UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to confirm that the British Government will issue 100 licences to companies that want to extract oil and gas from the North Sea.

UK PM Sunak approves more drilling in North Sea, 100 new licences accepted | World Business Watch

<p>The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does UK government plan to do?</strong></h2>

<p>The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office&nbsp;in a statement. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals.</p>

<p>The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UK’s carbon capture and storage</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030.</p>

<p><strong>A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments</strong><br />
<br />
The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-deadly-heatwaves-across-europe-us-would-be-virtually-impossible-without-climate-change-619402">predominantly blaming</a> human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by <em>The Guardian</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government.

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. What does UK government plan to do? The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted. “Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office in a statement. It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.” Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas. Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals. The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government. The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.” UK’s carbon capture and storage Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030. A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists predominantly blaming human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets. “Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian. (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.

UK to approve ‘hundreds’ of new North Sea oil and gas licences despite net zero carbon emissions aim

As of now as countries battle global and inflation post the covid-19 pandemic the UK is facing a particularly tough time scrambling through a cost of living and housing crisis.

UK economy struggles with inflation

UK inflation: Post Brexit trade ties with the rest of the Europe shrinking

UK PM Rishi Sunak's energy policy deepens rift between Tories and Labour

Since 2019 the United Kingdom has pushed ample efforts to achieve a goal of net zero emissions. British prime minister Rishi Sunak has even termed this as critical to his plans but there is now a caveat, Sunak now says he holds zero emissions second to the comfort of British citizens.

UK: Rishi Sunak hints at a major green tax climbdown

British prime minister Rishi Sunak has said his government will meet a Conservative Manifesto pledge to build one million new homes before the end of this Parliament.

Ahead of polls, Rishi Sunak commits to 1 million new homes

British PM Rishi Sunak's governing Conservative Party lost two strategically important parliamentary seats on Friday as the UK gears up for a general election expected next year. However, the conservatives managed to retain ex-UK PM Boris Johnson's former seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip.

UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty

Boris Johnson's Partygate legal fees cost the taxpayer more than $340,000, according to Government figures slipped out before the summer recess.

UK: Boris Johnson's Partygate defence cost taxpayer $340,000 in legal fees

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (July 19) formally apologised for the "horrific" historic treatment of people from LGBT communities who served in the country's military when homosexuality was banned.</p>

<p>"The ban on LGBT people serving in our military until the year 2000 was an appalling failure of the British state, decades behind the law of this land," Sunak told the House of Commons.</p>

<p>"In that period, many endured the most horrific sexual abuse and violence, homophobic bullying and harassment, all while bravely serving this country," he added.</p>

<p>"Today, on the behalf of the British state, I apologise."</p>

<p>The prime minister said he hoped that those who were affected would now "feel proud parts of the veteran community that has done so much to keep our country safe".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Britain joins Indo-Pacific trade bloc</strong></p>

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<p>The apology from the prime minister was prompted by the findings of a government-commissioned independent review into LGBT veterans who served in the military between 1967 and 2000.</p>

<p>The report detailed "shocking evidence of a culture of homophobia, and of bullying, blackmail and sexual assaults, abusive investigations into sexual orientation and sexual preference, disgraceful medical examinations, including conversion therapy".</p>

<h2><strong>'Financial reward' sought&nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Terence Etherton, the author of the report recommended that Sunak deliver an apology as also an "appropriate financial award" which should be made to LGBT veterans who were affected by the pre-2000 ban.</p>

<p>Britain lifted the ban only after the European Court of Human Rights rejected argument that the ban was needed to protect the morale and fighting power amongst its troops. The court said that the policy had violated human rights.</p>

<p>Catherine Dixon, former British Army Officer who is now vice-chair at LGBT charity Stonewall called the British government's apology "an important step to achieving justice for those LGBTQ+ people who served in HM Armed Forces and, like me, experienced shame, humiliation and a ruined military career because of our sexuality."</p>

<p>"Many were imprisoned, experienced corrective violence and lived with the stain of criminal convictions because of who they loved and which left some homeless and many unable to work," she added.</p>

<p>Ben Wallace, British Defence Secretary told UK parliament that the report made for "miserable and distressing" reading and that the government had been working through the report's recommendations.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-defence-minister-wallace-to-step-down-as-lawmaker-in-next-poll-616201">British Defence Minister Wallace to step down as lawmaker in next poll</a></strong></p>

<p>"Today we want to say to all those ex-soldiers, sailors and aviators, many now in retirement, you are one of us, you belong in our community and in choosing to put yourself in harm's way for the good of your colleagues, your community and country, you have proven yourselves the best of us."</p>

<p><em>(With input from agencies)</em></p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (July 19) formally apologised for the "horrific" historic treatment of people from LGBT communities who served in the country's military when homosexuality was banned.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (July 19) formally apologised for the "horrific" historic treatment of people from LGBT communities who served in the country's military when homosexuality was banned. "The ban on LGBT people serving in our military until the year 2000 was an appalling failure of the British state, decades behind the law of this land," Sunak told the House of Commons. "In that period, many endured the most horrific sexual abuse and violence, homophobic bullying and harassment, all while bravely serving this country," he added. "Today, on the behalf of the British state, I apologise." The prime minister said he hoped that those who were affected would now "feel proud parts of the veteran community that has done so much to keep our country safe". Watch | Britain joins Indo-Pacific trade bloc × The apology from the prime minister was prompted by the findings of a government-commissioned independent review into LGBT veterans who served in the military between 1967 and 2000. The report detailed "shocking evidence of a culture of homophobia, and of bullying, blackmail and sexual assaults, abusive investigations into sexual orientation and sexual preference, disgraceful medical examinations, including conversion therapy". 'Financial reward' sought Terence Etherton, the author of the report recommended that Sunak deliver an apology as also an "appropriate financial award" which should be made to LGBT veterans who were affected by the pre-2000 ban. Britain lifted the ban only after the European Court of Human Rights rejected argument that the ban was needed to protect the morale and fighting power amongst its troops. The court said that the policy had violated human rights. Catherine Dixon, former British Army Officer who is now vice-chair at LGBT charity Stonewall called the British government's apology "an important step to achieving justice for those LGBTQ+ people who served in HM Armed Forces and, like me, experienced shame, humiliation and a ruined military career because of our sexuality." "Many were imprisoned, experienced corrective violence and lived with the stain of criminal convictions because of who they loved and which left some homeless and many unable to work," she added. Ben Wallace, British Defence Secretary told UK parliament that the report made for "miserable and distressing" reading and that the government had been working through the report's recommendations. Also Read | British Defence Minister Wallace to step down as lawmaker in next poll "Today we want to say to all those ex-soldiers, sailors and aviators, many now in retirement, you are one of us, you belong in our community and in choosing to put yourself in harm's way for the good of your colleagues, your community and country, you have proven yourselves the best of us." (With input from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

PM Rishi Sunak apologises for abuse of LGBT community in British military

UK defence secretary Ben Wallace has fueled speculation of an imminent cabinet reshuffle suggesting that he could come in the next few days or so. In his first interview after he announced that he plans to step back from front-line politics Wallace said that UK prime minister Rishi Sunak would inevitably have to reorganize his top team now.

UK PM Rishi Sunak to 'freshen up' his front bench

A lower annual inflation rate in June eased Britain's cost-of-living crisis, according to official data released Wednesday. UK PM Rishi Sunak plans to reduce inflation to 5% by 2023 end.

UK's annual inflation drops below 8%

The UK's controversial illegal migration bill is set to become law. This comes after the Tory party led the government to win a final series of votes in the House of Lords.

Illegal migration bill to become law after UK government defeats Lord's challenges

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the fees and health surcharge paid by visa applicants, including Indians, towards the UK's National Health Service (NHS), which is funded by the state, will significantly rise. This increase aims to meet the country's public sector wage increase.</p>

<p>Sunak confirmed a hike of 5 to 7 percent across various public sectors, such as for teachers, police, and junior doctors. However, he emphasised that the government would not borrow more money or increase taxes to fund these raises due to concerns about inflation.</p>

<p>"If we're going to prioritise paying public sector workers more, that money has to come from somewhere else because I'm not prepared to put up people's taxes and I don't think it would be responsible or right to borrow more because that would just make inflation worse," Sunak told reporters at a Downing Street press conference.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-join-nato-putin-has-lost-the-war-biden-in-helsinki-615245">Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki</a></p>

<p>"So, what we have done are two things to find this money. The first is, we are going to increase the charges that we have for migrants who are coming to this country when they apply for visas and indeed something called the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is the levy that they pay to access the NHS," he said.</p>

<p>"All of those fees are going to go up and that will raise over GBP 1 billion, so across the board visa application fees are going to go up significantly and similarly for the IHS."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Govt departments to reprioritise spending</strong></h2>

<p>As a second measure to cover the higher wage bill, government departments will be asked to reprioritise their spending.&nbsp;This does not entail job cuts or reductions in services but rather a shift in focus towards different priorities, Sunk said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-at-white-house-secret-service-ends-probe-without-identifying-suspect-615229">Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect</a></p>

<p>The Conservative party government led by Rishi Sunak has faced significant pressure and disputes over public sector pay, resulting in strikes across schools and hospitals.</p>

<p>Junior doctors in England, for instance, initiated a five-day strike on Thursday after their demand for a 35 per cent pay increase was rejected.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Sunak declared that his wage offer was final and that further industrial action would not alter the decision.</p>

<p>"There will be no more talks on pay. We will not negotiate again on this year's settlements and no amount of strikes will change our decision. Instead, the settlement we've reached today gives us a fair way to end the strikes. A fair deal for workers and a fair deal for the British taxpayer," he said.&nbsp;</p>

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the fees and health surcharge paid by visa applicants, including Indians, towards the UK's National Health Service (NHS), which is funded by the state, will significantly rise.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the fees and health surcharge paid by visa applicants, including Indians, towards the UK's National Health Service (NHS), which is funded by the state, will significantly rise. This increase aims to meet the country's public sector wage increase. Sunak confirmed a hike of 5 to 7 percent across various public sectors, such as for teachers, police, and junior doctors. However, he emphasised that the government would not borrow more money or increase taxes to fund these raises due to concerns about inflation. "If we're going to prioritise paying public sector workers more, that money has to come from somewhere else because I'm not prepared to put up people's taxes and I don't think it would be responsible or right to borrow more because that would just make inflation worse," Sunak told reporters at a Downing Street press conference. Also Read | Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki "So, what we have done are two things to find this money. The first is, we are going to increase the charges that we have for migrants who are coming to this country when they apply for visas and indeed something called the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is the levy that they pay to access the NHS," he said. "All of those fees are going to go up and that will raise over GBP 1 billion, so across the board visa application fees are going to go up significantly and similarly for the IHS." Govt departments to reprioritise spending As a second measure to cover the higher wage bill, government departments will be asked to reprioritise their spending. This does not entail job cuts or reductions in services but rather a shift in focus towards different priorities, Sunk said. Also Read | Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect The Conservative party government led by Rishi Sunak has faced significant pressure and disputes over public sector pay, resulting in strikes across schools and hospitals. Junior doctors in England, for instance, initiated a five-day strike on Thursday after their demand for a 35 per cent pay increase was rejected. Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine × Sunak declared that his wage offer was final and that further industrial action would not alter the decision. "There will be no more talks on pay. We will not negotiate again on this year's settlements and no amount of strikes will change our decision. Instead, the settlement we've reached today gives us a fair way to end the strikes. A fair deal for workers and a fair deal for the British taxpayer," he 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. ×

Rishi Sunak announces increase in UK visa fees, health surcharge

Another embarrassing defeat for the Rishi Sunak government in the House of Lords - this over the controversial plan to tackle small boat crisis. The latest defeat has been backed by the Archbishop of the Canterbury.

Fresh defeat for Sunak govt in House of Lords, ministers forced to change migration bill

The second day of the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, has been jam-packed with activity. Leaders from all across the world are still deliberating on Ukraine. NATO has not yet extended an invitation to Ukraine to join the organisation because NATO wants Ukraine to complete its democratic reforms. British PM Rishi Sunak tells us more in this report.

NATO Summit Day 2: 'In time we will be stronger with Ukraine as a NATO ally too'

<p>The Ashes 2023 has been a big topic of debate in the last couple of weeks for more than one reason as England and Australia share&nbsp;centre stage&nbsp;in the English summer. While the Aussies lead the Ashes 2-1, both England and Australia have been in hot water recently for a controversy surrounding Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. The controversy that triggered the feud on Sunday, July 2, was given a hilarious revisit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak when they met at the NATO summit on Tuesday, July 12 in Vilnius, Lithuania.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> not just in the field of Cricket 🏏🏏🏏 but it's talk of nation Prime minister's 🤣🤣🤣🤣<br />
<br />
🇦🇺2-1 🇬🇧 let finish business in Old Trafford. Come on Aussie's 🦘🦘<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes23</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvsAUS</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBCCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBCCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Benstokes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Benstokes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarkWood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarkWood</a><a href="https://t.co/K6k3s5eXhr">pic.twitter.com/K6k3s5eXhr</a></p>
— Charlie (@Shanks63331148) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shanks63331148/status/1678857397941735424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What happened on Day 5 of Lord’s Test?</strong></h2>

<p>On the last ball of the 52nd over, Bairstow facing Cameron Green left his crease having thought the dot ball has been called dead, while it was not. The moment was seized by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey as he threw the ball on the stumps which resulted in Bairstow’s unlikely dismissal. The on-field umpires, Ahsan Raza and Chris Gaffaney went upstairs to the third umpire Marais Erasmus to check whether the ball is dead or not, who confirmed that Baistrow was indeed out, leaving England fans and the team in disbelief as they thought the dismissal was against the spirit of the game.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at the NATO summit?</strong></h2>

<p>After the controversy erupted on Day 5 of the Lord’s Test earlier in the month, both PMs, Anthony Albanese and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, backed their teams. Albanese openly supported his team when the British media&nbsp;criticised the Australian side for dismissing Bairstow. Sunak also jumped into the feud and backed his team to bounce back. While there was no love lost&nbsp;between the two PMs, Tuesday’s meeting at the NATO summit was the highlight reel for many political and cricket fans.</p>

<p>"I am sorry, I did not bring my sandpaper with me," Sunak told Alabanese on the sidelines of an event sending people in the room into peals of laughter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-shubman-gill-will-play-at-no-3-rohit-sharma-reveals-indias-batting-set-up-614517">IND vs WI 1st Test: Shubman Gill will play at No. 3 - Rohit Sharma reveals India's batting set-up</a></p>

<p>Albanese while smiling was seen sharing a picture of the stat that read 2-1 to Australia, which underlined the dominance of his side in the ongoing Ashes. Sunak also had a smile on his face and shared a picture of his team winning the third Ashes Test in Edgbaston that saw Ben Stokes' men make a remarkable comeback after&nbsp;trailing&nbsp;following the first innings. Albanese retorted with another picture where he showed how Jonny Bairstow was careless for not being in the crease when Alex Carey threw the ball to dismiss him.</p>

<p>The brief conversation saw a happy ending as they both smiled and were seen shaking each other’s hand before attending the diplomatic meeting in the Lithuanian capital.</p>

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The Ashes 2023 has been a big topic of debate in the last couple of weeks for more than one reason as England and Australia share centre stage in the English summer.

The Ashes 2023 has been a big topic of debate in the last couple of weeks for more than one reason as England and Australia share centre stage in the English summer. While the Aussies lead the Ashes 2-1, both England and Australia have been in hot water recently for a controversy surrounding Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. The controversy that triggered the feud on Sunday, July 2, was given a hilarious revisit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak when they met at the NATO summit on Tuesday, July 12 in Vilnius, Lithuania. #Ashes not just in the field of Cricket 🏏🏏🏏 but it's talk of nation Prime minister's 🤣🤣🤣🤣 🇦🇺2-1 🇬🇧 let finish business in Old Trafford. Come on Aussie's 🦘🦘#Ashes23 #Ashes2023 #ENGvsAUS#ENGvAUS #EnglandCricket#BBCCricket #Benstokes #MarkWoodpic.twitter.com/K6k3s5eXhr — Charlie (@Shanks63331148) July 11, 2023 × What happened on Day 5 of Lord’s Test? On the last ball of the 52nd over, Bairstow facing Cameron Green left his crease having thought the dot ball has been called dead, while it was not. The moment was seized by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey as he threw the ball on the stumps which resulted in Bairstow’s unlikely dismissal. The on-field umpires, Ahsan Raza and Chris Gaffaney went upstairs to the third umpire Marais Erasmus to check whether the ball is dead or not, who confirmed that Baistrow was indeed out, leaving England fans and the team in disbelief as they thought the dismissal was against the spirit of the game. What happened at the NATO summit? After the controversy erupted on Day 5 of the Lord’s Test earlier in the month, both PMs, Anthony Albanese and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, backed their teams. Albanese openly supported his team when the British media criticised the Australian side for dismissing Bairstow. Sunak also jumped into the feud and backed his team to bounce back. While there was no love lost between the two PMs, Tuesday’s meeting at the NATO summit was the highlight reel for many political and cricket fans. "I am sorry, I did not bring my sandpaper with me," Sunak told Alabanese on the sidelines of an event sending people in the room into peals of laughter. ALSO READ | IND vs WI 1st Test: Shubman Gill will play at No. 3 - Rohit Sharma reveals India's batting set-up Albanese while smiling was seen sharing a picture of the stat that read 2-1 to Australia, which underlined the dominance of his side in the ongoing Ashes. Sunak also had a smile on his face and shared a picture of his team winning the third Ashes Test in Edgbaston that saw Ben Stokes' men make a remarkable comeback after trailing following the first innings. Albanese retorted with another picture where he showed how Jonny Bairstow was careless for not being in the crease when Alex Carey threw the ball to dismiss him. The brief conversation saw a happy ending as they both smiled and were seen shaking each other’s hand before attending the diplomatic meeting in the Lithuanian capital. 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 | Anthony Albanese, Rishi Sunak share a joke over Ashes controversy at NATO summit

<p>NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London. He held meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles III.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Biden's July 9 to13 trip has a strategic focus on strengthening NATO alliances. Apart from UK and Lithuania (for the NATO summit), the president will also be making a stop in Finland.</p>

<p>Biden and Sunak discussed the Ukraine conflict as the leaders prepare for an important NATO meeting in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-will-back-swedens-nato-bid-if-eu-embraces-ankara-says-erdogan-613983">'Turkey will back Sweden's NATO bid if EU embraces Ankara', says Erdogan</a></p>

<p>On the long-standing issue of Ukraine joining NATO, Biden stressed the war in Ukraine must end before the alliance can consider inviting Kyiv to join. &nbsp; Earlier, in conversation with CNN, Biden said, “I don’t think it’s ready for membership in NATO.”</p>

<p>He said NATO requires all countries who are keen on joining the bloc to “meet all the qualifications, from democratisation to a whole range of other issues.”</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy surrounding cluster munitions</strong></h2>

<p>Biden and Sunak also discussed the US decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, which received condemnation from various countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK is among the 123 nations that have signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global agreement that bans the use, transfer, manufacturing, and accumulation of cluster bombs.</p>

<p>UK has a long-standing position of discouraging the use of these weapons, which Sunak reiterated hours before meeting Biden.&nbsp;“The UK is a signatory to a convention which prohibits the production or use of cluster munitions and discourages their use,” Sunak said before the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although legally prohibited from supplying the bombs themselves, Sunak during his meeting with Biden, acknowledged the difficult decision made by the US.</p>

<p>This came days after Biden said that decision to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions was a “difficult” one. Biden also stated that he made the move because “Ukrainians are running out of ammunition”.</p>

<h2><strong>First meeting with King Charles</strong></h2>

<p>Biden had a long-awaited meeting with King Charles since his coronation, which the president had missed. At a Windsor Castle meeting, they discussed climate issues over a cup of tea.&nbsp;The king's spokesperson remarked on the warm personal connection between them.&nbsp;<br type="_moz" />
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigation-into-greek-shipwreck-suggests-coastguard-responsible-for-sinking-report-613990">Investigation into Greek shipwreck suggests coastguard responsible for sinking: Report</a></p>

<p>The meeting between the King and the US president was described as friendly and fruitful, although specific details of their conversation were not disclosed except that they discussed various matters of shared interest and concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Upcoming NATO summit</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;
<p>The highly-anticipated NATO summit is the focal point of Biden's trip. The summit will involve debates on the Ukraine conflict and the revision of plans to address Russian aggression.&nbsp;</p>
</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'Safeguarding reefs': Theme of Florida Music Festival</strong></p>

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<p>The final leg of Biden's trip will be in Helsinki, where he is expected to celebrate Finland's inclusion as the newest member of NATO, on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>Arrival in Vilnius&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Biden later arrived at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania, where he was warmly welcomed by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda.</p>

<p>The US ambassador to Lithuania, Robert Gilchrist, and Lithuania's ambassador to the United States, Audra Plepyte, were also present to greet Biden.</p>

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NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London.

NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London. He held meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles III. Biden's July 9 to13 trip has a strategic focus on strengthening NATO alliances. Apart from UK and Lithuania (for the NATO summit), the president will also be making a stop in Finland. Biden and Sunak discussed the Ukraine conflict as the leaders prepare for an important NATO meeting in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Also Read | 'Turkey will back Sweden's NATO bid if EU embraces Ankara', says Erdogan On the long-standing issue of Ukraine joining NATO, Biden stressed the war in Ukraine must end before the alliance can consider inviting Kyiv to join. Earlier, in conversation with CNN, Biden said, “I don’t think it’s ready for membership in NATO.” He said NATO requires all countries who are keen on joining the bloc to “meet all the qualifications, from democratisation to a whole range of other issues.” Controversy surrounding cluster munitions Biden and Sunak also discussed the US decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, which received condemnation from various countries. The UK is among the 123 nations that have signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global agreement that bans the use, transfer, manufacturing, and accumulation of cluster bombs. UK has a long-standing position of discouraging the use of these weapons, which Sunak reiterated hours before meeting Biden. “The UK is a signatory to a convention which prohibits the production or use of cluster munitions and discourages their use,” Sunak said before the meeting. Although legally prohibited from supplying the bombs themselves, Sunak during his meeting with Biden, acknowledged the difficult decision made by the US. This came days after Biden said that decision to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions was a “difficult” one. Biden also stated that he made the move because “Ukrainians are running out of ammunition”. First meeting with King Charles Biden had a long-awaited meeting with King Charles since his coronation, which the president had missed. At a Windsor Castle meeting, they discussed climate issues over a cup of tea. The king's spokesperson remarked on the warm personal connection between them. Also Read | Investigation into Greek shipwreck suggests coastguard responsible for sinking: Report The meeting between the King and the US president was described as friendly and fruitful, although specific details of their conversation were not disclosed except that they discussed various matters of shared interest and concern. Upcoming NATO summit The highly-anticipated NATO summit is the focal point of Biden's trip. The summit will involve debates on the Ukraine conflict and the revision of plans to address Russian aggression. Watch | 'Safeguarding reefs': Theme of Florida Music Festival × The final leg of Biden's trip will be in Helsinki, where he is expected to celebrate Finland's inclusion as the newest member of NATO, on Thursday. Arrival in Vilnius Biden later arrived at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania, where he was warmly welcomed by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda. The US ambassador to Lithuania, Robert Gilchrist, and Lithuania's ambassador to the United States, Audra Plepyte, were also present to greet Biden. 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. ×

Biden's European trip commences in London, focus on Ukraine conflict and NATO Summit

<p>Embarking on a Europe tour, US President Joe Biden arrived&nbsp;in the UK on Sunday (July 9) evening for a brief visit. Biden is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and separately discuss climate change with King Charles before joining the NATO summit in Lithuania.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president’s visit to London&nbsp;comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12. Prior to his departure for his multi-nation tour, the White House said the trip was designed “to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden departed for Britain from the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday. He will meet King Charles III and UK PM Rishi Sunak after which he will fly to Vilnius for the NATO summit. The last stop on his tour&nbsp;will be to the new member of the US-led alliance, Finland.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden’s visit to the UK</strong></h2>

<p>During his visit to Britain, the US president will meet the British PM, at Downing Street, on Monday in a low-key meeting where the two leaders are expected to discuss the upcoming NATO summit and the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-heads-for-europe-trip-amid-ongoing-heated-debates-over-cluster-munitions-nato-unity-613580">Biden heads to Europe amid heated debate over giving cluster munitions to Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>“As we face new and unprecedented challenges to our physical and economic security, our alliances are more important than ever,” said the Sunak’s office, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incumbent British PM has also somewhat repaired ties that had cooled under his predecessors Boris Johnson and Liz Truss due to their tough stance over a post-Brexit deal with the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The UK is Europe’s leading NATO ally, we are the United States’ most important trade, defence and diplomatic partner, and we are at the forefront of providing Ukraine with the support they need to succeed on the battlefield,” said Sunak, in a statement ahead of Biden’s visit.</p>

<h2><strong>US president to meet King Charles III for the first time</strong></h2>

<p>According to the British monarch’s office, Biden will be received by King Charles III at Windsor Castle’s quadrangle where a guard of honour will give a Royal Salute and the US national anthem will be played.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-nations-rights-groups-and-un-oppose-us-move-to-send-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-613459">Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The US president and the British monarch will discuss climate issues, said the White House, a subject on which Charles has campaigned and spoken out for over 50 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Biden met Charles during a visit for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth last year, he did not attend his coronation, sending First Lady Jill Biden instead.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden and Erdogan to meet at NATO: Ankara</strong></h2>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet Biden on the sidelines of the upcoming NATO summit, said the Turkish presidency, on Sunday. However, the statement did not indicate when the meeting will be held.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-defends-decision-to-provide-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-says-they-are-running-out-of-ammunition-613291">Biden defends decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, says 'they are running out of ammunition'</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Erdogan’s office, the talks between the two leaders will focus on “Ukraine’s position in NATO, Sweden’s NATO membership, and the delivery of F-16” fighter jets, which Turkey has sought and hopes to secure from the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement from the Turkish presidency said that Biden and Erdogan also held a call where they discussed Sweden’s NATO bid. Following the call, the US president said, Erdogan “still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let’s get that done.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Turkish president reiterated his longstanding position, on Sunday, about Sweden’s perceived lax attitude toward alleged Kurdish militants living there and that Stockholm needed to crack down harder.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-remains-indecisive-on-swedens-nato-bid-stoltenberg-to-bridge-gaps-between-countries-613189">Turkey remains indecisive on Sweden’s NATO bid; Stoltenberg to bridge ‘gaps’ between countries</a></strong><br />
<br />
“Sweden has taken some steps in the right direction by making changes to its anti-terrorism legislation,” Erdogan told Biden, as quoted by the Turkish presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Erdogan is also set to hold NATO-organised talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, on Monday, a day ahead of the military alliance’s leadership summit in the Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Embarking on a Europe tour, US President Joe Biden arrived in the UK on Sunday (July 9) evening for a brief visit. Biden is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and separately discuss climate change with King Charles before joining the NATO summit in Lithuania.

Embarking on a Europe tour, US President Joe Biden arrived in the UK on Sunday (July 9) evening for a brief visit. Biden is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and separately discuss climate change with King Charles before joining the NATO summit in Lithuania. The US president’s visit to London comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12. Prior to his departure for his multi-nation tour, the White House said the trip was designed “to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations”. Biden departed for Britain from the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday. He will meet King Charles III and UK PM Rishi Sunak after which he will fly to Vilnius for the NATO summit. The last stop on his tour will be to the new member of the US-led alliance, Finland. Biden’s visit to the UK During his visit to Britain, the US president will meet the British PM, at Downing Street, on Monday in a low-key meeting where the two leaders are expected to discuss the upcoming NATO summit and the war in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Biden heads to Europe amid heated debate over giving cluster munitions to Kyiv “As we face new and unprecedented challenges to our physical and economic security, our alliances are more important than ever,” said the Sunak’s office, in a statement. The incumbent British PM has also somewhat repaired ties that had cooled under his predecessors Boris Johnson and Liz Truss due to their tough stance over a post-Brexit deal with the European Union. “The UK is Europe’s leading NATO ally, we are the United States’ most important trade, defence and diplomatic partner, and we are at the forefront of providing Ukraine with the support they need to succeed on the battlefield,” said Sunak, in a statement ahead of Biden’s visit. US president to meet King Charles III for the first time According to the British monarch’s office, Biden will be received by King Charles III at Windsor Castle’s quadrangle where a guard of honour will give a Royal Salute and the US national anthem will be played. ALSO READ | Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine The US president and the British monarch will discuss climate issues, said the White House, a subject on which Charles has campaigned and spoken out for over 50 years. While Biden met Charles during a visit for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth last year, he did not attend his coronation, sending First Lady Jill Biden instead. Biden and Erdogan to meet at NATO: Ankara Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet Biden on the sidelines of the upcoming NATO summit, said the Turkish presidency, on Sunday. However, the statement did not indicate when the meeting will be held. ALSO READ | Biden defends decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, says 'they are running out of ammunition' According to Erdogan’s office, the talks between the two leaders will focus on “Ukraine’s position in NATO, Sweden’s NATO membership, and the delivery of F-16” fighter jets, which Turkey has sought and hopes to secure from the US. The statement from the Turkish presidency said that Biden and Erdogan also held a call where they discussed Sweden’s NATO bid. Following the call, the US president said, Erdogan “still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let’s get that done.” However, the Turkish president reiterated his longstanding position, on Sunday, about Sweden’s perceived lax attitude toward alleged Kurdish militants living there and that Stockholm needed to crack down harder. ALSO READ | Turkey remains indecisive on Sweden’s NATO bid; Stoltenberg to bridge ‘gaps’ between countries “Sweden has taken some steps in the right direction by making changes to its anti-terrorism legislation,” Erdogan told Biden, as quoted by the Turkish presidency. This comes as Erdogan is also set to hold NATO-organised talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, on Monday, a day ahead of the military alliance’s leadership summit in the Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius. (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.

US Prez Biden arrives in UK, to meet PM Sunak, King Charles; will hold talks with Erdogan at NATO summit

All eyes are on Lithuania for the NATO summit because it's just 150 kilometres from Russia, the city has already been emboldened as well and several leaders among the 31 member nations are en route to the city including US President Joe Biden.

US President Joe Biden in London, to meet PM Rishi Sunak and King Charles

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<p>Over 50 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom (UK) have owned stakes in publicly listed companies that have raised questions about the possible conflicts of interest and that until now have been in secret. According to a report by The Guardian on Sunday (July 9), dozens of MPs have shares in banks, supermarkets, housebuilders, defence companies and energy suppliers. The companies include the likes of HSBC, Barclays and BP, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The parliamentary rules, which have been unchanged since 2015, require MPs to register holdings they have in a single company when they own over 15% of its shares or when their shares in it are worth more than $89,691 (£70,000).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rules mean that MP's shareholdings, including the ones held by former UK prime minister Theresa May, did not need to be disclosed in parliamentary registers. However, citizens have been left in the dark about some of the financial interests of the political leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The MPs with shareholdings</strong></h2>

<p>The Guardian report on Sunday said that the list of MPs with shareholdings included the chair of the environment select committee, Robert Goodwill and&nbsp;SNP chief whip Brendan among others. All these holdings were below the threshold, the report pointed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also said that current UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had a financial stake in National Grid until two days before he was selected as the Conservative candidate for his constituency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former PM Theresa May, meanwhile, owned shares in BP when she was the home secretary and during the same period, her husband held shares in BP, Barclays, BT and Centrica. Four months after May was elected as PM, these shares also seemed to have been moved to a blind trust.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that shareholdings such as that owned by May and her husband that are under the threshold could still fall under the House of Commons rules that require lawmakers to publicly disclose any interests, including those held by their close family, that might reasonably be thought to influence their actions in parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also identified ministers who met lobbyists for companies while not declaring the shares held by themselves or their family members.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A call for review of parliamentary rules</strong></h2>

<p>Following the findings, transparency campaigners have called for a review of parliamentary rules. Speaking to The Guardian, Steve Goodrich from Transparency International UK said that if MPs had shares in a company affected by legislation going through parliament, there was invariably a tension between them protecting their financial affairs and advancing the public good.</p>

<p>"Having these details out in the open is a key safeguard against abuse of public office," Goodrich said, adding the public had the right to know what role money played in politics.&nbsp;</p>

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Over 50 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom (UK) have owned stakes in publicly listed companies that have raised questions about the possible conflicts of interest and that until now have been in secret.

Over 50 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom (UK) have owned stakes in publicly listed companies that have raised questions about the possible conflicts of interest and that until now have been in secret. According to a report by The Guardian on Sunday (July 9), dozens of MPs have shares in banks, supermarkets, housebuilders, defence companies and energy suppliers. The companies include the likes of HSBC, Barclays and BP, the report said. The parliamentary rules, which have been unchanged since 2015, require MPs to register holdings they have in a single company when they own over 15% of its shares or when their shares in it are worth more than $89,691 (£70,000). The rules mean that MP's shareholdings, including the ones held by former UK prime minister Theresa May, did not need to be disclosed in parliamentary registers. However, citizens have been left in the dark about some of the financial interests of the political leaders. The MPs with shareholdings The Guardian report on Sunday said that the list of MPs with shareholdings included the chair of the environment select committee, Robert Goodwill and SNP chief whip Brendan among others. All these holdings were below the threshold, the report pointed out. The report also said that current UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had a financial stake in National Grid until two days before he was selected as the Conservative candidate for his constituency. Former PM Theresa May, meanwhile, owned shares in BP when she was the home secretary and during the same period, her husband held shares in BP, Barclays, BT and Centrica. Four months after May was elected as PM, these shares also seemed to have been moved to a blind trust. The report said that shareholdings such as that owned by May and her husband that are under the threshold could still fall under the House of Commons rules that require lawmakers to publicly disclose any interests, including those held by their close family, that might reasonably be thought to influence their actions in parliament. The report also identified ministers who met lobbyists for companies while not declaring the shares held by themselves or their family members. A call for review of parliamentary rules Following the findings, transparency campaigners have called for a review of parliamentary rules. Speaking to The Guardian, Steve Goodrich from Transparency International UK said that if MPs had shares in a company affected by legislation going through parliament, there was invariably a tension between them protecting their financial affairs and advancing the public good. "Having these details out in the open is a key safeguard against abuse of public office," Goodrich said, adding the public had the right to know what role money played in politics. 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.

'From banks to supermarkets': Report reveals shares held in secret by UK MPs

US President Joe Biden is in the UK. He's set to meet King Charles and the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Biden's visit comes ahead of the NATO Summit in Lithuania. The White House said Biden seeks to further, strengthen the close ties with the UK. King Charles will host Biden at Windsor Castle.

US President Joe Biden visits the UK ahead of NATO Summit

<p>UK Tory MP Chris Pincher has been suspended for eight weeks after a probe found him guilty of groping two men at a London club last year.</p>

<p>Parliament's standards committee released a statement saying that his "completely inappropriate" behaviour was an "abuse of power".</p>

<p>Pincher said that he wanted to "apologise sincerely" for his conduct, further adding that he had sought professional medical help, which is "ongoing".</p>

<p>Pincher is due to stand down as an MP at the next general election, which is scheduled to take place next year.</p>

<p>Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said the report was "shocking," and Pincher should "do the decent thing" and resign as an MP immediately, reports&nbsp;BBC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-foreign-secretary-james-cleverly-warns-against-any-direct-attacks-on-indian-high-commission-in-london-612765">UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly warns against any direct attacks on Indian High Commission in London</a></p>

<p>The incident took place at the Carlton Club, a private members club in central London, and was examined by Parliament's standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg.</p>

<h2><strong>Pincher was heavily intoxicated</strong></h2>

<p>After a year-long investigation, commissioner Daniel Greenberg found out that Pincher had groped a then-employee of the House of Lords.</p>

<p>He groped his arm and neck and then his bottom. As per BBC reports, Greenberg also found during the probe that the MP had also groped a civil servant on his bottom and then his testicles.</p>

<p>Pincher was "heavily intoxicated" at the time and remembers "feeling hot and saying to someone ‘I’m alright’," the commissioner wrote.</p>

<p>But he "does not recall any other details about the evening or how he got home," Greenberg added.</p>

<p>The victim told the commissioner that he was deeply affected by the incident and it continues to haunt him and affect his sleep.</p>

<p>The cross-party Standards Committee said Pincher's actions amounted to "sexual misconduct" and his behaviour was "unwanted, upsetting and inappropriate".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a report after the investigation, MPs on the cross-party standards committee which examines complaints against MPs, concluded Pincher's "profoundly damaging" behaviour "represented an abuse of power".</p>

<p>They further added that his conduct had broken the Commons behaviour code by causing significant damage to the reputation of the parliament.</p>

<p>Their report added that, in a written submission, Pincher had accepted his behaviour "damaged his own reputation and that of the government".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The committee however further added that Pincher declined the suggestion that he had done 'significant damage' to the reputation of the Parliament, further arguing that he was speaking at the club as a former minister rather than as an MP.</p>

<p>Pincher now has 10 days to appeal to an independent expert panel, if he can provide new evidence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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UK Tory MP Chris Pincher has been suspended for eight weeks after a probe found him guilty of groping two men at a London club last year. Parliament's standards committee released a statement saying that his "completely inappropriate" behaviour was an "abuse of power".

UK Tory MP Chris Pincher has been suspended for eight weeks after a probe found him guilty of groping two men at a London club last year. Parliament's standards committee released a statement saying that his "completely inappropriate" behaviour was an "abuse of power". Pincher said that he wanted to "apologise sincerely" for his conduct, further adding that he had sought professional medical help, which is "ongoing". Pincher is due to stand down as an MP at the next general election, which is scheduled to take place next year. Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said the report was "shocking," and Pincher should "do the decent thing" and resign as an MP immediately, reports BBC. Also read: UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly warns against any direct attacks on Indian High Commission in London The incident took place at the Carlton Club, a private members club in central London, and was examined by Parliament's standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg. Pincher was heavily intoxicated After a year-long investigation, commissioner Daniel Greenberg found out that Pincher had groped a then-employee of the House of Lords. He groped his arm and neck and then his bottom. As per BBC reports, Greenberg also found during the probe that the MP had also groped a civil servant on his bottom and then his testicles. Pincher was "heavily intoxicated" at the time and remembers "feeling hot and saying to someone ‘I’m alright’," the commissioner wrote. But he "does not recall any other details about the evening or how he got home," Greenberg added. The victim told the commissioner that he was deeply affected by the incident and it continues to haunt him and affect his sleep. The cross-party Standards Committee said Pincher's actions amounted to "sexual misconduct" and his behaviour was "unwanted, upsetting and inappropriate". In a report after the investigation, MPs on the cross-party standards committee which examines complaints against MPs, concluded Pincher's "profoundly damaging" behaviour "represented an abuse of power". They further added that his conduct had broken the Commons behaviour code by causing significant damage to the reputation of the parliament. Their report added that, in a written submission, Pincher had accepted his behaviour "damaged his own reputation and that of the government". The committee however further added that Pincher declined the suggestion that he had done 'significant damage' to the reputation of the Parliament, further arguing that he was speaking at the club as a former minister rather than as an MP. Pincher now has 10 days to appeal to an independent expert panel, if he can provide new evidence. (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.

UK Tory MP faces eight-week ban over groping incident

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