Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23. According to a report by news agency Associated Press, health officials warned the impact of Wednesday's strike will be worse than the previous one (in December last year) as more staff members, including call handlers, are walking out.&nbsp;

People have been advised to call in case of any life-threatening emergency such as a cardiac arrest or a serious road accident,&nbsp;and ambulances will respond to such situations, the report said. However, less urgent cases will not be prioritised and some people will have to make arrangements to reach hospitals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-introduce-anti-strike-bill-amid-a-wave-of-strikes-grip-nation-549864">UK to introduce anti-strike bill amid a wave of strikes grip nation</a>

“When people accuse us of putting the public at risk, I would say it is this government that has put the public at risk by refusing consistently to talk to us. There is no offer on the table,” Christina McAnea, general secretary of the UNISON union, told striking workers outside an ambulance station in Sheffield on Wednesday, the report said.&nbsp;

In London, ambulance staff were seen holding placards and banners outside the London Ambulance service.

Wednesday's strikes come two days after talks <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-ministers-meet-trade-unions-to-end-wave-of-strikes-over-higher-pay-550799">between trade unions and British ministers failed</a>. Reacting to the walkout (of ambulance workers), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ambulance strikes are 'terrifying for patients'.

Referring to the country's '999' emergency services hotline, Sunak told Parliament, "Mr Speaker, what's terrifying is that right now, people not knowing whether when they call nine, nine, nine, they will get the treatment that they need. Now, Mr Speaker in Australia and Canada and the US, they banned strikes on blue light services. We're not doing that. All we're saying is that in these emergency services, patients should be able to rely on a basic level of life-saving care."

Not just ambulance workers, train and bus drivers and postal workers have also joined the strikes,&nbsp;which have been going on for the last few months,&nbsp;to demand better pay. Inflation in the UK has soared to the highest levels since the early 1980s and wages, especially in the public sector, have not kept pace with the skyrocketing cost of living.&nbsp;

Reuters reported on Wednesday that Unison, a trade union representing ambulance workers, said the government had months to intervene and end the dispute but failed to do so. Unison blamed the administration for repeatedly refusing to come to the table for discussions. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23.

Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23. According to a report by news agency Associated Press, health officials warned the impact of Wednesday's strike will be worse than the previous one (in December last year) as more staff members, including call handlers, are walking out. People have been advised to call in case of any life-threatening emergency such as a cardiac arrest or a serious road accident, and ambulances will respond to such situations, the report said. However, less urgent cases will not be prioritised and some people will have to make arrangements to reach hospitals. ALSO READ | UK to introduce anti-strike bill amid a wave of strikes grip nation “When people accuse us of putting the public at risk, I would say it is this government that has put the public at risk by refusing consistently to talk to us. There is no offer on the table,” Christina McAnea, general secretary of the UNISON union, told striking workers outside an ambulance station in Sheffield on Wednesday, the report said. In London, ambulance staff were seen holding placards and banners outside the London Ambulance service. Wednesday's strikes come two days after talks between trade unions and British ministers failed. Reacting to the walkout (of ambulance workers), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ambulance strikes are 'terrifying for patients'. Referring to the country's '999' emergency services hotline, Sunak told Parliament, "Mr Speaker, what's terrifying is that right now, people not knowing whether when they call nine, nine, nine, they will get the treatment that they need. Now, Mr Speaker in Australia and Canada and the US, they banned strikes on blue light services. We're not doing that. All we're saying is that in these emergency services, patients should be able to rely on a basic level of life-saving care." Not just ambulance workers, train and bus drivers and postal workers have also joined the strikes, which have been going on for the last few months, to demand better pay. Inflation in the UK has soared to the highest levels since the early 1980s and wages, especially in the public sector, have not kept pace with the skyrocketing cost of living. Reuters reported on Wednesday that Unison, a trade union representing ambulance workers, said the government had months to intervene and end the dispute but failed to do so. Unison blamed the administration for repeatedly refusing to come to the table for discussions. (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 ambulance workers also go on strike, PM Rishi Sunak calls walkout ‘terrifying for patients’

NHS strike will continue from this week despite Rishi Sunak’s major U-turn on allowing new pay negotiations. The are unions frustrated at ministers for not yet making a concrete offer. Watch further to know more.

British PM Rishi Sunak ducks question on family's NHS enrolment

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak consistently refused to mention details about his healthcare insurance providers, asserting that 'it was not important.'

In an interview on BBC with Laura Kuenssberg, PM Rishi Sunak faced questions on education and health policies. She claimed that former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher did not hide her decision to use private healthcare.&nbsp;

Kuenssberg stated that Thatcher was transparent about her use of medical insurance, claiming that she needed to get admitted whenever and wherever she wished. However, when the interviewer asked PM Sunak about his health insurance, he said, "it's a personal choice."

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/classified-documents-from-obama-administration-found-in-bidens-private-office-550962">Classified documents from Obama administration found in Biden's private office</a>

However, many healthcare workers like Pat Cullen, head of the nursing union, have raised concerns about it. She said it's 'important' that the PM clarifies it because he is a public servant.&nbsp;

The National Health Service (NHS) provides free medical care to all citizens of the United Kingdom. Backed up by taxpayers' money, the healthcare body is in trouble due to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and several years of low investments.

Watch|&nbsp;'Wealthy' UK Prime Minister accused of being 'Disconnected' from masses

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Nevertheless, the Sunak mentioned that he was brought up in an NHS family, adding that his father was a general practitioner and his mother was a pharmacist.&nbsp;

An eager Kuenssberg did not move to the next question for a long time, but Sunak dusted the question each time. He revealed that his insurance was private, but it was his personal choice. Patients must have the right to choose where they get their treatment, said Sunak.&nbsp;

Sunak's interview with Kuenssberg has sparked a controversy about his healthcare options. Sunak might have registered with a private general practitioner's office providing same-day consultations and charges £250 for a half-hour session.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak consistently refused to mention details about his healthcare insurance providers, asserting that 'it was not important.' In an interview on BBC with Laura Kuenssberg, PM Rishi Sunak faced questions on education and health policies.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak consistently refused to mention details about his healthcare insurance providers, asserting that 'it was not important.' In an interview on BBC with Laura Kuenssberg, PM Rishi Sunak faced questions on education and health policies. She claimed that former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher did not hide her decision to use private healthcare. Kuenssberg stated that Thatcher was transparent about her use of medical insurance, claiming that she needed to get admitted whenever and wherever she wished. However, when the interviewer asked PM Sunak about his health insurance, he said, "it's a personal choice." Also Read| Classified documents from Obama administration found in Biden's private office However, many healthcare workers like Pat Cullen, head of the nursing union, have raised concerns about it. She said it's 'important' that the PM clarifies it because he is a public servant. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free medical care to all citizens of the United Kingdom. Backed up by taxpayers' money, the healthcare body is in trouble due to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and several years of low investments. Watch| 'Wealthy' UK Prime Minister accused of being 'Disconnected' from masses Nevertheless, the Sunak mentioned that he was brought up in an NHS family, adding that his father was a general practitioner and his mother was a pharmacist. An eager Kuenssberg did not move to the next question for a long time, but Sunak dusted the question each time. He revealed that his insurance was private, but it was his personal choice. Patients must have the right to choose where they get their treatment, said Sunak. Sunak's interview with Kuenssberg has sparked a controversy about his healthcare options. Sunak might have registered with a private general practitioner's office providing same-day consultations and charges £250 for a half-hour session. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK PM Rishi Sunak's hesitancy to reveal healthcare preferences raises concerns

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is in the dock amid a public health crisis as series of strikes by industry workers and huge shortcomings in the National Health Service (NHS).

'Wealthy' UK Prime Minister accused of being 'Disconnected' from masses

New polling data has revealed that British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and 15 other ministers of his cabinet are most likely to lose in the 2024 general elections, and predicted a “total wipeout” for the Conservative party.

According to this analysis done by Focaldata polling for Best for Britain, which was shared with the Independent newspaper, senior Tory leaders like the prime minister, deputy PM&nbsp;Dominic Raab, health secretary&nbsp;Steve Barclay are all at risk of defeat in 2024.

It has been predicted that only five cabinet ministers – Jeremy Hunt, Suella Braverman, Michael Gove, Nadhim Zawawi and Kemi Badenoch – are likely to retain their seats after the 2024 election.

The polling data states that 10 seats, considered to be the “bellweather”, where the people have constantly voted with the winning party in recent decades, will shift towards the Labour party.

The analysis states that all Tory MPs in the current cabinet would lose their seats to Labour, except fort Rabb, who has been predicted to the Liberal Democrats in Esher and Walton.

<h2>UK: PM Rishi Sunak holds emergency meet to address health service issues</h2>

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“Sunak’s cabinet deserves nothing short of a wipeout,” Naomi Smith, chief executive of Best for Britain, a group campaigning for internationalist values and for closer ties with the EU, told Independent newspaper.

“But wavering voters could throw them a lifeline, and so Keir Starmer (leader of Labour party) must take nothing for granted and avoid alienating Labour support by drawing unnecessary red lines on Brexit.”

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-covid-cases-may-peak-in-chinas-small-medium-sized-cities-official-550530">&nbsp;Severe Covid cases may peak in China’s small and medium-sized cities: Official</a>

But the pollsters still expect the 2024 elections to be a close fight, with those considered fence-sitters might still give Tories a chance of making a comeback.

Smith believes that Labour party’s mammoth lead over the Tories could be more volatile than previously thought.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-covid-cases-may-peak-in-chinas-small-medium-sized-cities-official-550530">&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-workers-clash-with-police-amidst-massive-protest-at-covid-antigen-factory-in-china-550480">Workers clash with police amidst massive protest at Covid antigen factory in China</a>

Their report found that there is a high proportion of fence-sitters—those who have answered “don’t know” in surveys—lean heavily towards Conservative party.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New polling data has revealed that British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and 15 other ministers of his cabinet are most likely to lose in the 2024 general elections, and predicted a “total wipeout” for the Conservative party.

New polling data has revealed that British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and 15 other ministers of his cabinet are most likely to lose in the 2024 general elections, and predicted a “total wipeout” for the Conservative party. According to this analysis done by Focaldata polling for Best for Britain, which was shared with the Independent newspaper, senior Tory leaders like the prime minister, deputy PM Dominic Raab, health secretary Steve Barclay are all at risk of defeat in 2024. It has been predicted that only five cabinet ministers – Jeremy Hunt, Suella Braverman, Michael Gove, Nadhim Zawawi and Kemi Badenoch – are likely to retain their seats after the 2024 election. The polling data states that 10 seats, considered to be the “bellweather”, where the people have constantly voted with the winning party in recent decades, will shift towards the Labour party. The analysis states that all Tory MPs in the current cabinet would lose their seats to Labour, except fort Rabb, who has been predicted to the Liberal Democrats in Esher and Walton. UK: PM Rishi Sunak holds emergency meet to address health service issues “Sunak’s cabinet deserves nothing short of a wipeout,” Naomi Smith, chief executive of Best for Britain, a group campaigning for internationalist values and for closer ties with the EU, told Independent newspaper. “But wavering voters could throw them a lifeline, and so Keir Starmer (leader of Labour party) must take nothing for granted and avoid alienating Labour support by drawing unnecessary red lines on Brexit.” Also read | Severe Covid cases may peak in China’s small and medium-sized cities: Official But the pollsters still expect the 2024 elections to be a close fight, with those considered fence-sitters might still give Tories a chance of making a comeback. Smith believes that Labour party’s mammoth lead over the Tories could be more volatile than previously thought. Also read | Workers clash with police amidst massive protest at Covid antigen factory in China Their report found that there is a high proportion of fence-sitters—those who have answered “don’t know” in surveys—lean heavily towards Conservative party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Rishi Sunak, 15 other ministers at risk of losing 2024 general elections: Report

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said he is willing to discuss pay rises for nurses ahead of a meeting with public sector trade union leaders in an effort to end the biggest wave of industrial disputes in decades.

UK PM Rishi Sunak signals he is open to discussing pay rises for nurses

Rishi Sunak and 15 of his cabinet ministers are at risk of losing their seats in the 2024 general election, revealed fresh polling data.

Survey says UK PM Rishi Sunak may lose own seat in 2024 general poll

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held a crucial meeting with ministers, and health experts to resolve the NHS crisis and other issues plaguing the health service. Watch this report to know more.

UK PM Rishi Sunak says ready to discuss pay rises with nurses

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak chaired an emergency meeting with ministers, medics and healthcare professionals to address the healthcare crisis plaguing the country.

The meeting took place at 10 Downing Street on Saturday, aimed at “bringing together the best minds from the health and care sectors to help share knowledge and practical solutions,” the government said.

“As the Prime Minister made clear this week, easing the immediate pressures whilst also focusing on the long-term improvement of the NHS is one of his key promises,” the spokesperson said, according to Guardian.

&nbsp;“We want to correct the unwarranted variation in NHS performance between local areas, because no matter where you live you should be able to access quality healthcare.”

<h2>What is ailing UK?</h2>

The British health system, which is widely regarded as one of the best healthcare services, has been facing a myriad of pressures, including rising demand for care after pandemic restrictions were eased; a surge in flu and other viruses after two lockdown years; staff shortages from pandemic burnout and a post-Brexit drought of European workers in the UK.

At the moment, thousands of hospital beds are occupied by people who are fit to be discharged but have nowhere to go because of a lack of places for long-term care.

Officials estimate that last week only a third of patients ready to be released from a hospital in England actually left.

<h2>UK: Rishi Sunak's U-turn on outlawing strikes, steps back on anti-strike law</h2>

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Apart from that, nurses and ambulance staff have been conducting protests over salaries and working conditions, forcing people with health emergencies to wait hours for ambulances to arrive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-billionaire-jack-ma-to-cede-control-of-chinas-ant-group-report-550209">Chinese billionaire Jack Ma to cede control of Ant Group after regulatory crackdown: Report</a>

Health officials believe that the delays have likely led to hundreds of deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-weibo-bans-1000-accounts-critical-of-govts-covid-policy-550296">China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy</a>

Pat Cullen, the Royal College of Nursing general secretary, urged Sunak to “grasp the nettle and negotiate with nurses” about the settlement in order to avoid the strikes, reports Guardian.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak chaired an emergency meeting with ministers, medics and healthcare professionals to address the healthcare crisis plaguing the country.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak chaired an emergency meeting with ministers, medics and healthcare professionals to address the healthcare crisis plaguing the country. The meeting took place at 10 Downing Street on Saturday, aimed at “bringing together the best minds from the health and care sectors to help share knowledge and practical solutions,” the government said. “As the Prime Minister made clear this week, easing the immediate pressures whilst also focusing on the long-term improvement of the NHS is one of his key promises,” the spokesperson said, according to Guardian. “We want to correct the unwarranted variation in NHS performance between local areas, because no matter where you live you should be able to access quality healthcare.” What is ailing UK? The British health system, which is widely regarded as one of the best healthcare services, has been facing a myriad of pressures, including rising demand for care after pandemic restrictions were eased; a surge in flu and other viruses after two lockdown years; staff shortages from pandemic burnout and a post-Brexit drought of European workers in the UK. At the moment, thousands of hospital beds are occupied by people who are fit to be discharged but have nowhere to go because of a lack of places for long-term care. Officials estimate that last week only a third of patients ready to be released from a hospital in England actually left. UK: Rishi Sunak's U-turn on outlawing strikes, steps back on anti-strike law Apart from that, nurses and ambulance staff have been conducting protests over salaries and working conditions, forcing people with health emergencies to wait hours for ambulances to arrive. Also read | Chinese billionaire Jack Ma to cede control of Ant Group after regulatory crackdown: Report Health officials believe that the delays have likely led to hundreds of deaths. Also read | China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy Pat Cullen, the Royal College of Nursing general secretary, urged Sunak to “grasp the nettle and negotiate with nurses” about the settlement in order to avoid the strikes, reports Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Rishi Sunak convenes emergency meeting amidst healthcare crisis

The British government talked about imposing strict news laws against strikers but reports suggest that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed the way from the strongest moves fearing that the House of Lords would block them.

UK: Rishi Sunak's U-turn on outlawing strikes, steps back on anti-strike law

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak seems to have come up with these 'five promises' to solve numerous problems faced by the country. Watch this video to know more.

All you need to know about UK PM Rishi Sunak's five-point promise

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday announced his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics till the age of 18.&nbsp;Prime Minister Sunak made the announcement in his first speech of 2023 on Wednesday which specified his&nbsp;administration’s priorities for 2023.&nbsp;

Sunak said&nbsp;that the United Kingdom must "reimagine (its) approach to numeracy".

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-the-untold-story-of-rishi-sunak-529456">Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak</a>

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"In a world where data is everywhere and statistics underpin every job, our children's jobs will require more analytical skills than ever before.&nbsp;And letting our children out into the world without those skills, is letting our children down," he said.

In the past, Sunak has claimed that just half of British people, aged 16 to 19, study maths.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-in-new-year-video-message-warns-that-problems-wont-go-away-in-2023-548339">UK PM Rishi Sunak says 'problems won’t go away in New Year,'&nbsp;promises&nbsp;'best of Britain</a>'

We will stop small migrant boats: Sunak

The Prime Minister said&nbsp;that his fifth priority is to tackle the number of migrants arriving in small boats: "We will pass new laws to stop small boats, making sure that if you come to this country illegally, you are detained and swiftly removed."

Sunak: We will cut taxes so people are 'rewarded' for hard work

The Prime Minister while addressing the matter of public taxes, said: "If you work hard and play by the rules you should be rewarded."

"As soon as we can, the government will reduce the burden of taxation on working people," Sunak said.

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The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday announced his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics till the age of 18. Prime Minister Sunak made the announcement in his first speech of 2023 on Wednesday which specified his administration’s priorities for 2023.

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday announced his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics till the age of 18. Prime Minister Sunak made the announcement in his first speech of 2023 on Wednesday which specified his administration’s priorities for 2023. Sunak said that the United Kingdom must "reimagine (its) approach to numeracy". WATCH | Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak × "In a world where data is everywhere and statistics underpin every job, our children's jobs will require more analytical skills than ever before. And letting our children out into the world without those skills, is letting our children down," he said. In the past, Sunak has claimed that just half of British people, aged 16 to 19, study maths. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak says 'problems won’t go away in New Year,' promises 'best of Britain' We will stop small migrant boats: Sunak The Prime Minister said that his fifth priority is to tackle the number of migrants arriving in small boats: "We will pass new laws to stop small boats, making sure that if you come to this country illegally, you are detained and swiftly removed." Sunak: We will cut taxes so people are 'rewarded' for hard work The Prime Minister while addressing the matter of public taxes, said: "If you work hard and play by the rules you should be rewarded." "As soon as we can, the government will reduce the burden of taxation on working people," Sunak 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.

PM Rishi Sunak unveils plan for mandatory teaching of maths to students till the age of 18

In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide a more realistic picture of the pandemic situation as officials from the United Nations health agency met a team of Chinese scientists to verify the accuracy of Beijing's virus data. In the United Kingdom (UK), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce his plans that all students will have to study mathematics till the age of 18.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-offshoot-to-xbb15-may-cause-new-covid-spike-in-the-us-confirms-cdc-549368">Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323141-257808-coronavirus-image.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

On Friday, the Covid-19 mutant dashboard from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a new contender that would soon take the lead: XBB.1.5. According to the CDC, XBB.1.5 increased from roughly 4% to 41% of new infections during the month of December 2022, more than doubling its portion of the Covid-19 pie each week for the previous four.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323151-00033676c6.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officials met with a team of Chinese scientists on Tuesday in order to verify the accuracy of China’s Covid-19 data and the latest growth in infections. The Communist Party of China’s mouthpiece newspaper claimed on Wednesday that the country is pushing for a “final victory” over the pandemic but the numbers are telling a completely different story.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-to-call-for-mandatory-maths-education-till-age-18-549369">UK PM Rishi Sunak to unveil plan for mandatory teaching of maths to students till the age of 18</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322299-untitled-design-2022-12-31t173105106.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a 'personal' pitch, Rishi Sunak, the United Kingdom Prime Minister,&nbsp;is set to lay out his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics in "one form or the other" till the age of 18.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-musk-fires-janitors-twitter-employees-bring-own-toilet-paper-to-office-549417">Twitter employees bring own toilet paper to office after Musk fires janitors</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/03/308095-wion-images-60.png?imwidth=1920" />

Twitter has stopped paying millions of dollars in rent and services. Janitorial and security services were cut, forcing employees to bring their toilet paper to the office.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-subway-station-gunman-pleads-guilty-to-terrorism-charges-549394">New York subway station gunman pleads guilty to terrorism charges</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323157-ny.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Frank James, 63, who appeared at a district court in Brooklyn, was charged with 10 counts of terrorism&nbsp;and one firearms count.&nbsp;He had initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea before appearing in the court.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323191-wion-images-18.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tehreek-e-taliban-pakistan-threatens-pmln-ppp-coalition-govt-for-going-after-leadership-549416">TTP threaten&nbsp;harm to top Pakistani leadership for waging war against it to please US</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323178-sharif.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government— Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christian-graves-vandalised-in-jerusalem-cemetery-549451">Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery</a>

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Security camera footage from January 1, 2023 reportedly showed two individuals in jewish attire vandalising the revered cemetery located on the edge of the old city of Jerusalem.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-heartwarming-world-cup-champion-lionel-messi-receives-guard-of-honour-from-psg-teammates-549418">WATCH: Heartwarming! World Cup champion Lionel Messi receives guard of honour from PSG teammates</a>

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After a much-deserved time-off post the historic FIFA World Cup triumph, Lionel Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates&nbsp;and support staff.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-elvis-to-screen-for-free-in-select-us-cities-on-88th-anniversary-of-elvis-presleys-birth-549452">'Elvis' to screen for free in select US cities on 88th anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/12/317644-untitled-design-2022-12-12t202507311.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Acclaimed Elvis Presley biopic 'Elvis' will screen for free in 10 US cities on the birthday of the King of Rock and Roll (January 8). The studio behind the project, Warner Bros, is teaming up with the late singer's estate Graceland.&nbsp;

 
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In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country.

In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide a more realistic picture of the pandemic situation as officials from the United Nations health agency met a team of Chinese scientists to verify the accuracy of Beijing's virus data. In the United Kingdom (UK), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce his plans that all students will have to study mathematics till the age of 18. Click on the headlines to read more. Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC On Friday, the Covid-19 mutant dashboard from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a new contender that would soon take the lead: XBB.1.5. According to the CDC, XBB.1.5 increased from roughly 4% to 41% of new infections during the month of December 2022, more than doubling its portion of the Covid-19 pie each week for the previous four. WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation The World Health Organisation (WHO) officials met with a team of Chinese scientists on Tuesday in order to verify the accuracy of China’s Covid-19 data and the latest growth in infections. The Communist Party of China’s mouthpiece newspaper claimed on Wednesday that the country is pushing for a “final victory” over the pandemic but the numbers are telling a completely different story. UK PM Rishi Sunak to unveil plan for mandatory teaching of maths to students till the age of 18 In a 'personal' pitch, Rishi Sunak, the United Kingdom Prime Minister, is set to lay out his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics in "one form or the other" till the age of 18. Twitter employees bring own toilet paper to office after Musk fires janitors Twitter has stopped paying millions of dollars in rent and services. Janitorial and security services were cut, forcing employees to bring their toilet paper to the office. New York subway station gunman pleads guilty to terrorism charges Frank James, 63, who appeared at a district court in Brooklyn, was charged with 10 counts of terrorism and one firearms count. He had initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea before appearing in the court. Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians. TTP threaten harm to top Pakistani leadership for waging war against it to please US The proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government— Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America". Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery Security camera footage from January 1, 2023 reportedly showed two individuals in jewish attire vandalising the revered cemetery located on the edge of the old city of Jerusalem. WATCH: Heartwarming! World Cup champion Lionel Messi receives guard of honour from PSG teammates After a much-deserved time-off post the historic FIFA World Cup triumph, Lionel Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates and support staff. 'Elvis' to screen for free in select US cities on 88th anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth Acclaimed Elvis Presley biopic 'Elvis' will screen for free in 10 US cities on the birthday of the King of Rock and Roll (January 8). The studio behind the project, Warner Bros, is teaming up with the late singer's estate Graceland.

Top 10 world news: WHO asks China to provide 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation & more

Let's take a look at the stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: UK PM Rishi Sunak says 'problems won't go away in New Year'

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of&nbsp; "tough" 12 months.&nbsp;The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-surprises-public-sector-workers-with-call-to-say-thanks-546357">Also read |&nbsp;UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks</a>

In the video, Sunak said, "I'm not going to pretend that all our problems will go away in the New Year." But promised to work 'relentlessly' to bring out the "very best of Britain" in the coming months,&nbsp;reported PTI.

"But 2023 will give us the opportunity to showcase the very best of Britain on the world stage, defending freedom and democracy wherever we find it under threat," Sunak said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson beats Rishi Sunak on Tory popularity chart

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Sunak, who took charge at the end of October, promised to work to bring things back on track including its stance on NHS and plans to tackle the backlog with more funding, more doctors and more nurses. He also said that the government is working to stop illegal immigration and stop criminals from abusing UK's asylum system.

He also highlighted the global challenges, the ongoing "barbaric" Russia-Ukraine war" led to. "This has had a profound economic impact around the world, which the UK is not immune to. Now, I know many of you have felt that impact at home. That's why this government has taken difficult but fair decisions to get borrowing and debt under control. And it's because of those decisions that we've been able to help the most vulnerable with the rising cost of energy bills," Sunak said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-uk-minister-alok-sharma-among-indian-origin-people-knighted-by-king-charles-548293">Also read |&nbsp;Ex-UK minister Alok Sharma among Indian origin people knighted by King Charles</a>

"Three months ago, I stood at the steps of Downing Street and promised I would work relentlessly on the things that matter most to you."&nbsp;

Acknowledging hardships that the UK faced, Sunak said that "it's been a very tough year for the UK" and that it needs to change its way of politics to be a fairer, greener and more dynamic country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of "tough" 12 months.

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of "tough" 12 months. The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects. Also read | UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks In the video, Sunak said, "I'm not going to pretend that all our problems will go away in the New Year." But promised to work 'relentlessly' to bring out the "very best of Britain" in the coming months, reported PTI. "But 2023 will give us the opportunity to showcase the very best of Britain on the world stage, defending freedom and democracy wherever we find it under threat," Sunak said. Watch | Boris Johnson beats Rishi Sunak on Tory popularity chart Sunak, who took charge at the end of October, promised to work to bring things back on track including its stance on NHS and plans to tackle the backlog with more funding, more doctors and more nurses. He also said that the government is working to stop illegal immigration and stop criminals from abusing UK's asylum system. He also highlighted the global challenges, the ongoing "barbaric" Russia-Ukraine war" led to. "This has had a profound economic impact around the world, which the UK is not immune to. Now, I know many of you have felt that impact at home. That's why this government has taken difficult but fair decisions to get borrowing and debt under control. And it's because of those decisions that we've been able to help the most vulnerable with the rising cost of energy bills," Sunak said. Also read | Ex-UK minister Alok Sharma among Indian origin people knighted by King Charles "Three months ago, I stood at the steps of Downing Street and promised I would work relentlessly on the things that matter most to you." Acknowledging hardships that the UK faced, Sunak said that "it's been a very tough year for the UK" and that it needs to change its way of politics to be a fairer, greener and more dynamic country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK PM Rishi Sunak says ‘problems won’t go away in New Year,’ promises ‘very best of Britain’

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and First Lady Akshata Murthy undertook a makeover of the No. 10 flat with velvet sofas in jewel colours and opulent curtains. These installations in the flat have been made at the expense of the couple, according to the society magazine Tatler.&nbsp;The February issue of Tatler, which will be out next week, features Murthy on its cover. The "No. 10's Chatelaine: Inside the Secret World of Mrs. Sunak" with those involved in the flat's refurbishment as well as close friends and associates who have been given Murthy's go-ahead to share some details of life at one of the world's famous addresses, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The Sunaks chose Challis Interiors in Richmond, Yorkshire&nbsp;which was drafted to fix up the flat above No. 10 Downing Street when Rishi Sunak was the chancellor and he and his family used that as their home.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-asks-a-homeless-man-if-he-works-in-business-labour-calls-it-excruciating-546365">UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating'</a>

After becoming the Prime Minister, Sunak and his family decided to move back to the same flat&nbsp;— a break from the trend since the 1990s when Prime Ministers used the flat above 
No.&nbsp;11 Downing Street as their residence.&nbsp;

Upholsterer John Challis told Tatler the redesign (of the No. 10 flat) got rid of the decor which was largely installed for the family of ex-chancellor George Osborne, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

"We made long, fully interlined curtains for all five windows overlooking the garden, hand-pleated and held back with heavy coordinating tassels in red, gold, and the ivory of the damask," Challis said.&nbsp;

"The ornate cornicing was hand-gilded, as it would have been originally, and a rug was commissioned to almost fill the room. Akshata was very involved and keen to see how things are made. She is also not afraid of getting stuck in and helping either," he added.&nbsp;

Challis also said there are window seats in most of the rooms in a contemporary colour, adding most of the sofas were velvet, in jewel colours and the cushions also became a work of art.&nbsp;

The Guardian report said that Sunak has incurred the expense, unlike his predecessor Boris Johnson. The report added that Johnson was subject to an investigation over the funding of the refit of his flat in No. 11 Downing Street while in office.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and First Lady Akshata Murthy undertook a makeover of the No. 10 flat with velvet sofas in jewel colours and opulent curtains.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and First Lady Akshata Murthy undertook a makeover of the No. 10 flat with velvet sofas in jewel colours and opulent curtains. These installations in the flat have been made at the expense of the couple, according to the society magazine Tatler. The February issue of Tatler, which will be out next week, features Murthy on its cover. The "No. 10's Chatelaine: Inside the Secret World of Mrs. Sunak" with those involved in the flat's refurbishment as well as close friends and associates who have been given Murthy's go-ahead to share some details of life at one of the world's famous addresses, news agency PTI reported. The Sunaks chose Challis Interiors in Richmond, Yorkshire which was drafted to fix up the flat above No. 10 Downing Street when Rishi Sunak was the chancellor and he and his family used that as their home. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating' After becoming the Prime Minister, Sunak and his family decided to move back to the same flat — a break from the trend since the 1990s when Prime Ministers used the flat above No. 11 Downing Street as their residence. Upholsterer John Challis told Tatler the redesign (of the No. 10 flat) got rid of the decor which was largely installed for the family of ex-chancellor George Osborne, the Guardian reported. "We made long, fully interlined curtains for all five windows overlooking the garden, hand-pleated and held back with heavy coordinating tassels in red, gold, and the ivory of the damask," Challis said. "The ornate cornicing was hand-gilded, as it would have been originally, and a rug was commissioned to almost fill the room. Akshata was very involved and keen to see how things are made. She is also not afraid of getting stuck in and helping either," he added. Challis also said there are window seats in most of the rooms in a contemporary colour, adding most of the sofas were velvet, in jewel colours and the cushions also became a work of art. The Guardian report said that Sunak has incurred the expense, unlike his predecessor Boris Johnson. The report added that Johnson was subject to an investigation over the funding of the refit of his flat in No. 11 Downing Street while in office. 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.

British PM, First Lady undertake makeover of No. 10 flat, Downing Street, at own expense. Details here

British railway workers and border force staff went on a fresh wave of strikes to demand better pay on Wednesday. Train services will be disrupted until Thursday, causing travel chaos for people returning to work after the Christmas holidays.

TUC Union: UK strikes may continue into 2023

Rishi Sunak trails Boris Johnson in votes for Tory members’ minister of the year. Johnson leads Sunak by 5 points whereas Liz Truss is lagging behind. Watch further to know more.

Boris Johnson beats Rishi Sunak on Tory popularity chart

Rishi Sunak trails Boris Johnson and Suella Braverman in votes for Tory members’ minister of the year in the latest survey. Watch this video to know more.

Tory poll shows Boris Johnson is more popular than Rishi Sunak

From Chief Twit's reign to FIFA's desert breakout: The remarkable moments of 2022

On the eve of Christmas, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak found himself in a tricky situation. The moment happened when he was distributing food at a homeless shelter on Friday. Sunak asked the homeless man at one point if 'he worked in a business' and wanted to get into the finance industry. Watch the video to know more about their awkward exchange.

UK PM Rishi Sunak visits homeless shelter on Christmas eve, asks man if 'he is in business?'

The ongoing strikes in the United Kingdom in the middle of the holiday season do not appear to be ending anytime soon as the National Health Services have now announced a fresh round of strikes in the month of January.

UK: PM Rishi Sunak says government open to talks but unions disagree

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing criticism for an awkward conversation with a man during his volunteer work at a soup kitchen in London on Friday.&nbsp;

While serving breakfast to people at a shelter, run by the Passage, a man asked Sunak, "Are you sorting the economy out?" Sunak then said that is "exactly what I'm trying to do".&nbsp;

The British prime minister then asked the man if he works in business, and the man replied that he was homeless. "I wouldn't mind, but I don't know, I'd like to get through Christmas first," the man further said.&nbsp;

The conversation didn't end there as the man said he was interested in business. His reply led Sunak to ask him about the kind of business he is interested in.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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Sunak asks a homeless man in a homeless shelter whether he "works in business", then proceeds to talk about the financial services industry. Utterly bizarre <a href="https://t.co/jQPzg7RR4h">pic.twitter.com/jQPzg7RR4h</a>
— Adam Bienkov (@AdamBienkov) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamBienkov/status/1606600685855903744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The rest of the conversation is here -&nbsp;

<blockquote>
Sunak: "I used to work in finance." 
Dean: "Yeah I heard, ex-investment banker."&nbsp; 
Sunak: ": Well I did lots of different things but yeah you're right. But the good thing now is if you look at all the jobs in finance, the majority of them are outside London now. Is that something you would like to get into?" 
Dean: "Yeah I wouldn't mind. But, I don't know, I'd like to get through Christmas first."&nbsp; 
Sunak: "What's your plan, what are you doing this weekend?"&nbsp; 
Dean: "No idea. I'm hoping that the St Mungo's can help me get into some temporary accommodation so I'm not on the street."&nbsp;
</blockquote>

The opposition has taken a dig at the chat as Angela Rayner, who is Labour's deputy leader, called the exchange "excruciating". The Labour MP Stella Creasy said: "Watching this I am concerned that the prime minister thinks homeless means ‘'doesn’t have a country pile at the moment'."&nbsp;

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United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing criticism for an awkward conversation with a man during his volunteer work at a soup kitchen in London on Friday.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing criticism for an awkward conversation with a man during his volunteer work at a soup kitchen in London on Friday. While serving breakfast to people at a shelter, run by the Passage, a man asked Sunak, "Are you sorting the economy out?" Sunak then said that is "exactly what I'm trying to do". The British prime minister then asked the man if he works in business, and the man replied that he was homeless. "I wouldn't mind, but I don't know, I'd like to get through Christmas first," the man further said. The conversation didn't end there as the man said he was interested in business. His reply led Sunak to ask him about the kind of business he is interested in. Watch the video here: Sunak asks a homeless man in a homeless shelter whether he "works in business", then proceeds to talk about the financial services industry. Utterly bizarre pic.twitter.com/jQPzg7RR4h — Adam Bienkov (@AdamBienkov) December 24, 2022 × The rest of the conversation is here - Sunak: "I used to work in finance." Dean: "Yeah I heard, ex-investment banker." Sunak: ": Well I did lots of different things but yeah you're right. But the good thing now is if you look at all the jobs in finance, the majority of them are outside London now. Is that something you would like to get into?" Dean: "Yeah I wouldn't mind. But, I don't know, I'd like to get through Christmas first." Sunak: "What's your plan, what are you doing this weekend?" Dean: "No idea. I'm hoping that the St Mungo's can help me get into some temporary accommodation so I'm not on the street." The opposition has taken a dig at the chat as Angela Rayner, who is Labour's deputy leader, called the exchange "excruciating". The Labour MP Stella Creasy said: "Watching this I am concerned that the prime minister thinks homeless means ‘'doesn’t have a country pile at the moment'." 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 asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating'

British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service.

Thanking them for their dedication and sacrifice, Sunak paid tribute to the various staff based across the globe, including the crew on a Royal Navy ship sailing in Antarctica and diplomats based in Somalia and Ukraine.

The prime minister's office on Saturday (December 24) released a video in which Sunak was seen calling childcare providers, diplomats as well as military personnel who were working over the festive period.

In one phone call Sunak spoke with Chris Mitchell, who runs Smart Play, a government-funded Holiday Activities and Food programme in Barnet, to discuss the support he and his team offer to vulnerable children throughout the school holidays.

"Just calling to say thank you for all the work you do at smart play. What you do is fantastic. It makes a big difference to people who need that extra bit of help. You know, we're delighted to fund work like yours and in particular at this time of year is that it makes a big difference. I just want to call and say thank you to you for that," Sunak said.

"it means so much to me to get that feedback, it really does. And I hope you have a lovely Christmas, your family too and everyone else. And thank you again. It's just such a shock," responded Mitchell.

His calls come as strikes by unions representing workers in sectors including rail, health and border staff continue to cause disruption across the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service.

British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service. Thanking them for their dedication and sacrifice, Sunak paid tribute to the various staff based across the globe, including the crew on a Royal Navy ship sailing in Antarctica and diplomats based in Somalia and Ukraine. The prime minister's office on Saturday (December 24) released a video in which Sunak was seen calling childcare providers, diplomats as well as military personnel who were working over the festive period. In one phone call Sunak spoke with Chris Mitchell, who runs Smart Play, a government-funded Holiday Activities and Food programme in Barnet, to discuss the support he and his team offer to vulnerable children throughout the school holidays. "Just calling to say thank you for all the work you do at smart play. What you do is fantastic. It makes a big difference to people who need that extra bit of help. You know, we're delighted to fund work like yours and in particular at this time of year is that it makes a big difference. I just want to call and say thank you to you for that," Sunak said. "it means so much to me to get that feedback, it really does. And I hope you have a lovely Christmas, your family too and everyone else. And thank you again. It's just such a shock," responded Mitchell. His calls come as strikes by unions representing workers in sectors including rail, health and border staff continue to cause disruption across the country. (With inputs 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 ×

UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks

UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government. On 18 and 19 January 2023, nurses will not report to work in 55 NHS trusts, an increase of 11 from the 44 NHS trusts where they staged their initial strikes on 15 and 20 December 2022.

Following a prior threat by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to step up its strike campaign if ministers didn't budge on pay negotiations, further action has been taken.

“The government had the opportunity to end this dispute before Christmas but instead they have chosen to push nursing staff out into the cold again in January,” said Pat Cullen, the RCN’s general secretary and chief executive who spoke to the Guardian.

She added: “I do not wish to prolong this dispute but the prime minister has left us with no choice. The voice of nursing will not be ignored. Staff shortages and low pay make patient care unsafe. The sooner ministers come to the negotiating table, the sooner this can be resolved. I will not dig in if they don’t dig in.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/uk-couple-battling-cancer-in-pregnancy-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-545840">UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby</a>

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN)&nbsp;has repeatedly emphasised that if the health secretary, Steve Barclay, begins negotiations with them, it will lower its demand for a pay increase of five per cent above inflation. He has declined to take into account raising the salary increase of £1,400 for 2022–2023 offered to NHS employees, with the exception of doctors and dentists, which translates to an increase of around four per cent &nbsp;for the majority of frontline staff.

Also watch |&nbsp;January 6 committee releases final report on its investigation of Capitol riot

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After the union&nbsp;stated on Thursday that members in five of England's ten regional ambulance services would stage 24-hour stoppages on January 11 and 23, the union's decision means that the NHS in England would experience disruption for three consecutive weeks in January.

However, the government has toughened its stance on NHS pay this week. Rishi Sunak iterated it was too late to revisit the £1,400 settlement for this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government.

UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government. On 18 and 19 January 2023, nurses will not report to work in 55 NHS trusts, an increase of 11 from the 44 NHS trusts where they staged their initial strikes on 15 and 20 December 2022. Following a prior threat by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to step up its strike campaign if ministers didn't budge on pay negotiations, further action has been taken. “The government had the opportunity to end this dispute before Christmas but instead they have chosen to push nursing staff out into the cold again in January,” said Pat Cullen, the RCN’s general secretary and chief executive who spoke to the Guardian. She added: “I do not wish to prolong this dispute but the prime minister has left us with no choice. The voice of nursing will not be ignored. Staff shortages and low pay make patient care unsafe. The sooner ministers come to the negotiating table, the sooner this can be resolved. I will not dig in if they don’t dig in.” Also read | UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has repeatedly emphasised that if the health secretary, Steve Barclay, begins negotiations with them, it will lower its demand for a pay increase of five per cent above inflation. He has declined to take into account raising the salary increase of £1,400 for 2022–2023 offered to NHS employees, with the exception of doctors and dentists, which translates to an increase of around four per cent for the majority of frontline staff. Also watch | January 6 committee releases final report on its investigation of Capitol riot After the union stated on Thursday that members in five of England's ten regional ambulance services would stage 24-hour stoppages on January 11 and 23, the union's decision means that the NHS in England would experience disruption for three consecutive weeks in January. However, the government has toughened its stance on NHS pay this week. Rishi Sunak iterated it was too late to revisit the £1,400 settlement for this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK nurses announce two-day strike on 18-19 Jan in escalation of pay dispute with the govt

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier&nbsp; and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.&nbsp;

However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-blocks-scotland-from-holding-second-independence-referendum-536746">UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum</a>

The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender.

"The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament.

UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues."

WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose'

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As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months.

The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government. However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law. ALSO READ| UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender. "The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament. UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues." WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose' As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months. The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms. Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising". (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak-led UK government likely to block Scotland’s gender reform legislation

United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will be authorising Office of Communications also known as Ofcom, which is the broadcasting watchdog of the country, to regulate Netflix in the wake of recently aired Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s controversial documentary, as per the report published in The Telegraph.&nbsp;

The ministers have been planning to pass a new law that would place all new streaming platforms in Ofcom’s jurisdiction and authorise it to penalise these OTTs up to £250,000 ($3,04,785).

As per the report, the law will also allow viewers to file a complaint against shows aired on Amazon Prime, Netflix and other OTTs with the Ofcom and ensure that the streaming platforms are investigated for violation of the new code of conduct.

ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/harry-meghan-docuseries-does-not-say-anything-that-we-already-dont-know-541520"> 'Harry &amp; Meghan' docuseries does not say anything that we already don't know</a>

The Government's Media Bill will include plans which will further promote "distinctively British content,", as per The Telegraph. Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan is planning to introduce the Government's Media Bill next year to give Ofcom a legal ground for regulating streaming platforms which do not have their base in the UK like Apple TV+ and Netflix.

"The watchdog will be charged with drawing up a new "Video-on-demand Code" that is expected to be similar to the rules laid down for the BBC and other terrestrial broadcasters. It will also be handed new enforcement powers that are likely to mirror those it holds to rap broadcasters for breaches of the code - which include fines of up to 250,000 pounds and orders to comply," the report stated.

The UK government’s plan to introduce the law comes after Netflix’s six-part documentary series 'Harry &amp; Meghan’ which was aired in the last two weeks received criticising for presenting misleading facts.

WATCH| Gravitas: Why Netflix's Harry &amp; Meghan is facing criticism

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According to The Telegraph, the documentary’s trailer featured a picture to depict how media pursued the royal couple actually turned out to have been clicked at the premiere of a Harry Potter movie five years ago before the couple had actually met.

It was also mentioned that the documentary included late Queen Elizabeth II's speech recording delivered in South Africa on her 21st birthday which was "edited in an apparent attempt to emphasise a quote about her love of the British Empire”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will be authorising Office of Communications also known as Ofcom, which is the broadcasting watchdog of the country, to regulate Netflix in the wake of recently aired Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s controversial documentary, as per the report published in The Telegraph.

United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will be authorising Office of Communications also known as Ofcom, which is the broadcasting watchdog of the country, to regulate Netflix in the wake of recently aired Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s controversial documentary, as per the report published in The Telegraph. The ministers have been planning to pass a new law that would place all new streaming platforms in Ofcom’s jurisdiction and authorise it to penalise these OTTs up to £250,000 ($3,04,785). As per the report, the law will also allow viewers to file a complaint against shows aired on Amazon Prime, Netflix and other OTTs with the Ofcom and ensure that the streaming platforms are investigated for violation of the new code of conduct. ALSO READ| 'Harry & Meghan' docuseries does not say anything that we already don't know The Government's Media Bill will include plans which will further promote "distinctively British content,", as per The Telegraph. Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan is planning to introduce the Government's Media Bill next year to give Ofcom a legal ground for regulating streaming platforms which do not have their base in the UK like Apple TV+ and Netflix. "The watchdog will be charged with drawing up a new "Video-on-demand Code" that is expected to be similar to the rules laid down for the BBC and other terrestrial broadcasters. It will also be handed new enforcement powers that are likely to mirror those it holds to rap broadcasters for breaches of the code - which include fines of up to 250,000 pounds and orders to comply," the report stated. The UK government’s plan to introduce the law comes after Netflix’s six-part documentary series 'Harry & Meghan’ which was aired in the last two weeks received criticising for presenting misleading facts. WATCH| Gravitas: Why Netflix's Harry & Meghan is facing criticism According to The Telegraph, the documentary’s trailer featured a picture to depict how media pursued the royal couple actually turned out to have been clicked at the premiere of a Harry Potter movie five years ago before the couple had actually met. It was also mentioned that the documentary included late Queen Elizabeth II's speech recording delivered in South Africa on her 21st birthday which was "edited in an apparent attempt to emphasise a quote about her love of the British Empire”. (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak to pass law to regulate OTT platforms after release of 'Harry And Meghan' Documentary

Rishi Sunak, the prime minister of the United Kingdom, rebuked trade unions on Sunday for their "particularly cruelly timed" strikes during the Christmas holiday season, saying they had put millions of people through hardship. The government also announced plans to use about 1,200 troops to cover for the striking workers and maintain essential services.

Over the course of the upcoming weeks, there will be a wave of winter strikes that will include train employees, healthcare professionals, and border security personnel who are all calling for improved compensation and working conditions.

Writing in “The Sun on Sunday”, Sunak said the workers have been offered “deals that are fair and affordable” and accused the unions of unleashing a “class war”.

“The unions are causing misery for millions, with transport strikes in particular cruelly timed to hit at Christmas,” writes Sunak.

“Rail workers and border officers have been offered deals that are fair – and affordable to taxpayers. An increasing number of union members want a deal. They are tired of being foot soldiers in [Railway RMT Union chief] Mick Lynch’s class war,” he said.

The government has frequently cautioned against giving in to union demands for significant wage increases because doing so would send Britain into a "inflation spiral" that would disproportionately affect the poorest people.

“Even [Opposition] Labour have admitted the unions’ demands are unaffordable. But they’ll still take union money and undermine the interests of the travelling public. Labour back the Grinches that want to steal Christmas for their own political ends. We are doing everything we can to ensure people get the Christmas they deserve,” said Sunak.

“The army is stepping up and we’re putting in place other measures to keep services running where possible,” he added.

Union leaders caution that the military is not "sufficiently prepared" to protect the nation's borders or operate ambulances and that they already have "enough on their plate" to prevent them from being placed in such an "invidious" situation.

Stephen Kinnock, the opposition minister for immigration in Labour, said on "Sky News" that the government is "spoiling for a battle" with the unions and termed the Prime Minister's words "incendiary."

“I think the government needs to stop all the rhetoric, the empty posturing and sowing the seeds of division and actually now needs to start finding a constructive solution so that we can get people back to work in a way where they feel valued and where they feel that there is a real future for them in those jobs,” said Kinnock.

If ministers don't come up with a solution within 48 hours after next week's walkout, nurses are threatening to launch a second round of strikes in the new year on a far greater scale.

After Tuesday's second unprecedented round of strikes by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), the 48-hour countdown will start.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Rishi Sunak, the prime minister of the United Kingdom, rebuked trade unions on Sunday for their "particularly cruelly timed" strikes during the Christmas holiday season, saying they had put millions of people through hardship.

Rishi Sunak, the prime minister of the United Kingdom, rebuked trade unions on Sunday for their "particularly cruelly timed" strikes during the Christmas holiday season, saying they had put millions of people through hardship. The government also announced plans to use about 1,200 troops to cover for the striking workers and maintain essential services. Over the course of the upcoming weeks, there will be a wave of winter strikes that will include train employees, healthcare professionals, and border security personnel who are all calling for improved compensation and working conditions. Writing in “The Sun on Sunday”, Sunak said the workers have been offered “deals that are fair and affordable” and accused the unions of unleashing a “class war”. “The unions are causing misery for millions, with transport strikes in particular cruelly timed to hit at Christmas,” writes Sunak. “Rail workers and border officers have been offered deals that are fair – and affordable to taxpayers. An increasing number of union members want a deal. They are tired of being foot soldiers in [Railway RMT Union chief] Mick Lynch’s class war,” he said. The government has frequently cautioned against giving in to union demands for significant wage increases because doing so would send Britain into a "inflation spiral" that would disproportionately affect the poorest people. “Even [Opposition] Labour have admitted the unions’ demands are unaffordable. But they’ll still take union money and undermine the interests of the travelling public. Labour back the Grinches that want to steal Christmas for their own political ends. We are doing everything we can to ensure people get the Christmas they deserve,” said Sunak. “The army is stepping up and we’re putting in place other measures to keep services running where possible,” he added. Union leaders caution that the military is not "sufficiently prepared" to protect the nation's borders or operate ambulances and that they already have "enough on their plate" to prevent them from being placed in such an "invidious" situation. Stephen Kinnock, the opposition minister for immigration in Labour, said on "Sky News" that the government is "spoiling for a battle" with the unions and termed the Prime Minister's words "incendiary." “I think the government needs to stop all the rhetoric, the empty posturing and sowing the seeds of division and actually now needs to start finding a constructive solution so that we can get people back to work in a way where they feel valued and where they feel that there is a real future for them in those jobs,” said Kinnock. If ministers don't come up with a solution within 48 hours after next week's walkout, nurses are threatening to launch a second round of strikes in the new year on a far greater scale. After Tuesday's second unprecedented round of strikes by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), the 48-hour countdown will start. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Rishi Sunak uses troops to manage Christmas strikes

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday (December 15) made his first trip to Northern Ireland since taking office. He met with leaders of the main political parties.

The talks were expected to focus on a dispute over post-Brexit trade rules governing the region, which has blocked a normalisation of relations between Britain and the European Union and plunged local politics into crisis.

After a prolonged Status Quo, Britain and the European Union resumed talks in October.

The EU has said it is "very confident" a positive conclusion is within reach if Britain shows the political will.

Any agreement will have to overcome opposition from within Sunak's own Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist Party, largest pro-British party in the Northern Ireland.

Sunak's office posted a picture of him posing after the talks with the leaders of the five main parties, including the DUP and Irish nationalists Sinn Fein.

The DUP in February withdrew from Northern Ireland's power-sharing government, a key part of a 1998 peace deal, in protest at the trade checks. Neither the power-sharing government or the Stormont Assembly can function without the DUP's support.

Sunak's meetings follow a roundtable with party leaders hosted by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland earlier in the day to discuss solutions to the return of power-sharing government in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday (December 15) made his first trip to Northern Ireland since taking office. He met with leaders of the main political parties.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday (December 15) made his first trip to Northern Ireland since taking office. He met with leaders of the main political parties. The talks were expected to focus on a dispute over post-Brexit trade rules governing the region, which has blocked a normalisation of relations between Britain and the European Union and plunged local politics into crisis. After a prolonged Status Quo, Britain and the European Union resumed talks in October. The EU has said it is "very confident" a positive conclusion is within reach if Britain shows the political will. Any agreement will have to overcome opposition from within Sunak's own Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist Party, largest pro-British party in the Northern Ireland. Sunak's office posted a picture of him posing after the talks with the leaders of the five main parties, including the DUP and Irish nationalists Sinn Fein. The DUP in February withdrew from Northern Ireland's power-sharing government, a key part of a 1998 peace deal, in protest at the trade checks. Neither the power-sharing government or the Stormont Assembly can function without the DUP's support. Sunak's meetings follow a roundtable with party leaders hosted by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland earlier in the day to discuss solutions to the return of power-sharing government in the region. (With inputs 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 ×

Rishi Sunak visits Northern Ireland for first time as UK PM

With National Health Service (NHS) nurses staging a strike in Britain for better wages and working conditions, health minister Steve Barclay said on Thursday that their pay demands are unaffordable given the economic pressures.

The nurses have demanded a pay rise of 5% plus inflation,&nbsp;arguing that they have suffered 10 years of real-terms cuts and that low pay means staff shortages and unsafe care for patients. The government has said their pay demand would equate to a 19% hike.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-says-ready-for-a-showdown-with-union-leaders-vows-to-introduce-anti-strike-law-543136">UK nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages and working conditions</a>

Speaking to news agency Reuters, health minister Barclay said on Thursday "Well we have an independent process that looks at these issues in the round, that looks at the pressure for many viewers face with higher taxes, face with cost of living pressures and balances those with the needs of our NHS as well and that independent pay review looks at these issues and we have accepted their recommendations in full but we also recognise the huge contribution that we saw from&nbsp;nurses&nbsp;during the pandemic and that's why last year we made a special case where&nbsp;nurses&nbsp;got an extra 3% when others in the public sector did not.''

"But we've got to balance that against what is affordable to the wider economy and asking for a 19% pay rise, way above what most viewers themselves are receiving is not affordable given the many other economic pressures that we face,'' he further told the news agency.&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, health minister Barclay said it was deeply&nbsp;regrettable that the strike was going ahead adding he was concerned about the risk that the strike poses to patients.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-nurses-to-teachers-why-workers-across-industries-in-uk-are-going-on-a-strike-540940">Explained: From nurses to teachers, why workers across UK are going on strike</a>

An estimated&nbsp;100,000&nbsp;nurses are on strike at over 70 hospitals and health centres, leading to a cancellation of&nbsp;70,000 appointments, procedures and surgeries in the NHS.&nbsp;

Reacting to the walkout,&nbsp;Royal College of Nursing (RCN) union's head Pat Cullen told the BBC that it was a tragic day for nursing, a tragic day for the patients and the NHS.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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With National Health Service (NHS) nurses staging a strike in Britain for better wages and working conditions, health minister Steve Barclay said on Thursday that their pay demands are unaffordable given the economic pressures.

With National Health Service (NHS) nurses staging a strike in Britain for better wages and working conditions, health minister Steve Barclay said on Thursday that their pay demands are unaffordable given the economic pressures. The nurses have demanded a pay rise of 5% plus inflation, arguing that they have suffered 10 years of real-terms cuts and that low pay means staff shortages and unsafe care for patients. The government has said their pay demand would equate to a 19% hike. ALSO READ | UK nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages and working conditions Speaking to news agency Reuters, health minister Barclay said on Thursday "Well we have an independent process that looks at these issues in the round, that looks at the pressure for many viewers face with higher taxes, face with cost of living pressures and balances those with the needs of our NHS as well and that independent pay review looks at these issues and we have accepted their recommendations in full but we also recognise the huge contribution that we saw from nurses during the pandemic and that's why last year we made a special case where nurses got an extra 3% when others in the public sector did not.'' "But we've got to balance that against what is affordable to the wider economy and asking for a 19% pay rise, way above what most viewers themselves are receiving is not affordable given the many other economic pressures that we face,'' he further told the news agency. Earlier on Thursday, health minister Barclay said it was deeply regrettable that the strike was going ahead adding he was concerned about the risk that the strike poses to patients. ALSO READ | Explained: From nurses to teachers, why workers across UK are going on strike An estimated 100,000 nurses are on strike at over 70 hospitals and health centres, leading to a cancellation of 70,000 appointments, procedures and surgeries in the NHS. Reacting to the walkout, Royal College of Nursing (RCN) union's head Pat Cullen told the BBC that it was a tragic day for nursing, a tragic day for the patients and the NHS. (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.

British health minister says pay demand of nurses unaffordable amid strike

A small boat carrying around 40 migrants sunk off the southeastern coast of England in freezing temperatures, according to multiple reports on Wednesday. Subsequently, the British government confirmed the incident and said that four people were killed.&nbsp;British radio station LBC has earlier said that 43 people had been rescued and a small number had died.&nbsp;

According to media reports, lifeboats, helicopters and rescue teams are working&nbsp;with the French and British navies to respond to the event. A government spokesperson, in a statement, said that "At 3:05 (GMT) today, authorities were alerted to an incident in the Channel concerning a migrant small boat in distress."

It added, "After a coordinated search and rescue operation led by HM Coastguard, it is with regret that there have been four confirmed deaths as a result of this incident." The spokesperson also said that an investigation&nbsp;is underway.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, ambulances and emergency crews gathered on the quayside at the port of Dover to handle the sinking incident. According to Sky News, some of the migrants were transferred to a hospital in Kent's Ashford town.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, British interior minister Suella Braverman tweeted, "I am aware of a distressing incident in the Channel this morning and I am being kept constantly updated while agencies respond and urgently establish the full facts. My heartfelt thoughts are with all those involved.''

The sinking incident comes a day after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans to toughen the laws to stop the small boats crossing the Channel, including legislation to prevent migrants from remaining in the country, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

In the last week, temperatures have plunged across Britain. Despite this, over 500 migrants have made the journey in small boats since the weekend alone.&nbsp;

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A small boat carrying around 40 migrants sunk off the southeastern coast of England in freezing temperatures, according to multiple reports on Wednesday. Subsequently, the British government confirmed the incident and said that four people were killed.

A small boat carrying around 40 migrants sunk off the southeastern coast of England in freezing temperatures, according to multiple reports on Wednesday. Subsequently, the British government confirmed the incident and said that four people were killed. British radio station LBC has earlier said that 43 people had been rescued and a small number had died. According to media reports, lifeboats, helicopters and rescue teams are working with the French and British navies to respond to the event. A government spokesperson, in a statement, said that "At 3:05 (GMT) today, authorities were alerted to an incident in the Channel concerning a migrant small boat in distress." It added, "After a coordinated search and rescue operation led by HM Coastguard, it is with regret that there have been four confirmed deaths as a result of this incident." The spokesperson also said that an investigation is underway. On Wednesday, ambulances and emergency crews gathered on the quayside at the port of Dover to handle the sinking incident. According to Sky News, some of the migrants were transferred to a hospital in Kent's Ashford town. Taking to Twitter, British interior minister Suella Braverman tweeted, "I am aware of a distressing incident in the Channel this morning and I am being kept constantly updated while agencies respond and urgently establish the full facts. My heartfelt thoughts are with all those involved.'' The sinking incident comes a day after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans to toughen the laws to stop the small boats crossing the Channel, including legislation to prevent migrants from remaining in the country, Reuters reported. In the last week, temperatures have plunged across Britain. Despite this, over 500 migrants have made the journey in small boats since the weekend alone. 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: Boat carrying migrants sinks off English Coast, four dead

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