<p>The UK Conservatives led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have pledged 730 million pounds ($927mn) to expand mental health treatment within the ambit of the National Health Service, a move aimed to woo the voters ahead of July 4 General Elections. Tories continue to trail behind Labour Party in opinion polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Conservatives say that the state funding of therapies such as counselling services for more 500,000 people would help save the UK economy 12 billion pounds ($15.24bn) as more people of the working age would return to work, prompting a potential end to the 'sick note culture'.</p>

<p>According to the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS), the number of people inactive for health reasons has increased by 33 per cent to 2.8 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made ending "sick note culture" a top theme of his tenure in the 10, Downing Street.</p>

<p>His opponents claim that Sunak is attempting to "disguise the fact that he has caused a spiralling benefits bill".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK's NHS low on productivity | NHS sees dip in performance post-pandemic</strong></p>

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<p>But Sunak said that "reforming welfare is a moral mission".</p>

<p>"That's why we have announced a significant increase in mental health provision, as well as changes to ensure those who can work, do work."</p>

<p>Besides, the Tories have pledged to bring forward a number of reforms. This includes disability benefits for the ones most in need as well as tightening of the work capability assessment criteria.</p>

<p>A Labour spokesperson said: "This is the latest desperate announcement from Rishi Sunak, who has once again plucked numbers out of thin air in an attempt to disguise the fact that he has caused a spiralling benefits bill."</p>

<p>"These reheated pledges, old policies and vague promises will not get Britain healthy or benefits under control, and do nothing to solve the fact that £10bn ($12.7bn) of taxpayers' money was lost to benefit fraud just last year."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UK Conservatives led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have pledged 730 million pounds ($927mn) to expand mental health treatment within the ambit of the National Health Service, a move aimed to woo the voters ahead of July 4 General Elections.

The UK Conservatives led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have pledged 730 million pounds ($927mn) to expand mental health treatment within the ambit of the National Health Service, a move aimed to woo the voters ahead of July 4 General Elections. Tories continue to trail behind Labour Party in opinion polls. The Conservatives say that the state funding of therapies such as counselling services for more 500,000 people would help save the UK economy 12 billion pounds ($15.24bn) as more people of the working age would return to work, prompting a potential end to the 'sick note culture'. According to the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS), the number of people inactive for health reasons has increased by 33 per cent to 2.8 million. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made ending "sick note culture" a top theme of his tenure in the 10, Downing Street. His opponents claim that Sunak is attempting to "disguise the fact that he has caused a spiralling benefits bill". Also watch | UK's NHS low on productivity | NHS sees dip in performance post-pandemic × But Sunak said that "reforming welfare is a moral mission". "That's why we have announced a significant increase in mental health provision, as well as changes to ensure those who can work, do work." Besides, the Tories have pledged to bring forward a number of reforms. This includes disability benefits for the ones most in need as well as tightening of the work capability assessment criteria. A Labour spokesperson said: "This is the latest desperate announcement from Rishi Sunak, who has once again plucked numbers out of thin air in an attempt to disguise the fact that he has caused a spiralling benefits bill." "These reheated pledges, old policies and vague promises will not get Britain healthy or benefits under control, and do nothing to solve the fact that £10bn ($12.7bn) of taxpayers' money was lost to benefit fraud just last year." (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak promises hundreds of millions in mental health benefits if re-elected

The Prime Minister has stated that the controversy surrounding his early departure from yesterday's D-Day celebrations must remain non-political. After some thought, Rishi Sunak stated, "I apologize; that was a mistake." "It's crucial, though, that we avoid politicizing this considering the magnitude of the sacrifice made. It is only fitting that we pay tribute to the soldiers who given so much."

UK: PM Rishi Sunak's troubles mount as public storm over D-Day mistake

UK: PM Rishi Sunak's big D-Day 'mistake' irredeemable?

The prime minister has stated that it is crucial that the controversy surrounding his early departure from yesterday's D-Day celebrations remain non-political. After some thought, Rishi Sunak stated, "I apologize; that was a mistake." "It's crucial, though, that we avoid politicizing this considering the magnitude of the sacrifice made. It is only fitting that we pay tribute to the soldiers who given so much."

British PM Rishi Sunak left D-Day memorial early, angering public

<p>In June 1944, over four years after the fall of Paris to Hitler's&nbsp;forces in the second world war, the US, UK and other allied&nbsp;forces entered Normandy to oust the Nazi forces.&nbsp;The Normandy landings emerged as one of the most significant events&nbsp;in the second world war that concluded with the liberation of French territory and fall of Nazism in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;D-Day Anniversary: The invasion of the beaches at Normandy | Gravitas Recall</strong></p>

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<p>Eighty years later, as the present-day leaders of the 'liberators' of Normandy came together to commemorate the 'D-Day', the event became the focus of fiascos, gaffes and controversies.&nbsp;Here's what unfolded during D-Day commemorations in Normandy.</p>

<h2><strong>Joe Biden: The lost of the presidents?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Joe Biden, joined by 25 heads of states at a D-Day commemoration event on Omaha Beach in Normandy, stressed on sacrifices made in the name of democracy and freedom during the second world war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-persichitti-world-war-ii-veteran-died-en-route-to-d-day-commemorations-729476">Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations</a></strong></p>

<p>But the speech notwithstanding, one aspect that grabbed the netizens' attention on social media was an "embarrassing" moment as Biden appeared to be completely lost for a moment. The former president was seen fumbling and later on, he was spotted with eyes closed which users on the internet interpreted as US president dozing off.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>British forces face 'Passport please' moment</strong></h2>

<p>About 400 British paratroopers, who dropped into Normandy for commemoration event, were asked for passport and related paperwork. While immigration checks for British troops abroad are routine, they aren't asked for it during a&nbsp;public commemoration event.</p>

<p>Besides, the US and Belgian troops&nbsp;involved in the drop were not checked. The US forces flew from France and had already completed their border formalities, The Guardian reported. No check was required for the Belgians as European Union citizens.</p>

<h2><strong>Rishi Sunak's exit for a TV interview</strong></h2>

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended D-Day commemoration event and then left for London to reportedly appear in a TV interview. As&nbsp;criticism mounted, Sunak was forced to issue an apology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the conclusion of the British event in Normandy, I returned back to the UK," Sunak, who is struggling to win support from voters before the July 4 election, said in a post on X.</p>

<p>"On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay in France longer – and I apologise."</p>


In June 1944, over four years after the fall of Paris to Hitler's forces in the second world war, the US, UK and other allied forces entered Normandy to oust the Nazi forces.

In June 1944, over four years after the fall of Paris to Hitler's forces in the second world war, the US, UK and other allied forces entered Normandy to oust the Nazi forces. The Normandy landings emerged as one of the most significant events in the second world war that concluded with the liberation of French territory and fall of Nazism in Europe. Also watch | D-Day Anniversary: The invasion of the beaches at Normandy | Gravitas Recall × Eighty years later, as the present-day leaders of the 'liberators' of Normandy came together to commemorate the 'D-Day', the event became the focus of fiascos, gaffes and controversies. Here's what unfolded during D-Day commemorations in Normandy. Joe Biden: The lost of the presidents? Joe Biden, joined by 25 heads of states at a D-Day commemoration event on Omaha Beach in Normandy, stressed on sacrifices made in the name of democracy and freedom during the second world war. Also read | Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations But the speech notwithstanding, one aspect that grabbed the netizens' attention on social media was an "embarrassing" moment as Biden appeared to be completely lost for a moment. The former president was seen fumbling and later on, he was spotted with eyes closed which users on the internet interpreted as US president dozing off. British forces face 'Passport please' moment About 400 British paratroopers, who dropped into Normandy for commemoration event, were asked for passport and related paperwork. While immigration checks for British troops abroad are routine, they aren't asked for it during a public commemoration event. Besides, the US and Belgian troops involved in the drop were not checked. The US forces flew from France and had already completed their border formalities, The Guardian reported. No check was required for the Belgians as European Union citizens. Rishi Sunak's exit for a TV interview UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended D-Day commemoration event and then left for London to reportedly appear in a TV interview. As criticism mounted, Sunak was forced to issue an apology. "After the conclusion of the British event in Normandy, I returned back to the UK," Sunak, who is struggling to win support from voters before the July 4 election, said in a post on X. "On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay in France longer – and I apologise."

Show your passports, a listless Biden, Sunak's exit: What made D-Day commemorations awkward

Election fever has gripped the UK. Reportedly, Rishi Sunak will pledge a massive overhaul of homicide laws which will see longer sentences imposed on domestic abusers.

UK election: Tories want tougher sentences for killers

UK: Conservatives want longer jail terms for domestic abusers

The Farage factor taking UK by storm. Reform UK is just two points behind Tories in the wake of Nigel Farage's announcement that he will stand to become an MP.

UK: Tories face growing election threat from Farage's reform

Tuesday's debate between Labour challenger Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak focused on ways to strengthen the British economy. The PM accused the opposition party of planning to raise taxes if it were to win an election on July 4.

In heated TV debate: Britain's Sunak and Starmer go head-to-head on the economy

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour challenger Keir Starmer went head-to-head on Tuesday over how to boost Britain's economy, with the PM accusing the opposition party of wanting to increase taxes if it wins power at a July 4 election.

Britain's Sunak and Starmer go head-to-head about the economy on a TV debate | Latest News

Watch top headlines of the hour: - NDA, I.N.D.I.A bloc plan next move - Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav on same flight - World leaders congratulate PM Modi - India stocks rebound from sell-off - CIA Chief back in Doha - Sunak, Starmer clash in TV debate

European markets to trade flat | Sunak, Starmer clash in TV debate

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Monday (June 3) vowed to introduce a legal cap in a bid to curb immigration levels if he is re-elected in the country’s general elections next month. This comes as Sunak’s ruling Conservative Party, according to a recent opinion poll, is on course to gain the lowest total number of seats in the United Kingdom parliament, in more than a century.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak vows to curb immigration</strong></h2>

<p>The UK PM’s party, which is trailing behind in the polls, aimed at one of the main issues in the country ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-general-elections-to-be-held-in-july-reports-724367">July 4 general elections</a>, immigration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Immigration has dominated Britain’s political debate for more than a decade now and also played a significant role in the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.</p>

<p>Sunak’s Conservative party said it would announce plans for new annual caps on work and family visas to curb immigration, which involves a new cap on the number of visas that would be set by parliament each year.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK: Business leaders endorse Labour</strong></p>

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<p>“By capping migration numbers each year, we will ensure that public services are protected and housing is not overburdened, while still bringing the skills our businesses and NHS (National Health Service) need,” said the Conservative party, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after his government, earlier this year, introduced new rules to cut legal immigration into the UK by barring international students from bringing in family members and increased the salary threshold for skilled workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Britain’s annual net migration fell to 685,000 after a record high of 764,000 in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have taken bold action to cut the number of people coming to this country. The plan is working but migration levels are still too high, so we are going further,” the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the Conservative government’s controversial policy to send asylum seekers who arrive in the UK without permission to Rwanda is currently facing legal and parliamentary obstacles, and now depends on the party’s win in the upcoming election.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Labour set for record win: Opinion poll</strong></h2>

<p>A report by opinion pollsters YouGov released on Monday showed that the opposition Labour party is set for its biggest-ever victory in the upcoming election. The party led by Keir Starmer is expected to win by a larger margin than in 1997 under former Prime Minister Tony Blair.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the poll, the Labour party is expected to garner 422 seats out of 650 in the country’s parliament, well above the 320 seats needed to secure a majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Conservatives are reportedly expected to get 140 seats. The estimates are based on a multilevel regression and poststratification (MRP) poll which uses big data sets and demographic analysis to predict results in individual seats.</p>

<p>The model also suggests “near wipeout” for Conservatives in many areas across the UK, including London, the North East, the North West, and Wales.</p>

<p>Notably, since the poll was taken before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigel-farage-makes-u-turn-announces-bid-for-candidacy-in-clacton-for-reform-uk-728405">Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage</a> took over the leadership of the rival right-wing Reform Party party and announced that he would run for PM. His candidacy will further hit the Conservative vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Monday (June 3) vowed to introduce a legal cap in a bid to curb immigration levels if he is re-elected in the country’s general elections next month.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Monday (June 3) vowed to introduce a legal cap in a bid to curb immigration levels if he is re-elected in the country’s general elections next month. This comes as Sunak’s ruling Conservative Party, according to a recent opinion poll, is on course to gain the lowest total number of seats in the United Kingdom parliament, in more than a century. Sunak vows to curb immigration The UK PM’s party, which is trailing behind in the polls, aimed at one of the main issues in the country ahead of the July 4 general elections, immigration. Immigration has dominated Britain’s political debate for more than a decade now and also played a significant role in the UK’s decision to leave the European Union. Sunak’s Conservative party said it would announce plans for new annual caps on work and family visas to curb immigration, which involves a new cap on the number of visas that would be set by parliament each year. WATCH | UK: Business leaders endorse Labour “By capping migration numbers each year, we will ensure that public services are protected and housing is not overburdened, while still bringing the skills our businesses and NHS (National Health Service) need,” said the Conservative party, in a statement. This comes after his government, earlier this year, introduced new rules to cut legal immigration into the UK by barring international students from bringing in family members and increased the salary threshold for skilled workers. Last year, Britain’s annual net migration fell to 685,000 after a record high of 764,000 in 2022. “We have taken bold action to cut the number of people coming to this country. The plan is working but migration levels are still too high, so we are going further,” the statement added. Notably, the Conservative government’s controversial policy to send asylum seekers who arrive in the UK without permission to Rwanda is currently facing legal and parliamentary obstacles, and now depends on the party’s win in the upcoming election. Labour set for record win: Opinion poll A report by opinion pollsters YouGov released on Monday showed that the opposition Labour party is set for its biggest-ever victory in the upcoming election. The party led by Keir Starmer is expected to win by a larger margin than in 1997 under former Prime Minister Tony Blair. According to the poll, the Labour party is expected to garner 422 seats out of 650 in the country’s parliament, well above the 320 seats needed to secure a majority. The Conservatives are reportedly expected to get 140 seats. The estimates are based on a multilevel regression and poststratification (MRP) poll which uses big data sets and demographic analysis to predict results in individual seats. The model also suggests “near wipeout” for Conservatives in many areas across the UK, including London, the North East, the North West, and Wales. Notably, since the poll was taken before Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage took over the leadership of the rival right-wing Reform Party party and announced that he would run for PM. His candidacy will further hit the Conservative vote. (With inputs from agencies)

UK elections: PM Sunak vows to introduce immigration cap if re-elected; opposition Labour set for record win

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidP1OqAfq4nprS" /></p>

<p>Nigel Farage has declared that he will run for Reform UK in the general election on July 4 in Clacton.</p>

<p>Earlier, Farage declared that he would not run for office and that he would instead support Richard Tice's party throughout its campaign.</p>

<p>He added that he wanted "to help with the grassroots campaign in the USA in any way I can".</p>

<p>However, he announced the U-turn and stated that he would succeed Tice as Reform UK's leader for at least the next five years during a news conference on Monday (June 3).</p>

<p>Speaking to individuals throughout the campaign, Farage said he felt he was "letting them down" and that he had a "terrible sense of guilt" for not standing up sooner.</p>

<p>"I can't turn my back on the people's army," he stated. "I can't turn my back on those millions of people who followed me, and believed in me despite the horrendous things that were being said about me."</p>

<p>"We have forgotten who we are as a country," Nigel Farage continued, who claimed that the nation was in "a form of moral decline."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidP1OqAfq4nprS" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/millions-of-britons-living-abroad-regain-right-to-vote-in-uk-elections-680480" target="_blank">Millions of Britons living abroad regain right to vote in UK elections</a></strong></p>

<p>Since the announcement, people have been wondering about Farage's potential role in the election, including whether he would run against the Conservatives or whether he may work with Rishi Sunak to forge an electoral alliance.</p>

<p>Earlier, Sunak dismissed Farage's potential significance as an election candidate, telling reporters, "One of two individuals will be prime minister: Keir Starmer or me."</p>

<p>"A vote for anyone who's not a Conservative candidate is just a vote to put Keir Starmer in Number 10," Sunak added.</p>

<p>The other candidates competing for Clacton are: Bensilum Matthew of the Liberal Democrats, Natasha Osben of the Green Party, Jovan Owusu-Nepaul from the Labour Party, and Giles Watling of the Conservatives.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nigel Farage has declared that he will run for Reform UK in the general election on July 4 in Clacton. Earlier, Farage declared that he would not run for office and that he would instead support Richard Tice's party throughout its campaign.

Nigel Farage has declared that he will run for Reform UK in the general election on July 4 in Clacton. Earlier, Farage declared that he would not run for office and that he would instead support Richard Tice's party throughout its campaign. He added that he wanted "to help with the grassroots campaign in the USA in any way I can". However, he announced the U-turn and stated that he would succeed Tice as Reform UK's leader for at least the next five years during a news conference on Monday (June 3). Speaking to individuals throughout the campaign, Farage said he felt he was "letting them down" and that he had a "terrible sense of guilt" for not standing up sooner. "I can't turn my back on the people's army," he stated. "I can't turn my back on those millions of people who followed me, and believed in me despite the horrendous things that were being said about me." "We have forgotten who we are as a country," Nigel Farage continued, who claimed that the nation was in "a form of moral decline." Also read: Millions of Britons living abroad regain right to vote in UK elections Since the announcement, people have been wondering about Farage's potential role in the election, including whether he would run against the Conservatives or whether he may work with Rishi Sunak to forge an electoral alliance. Earlier, Sunak dismissed Farage's potential significance as an election candidate, telling reporters, "One of two individuals will be prime minister: Keir Starmer or me." "A vote for anyone who's not a Conservative candidate is just a vote to put Keir Starmer in Number 10," Sunak added. The other candidates competing for Clacton are: Bensilum Matthew of the Liberal Democrats, Natasha Osben of the Green Party, Jovan Owusu-Nepaul from the Labour Party, and Giles Watling of the Conservatives. (With inputs from agencies)

Nigel Farage makes U-turn, announces bid for candidacy in Clacton for Reform UK

There's more trouble for the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as his Tory party now faces accusations of levelling up funds to steer votes. Watch to know more!

UK: Tories accused of levelling up funding bias

There's more trouble for the Tory party as the party is now facing financial crisis. Furious party members have refused to fund PM Rishi Sunak for the campaigns. Watch to know more!

UK: Tories to take tough measures on fund crunch, fear campaign sustenance amid dipping funds

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Sunak's allies 'parachute' into winnable seats - Hunter Biden gun case: Jury selection set to begin - UNRWA: Over 1 million forced to flee Rafah - China: Mi6 recruited Chinese couple as spy - India Elections: 642 voters cast ballots

Sunak's allies 'parachute' into winnable seats | Hunter Biden gun case

Scores of UK Business Leaders have signed a letter endorsing the Labour Party's economic plans that support letter which comes ahead of the country's July 4th elections yet another indication towards a possible Labour takeover.

UK: MRP poll predicts worst result for Tories, warns Tories headed for a major wipeout

UK PM Rishi Sunak wore a £750 backpack as he headed to one of the poorest areas of the country on the campaign trail. The PM was spotted with a luxury Tumi bag monogrammed with his initials “RS” as he got on the train to Cornwall. Mr Sunak took the sleeper service to Penzance.

Gravitas: UK PM Rishi Sunak flaunts wealth on campaign trail

UK: Labour takes 27 point lead over Tories with 47% support, says YouGov poll

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has promised to create 100,000 more apprenticeships a year by shutting down some university courses if the Tories stay in power after the General Election.

Gravitas: UK PM Sunak pledges 100,000 high-skilled apprenticeships

Amid the ongoing UK national election campaign, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was spotted wearing a 750-pound luxury Tumi backpack. Ironically, the British premier took his expensive Tumi bag, monogrammed with his initials ‘RS’, to one of the country's poorest areas during his campaign trail.

UK: Rishi Sunak flaunts wealth with $950 backpack on campaign trail

<p>Rishi Sunak was seen carrying a $952.63 (750 Pounds) backpack when visiting one of UK's poorest areas on the campaign trail, in yet another story adding to the general perception of the Tory leader as 'out of touch' with ground realities.</p>

<p>Sunak was spotted boarding the train to Cornwall carrying a luxurious Tumi bag, personalised with his initials 'RS'.</p>

<p>According to the Manchester Evening News, he traveled on the sleeper service to Penzance as part of the Conservative Party's campaign in the South West of England.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-democracy-leaders-convicted-after-chinas-mass-national-security-trial-726882">Hong Kong democracy leaders convicted in mass national security trial</a></p>

<p>The backpack he was carrying is assumed to be the Tumi Arrive Bradley model, sold for $952.63 in upscale stores such as Selfridges.</p>

<p>This is not the first time, Sunak sported a luxurious piece.</p>

<p>In July 2022, he wore $622 (490-Pound) Prada suede shoes on a visit to a building site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the latest Sunday Times Rich List, Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty's wealth overtook that of King Charles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hits-back-at-pro-palestine-all-eyes-on-rafah-image-with-where-were-your-eyes-on-october-7-726955">AI image war: Israel hits back at 'All eyes on Rafah' with an image of its own</a></p>

<p>However, the report added that estimating the personal fortunes of monarchs is tricky. It must be noted that the wider wealth of the monarchy, which includes various estates and palaces, has been estimated at dozens of billions of pounds.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rishi Sunak was seen carrying a $952.63 (750 Pounds) backpack when visiting one of UK's poorest areas on the campaign trail, in yet another story adding to the general perception of the Tory leader as 'out of touch' with ground realities.

Rishi Sunak was seen carrying a $952.63 (750 Pounds) backpack when visiting one of UK's poorest areas on the campaign trail, in yet another story adding to the general perception of the Tory leader as 'out of touch' with ground realities. Sunak was spotted boarding the train to Cornwall carrying a luxurious Tumi bag, personalised with his initials 'RS'. According to the Manchester Evening News, he traveled on the sleeper service to Penzance as part of the Conservative Party's campaign in the South West of England. Also read: Hong Kong democracy leaders convicted in mass national security trial The backpack he was carrying is assumed to be the Tumi Arrive Bradley model, sold for $952.63 in upscale stores such as Selfridges. This is not the first time, Sunak sported a luxurious piece. In July 2022, he wore $622 (490-Pound) Prada suede shoes on a visit to a building site. According to the latest Sunday Times Rich List, Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty's wealth overtook that of King Charles. Also read: AI image war: Israel hits back at 'All eyes on Rafah' with an image of its own However, the report added that estimating the personal fortunes of monarchs is tricky. It must be noted that the wider wealth of the monarchy, which includes various estates and palaces, has been estimated at dozens of billions of pounds. (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak carries $952 backpack during campaign visit to one of UK's poorest areas: Out of touch PM?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFihOPec4YaKB" />British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has ruled out an electoral pact with&nbsp;Nigel Farage's Reform UK party ahead of the national&nbsp;election in the country on July 4, British media reported on Wednesday (May 29). Farage had suggested that he and Prime Minister Sunak should have a conversation before the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farage, who had been associated with the Conservative party, has held back from running as a candidate for the Reform party. However, on Wednesday, he extended an olive branch to Sunak in an interview with The Sun, telling him, "Give me something back. We might have a conversation."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/national-election-in-uk-set-for-july-4-heres-what-we-know-so-far-724499">National election in UK set for July 4. Here's what we know so far</a></strong></p>

<p>Farage said he had done the Tories some huge favours and now wanted something back. He also told The Sun that the Tories&nbsp;already tried to lure him away, hinting they had even offered him a peerage.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak rejects Farage's offer</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, PM Sunak rejected Farage's offer of the electoral pact. On being asked if he would speak to the Reform leader about a deal, Sunak told The Guardian, "There’s only going to be one of two people who will be prime minister: Keir Starmer or me. So the choice is a vote for anyone who isn’t Conservative is a vote for Keir Starmer in No 10.”</p>

<p>The Guardian reported that the Reform party is polling at about 12 per cent, with most of its support coming from former Conservative voters who backed Boris Johnson in 2019.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: UK PM Sunak pledges 100,000 high-skilled apprenticeships</strong></p>

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<p>Any decision by Reform to back off from fielding candidates&nbsp;in marginal seats could be crucial to the Conservatives party defending constituencies, the publication reported.</p>

<h2><strong>'Only people we should be doing a deal with...'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Farage's offer, British Security Minister&nbsp;Tom Tugendhat said the only people that the Conservatives should be dealing with are the citizens.</p>

<p>"...the deal we are making is to make an offer for how to govern this country better for the next five years and I think Rishi is absolutely right to be focusing on that,” Security Minister&nbsp;Tugendhat told BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has ruled out an electoral pact with Nigel Farage's Reform UK party ahead of the national election in the country on July 4, British media reported on Wednesday (May 29).

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has ruled out an electoral pact with Nigel Farage's Reform UK party ahead of the national election in the country on July 4, British media reported on Wednesday (May 29). Farage had suggested that he and Prime Minister Sunak should have a conversation before the election. Farage, who had been associated with the Conservative party, has held back from running as a candidate for the Reform party. However, on Wednesday, he extended an olive branch to Sunak in an interview with The Sun, telling him, "Give me something back. We might have a conversation." Also read | National election in UK set for July 4. Here's what we know so far Farage said he had done the Tories some huge favours and now wanted something back. He also told The Sun that the Tories already tried to lure him away, hinting they had even offered him a peerage. Sunak rejects Farage's offer On Wednesday, PM Sunak rejected Farage's offer of the electoral pact. On being asked if he would speak to the Reform leader about a deal, Sunak told The Guardian, "There’s only going to be one of two people who will be prime minister: Keir Starmer or me. So the choice is a vote for anyone who isn’t Conservative is a vote for Keir Starmer in No 10.” The Guardian reported that the Reform party is polling at about 12 per cent, with most of its support coming from former Conservative voters who backed Boris Johnson in 2019. Also watch | Gravitas: UK PM Sunak pledges 100,000 high-skilled apprenticeships × Any decision by Reform to back off from fielding candidates in marginal seats could be crucial to the Conservatives party defending constituencies, the publication reported. 'Only people we should be doing a deal with...' Reacting to Farage's offer, British Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said the only people that the Conservatives should be dealing with are the citizens. "...the deal we are making is to make an offer for how to govern this country better for the next five years and I think Rishi is absolutely right to be focusing on that,” Security Minister Tugendhat told BBC. (With inputs from agencies)

UK national election: Sunak rules out poll pact with Nigel Farage’s Reform party

<p>Britain's Conservative Party under Rishi Sunak's premiership has proposed that every 18-year-old should do mandatory military or civilian service if they are re-elected in the July 4 polls. The announcement has led to a meme fest among&nbsp;Gen-Z.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media in and beyond Britain is filled with young people feeling jittery about their purported readiness to serve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The policy has been pitched by Sunak as an opportunity for young people to "gain valuable skills, make our country more secure and build a strong national culture."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Lagging in polls, UK Conservatives pitch national service at 18</strong></p>

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<p>"If you can fix your parents' iPad, then you can fix an Apache helicopter," a dramatic voice-over is reported as saying in one TikTok video.</p>

<p>"If you can rot in bed, you can rot in a trench," the video continues while speaking of the practice of spending hours in bed during the day while snacking or using a smartphone-like electronic device.</p>

<p>Sunak's mandatory military civilian service is expected to alienate young voters, according to Mathew Mators Gillingwater, 22.&nbsp;<img alt="UK military conscription plan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb74cbf7-7563-40fa-aa5c-e9630d58eed3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/UKmilitaryservice.png" /></p>

<p>Gillingwater's TikTok video in GRWM (Get Ready With Me) format while showing off a pair of cargo khakis on the front line during a potential World War III is going viral in the UK.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-friends-to-spanish-food-uk-pm-sunak-wife-murty-reveal-what-they-have-in-common-725965">‘From Friends to Spanish food,’ UK PM Sunak, wife Murty reveal what they have in common</a></strong></p>

<p>"I didn’t get to finish my bronzer, though, because I literally started getting shot at," Matos Gillingwater said in the video.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Matos Gillingwater added: “Luckily, the French were on our side this time and I got one of the French girlies to do my French tips. They look amazing."</p>

<p>Matos Gillingwater said in an interview that the potential conscription "is just pushing us further and further away."</p>

<p>"Does [Sunak] want us to vote for him?” Matos Gillingwater said, referring to young people. "Is he trying to get ousted?"</p>

<p>It would be the first form of national service in Britain in over six decades. Under the proposed plan, only a small minority of 18-year-olds — reportedly 30,000 out of an estimated 700,000, the Associated Press reported — would spend a year full-time in the military.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Britain's Conservative Party under Rishi Sunak's premiership has proposed that every 18-year-old should do mandatory military or civilian service if they are re-elected in the July 4 polls.

Britain's Conservative Party under Rishi Sunak's premiership has proposed that every 18-year-old should do mandatory military or civilian service if they are re-elected in the July 4 polls. The announcement has led to a meme fest among Gen-Z. Social media in and beyond Britain is filled with young people feeling jittery about their purported readiness to serve. The policy has been pitched by Sunak as an opportunity for young people to "gain valuable skills, make our country more secure and build a strong national culture." Also watch | Lagging in polls, UK Conservatives pitch national service at 18 × "If you can fix your parents' iPad, then you can fix an Apache helicopter," a dramatic voice-over is reported as saying in one TikTok video. "If you can rot in bed, you can rot in a trench," the video continues while speaking of the practice of spending hours in bed during the day while snacking or using a smartphone-like electronic device. Sunak's mandatory military civilian service is expected to alienate young voters, according to Mathew Mators Gillingwater, 22. Gillingwater's TikTok video in GRWM (Get Ready With Me) format while showing off a pair of cargo khakis on the front line during a potential World War III is going viral in the UK. Also read | ‘From Friends to Spanish food,’ UK PM Sunak, wife Murty reveal what they have in common "I didn’t get to finish my bronzer, though, because I literally started getting shot at," Matos Gillingwater said in the video. Matos Gillingwater added: “Luckily, the French were on our side this time and I got one of the French girlies to do my French tips. They look amazing." Matos Gillingwater said in an interview that the potential conscription "is just pushing us further and further away." "Does [Sunak] want us to vote for him?” Matos Gillingwater said, referring to young people. "Is he trying to get ousted?" It would be the first form of national service in Britain in over six decades. Under the proposed plan, only a small minority of 18-year-olds — reportedly 30,000 out of an estimated 700,000, the Associated Press reported — would spend a year full-time in the military.

'Rot in bed, rot in trench': Rishi Sunak's military service plan invites Gen-Z flak

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