of proposals on Wednesday (Oct 4) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester ranging from raising the smoking age by one year every year to lifetime imprisonment for sadistic sexual crimes.

The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a number of proposals on Wednesday (Oct 4) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester ranging from raising the smoking age by one year every year to lifetime imprisonment for sadistic sexual crimes. One of the most significant points emerged to be the full-life terms for "sexual and sadistic murders". The British PM described some crimes as "so heinous," that those who commit these crimes should spend the rest of their lives in prison. "So I can confirm that we will legislate for sexual and sadistic murderers to carry a full life term with no prospect of release," he added. 'Man is a man and a woman is a woman' Sunak further said it should not be "controversial for parents to know what their children are being taught in school about relationships." "We shouldn't get bullied into believing that people can be any sex they want to be, they can't. A man is a man and a woman is a woman, that's just common sense," he said. The annual Tory conference is akin to the National Executive meets conducted annually in India by the country's principal political parties; Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress. Also read | Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book 'Smoke free generation' Calling for a "smoke free generation", Sunak said that his government plans to raise the smoking age in the United Kingdom by one year every year. This implies that tobacco will never be legally sold to children aged 14 or less. "So I propose that in future we raise the smoking age by one year every year, that means a 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they and their generation can grow up smoke-free," Sunak said. Also watch | UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces pressure over tax cuts, HS2 rail link × Small boat crossings are 'the evil': Rishi Sunak Referring to the issue of illegal migration, which routinely occurs why English Channel crossings via small boats, the British Prime Minister said that his government's policies are focused to curb such forms of entries into the United Kingdom. "It is non-negotiable that you, the British people, decide who comes here and not criminal gangs," he said, adding that they have a moral obligation to defeat "this evil, and we will." Small boat crossings are for the first time down 20 per cent this year, he noted. "Entry into Europe is up. We are by no means where we want to be but don't let anyone tell you we aren't making progress. We are and we will get there." Touching on the controversial Rwanda plan – sending illegal migrants to third countries – Sunak backed the plan, saying it will bring a decline in English Channel crossings. "Now I'm confident that once flights start going regularly to Rwanda, the boats will stop coming." According to official data, a record 45,756 migrants crossed the Channel to the UK in 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak announces jail without parole for sadistic sexual crimes

<p>Rishi Sunak, the British prime minister, has proposed a peculiar way to create a 'smoke-free' generation. He wants to raise England's legal age for buying cigarettes by one year, every year. However, critics of the plan say it would just create a "black market."</p>

<p>Defending his plan, Sunak said in an interview with Radio 4: "Smoking is unequivocally the single biggest preventable cause of death, disability and illness."</p>

<h2><strong>One year, every year</strong></h2>

<p>As per Sunak, raising the legal age to purchase a cigarette by one year every year would mean a "14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they and their generation can grow up smoke-free".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-to-announce-scrapping-of-hs2-train-line-to-manchester-642453">Rishi Sunak announces scrapping of HS2 train line to Manchester</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking at the annual Tory party conference on Wednesday (Oct 4), the UK PM also promised to bring in a restriction on the availability of vapes.</p>

<p>This, he said, would be part of the government's plans to "put the next generation first."</p>

<h2><strong>Criticism of the plan</strong></h2>

<p>Critics claim that the move would lead to the creation of a "black market."&nbsp;They also challenge him on his earlier push back against a part of the government's anti-obesity strategy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, he had chalked it up to "people's right to choose". The anti-obesity strategy plans to ban two-for-one junk deals. However, the scheme has been delayed by the government for another two years.</p>

<p>In an interview with BBC, Sunak said that smoking cigarettes and eating crisps or a piece of cake. He said that while junk food means an unbalanced diet, there is no safe level of smoking.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thats-just-common-sense-sunak-says-people-cannot-be-any-sex-they-want-to-be-642642">'That's just common sense': Sunak says people cannot be any sex they want to be</a></strong></p>

<p>"Smoking is unequivocally the single biggest preventable cause of death, disability and illness in our society," said Sunak.</p>

<p>He also claimed, "Everyone recognises this measure will be the single biggest intervention in public health in a generation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British PM said that measures restricting choices were "never easy", but that nobody would want their children or grandchildren to grow up smoking.</p>

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Rishi Sunak, the British prime minister, has proposed a peculiar way to create a 'smoke-free' generation. He wants to raise England's legal age for buying cigarettes by one year, every year.

Rishi Sunak, the British prime minister, has proposed a peculiar way to create a 'smoke-free' generation. He wants to raise England's legal age for buying cigarettes by one year, every year. However, critics of the plan say it would just create a "black market." Defending his plan, Sunak said in an interview with Radio 4: "Smoking is unequivocally the single biggest preventable cause of death, disability and illness." One year, every year As per Sunak, raising the legal age to purchase a cigarette by one year every year would mean a "14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they and their generation can grow up smoke-free". Also read | Rishi Sunak announces scrapping of HS2 train line to Manchester Speaking at the annual Tory party conference on Wednesday (Oct 4), the UK PM also promised to bring in a restriction on the availability of vapes. This, he said, would be part of the government's plans to "put the next generation first." Criticism of the plan Critics claim that the move would lead to the creation of a "black market." They also challenge him on his earlier push back against a part of the government's anti-obesity strategy. At the time, he had chalked it up to "people's right to choose". The anti-obesity strategy plans to ban two-for-one junk deals. However, the scheme has been delayed by the government for another two years. In an interview with BBC, Sunak said that smoking cigarettes and eating crisps or a piece of cake. He said that while junk food means an unbalanced diet, there is no safe level of smoking. Also read | 'That's just common sense': Sunak says people cannot be any sex they want to be "Smoking is unequivocally the single biggest preventable cause of death, disability and illness in our society," said Sunak. He also claimed, "Everyone recognises this measure will be the single biggest intervention in public health in a generation." The British PM said that measures restricting choices were "never easy", but that nobody would want their children or grandchildren to grow up smoking. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK PM Rishi Sunak defends plan to create 'smoke-free' younger generations

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murty took to the political stage on Wednesday (Oct 4) in a surprise debut to address the Conservative Party conference held in Manchester, media reports said.&nbsp;Akshata Murty, married to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, made a surprise entrance as the warm-up act for the annual conference's centrepiece. She reportedly shared that even her husband and their daughters, Krishna and Anoushka, were caught off guard by her decision to make her inaugural address to the party conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak and Murty 'best friends'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>During her "gate-crashing" speech, Akshata Murty expressed her pride in Rishi Sunak's numerous achievements and also went on to list the qualities that she liked in Sunak as a person. She said that Sunak's "honesty and integrity" drew her to him when they were students at Stanford University.</p>

<p>She described their relationship as one of "best friends".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/newborn-among-two-dead-three-injured-in-gun-violence-in-us-642728">Newborn among two dead, three injured in gun violence in US</a></p>

<p>"Rishi and I are each other’s best friends; we are one team and I could not imagine being anywhere else than here today to show my support to him and to the party," Murty said during the party conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murty recounted their meeting in their early 20s and spoke of Rishi's deep love for the UK and his desire to provide opportunities to as many people as possible. "It completely energised him. Being with Rishi was the easiest decision of my life,” she said, adding,&nbsp;“Sometimes when the going gets tough, I remind Rishi that he's fighting for his values. That he's fighting for this party's values, knowing that it's a hard road ahead. That success is hard one."</p>

<p>Sunak's spouse said that her husband's "aspiration" drives him to work for a better future for the UK.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mccarthy-orchestrated-move-to-throw-pelosi-out-of-her-capitol-office-report-642722">McCarthy orchestrated move to throw Pelosi out of her Capitol office: Report</a></p>

<p>In her speech, Akshata Murty revealed that during challenging times, she reminds Rishi that he is fighting for his values and the party's values.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murty also opened up and shared about how Sunak has a preference for romcoms. Murty said that Sunak is “fun, thoughtful, and compassionate”.&nbsp;“Rishi, you know this, you know that doing the right thing for the long term even when it is hard is the right thing to do. I hope you also know how proud you make our girls and me every single day,” Murty said while concluding her speech.</p>

<h2><strong>Rishi Sunak takes stage&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak, meanwhile,&nbsp;began by saying that Akshata Murty was the "best long-term decision for a brighter future" he had ever made. He highlighted the government's accomplishments since he assumed office as Prime Minister in October last year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-steve-scalise-and-jim-jordan-confirm-runs-for-house-speaker-642738">US: Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan confirm runs for House speaker</a></strong></p>

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<p>Sunak also criticised the political system of the last 30 years, which, he argued, had encouraged short-term decisions at the expense of the right ones.&nbsp;“It doesn’t have to be this way, I won’t be this way,” he reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murty took to the political stage on Wednesday (Oct 4) in a surprise debut to address the Conservative Party conference held in Manchester, media reports said.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murty took to the political stage on Wednesday (Oct 4) in a surprise debut to address the Conservative Party conference held in Manchester, media reports said. Akshata Murty, married to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, made a surprise entrance as the warm-up act for the annual conference's centrepiece. She reportedly shared that even her husband and their daughters, Krishna and Anoushka, were caught off guard by her decision to make her inaugural address to the party conference. Sunak and Murty 'best friends' During her "gate-crashing" speech, Akshata Murty expressed her pride in Rishi Sunak's numerous achievements and also went on to list the qualities that she liked in Sunak as a person. She said that Sunak's "honesty and integrity" drew her to him when they were students at Stanford University. She described their relationship as one of "best friends". Also Read | Newborn among two dead, three injured in gun violence in US "Rishi and I are each other’s best friends; we are one team and I could not imagine being anywhere else than here today to show my support to him and to the party," Murty said during the party conference. Murty recounted their meeting in their early 20s and spoke of Rishi's deep love for the UK and his desire to provide opportunities to as many people as possible. "It completely energised him. Being with Rishi was the easiest decision of my life,” she said, adding, “Sometimes when the going gets tough, I remind Rishi that he's fighting for his values. That he's fighting for this party's values, knowing that it's a hard road ahead. That success is hard one." Sunak's spouse said that her husband's "aspiration" drives him to work for a better future for the UK. Also Read | McCarthy orchestrated move to throw Pelosi out of her Capitol office: Report In her speech, Akshata Murty revealed that during challenging times, she reminds Rishi that he is fighting for his values and the party's values. Murty also opened up and shared about how Sunak has a preference for romcoms. Murty said that Sunak is “fun, thoughtful, and compassionate”. “Rishi, you know this, you know that doing the right thing for the long term even when it is hard is the right thing to do. I hope you also know how proud you make our girls and me every single day,” Murty said while concluding her speech. Rishi Sunak takes stage Sunak, meanwhile, began by saying that Akshata Murty was the "best long-term decision for a brighter future" he had ever made. He highlighted the government's accomplishments since he assumed office as Prime Minister in October last year. Watch | US: Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan confirm runs for House speaker × Sunak also criticised the political system of the last 30 years, which, he argued, had encouraged short-term decisions at the expense of the right ones. “It doesn’t have to be this way, I won’t be this way,” he reportedly said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Akshata Murty makes surprise debut at Conservative party conference. Here's what UK PM's wife said

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak&nbsp;has&nbsp;announced the scrapping of the northern leg of the HS2 train line — from West Midlands to Manchester.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak's speech</strong></h2>

<p>"I'm ending this long-running saga. I am cancelling the rest of the HS2 project. And in its place we will reinvest every single penny - 36 billion pounds - in hundreds of new transport projects in the north and the midlands, across the country," said Sunak</p>

<p>Better value for money and a shorter project delivery time will reportedly be the reasons he will state for this move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the northern leg will be scrapped, work has started on the London to Birmingham leg of the HS2.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wants-private-talks-with-india-foreign-minister-melanie-joly-as-row-escalates-642395">Canada wants ‘private talks with India’: Foreign Minister Melanie Joly as row escalates</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking to BBC earlier, Defence Minister Grant Shapps had hinted the scrapping. He said: "We have to wait for his actual speech to hear exact confirmation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak's Conservative Party is badly lagging the opposition Labour Party in polls. An election is expected next year in UK.</p>

<h2><strong>Anger over scrapping</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to announcement, the possibility of scrapping of the HS2 train&nbsp;triggered a wave of anger among local leaders and businesses.&nbsp;Sunak's decision has not gone down well with his party colleagues and with members of the Opposition and it has caused anger.</p>

<p>Andy Burnham, the labour mayor of Greater Durham, has labelled the move disrespectful of "people across the whole of the North."</p>

<p>"It just proves there are so many people in politics - many in the Tory party - that think they can treat the north of England differently to the way they treat other parts of the country," he told BBC.</p>

<p>Andy Street, the Conservative West Midlands mayor, called a press conference on Monday (Oct 5th) where he "warned" Sunak that getting rid of the HS2 line was equivalent to "cancelling the future".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-perseverance-rover-captures-footage-of-martian-dust-devil-642359">NASA's Perseverance rover captures footage of Martian 'dust devil'</a></strong></p>

<p>Thirty businesses, including football club Manchester United, had&nbsp;written to Sunak, urging him to commit to the HS2 line, and&nbsp;dodge "economic self-sabotage".</p>

<p>The announcement put a full stop&nbsp;to&nbsp;weeks of speculation over the future of the HS2 line. The line in question was supposed to help cut down travel time, create more space on the rail network and boost jobs outside London. However, the latest estimates show that the cost to deliver the project may come to £71 billion ($85.8 billion). This is a significant increase from the 2019 prices, which failed to account for the spike in material and labour costs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced the scrapping of the northern leg of the HS2 train line — from West Midlands to Manchester. Sunak's speech "I'm ending this long-running saga.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced the scrapping of the northern leg of the HS2 train line — from West Midlands to Manchester. Sunak's speech "I'm ending this long-running saga. I am cancelling the rest of the HS2 project. And in its place we will reinvest every single penny - 36 billion pounds - in hundreds of new transport projects in the north and the midlands, across the country," said Sunak Better value for money and a shorter project delivery time will reportedly be the reasons he will state for this move. While the northern leg will be scrapped, work has started on the London to Birmingham leg of the HS2. Also read | Canada wants ‘private talks with India’: Foreign Minister Melanie Joly as row escalates Talking to BBC earlier, Defence Minister Grant Shapps had hinted the scrapping. He said: "We have to wait for his actual speech to hear exact confirmation." Sunak's Conservative Party is badly lagging the opposition Labour Party in polls. An election is expected next year in UK. Anger over scrapping Prior to announcement, the possibility of scrapping of the HS2 train triggered a wave of anger among local leaders and businesses. Sunak's decision has not gone down well with his party colleagues and with members of the Opposition and it has caused anger. Andy Burnham, the labour mayor of Greater Durham, has labelled the move disrespectful of "people across the whole of the North." "It just proves there are so many people in politics - many in the Tory party - that think they can treat the north of England differently to the way they treat other parts of the country," he told BBC. Andy Street, the Conservative West Midlands mayor, called a press conference on Monday (Oct 5th) where he "warned" Sunak that getting rid of the HS2 line was equivalent to "cancelling the future". Also read | NASA's Perseverance rover captures footage of Martian 'dust devil' Thirty businesses, including football club Manchester United, had written to Sunak, urging him to commit to the HS2 line, and dodge "economic self-sabotage". The announcement put a full stop to weeks of speculation over the future of the HS2 line. The line in question was supposed to help cut down travel time, create more space on the rail network and boost jobs outside London. However, the latest estimates show that the cost to deliver the project may come to £71 billion ($85.8 billion). This is a significant increase from the 2019 prices, which failed to account for the spike in material and labour costs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak announces scrapping of HS2 train line to Manchester

Ex-speaker Nancy Pelosi vacates capitol office. Kevin McCarthy was axed Tuesday as speaker of the US House of Representatives in a brutal, historic rebellion by far-right Republicans furious at his cooperation with Democrats.

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<p>Rishi Sunak, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer and current UK Prime Minister, has informed the COVID-19 inquiry that he is unable to provide WhatsApp messages from his time as Chancellor during the pandemic, citing&nbsp;his&nbsp;failure to back&nbsp;these messages, as reported by The Guardian.</p>

<p>He stated in his witness statement that he no longer has access to these messages because he changed his phone on several occasions.</p>

<p>This development coincides with the launch of the second phase of the COVID-19 inquiry, led by Baroness Heather Hallett. This phase, titled "Core UK decision-making and political governance," will scrutinise key decision-making processes in Westminster between January 2020 and February 2022, covering the period when England lifted its final Covid restrictions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nurses-accused-of-tying-sikh-mans-beard-with-gloves-leaving-him-in-urine-report-exposes-641949">UK nurses accused of tying Sikh man's beard with gloves, leaving him in urine: Report exposes</a></p>

<h2><strong>Parallels with Boris Johnson's situation</strong></h2>

<p>This situation echoes the delay witnessed when former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was asked to provide his WhatsApp messages from his leadership during the pandemic.</p>

<p>Johnson's failure to remember the password&nbsp;for his old mobile phone led to the involvement of technical experts to recover the messages.</p>

<p>As reported by The Guardian, Sunak's statement to the inquiry reads: "Having changed my phone a number of times over the last three years, I do not have access to the WhatsApp messages that I sent or received during the relevant time, and neither were the messages backed up. My expectation would be that if the officials on those groups had considered that any information being communicated by WhatsApp message needed to be preserved to form part of the official HMT record, then those officials would have taken steps to ensure that happened."</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the Cabinet Office sought an exemption from providing information and messages that it deemed irrelevant to the inquiry's objectives.&nbsp;Subsequently, the UK government initiated a legal challenge, but in July, the High Court ruled against the government, affirming that the requested documents should be submitted.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Anti-government protestors chant 'Rishi go out'</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Criticism from Liberal Democrats</strong></h2>

<p>Daisy Cooper, the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, criticised Rishi Sunak's failure to provide his WhatsApp messages as "a disgrace."</p>

<p>She characterised this as a recurring pattern seen in Conservative responses to inquiries and urged&nbsp;for&nbsp;transparency. Cooper accused Sunak of contributing to a series of cover-ups within the Conservative Party.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Rishi Sunak, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer and current UK Prime Minister, has informed the COVID-19 inquiry that he is unable to provide WhatsApp messages from his time as Chancellor during the pandemic, citing his failure to back these messages, as reported by The Guardian.

Rishi Sunak, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer and current UK Prime Minister, has informed the COVID-19 inquiry that he is unable to provide WhatsApp messages from his time as Chancellor during the pandemic, citing his failure to back these messages, as reported by The Guardian. He stated in his witness statement that he no longer has access to these messages because he changed his phone on several occasions. This development coincides with the launch of the second phase of the COVID-19 inquiry, led by Baroness Heather Hallett. This phase, titled "Core UK decision-making and political governance," will scrutinise key decision-making processes in Westminster between January 2020 and February 2022, covering the period when England lifted its final Covid restrictions. Also read | UK nurses accused of tying Sikh man's beard with gloves, leaving him in urine: Report exposes Parallels with Boris Johnson's situation This situation echoes the delay witnessed when former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was asked to provide his WhatsApp messages from his leadership during the pandemic. Johnson's failure to remember the password for his old mobile phone led to the involvement of technical experts to recover the messages. As reported by The Guardian, Sunak's statement to the inquiry reads: "Having changed my phone a number of times over the last three years, I do not have access to the WhatsApp messages that I sent or received during the relevant time, and neither were the messages backed up. My expectation would be that if the officials on those groups had considered that any information being communicated by WhatsApp message needed to be preserved to form part of the official HMT record, then those officials would have taken steps to ensure that happened." Earlier this year, the Cabinet Office sought an exemption from providing information and messages that it deemed irrelevant to the inquiry's objectives. Subsequently, the UK government initiated a legal challenge, but in July, the High Court ruled against the government, affirming that the requested documents should be submitted. Also watch | UK: Anti-government protestors chant 'Rishi go out' Criticism from Liberal Democrats Daisy Cooper, the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, criticised Rishi Sunak's failure to provide his WhatsApp messages as "a disgrace." She characterised this as a recurring pattern seen in Conservative responses to inquiries and urged for transparency. Cooper accused Sunak of contributing to a series of cover-ups within the Conservative Party. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Sunak hasn't shared WhatsApp messages to Covid inquiry, citing lack of backups: Reports

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