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

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

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

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

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

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

UK's annual inflation drops below 8%

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

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

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US President Joe Biden is in the UK. He met with King Charles and the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The White House said Biden seeks to further, strengthen the close ties with the UK. King Charles will host Biden at Windsor Castle.

Biden in UK: US President meets PM Sunak, King Charles

British businesses are slowing down. Hiring analysts say this is reflective of the feeling of uncertainty among these firms on the economic outlook of the country.

Hiring in the UK slows down | Wage falls to lowest in 2 years

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing scrutiny over transparency-related issues regarding party donations and air travel expenses.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faces transparency questions

United Kingdom has announced its plans for self-governance so the Orkney archipelago can leave the UK to become a self-governing territory of Norway.

United Kingdom and Orkney Island to become self-governing

The row over the British govt wanting to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has intensified. Not just the opposition, now a London appeals court described the plan as unlawful. The UK government has vowed to fight the ruling. After the ruling UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak quickly announced plans to appeal the verdict at the supreme court. The UK home secretary Suella Braverman described the ruling as a big disappointment, adding that she and Sunak will do everything possible to stop the illegal migrants coming into the UK on small boats.

UK government vows to fight court ruling on deporting refugees to Rwanda

Zac Goldsmith, the British government's international environment minister, announced his resignation from office on Friday, calling Prime Minister Rishi Sunak "uninterested" in the environment. The issue, according to Goldsmith, a member of parliament's upper house and former minister of state for overseas territories, the Commonwealth, energy, climate change, and the environment, is that you, our prime minister, are just uninterested in the issue.

UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith quits, accuses Sunak for 'climate apathy'

Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson's allies are heavily criticized by a Commons committee after they launched a campaign to undermine the committee's investigation into Boris Johnson's claim.

Boris Johnson and other UK ministers admit to a gap in planning

London's Court of Appeal has ruled that the United Kingdom's government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda is unlawful. Two of the three-judge panel have ruled that Rwanda is not safe. The court agreed that the UK government could not guarantee that Asylum Seekers sent to Rwanda would not be deported to the country from which they were fleeing adding that sending anyone to Rwanda would constitute a breach of Article 3 of the European Convention on human rights

Big setback to Rishi Sunak's govt: Rwanda asylum plan announced unlawful

London's court of appeal will rule if the United Kingdom's government's plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda is lawful. This verdict is crucial for the image of United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Rwanda asylum plan explained: UK's asylum seekers to be sent deported

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's pen has prompted some serious concerns in 10 downing street as he was pictured using pens with erasable ink in a cabinet meet.

Gravitas:  UK PM Rishi Sunak's pen triggers controversy

Labour leader Keir Starmer has vowed not to attack Rishi Sunak for being rich or for sending his children to private schools. Watch the video to know more.

Starmer vows not to attack Sunak over wealth

<p>10, Downing Street is being accused of 'sitting on' and delaying publication of a key report about Chinese spying activities in Britain, The Times has reported. The report prepared by British parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has been made public after four years of inquiry.</p>

<p>The committee found itself at the centre of a similar row in the year 2019, before the election, when former UK PM Boris Johnson refused to sanction publication of its report on Russia. That report had examined how oligarchs with connections with Kremlin had entered London's elite society.</p>

<p>British intelligence agencies MI5, MI6 and GCHQ have been warning about growing Chinese threat in everything from corporate espionage to intimidation of Chinese citizens abroad.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China plans a new training facility in Cuba: Report</strong></p>

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<p>The Times reported that the ISC submits the report to 10, Downing Street, the official residence of the British PM, before it can be published. This is done to avoid compromising the work of British intelligence agencies. Usually, permission to publish comes in 10 days. But in the case of Russia report, it took nine months.</p>

<p>The report on China was reportedly sent to the PM's residence. There is a concern that the report would not be published until the end of summer break in September.</p>

<p>“They’re sitting on the report,” The Times quoted a source close to the committee</p>

<p>“It’s typical of the recent approach to the ISC.”</p>

<h2><strong>Softened stance?</strong></h2>

<p>Since he took office, British PM Rishi Sunak has preferred to engage with China and assume a less-confrontational posture. UK government sent a trade minister to Hong Kong this year. During the Tory leadership contest, Sunak had pledged to shut down Confucius Institutes run by Beijing to promote Chinese culture and language. Sunak has dropped the pledge since.</p>

<p>UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly outlined government's approach to China in a speech made earlier this year. He made a case for greater engagement with China and said that not doing so would be a mistake.</p>

<p>"It would be a betrayal of our national interest and a wilful misunderstanding of the modern world,” Cleverly said as quoted by The Times.</p>

<p>Delay in publishing the report on China is eliciting negative reactions. Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader, urged Sunak to publish the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trading-with-the-dragon-germany-and-china-talk-free-trade-amid-geopolitical-tensions-606936">Trading with the Dragon? Germany and China talk free trade amid geopolitical tensions</a></strong></p>

<p>“The government must now publish this report. If they carry on blocking it, people will reach the justifiable conclusion that either they have something to hide or they don’t want to upset the Chinese,” he said.</p>

<p>“All of these things are sending signals to China, and Beijing now thinks the UK is a soft option."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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10, Downing Street is being accused of 'sitting on' and delaying publication of a key report about Chinese spying activities in Britain, The Times has reported. The report prepared by British parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has been made public after four years of inquiry.

10, Downing Street is being accused of 'sitting on' and delaying publication of a key report about Chinese spying activities in Britain, The Times has reported. The report prepared by British parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has been made public after four years of inquiry. The committee found itself at the centre of a similar row in the year 2019, before the election, when former UK PM Boris Johnson refused to sanction publication of its report on Russia. That report had examined how oligarchs with connections with Kremlin had entered London's elite society. British intelligence agencies MI5, MI6 and GCHQ have been warning about growing Chinese threat in everything from corporate espionage to intimidation of Chinese citizens abroad. Watch | China plans a new training facility in Cuba: Report × The Times reported that the ISC submits the report to 10, Downing Street, the official residence of the British PM, before it can be published. This is done to avoid compromising the work of British intelligence agencies. Usually, permission to publish comes in 10 days. But in the case of Russia report, it took nine months. The report on China was reportedly sent to the PM's residence. There is a concern that the report would not be published until the end of summer break in September. “They’re sitting on the report,” The Times quoted a source close to the committee “It’s typical of the recent approach to the ISC.” Softened stance? Since he took office, British PM Rishi Sunak has preferred to engage with China and assume a less-confrontational posture. UK government sent a trade minister to Hong Kong this year. During the Tory leadership contest, Sunak had pledged to shut down Confucius Institutes run by Beijing to promote Chinese culture and language. Sunak has dropped the pledge since. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly outlined government's approach to China in a speech made earlier this year. He made a case for greater engagement with China and said that not doing so would be a mistake. "It would be a betrayal of our national interest and a wilful misunderstanding of the modern world,” Cleverly said as quoted by The Times. Delay in publishing the report on China is eliciting negative reactions. Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader, urged Sunak to publish the report. Also Read | Trading with the Dragon? Germany and China talk free trade amid geopolitical tensions “The government must now publish this report. If they carry on blocking it, people will reach the justifiable conclusion that either they have something to hide or they don’t want to upset the Chinese,” he said. “All of these things are sending signals to China, and Beijing now thinks the UK is a soft option." 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 office criticised for delay in report on Chinese spying

In a letter to the prime minister, a cross-party group of British MPs and peers has urged him to rethink his decision to permit a top Chinese government official to visit this week. This person is accused of organising the forcible repatriation of hundreds of dissidents, including some from the UK. The leader of the Communist Party of China central committee's foreign division, Liu Jianchao, is scheduled to address the Chatham House think tank and meet with UK lawmakers.

UK MPs urge Sunak to reconsider visit by controversial Chinese official

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government.</p>

<p>MP for Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams, abruptly decided to resign immediately. This comes even as he had previously announced his intention to retire at the next general election.&nbsp;Boris Johnson, the former British prime minister, announced his resignation as a Member of Parliament on June 9 claiming that the ongoing parliamentary investigation into the 'partygate' scandal was the reason behind his decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-wealth-report-2023-indias-stock-market-performance-has-positive-outlook-amid-global-decline-in-hnwis-602943">World Wealth Report 2023: India's stock market performance has positive outlook amid global decline in HNWIs</a></p>

<p>Although Johnson had nominated Adams for a peerage (Members of the House of Lords, the upper chamber of Great Britain's bicameral), he did not make the final list alongside Nadine Dorries, Alok Sharma, and Alister Jack. Sunak had intentionally prevented Johnson's allies from receiving peerages to avoid challenging byelections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Adams' resignation</strong></h2>

<p>Adams announced his resignation on Twitter, stating that the Selby Conservatives had chosen an excellent new candidate for Parliament. He expressed gratitude to his constituents for their support and mentioned that it had been an honor to represent the area where he grew up and received his education.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-aileen-cannon-trump-appointed-judge-in-classified-documents-case-602926">Who is Aileen Cannon? Trump-appointed judge in classified documents case</a></p>

<p>“Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated and I want to thank my constituents for their wonderful support since 2010," Adams tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate.<br />
<br />
I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect.<br />
<br />
It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated &amp;<br />
<br />
1/2</p>
— Nigel Adams 🇬🇧 (@nadams) <a href="https://twitter.com/nadams/status/1667512301698596864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Nadine Dorries' steps down&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At the same time as Johnson's, his former culture secretary Nadine Dorries announced she was quitting as an MP with immediate effect. Prior to Dorries' resignation, she had stated her intention is&nbsp;not to cause a byelection in her seat. But eventually, she followed the lead of Johnson, who criticized Sunak's leadership and the ongoing Partygate inquiry.</p>

<p>The Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) had been conducting byelection drills for about a month, anticipating the possibility of Johnson and his allies accepting peerages.</p>

<p>Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft</p>

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<p>These drills involved identifying priority issues in each seat and determining which ministers should visit each constituency and for what reasons. There is speculation that other MPs, such as Alok Sharma, may also resign in protest.</p>

<h2><strong>Calls for general election</strong></h2>

<p>The Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Daisy Cooper, urged the Conservative party to call a general election, stating that the party is in chaos and has failed to address healthcare and the cost of living crisis. She believes the public should have the opportunity to pass judgment on the current Conservative government.</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns about byelection outcomes</strong></h2>

<p>Some Tory MPs are worried that the party may lose all three byelections. They argue that Sunak should learn from these outcomes, highlighting the need to address internal divisions, uphold the 2019 manifesto, and avoid handing control of the government to Jeremy Hunt.</p>

<h2><strong>Adams' successor</strong></h2>

<p>Michael Naughton, the Conservative candidate for Adams' Selby and Ainsty constituency, is regarded as an excellent choice. Labour is expected to win in Uxbridge, a seat that Johnson may be trying to avoid, possibly in favor of a safer seat like Henley. The Liberal Democrats have been actively campaigning in Mid-Bedfordshire.&nbsp;</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership is being tested with another ally of Boris Johnson resigning from Parliament, leading to a third byelection. The outcomes of earlier byelections, along with internal party concerns and calls for a general election, indicate the challenges faced by the Conservative government. MP for Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams, abruptly decided to resign immediately. This comes even as he had previously announced his intention to retire at the next general election. Boris Johnson, the former British prime minister, announced his resignation as a Member of Parliament on June 9 claiming that the ongoing parliamentary investigation into the 'partygate' scandal was the reason behind his decision. Also Read | World Wealth Report 2023: India's stock market performance has positive outlook amid global decline in HNWIs Although Johnson had nominated Adams for a peerage (Members of the House of Lords, the upper chamber of Great Britain's bicameral), he did not make the final list alongside Nadine Dorries, Alok Sharma, and Alister Jack. Sunak had intentionally prevented Johnson's allies from receiving peerages to avoid challenging byelections. Adams' resignation Adams announced his resignation on Twitter, stating that the Selby Conservatives had chosen an excellent new candidate for Parliament. He expressed gratitude to his constituents for their support and mentioned that it had been an honor to represent the area where he grew up and received his education. Also Read | Who is Aileen Cannon? Trump-appointed judge in classified documents case “Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated and I want to thank my constituents for their wonderful support since 2010," Adams tweeted. Yesterday, Selby Conservatives selected an excellent new parliamentary candidate. I’ve today informed the chief whip that I will be standing down as a Member of Parliament with immediate effect. It has been an honour to represent the area where I was raised, educated & 1/2 — Nigel Adams 🇬🇧 (@nadams) June 10, 2023 × Nadine Dorries' steps down At the same time as Johnson's, his former culture secretary Nadine Dorries announced she was quitting as an MP with immediate effect. Prior to Dorries' resignation, she had stated her intention is not to cause a byelection in her seat. But eventually, she followed the lead of Johnson, who criticized Sunak's leadership and the ongoing Partygate inquiry. The Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) had been conducting byelection drills for about a month, anticipating the possibility of Johnson and his allies accepting peerages. Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft × These drills involved identifying priority issues in each seat and determining which ministers should visit each constituency and for what reasons. There is speculation that other MPs, such as Alok Sharma, may also resign in protest. Calls for general election The Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Daisy Cooper, urged the Conservative party to call a general election, stating that the party is in chaos and has failed to address healthcare and the cost of living crisis. She believes the public should have the opportunity to pass judgment on the current Conservative government. Concerns about byelection outcomes Some Tory MPs are worried that the party may lose all three byelections. They argue that Sunak should learn from these outcomes, highlighting the need to address internal divisions, uphold the 2019 manifesto, and avoid handing control of the government to Jeremy Hunt. Adams' successor Michael Naughton, the Conservative candidate for Adams' Selby and Ainsty constituency, is regarded as an excellent choice. Labour is expected to win in Uxbridge, a seat that Johnson may be trying to avoid, possibly in favor of a safer seat like Henley. The Liberal Democrats have been actively campaigning in Mid-Bedfordshire. 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. ×

Another Boris Johnson ally resigns triggering byelections, puts Rishi Sunak's leadership to test

<p>US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak.</p>

<p>"I don't think ever in the history of human endeavour has there been as fundamental potential technological change as is presented by artificial intelligence. It is staggering," said Biden.</p>

<p>PM Sunak said that that the US and the UK have agreed to work together on AI safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas | About Ducking Time: Apple to introduce AI-powered autocorrect</strong></p>

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<p>"Today, the President and I agreed to work together on AI safety," said Sunak.</p>

<p>Thursday's discussion between the two leaders had a focus on ensuring safety over AI and other technologies that are emerging, said Sunak. He said that Britain would host the first AI summit this year. The summit will see how the risks posed by AI can be tackled through global action.</p>

<p>"The UK looks forward to hosting the first global summit on AI safety later this year, so that we can seize the extraordinary possibilities of this new technological age, and do so with confidence," said Sunak.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-adopt-atlantic-declaration-to-tackle-emerging-global-threats-602333">US, UK adopt 'Atlantic Declaration' to tackle emerging global threats</a></strong></p>

<p>The last meeting between Biden and Sunak took place in Hiroshima, Japan last month at the Group of Seven (G7) summit. The two leaders also met in Belfast in April and before that in San Diego in March.</p>

<h2><strong>Supporting Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’</strong></h2>

<p>During the joint press conference,&nbsp;Biden expressed confidence that the US will support Ukraine in its war with Russia for 'as long as it takes'. There has been some hesitation among US lawmakers of Republican Party about helping Ukraine in an indefinite manner.</p>

<p>"The fact of the matter is that I believe we'll have the funding necessary to support Ukraine as long as it takes," said Biden.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Western countries, led by the US have poured in millions and millions of dollars for humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. This, among other factors, has been credited for Ukraine's success in defending its territory so far.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak condemns France knife attack</strong></h2>

<p>At the press conference, PM Sunak condemned a knife attack in French Alps in a park that wounded four preschool children including one from the UK.</p>

<p>"All our thoughts are with those affected by this unfathomable attack, including a British child," Sunak said at the start of the news conference.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak.

US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak. "I don't think ever in the history of human endeavour has there been as fundamental potential technological change as is presented by artificial intelligence. It is staggering," said Biden. PM Sunak said that that the US and the UK have agreed to work together on AI safety. Gravitas | About Ducking Time: Apple to introduce AI-powered autocorrect × "Today, the President and I agreed to work together on AI safety," said Sunak. Thursday's discussion between the two leaders had a focus on ensuring safety over AI and other technologies that are emerging, said Sunak. He said that Britain would host the first AI summit this year. The summit will see how the risks posed by AI can be tackled through global action. "The UK looks forward to hosting the first global summit on AI safety later this year, so that we can seize the extraordinary possibilities of this new technological age, and do so with confidence," said Sunak. Also Read | US, UK adopt 'Atlantic Declaration' to tackle emerging global threats The last meeting between Biden and Sunak took place in Hiroshima, Japan last month at the Group of Seven (G7) summit. The two leaders also met in Belfast in April and before that in San Diego in March. Supporting Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’ During the joint press conference, Biden expressed confidence that the US will support Ukraine in its war with Russia for 'as long as it takes'. There has been some hesitation among US lawmakers of Republican Party about helping Ukraine in an indefinite manner. "The fact of the matter is that I believe we'll have the funding necessary to support Ukraine as long as it takes," said Biden. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Western countries, led by the US have poured in millions and millions of dollars for humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. This, among other factors, has been credited for Ukraine's success in defending its territory so far. Sunak condemns France knife attack At the press conference, PM Sunak condemned a knife attack in French Alps in a park that wounded four preschool children including one from the UK. "All our thoughts are with those affected by this unfathomable attack, including a British child," Sunak said at the start of the news conference. (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 ×

AI risks need to be addressed, says Biden in joint news conference with Sunak

The United States and the United Kingdom on Thursday (June 8) struck a fresh strategic pact underlining the "special relationship" to tackle China, Russia, and economic instability. US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak adopted an "Atlantic Declaration" which is aimed at boosting industry ties on defence and renewable energy. The countries have come together in the face of growing competition from China.

Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China

Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic Declaration' to focus on defence, renewable energy industries

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (June 7) said that the UK will hold world's first summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI). He is in Washington and is due to meet US President Joe Biden on Thursday. He said that the AI summit will be held in the second half of the year.&nbsp;Sunak is also expected to voice his unstinting support for Ukraine as he meets the US president.</p>

<p>"AI has an incredible potential to transform our lives for the better. But we need to make sure it is developed and used in a way that is safe and secure," Sunak said.</p>

<p>"Time and time again throughout history, we have invented paradigm-shifting new technologies and we have harnessed them for the good of humanity. That is what we must do again," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gravitas | Sunak's tech adviser warns: Two years to doomsday due to AI</strong></p>

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<p>The Group of Seven called for action on AI during a summit in Japan last month.</p>

<p>The US has also held talks last week on an AI code of conduct with the European Union, of which the UK is no longer a part post-Brexit. Sunak is also trying to pitch that a future global AI regulator be based in London.</p>

<p>"The UK is well placed to play a leadership role. Outside of the US, we are probably the leading AI nation amongst democratic countries. We have an ability to get regulation right to protect our citizens," Sunak told Britain's TalkTV ahead of their summit.<br />
<br />
"Well actually, we discussed artificial intelligence when we were in Japan together with the president (at the G7) and I know he is also aware of the challenges and opportunities that it poses," Sunak added.<br />
<br />
Referring to the G7 call for action on AI regulation in Japan last month, Sunak's spokesman said, "The summit is expected to take place in the autumn and will gather like-minded countries&nbsp;to shape a regulatory response."</p>

<p>Sunak is on a two-day US visit. At the start of the visit, he laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery&nbsp;while soldiers fired a 19-gun salute.</p>

<p>"In memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in order that we might live free. We will remember them," said a hand-written message from Sunak on the wreath.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine war to dominate talks</strong></h2>

<p>The situation surrounding the Ukraine war is expected to dominate Biden-Sunak discussion. The meeting between the two leaders will take place just as Ukraine and Russia trade blame for blowing up the Kakhovka dam and damaging the Tolyatti-Odesa pipeline, the world's longest&nbsp;ammonia pipeline. The breach in the dam has triggered heavy floods.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-calls-kakhovka-dam-attack-barbaric-act-in-first-reaction-601830">Vladimir Putin calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act' in first reaction</a></strong></p>

<p>Aboard his plane from London, Sunak told reporters that if the dam has been targetted intentionally, the act would represent "the largest attack on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine since the start of the war, and just would demonstrate the new lows that we would have seen from Russian aggression"</p>

<p>The US and UK have not yet officially said who they think is behind the dam breach.</p>

<p>But in an interview with ITV News, Sunak said that Russia has pursued a "deliberate strategy to target civilian infrastructure."</p>

<p>"It is wrong, it's barbaric, and it's appalling. That's why we're providing such strong support to them and will continue to do so," he said of the Ukrainians.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (June 7) said that the UK will hold world's first summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI). He is in Washington and is due to meet US President Joe Biden on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (June 7) said that the UK will hold world's first summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI). He is in Washington and is due to meet US President Joe Biden on Thursday. He said that the AI summit will be held in the second half of the year. Sunak is also expected to voice his unstinting support for Ukraine as he meets the US president. "AI has an incredible potential to transform our lives for the better. But we need to make sure it is developed and used in a way that is safe and secure," Sunak said. "Time and time again throughout history, we have invented paradigm-shifting new technologies and we have harnessed them for the good of humanity. That is what we must do again," he added. Watch: Gravitas | Sunak's tech adviser warns: Two years to doomsday due to AI × The Group of Seven called for action on AI during a summit in Japan last month. The US has also held talks last week on an AI code of conduct with the European Union, of which the UK is no longer a part post-Brexit. Sunak is also trying to pitch that a future global AI regulator be based in London. "The UK is well placed to play a leadership role. Outside of the US, we are probably the leading AI nation amongst democratic countries. We have an ability to get regulation right to protect our citizens," Sunak told Britain's TalkTV ahead of their summit. "Well actually, we discussed artificial intelligence when we were in Japan together with the president (at the G7) and I know he is also aware of the challenges and opportunities that it poses," Sunak added. Referring to the G7 call for action on AI regulation in Japan last month, Sunak's spokesman said, "The summit is expected to take place in the autumn and will gather like-minded countries to shape a regulatory response." Sunak is on a two-day US visit. At the start of the visit, he laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery while soldiers fired a 19-gun salute. "In memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in order that we might live free. We will remember them," said a hand-written message from Sunak on the wreath. Ukraine war to dominate talks The situation surrounding the Ukraine war is expected to dominate Biden-Sunak discussion. The meeting between the two leaders will take place just as Ukraine and Russia trade blame for blowing up the Kakhovka dam and damaging the Tolyatti-Odesa pipeline, the world's longest ammonia pipeline. The breach in the dam has triggered heavy floods. Also Read | Vladimir Putin calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act' in first reaction Aboard his plane from London, Sunak told reporters that if the dam has been targetted intentionally, the act would represent "the largest attack on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine since the start of the war, and just would demonstrate the new lows that we would have seen from Russian aggression" The US and UK have not yet officially said who they think is behind the dam breach. But in an interview with ITV News, Sunak said that Russia has pursued a "deliberate strategy to target civilian infrastructure." "It is wrong, it's barbaric, and it's appalling. That's why we're providing such strong support to them and will continue to do so," he said of the Ukrainians. (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 will hold world’s first AI summit, says PM Sunak, pitches for London-based future global regulator

Britain's leader Rishi Sunak is in Washington for a two-day visit that marks his fourth encounter with President Joe Biden in as many months. But before checking in with his American counterpart, the cricket-loving prime minister caught a baseball game.

AI, Ukraine, Baseball: UK leader Rishi Sunak tours Washington

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that Suella Braverman's speeding episode didn’t breach the ministerial code and thus no further enquiry was required over the matter.</p>

<p>Sunak, after having discussions with his ethics adviser, decided that a further investigation was not necessary. In a letter sent to Braverman after talking to his ethics adviser Sir Laurie Magnus, Sunak wrote, “These matters do not amount to a breach of the ministerial code.”</p>

<p>Sunak acknowledged while steps may have been taken to prevent "the perception of impropriety," he was nonetheless reassured by Braverman's expression of regret and the fact that she took the matter seriously.</p>

<p>In earlier letters sent to Sunak, Braverman had written that she regretted speeding but also insisted that “at no point did I try to avoid sanction". She wrote, “My actions were always directed toward finding an appropriate way to participate in the speed awareness course, taking into account my new role as home secretary and the necessary security and privacy issues that this raised."</p>

<p>The involvement of civil servants in a personal matter could be seen as a breach of the ministerial code. This code states that ministers must ensure that no conflict arises between their public duties and private interests.</p>

<p>Given Braverman's role as Home Secretary, responsible for law enforcement, the clash between her public role and private actions may appear even more significant. The ministerial code also incorporates the seven "Nolan Principles," including selflessness and integrity, which could potentially be compromised by her actions.</p>

<p>Braverman has a history of ethics breaches. Last October, she resigned as Home Secretary in Liz Truss's government after admitting to emailing a confidential document from her personal email address to another MP. With Truss's leadership under pressure at the time, Braverman's resignation letter criticised the Prime Minister, stating, "pretending we haven't made mistakes... is not serious politics."</p>

<p>Surprisingly, she was reappointed to the same post by Sunak just a week later, a move seen as an attempt to strengthen support from right-wing Tories.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that Suella Braverman's speeding episode didn’t breach the ministerial code and thus no further enquiry was required over the matter.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that Suella Braverman's speeding episode didn’t breach the ministerial code and thus no further enquiry was required over the matter. Sunak, after having discussions with his ethics adviser, decided that a further investigation was not necessary. In a letter sent to Braverman after talking to his ethics adviser Sir Laurie Magnus, Sunak wrote, “These matters do not amount to a breach of the ministerial code.” Sunak acknowledged while steps may have been taken to prevent "the perception of impropriety," he was nonetheless reassured by Braverman's expression of regret and the fact that she took the matter seriously. In earlier letters sent to Sunak, Braverman had written that she regretted speeding but also insisted that “at no point did I try to avoid sanction". She wrote, “My actions were always directed toward finding an appropriate way to participate in the speed awareness course, taking into account my new role as home secretary and the necessary security and privacy issues that this raised." The involvement of civil servants in a personal matter could be seen as a breach of the ministerial code. This code states that ministers must ensure that no conflict arises between their public duties and private interests. Given Braverman's role as Home Secretary, responsible for law enforcement, the clash between her public role and private actions may appear even more significant. The ministerial code also incorporates the seven "Nolan Principles," including selflessness and integrity, which could potentially be compromised by her actions. Braverman has a history of ethics breaches. Last October, she resigned as Home Secretary in Liz Truss's government after admitting to emailing a confidential document from her personal email address to another MP. With Truss's leadership under pressure at the time, Braverman's resignation letter criticised the Prime Minister, stating, "pretending we haven't made mistakes... is not serious politics." Surprisingly, she was reappointed to the same post by Sunak just a week later, a move seen as an attempt to strengthen support from right-wing Tories. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK PM Sunak decides against ordering further enquiry into Braverman’s speeding fiasco

<p>Rishi Sunak suffered devastating losses of more than 1,000 Tory seats in the local elections, while Labour&nbsp;claimed that the party is on pace to take power at the next general election.&nbsp;The prime minister acknowledged the English council results were "disappointing" on Friday, but he was met with a harsh response from some of his MPs and the first signs of a challenge to his leadership from Boris Johnson's allies.</p>

<p>Gaining more than 500 seats gave Labour leader Keir Starmer encouragement, and the party believes that with its anticipated vote share, it will be in a position to take power in 2024 for the first time in 14 years, reported the Guardian.</p>

<p>According to projections made by the BBC, using just local results from England, Labour received 35 per cent&nbsp;of the vote, followed by the Conservatives (26 per cent), the Lib Dems (20&nbsp;per cent)), and other parties with (19&nbsp;per cent).</p>

<p>With an equal vote share advantage of eight–nine&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;over the Tories, Labour anticipated this would be its best local election performance since 1997 on Friday night. If this happened again in a Westminster election, according to Labour sources, it might lead to a Starmer majority government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to gaining ground on the Conservatives in the north and the Midlands of England, Labour also won control of southern councils like Plymouth, Swindon, Dover, and Medway. This has not happened since the days of the local government's inception.</p>

<p>The party achieved unexpected victories in Hertsmere, Hertfordshire, the residence of Oliver Dowden, the deputy prime minister, when the Tories lost overall control of the council.</p>

<p>The Tories lost more than 1,000 council seats by the end of Friday as&nbsp;bad news kept coming in throughout the day, and other councils were yet to publish their results.</p>

<p>“Make no mistake, we are on course for a Labour majority at the next general election,”&nbsp;Starmer stated, after previously warning his shadow party to exercise care and not becoming complacent about their chances of success.</p>

<p>More than 400 seats won by the Liberal Democrats against the Tories in the south of England raised their aspirations of being kingmakers in any hung parliament at the next election.</p>

<p>Their wins included Stratford-upon-Avon, the residence of the former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, and Windsor and Maidenhead, the local council of the former prime minister Theresa May.</p>

<p>A hung parliament was also predicted by the Scottish National Party, whose leader in Westminster, Stephen Flynn, asserted that it was "increasingly clear the SNP can hold the balance of power after the next election".<br />
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Rishi Sunak suffered devastating losses of more than 1,000 Tory seats in the local elections, while Labour claimed that the party is on pace to take power at the next general election.

Rishi Sunak suffered devastating losses of more than 1,000 Tory seats in the local elections, while Labour claimed that the party is on pace to take power at the next general election. The prime minister acknowledged the English council results were "disappointing" on Friday, but he was met with a harsh response from some of his MPs and the first signs of a challenge to his leadership from Boris Johnson's allies. Gaining more than 500 seats gave Labour leader Keir Starmer encouragement, and the party believes that with its anticipated vote share, it will be in a position to take power in 2024 for the first time in 14 years, reported the Guardian. According to projections made by the BBC, using just local results from England, Labour received 35 per cent of the vote, followed by the Conservatives (26 per cent), the Lib Dems (20 per cent)), and other parties with (19 per cent). With an equal vote share advantage of eight–nine per cent over the Tories, Labour anticipated this would be its best local election performance since 1997 on Friday night. If this happened again in a Westminster election, according to Labour sources, it might lead to a Starmer majority government. In addition to gaining ground on the Conservatives in the north and the Midlands of England, Labour also won control of southern councils like Plymouth, Swindon, Dover, and Medway. This has not happened since the days of the local government's inception. The party achieved unexpected victories in Hertsmere, Hertfordshire, the residence of Oliver Dowden, the deputy prime minister, when the Tories lost overall control of the council. The Tories lost more than 1,000 council seats by the end of Friday as bad news kept coming in throughout the day, and other councils were yet to publish their results. “Make no mistake, we are on course for a Labour majority at the next general election,” Starmer stated, after previously warning his shadow party to exercise care and not becoming complacent about their chances of success. More than 400 seats won by the Liberal Democrats against the Tories in the south of England raised their aspirations of being kingmakers in any hung parliament at the next election. Their wins included Stratford-upon-Avon, the residence of the former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, and Windsor and Maidenhead, the local council of the former prime minister Theresa May. A hung parliament was also predicted by the Scottish National Party, whose leader in Westminster, Stephen Flynn, asserted that it was "increasingly clear the SNP can hold the balance of power after the next election". WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces questions on leadership as Tories suffer severe drubbing in local elections

According to a recent review of the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal done by the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO), over $123 billion has been set aside as a "contingency" for Australia's greatest ever defence investment. The $368 billion nuclear-powered submarine program's breakdown of costs discloses that Defence has budgeted $123 billion for a 50% contingency that is not allocated by year but rather "is triggered on the occurrence of a contingent event."

Aukus: Nuclear submarines will cost Australia up to $368 billion

Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s hard-right prime minister, has endorsed Rishi Sunak’s tough stance on immigration, in spite of misgivings among her officials about backing the UK policy of deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda.

Giorgia Meloni endorses Rishi Sunak's hard line on immigration

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris met three Tennessee lawmakers at the White House on Monday after they faced expulsion for participating in gun control protests at their statehouse, calling the decision to remove two of them shocking and undemocratic.

US President met three expelled Tennessee lawmakers; Strike threat looms over UK

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's closest friend, Dominic Raab quit following claims that he had mistreated staff, dealing a major blow to his position as leader. Dominic Raab announced his decision to step down as deputy prime minister and justice secretary in a letter that was published on Twitter on Friday. He said that this came after an official investigation determined that some of the accusations made against him were true.

Rishi Sunak did not ask Deputy PM Dominic Raab to resign : Report

In announcing a review of the subject in England, Rishi Sunak claimed that a "anti-maths mindset" is stifling the economy. The "core maths content" taught in schools will be examined by a group of experts, comprising mathematicians and business leaders. It will also take into account whether a new mathematical credential is required. Opposition parties, however, criticised the government's track record of hiring maths instructors.

Rishi Sunak's plan to make maths compulsory in UK schools

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Nearly two years after discontinuing the use of the controversial robot dog, the New York Police Department (NYPD) is bringing it back. China’s artificial sun broke all records as it generated extremely hot plasma for seven minutes on the night of April 12. The artificial sun project is based on nuclear fusion, giving China an unlimited energy source without generating residual waste.

Robotic dogs to make a comeback to NYPD; China's artificial sun sets new record

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