<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

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

According to sources, British opposition leader Keir Starmer is planning to use the Labour manifesto to make his strongest commitment on Palestinian statehood since the war in Gaza started.

UK's Labour party to push for Palestine's recognition as war rages

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour challenger Keir Starmer on Tuesday (June 4) went head-to-head in their first debate ahead of July elections. The two leaders clashed over how to rejuvenate Britain's economy, with Sunak accusing the opposition of planning tax hikes if it wins the upcoming July 4 election.</p>

<h2><strong>First debate</strong></h2>

<p>Just weeks before Britain's General Elections, in their first debate, both leaders stuck to their campaign narratives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak, a Conservative, claimed only he had a viable strategy for boosting the economy, while Starmer portrayed the Conservatives as responsible for 14 years of economic chaos.</p>

<p>During the lively debate, a relatively recent feature in British politics that attracts significant voter attention, the leaders sparred over the cost-of-living crisis, public health service waiting lists, and immigration.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-elections-pm-sunak-vows-to-introduce-immigration-cap-if-re-elected-opposition-labour-set-for-record-win-728734">UK elections: PM Sunak vows to introduce immigration cap if re-elected; opposition Labour set for record win</a></strong></p>

<p>The questions highlighted common voter concerns: rising living costs, long health service waits, and declining education standards.</p>

<p>Although the debate yielded few new insights, an immediate opinion poll suggested Sunak emerged as the winner of the debate. This is contrary to wider opinion polls that predict a win for Labour in the July elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Labour, higher taxes, and Sunak on the offensive</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak reiterated the Conservative attack that Labour's only plan was to increase taxes by £2,000 (over $2,500) per person.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Mark my words, Labour will raise your taxes. (It) is in their DNA. Your work, your car, your pension, you name it, Labour will tax it," he claimed.</p>

<p>Starmer did not immediately refute this, later dismissing the £2,000 figure as "nonsense." Labour has pledged not to raise income tax or National Insurance if it gains power.</p>

<p>Speaking to an&nbsp;audience member, Starmer shared his working-class background, contrasting it with Sunak's wealth: "I do know the anguish of worrying when the postman comes with a bill, what bill is it, am I going to be able to I pay it? I don’t think the prime minister quite understands."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-led-us-house-votes-to-sanction-icc-defends-israel-against-war-crime-charges-728794">Republican-led US House votes to sanction ICC, defends Israel against war crime charges</a></strong></p>

<p>Starmer criticised the Conservatives for 14 years of chaos and opposed Sunak's mandatory national service plan. Sunak drew groans for blaming NHS waiting lists on strikes and was laughed at when he claimed the numbers were decreasing.</p>

<p>However, he regained some ground by discussing immigration. Sunak defended his plan to send illegal asylum seekers to Rwanda, contrasting it with Labour's lack of a similar deterrent. He promised to prioritise national security over any foreign court's decisions.</p>

<p>Starmer stated he would tackle immigration too, and that he would consider third-country asylum processing if it didn't breach international law.&nbsp;To this, Sunak, facing a 20-point deficit in polls, attacked the labour leader's&nbsp;lack of a clear plan.</p>

<p>In his closing remarks, Sunak criticised Starmer: "Keir Starmer is asking you to hand him a blank cheque without explaining its cost or what it will buy. In uncertain times, we simply cannot afford an uncertain prime minister."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK: Business leaders endorse Labour</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-business-leaders-endorse-labour-ahead-of-general-election-726123/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Starmer countered, promising no "gimmicks or unfunded promises" like those he attributed to Sunak. He urged voters to reject "five more years of Conservative decline and division."</p>

<p>"Imagine how you would feel waking up on July 5 to five more years of the Conservatives, five more years of decline and division, the arsonists handed back the matches," he said.</p>

<p>"Now imagine turning the page with a Labour government that rolls up its sleeves and gets on with the job… The choice at this election is clear: more chaos with the Conservatives or the chance to rebuild Britain with a changed Labour Party."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour challenger Keir Starmer on Tuesday (June 4) went head-to-head in their first debate ahead of July elections. The two leaders clashed over how to rejuvenate Britain's economy, with Sunak accusing the opposition of planning tax hikes if it wins the upcoming July 4 election.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour challenger Keir Starmer on Tuesday (June 4) went head-to-head in their first debate ahead of July elections. The two leaders clashed over how to rejuvenate Britain's economy, with Sunak accusing the opposition of planning tax hikes if it wins the upcoming July 4 election. First debate Just weeks before Britain's General Elections, in their first debate, both leaders stuck to their campaign narratives. Sunak, a Conservative, claimed only he had a viable strategy for boosting the economy, while Starmer portrayed the Conservatives as responsible for 14 years of economic chaos. During the lively debate, a relatively recent feature in British politics that attracts significant voter attention, the leaders sparred over the cost-of-living crisis, public health service waiting lists, and immigration. Also read | UK elections: PM Sunak vows to introduce immigration cap if re-elected; opposition Labour set for record win The questions highlighted common voter concerns: rising living costs, long health service waits, and declining education standards. Although the debate yielded few new insights, an immediate opinion poll suggested Sunak emerged as the winner of the debate. This is contrary to wider opinion polls that predict a win for Labour in the July elections. Labour, higher taxes, and Sunak on the offensive Sunak reiterated the Conservative attack that Labour's only plan was to increase taxes by £2,000 (over $2,500) per person. "Mark my words, Labour will raise your taxes. (It) is in their DNA. Your work, your car, your pension, you name it, Labour will tax it," he claimed. Starmer did not immediately refute this, later dismissing the £2,000 figure as "nonsense." Labour has pledged not to raise income tax or National Insurance if it gains power. Speaking to an audience member, Starmer shared his working-class background, contrasting it with Sunak's wealth: "I do know the anguish of worrying when the postman comes with a bill, what bill is it, am I going to be able to I pay it? I don’t think the prime minister quite understands." Also read | Republican-led US House votes to sanction ICC, defends Israel against war crime charges Starmer criticised the Conservatives for 14 years of chaos and opposed Sunak's mandatory national service plan. Sunak drew groans for blaming NHS waiting lists on strikes and was laughed at when he claimed the numbers were decreasing. However, he regained some ground by discussing immigration. Sunak defended his plan to send illegal asylum seekers to Rwanda, contrasting it with Labour's lack of a similar deterrent. He promised to prioritise national security over any foreign court's decisions. Starmer stated he would tackle immigration too, and that he would consider third-country asylum processing if it didn't breach international law. To this, Sunak, facing a 20-point deficit in polls, attacked the labour leader's lack of a clear plan. In his closing remarks, Sunak criticised Starmer: "Keir Starmer is asking you to hand him a blank cheque without explaining its cost or what it will buy. In uncertain times, we simply cannot afford an uncertain prime minister." WATCH | UK: Business leaders endorse Labour Starmer countered, promising no "gimmicks or unfunded promises" like those he attributed to Sunak. He urged voters to reject "five more years of Conservative decline and division." "Imagine how you would feel waking up on July 5 to five more years of the Conservatives, five more years of decline and division, the arsonists handed back the matches," he said. "Now imagine turning the page with a Labour government that rolls up its sleeves and gets on with the job… The choice at this election is clear: more chaos with the Conservatives or the chance to rebuild Britain with a changed Labour Party." (With inputs from agencies)

UK election heats up: Sunak and Starmer go head-to-head on immigration and taxes in first debate

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

<p>Britain’s first Black female lawmaker, Diane Abbott, on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that she was being barred by the Labour Party from standing as its candidate in the upcoming general election. However, the party leader Keir Starmer later denied this claim saying no decision had been taken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Labour leader Keir Starmer later said on May 31 that&nbsp;Abbott is "free to go forward as a Labour candidate" at the general election.</p>

<h2>Was Abbott really barred from running?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Abbott, 70, is Britain’s longest-serving Black member of parliament and a leading figure of the Labour’s left wing who has campaigned on such issues as racism, poverty and international affairs since she was first elected nearly four decades ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, she was suspended by Labour last year after contentious comments she made about Irish, Jewish and Traveller people saying that they have not faced racism “all their lives”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;How Reform UK &amp; Nigel Farage may influence 2024 elections</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-2024-how-reform-uk-nigel-farage-may-influence-2024-elections-726807/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Although Abbott promptly and “unreservedly’ apologised and withdrew the remarks, she was suspended last year.</p>

<p>The ex-shadow home secretary’s suspension was lifted&nbsp;on Tuesday (May 28)&nbsp;following the investigation by the party. The findings of the probe were not publicly disclosed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 70-year-old lawmaker received online racist and sexist abuse after a letter to a newspaper about Jewish people and racism, saying that while they “undoubtedly experience prejudice,” they are “not all their lives subject to racism.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>While she was readmitted to Labour’s parliamentary ranks Abbott said she had been “banned” from standing as the party’s candidate in the July 4 election.</p>

<p>Quoting Abbott, a report by Times newspaper said she would be barred from running in her northeast London district in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Starmer denies reports</strong></h2>

<p>The British MP’s claims were denied later on Wednesday by Starmer. “No that’s not true. No decision has been taken to bar Diane Abbott,” said the Labour party leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-general-elections-to-be-held-in-july-reports-724367">Sunak&nbsp;calls general elections on July 4 in surprise move</a></strong></p>

<p>However, it was not immediately clear if she would not be barred since he said no formal decision about her candidacy had been made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abbott had taken to X and said that she was “delighted” to be a part of the party again. She added, “I will be campaigning for a Labour victory.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“But I am very dismayed that numerous reports suggest I have been barred as a candidate,” said Abbott, who blazed a trail for other Black women politicians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, reports suggest that the 70-year-old lawmaker may not be out of the woods just yet as Starmer has sought to purge Labour of some left-wing members and to tackle any allegations of antisemitism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-general-elections-2024-jeremy-corbyn-to-challenge-labour-party-as-independent-candidate-724955">Jeremy Corbyn to challenge Labour Party as independent candidate</a></strong></p>

<p>The Labour party leader might make the move after the UK’s equalities watchdog accused the opposition party of discrimination against Jews under his predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Corbyn, who led the party from 2015 to 2020, has been barred from running as a Labour candidate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recent polls, as per Reuters, have suggested that barring Abbott could lead to anger among Black voters who have traditionally voted for Labour.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Britain’s first Black female lawmaker, Diane Abbott, on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that she was being barred by the Labour Party from standing as its candidate in the upcoming general election.

Britain’s first Black female lawmaker, Diane Abbott, on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that she was being barred by the Labour Party from standing as its candidate in the upcoming general election. However, the party leader Keir Starmer later denied this claim saying no decision had been taken. But Labour leader Keir Starmer later said on May 31 that Abbott is "free to go forward as a Labour candidate" at the general election. Was Abbott really barred from running? Abbott, 70, is Britain’s longest-serving Black member of parliament and a leading figure of the Labour’s left wing who has campaigned on such issues as racism, poverty and international affairs since she was first elected nearly four decades ago. However, she was suspended by Labour last year after contentious comments she made about Irish, Jewish and Traveller people saying that they have not faced racism “all their lives”. WATCH | How Reform UK & Nigel Farage may influence 2024 elections Although Abbott promptly and “unreservedly’ apologised and withdrew the remarks, she was suspended last year. The ex-shadow home secretary’s suspension was lifted on Tuesday (May 28) following the investigation by the party. The findings of the probe were not publicly disclosed. The 70-year-old lawmaker received online racist and sexist abuse after a letter to a newspaper about Jewish people and racism, saying that while they “undoubtedly experience prejudice,” they are “not all their lives subject to racism.” While she was readmitted to Labour’s parliamentary ranks Abbott said she had been “banned” from standing as the party’s candidate in the July 4 election. Quoting Abbott, a report by Times newspaper said she would be barred from running in her northeast London district in the upcoming elections. Starmer denies reports The British MP’s claims were denied later on Wednesday by Starmer. “No that’s not true. No decision has been taken to bar Diane Abbott,” said the Labour party leader. Also Read | Sunak calls general elections on July 4 in surprise move However, it was not immediately clear if she would not be barred since he said no formal decision about her candidacy had been made. Abbott had taken to X and said that she was “delighted” to be a part of the party again. She added, “I will be campaigning for a Labour victory.” “But I am very dismayed that numerous reports suggest I have been barred as a candidate,” said Abbott, who blazed a trail for other Black women politicians. However, reports suggest that the 70-year-old lawmaker may not be out of the woods just yet as Starmer has sought to purge Labour of some left-wing members and to tackle any allegations of antisemitism. Also Read | Jeremy Corbyn to challenge Labour Party as independent candidate The Labour party leader might make the move after the UK’s equalities watchdog accused the opposition party of discrimination against Jews under his predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn. Corbyn, who led the party from 2015 to 2020, has been barred from running as a Labour candidate. Recent polls, as per Reuters, have suggested that barring Abbott could lead to anger among Black voters who have traditionally voted for Labour. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's first Black female MP Diane Abbott 'free to go forward as a Labour candidate': Keir Starmer

More bad news for the UK's Conservative Party as a new poll that suggests that the Rishi Sunak-led party is on course for its worst election defeat ever. Watch to know more.

Former Tory MP Mark Logan to support Labour in general polls

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

<p>As the election season comes up in the UK, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his&nbsp;wife&nbsp;Akshata&nbsp; Murty&nbsp;have jointly shared an adorable post on Instagram, revealing the six things that they have in common.</p>

<p>The PM below posted a long list, spanning shared love for 'Friends' to eating Spanish food.</p>

<p>"People always ask us - 'What is the thing you have most in common?'," the PM wrote.</p>

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<p>"It's the values that we share. We share the belief that hard work should decide where you go in life. We share the belief that it takes bold action to make a difference," the PM wrote in the caption shared along with a photo of the duo.</p>

<p>"We share the belief that our children will inherit a better world than the one we share today," the PM concluded.</p>

<p>Earlier, Akshata had shared another post on Instagram, expressing support for her husband as he seeks another term in office after the July 4 elections.</p>

<p>"I'm with you, every step of the way," she wrote.</p>

<p>Sunak is optimistic about winning&nbsp;as he said&nbsp;the economy was "pointing in the right direction and the future is going to be better".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwinja-25a2GAxXH-DgGHcXVBbgQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parties-launch-campaigns-as-sunak-surprises-with-early-election-nigel-farage-opts-out-724600" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parties-launch-campaigns-as-sunak-surprises-with-early-election-nigel-farage-opts-out-724600&amp;ved=2ahUKEwinja-25a2GAxXH-DgGHcXVBbgQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out</a></strong></p>

<p>"At the beginning of this year, there is a sense that the country is pointing in the right direction because economic conditions have improved, because the plan is working, you are starting to see mortgage rates come down, and we have been able to cut taxes. I do believe those pressures are starting to ease and that hopefully, over the course of this year, we can continue to make even more progress," Sunak added.</p>

<p>He also talked about his plans to cut taxes. He said, "It's because those are my values; those are the values of my party. It's one where hard work should be rewarded. Actually, the best way to express that through the tax system is to cut people's taxes so that when they are working hard, they get to enjoy more of the rewards for themselves and their families. Because economic conditions have improved, because the plan is working, you are starting to see mortgage rates come down, and we have been able to cut taxes."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the election season comes up in the UK, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty have jointly shared an adorable post on Instagram, revealing the six things that they have in common.

As the election season comes up in the UK, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty have jointly shared an adorable post on Instagram, revealing the six things that they have in common. The PM below posted a long list, spanning shared love for 'Friends' to eating Spanish food. "People always ask us - 'What is the thing you have most in common?'," the PM wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rishi Sunak (@rishisunakmp) × "It's the values that we share. We share the belief that hard work should decide where you go in life. We share the belief that it takes bold action to make a difference," the PM wrote in the caption shared along with a photo of the duo. "We share the belief that our children will inherit a better world than the one we share today," the PM concluded. Earlier, Akshata had shared another post on Instagram, expressing support for her husband as he seeks another term in office after the July 4 elections. "I'm with you, every step of the way," she wrote. Sunak is optimistic about winning as he said the economy was "pointing in the right direction and the future is going to be better". Also read: UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out "At the beginning of this year, there is a sense that the country is pointing in the right direction because economic conditions have improved, because the plan is working, you are starting to see mortgage rates come down, and we have been able to cut taxes. I do believe those pressures are starting to ease and that hopefully, over the course of this year, we can continue to make even more progress," Sunak added. He also talked about his plans to cut taxes. He said, "It's because those are my values; those are the values of my party. It's one where hard work should be rewarded. Actually, the best way to express that through the tax system is to cut people's taxes so that when they are working hard, they get to enjoy more of the rewards for themselves and their families. Because economic conditions have improved, because the plan is working, you are starting to see mortgage rates come down, and we have been able to cut taxes." (With inputs from agencies)

‘From Friends to Spanish food,’ UK PM Sunak, wife Murty reveal what they have in common

The Conservative Party of the United Kingdom acknowledged that it is still lacking people to run in about 150 constituencies. According to a source, the party was prepared with candidates for three-quarters of the seats in the United Kingdom. This means that 474 of the 632 seats are still unfilled, leaving 158 places available. In Northern Ireland, the party usually fields no candidates.

UK: Trouble for Tory as the party is yet to find 150 candidates after MP exodus

Following UK Prime Minister's surprise election announcements Scotland has also kickstarted preparations for the July polls. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak meets Scotland's Conservative leader Douglass Ross before early elections

<p>Jeremy Corbyn, former Labour leader who was suspended from the party due to a dispute over antisemitism, has said he would be running as an independent candidate in Islington North in the upcoming UK general elections, as reported by the BBC.</p>

<p>This decision poses a challenge for Sir Keir Starmer, who had barred Corbyn from representing Labour after he did not apologise for his management of antisemitism issues within the party.</p>

<h2><strong>Who's next in line in Islington North?</strong></h2>

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<p>Labour is yet to choose a candidate for Islington North, where Jeremy Corbyn won a big majority of 26,188 votes in the 2019 general election.</p>

<p>This majority makes Islington North one of Labour's safest seats, and Corbyn's supporters believe he can win again.</p>

<p>Labour has shortlisted Sem Moema, a member of the London Assembly, and Praful Nargund, an Islington councillor, as potential candidates for the upcoming election.</p>

<p>Former BBC journalist Paul Mason did not make the final shortlist. The selected candidate will be announced on June 1.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/infected-blood-scandal-uk-announces-267000-interim-compensation-for-victims-724038">Also read | Infected blood scandal: UK announces $267,000 interim compensation for victims</a></p>

<p>Corbyn was suspended from Labour for "a failure to retract his words," which he described as a "political" move.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls to reinstate Corbyn ally Diane Abbott to Labour’s parliamentary ranks after welcoming Tory defector Natalie Elphicke.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak officially launched the general election campaign on Wednesday night (May 22), announcing that the election will take place on July 4.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | PM Sunak says 'no Rwanda flights before General Election</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-sunak-says-no-rwanda-flights-before-general-election-724927/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In a speech outside No 10 Downing Street, Sunak defended his track record on the economy, national security, and immigration.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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Jeremy Corbyn, former Labour leader who was suspended from the party due to a dispute over antisemitism, has said he would be running as an independent candidate in Islington North in the upcoming UK general elections, as reported by the BBC.

Jeremy Corbyn, former Labour leader who was suspended from the party due to a dispute over antisemitism, has said he would be running as an independent candidate in Islington North in the upcoming UK general elections, as reported by the BBC. This decision poses a challenge for Sir Keir Starmer, who had barred Corbyn from representing Labour after he did not apologise for his management of antisemitism issues within the party. Who's next in line in Islington North? Labour is yet to choose a candidate for Islington North, where Jeremy Corbyn won a big majority of 26,188 votes in the 2019 general election. This majority makes Islington North one of Labour's safest seats, and Corbyn's supporters believe he can win again. Labour has shortlisted Sem Moema, a member of the London Assembly, and Praful Nargund, an Islington councillor, as potential candidates for the upcoming election. Former BBC journalist Paul Mason did not make the final shortlist. The selected candidate will be announced on June 1. Also read | Infected blood scandal: UK announces $267,000 interim compensation for victims Corbyn was suspended from Labour for "a failure to retract his words," which he described as a "political" move. Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls to reinstate Corbyn ally Diane Abbott to Labour’s parliamentary ranks after welcoming Tory defector Natalie Elphicke. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak officially launched the general election campaign on Wednesday night (May 22), announcing that the election will take place on July 4. Also watch | PM Sunak says 'no Rwanda flights before General Election In a speech outside No 10 Downing Street, Sunak defended his track record on the economy, national security, and immigration. (With inputs from agencies)

UK general elections 2024: Jeremy Corbyn to challenge Labour Party as independent candidate

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday (May 22) announced that the general election will be held on July 4 and that the King has granted the dissolution of parliament.

UK: Drenched in rain, Sunak calls for summer polls

Scotland's leader Humza Yousaf resigned on Monday, further opening the door to the UK opposition Labour Party regaining ground in its former Scottish heartlands in a national election expected to be held later this year.

Humza Yousaf quits as Scotland's first minister in boost to Labour’s chances in UK vote

Rishi Sunak is bracing for one of the most challenging weeks of is Premiership. The Tory rebels are potentially plotting to oust Sunak, if the local elections prove to be a disaster.

UK: Rishi Sunak braces for a challenging week of local elections

UK Elections might be a few months away but the country's media regulator has already clamped down on broadcasting networks and radio stations to ensure impartial coverage.

UK: Politicians under scanner for hosting TV shows, Ofcom calls for 'impartial coverage'

With less than eight months to go until an expected autumn UK general election, Rishi Sunak has a steep climb to avoid defeat. Support for the Conservatives has dropped to a low of 23 per cent. Watch in for more details!

UK national elections expected this year, PM Rishi Sunak undecided on date

<p>More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Voting is a basic right’</strong></h2>

<p>The end to the so-called 15-year limit also brings an end to an almost 20-year court battle by the late Harry Shindler, who challenged the rule in the high court in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Voting is a basic citizenship right regardless of where someone lives,” said co-chair Jane Golding of the campaign group British in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “This is a historic change to the UK franchise after years of campaigning by ourselves and others, particularly long-term campaigner Harry Shindler, who sadly died before he could use his hard-won vote.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK General Elections: Rishi Sunak calls for elections in 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-general-elections-rishi-sunak-calls-for-elections-in-2024-671366/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The scrapping of the limit also marks the biggest increase in the British electoral franchise since the introduction of full female suffrage in 1928.</p>

<p>The end of the 15-year rule following the implementation of the Elections Act 2022 last month, is a relief to those who had been repeatedly let down by several UK governments in the last two decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The law allows British citizens worldwide to register to vote online regardless of how long they have been overseas.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-15-other-minister-at-risk-of-losing-2024-general-elections-report-550570">UK PM Rishi Sunak, 15 other ministers at risk of losing 2024 general elections: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The registration will be linked to the addresses in the UK they were either registered to vote at or lived at, enabling them to remain on the electoral roll for up to three years. The electors can also apply online for either a postal or proxy vote after the registration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the government estimates, Tuesday’s change in law could enfranchise around 3.5 million people across the world. The move was also introduced in time for the next general election, the date of which has yet to be decided by the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Votes for Life’ campaign</strong></h2>

<p>The change in the election law also comes after years of campaigning by various advocates, including the long-running “Votes for Life” campaign led by an overseas arm of the Conservatives. It has also been a long-standing Conservative Manifesto commitment.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-indicates-britain-will-likely-go-to-polls-in-last-six-months-of-2024-676621">&nbsp;Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates</a></strong></p>

<p>“From today, millions of British nationals across the world can exercise their right to vote in future general elections and have their say in the way their country should be governed,” said Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The Conservatives have once again shown that we are the party for democracy and protecting an individual’s right to vote.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The enactment also comes despite several attempts to thwart the plans by the opposition Labour Party which introduced the 15-year rule in 2001 and another party Liberal Democrats who opposed changing the rule during the 2010-2015 coalition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights.

More than three million British citizens living abroad will regain their right to vote in all elections across the United Kingdom starting Tuesday (Jan 16), marking the end of an arbitrary 15-year limit on voting rights. ‘Voting is a basic right’ The end to the so-called 15-year limit also brings an end to an almost 20-year court battle by the late Harry Shindler, who challenged the rule in the high court in 2016. “Voting is a basic citizenship right regardless of where someone lives,” said co-chair Jane Golding of the campaign group British in Europe. She added, “This is a historic change to the UK franchise after years of campaigning by ourselves and others, particularly long-term campaigner Harry Shindler, who sadly died before he could use his hard-won vote.” WATCH | UK General Elections: Rishi Sunak calls for elections in 2024 The scrapping of the limit also marks the biggest increase in the British electoral franchise since the introduction of full female suffrage in 1928. The end of the 15-year rule following the implementation of the Elections Act 2022 last month, is a relief to those who had been repeatedly let down by several UK governments in the last two decades. The law allows British citizens worldwide to register to vote online regardless of how long they have been overseas. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak, 15 other ministers at risk of losing 2024 general elections: Report The registration will be linked to the addresses in the UK they were either registered to vote at or lived at, enabling them to remain on the electoral roll for up to three years. The electors can also apply online for either a postal or proxy vote after the registration. According to the government estimates, Tuesday’s change in law could enfranchise around 3.5 million people across the world. The move was also introduced in time for the next general election, the date of which has yet to be decided by the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. ‘Votes for Life’ campaign The change in the election law also comes after years of campaigning by various advocates, including the long-running “Votes for Life” campaign led by an overseas arm of the Conservatives. It has also been a long-standing Conservative Manifesto commitment. ALSO READ | Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates “From today, millions of British nationals across the world can exercise their right to vote in future general elections and have their say in the way their country should be governed,” said Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, in a statement. He added, “The Conservatives have once again shown that we are the party for democracy and protecting an individual’s right to vote.” The enactment also comes despite several attempts to thwart the plans by the opposition Labour Party which introduced the 15-year rule in 2001 and another party Liberal Democrats who opposed changing the rule during the 2010-2015 coalition. (With inputs from agencies)

Millions of Britons living abroad regain right to vote in UK elections

United Kingdom to head for the General Elections in 2024. UK PM Rishi Sunak is expected to call for the polls next year. However, there is no clarity on the exact date yet.

UK: PM Rishi Sunak's 7th by-election since July, to take place in Wellingborough | World News | WION

<p>The upcoming UK election is all set to be the most unequal in 60 years, a think-tank has revealed.</p>

<p>Unequal election means that the gap in voter turnout based on age, income, class, home ownership and ethnicity has widened the most so far.</p>

<p>The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), a think tank,&nbsp;released a report recently which showed that the gap between social groups was the least in the 1960s but had grown to 18 per cent by 2010.</p>

<h2><strong>Underrepresentation of humble classes</strong></h2>

<p>It also noted that those who sit at the top of the social structure were more likely to vote in the elections than those sitting at the bottom, highlighting the sheer underrepresentation of humble classes in the general elections.</p>

<p>The IPPR found that nine in every 10 people in the top third of the income distribution voted in the two most recent general elections, compared with only seven in 10 from the bottom third.</p>

<p>The study also revealed that one in three university graduates has directly contacted a politician whereas the figure for people without degrees stood at just one in seven.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-apologises-to-bereaved-families-in-covid-inquiry-faces-critique-on-economic-focus-668537"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak apologises to bereaved families in Covid inquiry, faces critique on economic focus</strong></a></p>

<p>Dr Parth Patel, a senior research fellow at the IPPR, was quoted by the Guardian as saying that one of the consequences was that government policy was more attuned to the needs of the older, better-off and those with higher levels of education.</p>

<p>“There are real differences in who gets their way in our democracy. Policy is more responsive to preferences of the well-heeled than of the worse off, and people know this – but it seems to be a blind spot for most politicians,” he said.</p>

<p>“No matter who’s in power, our democratic machine needs rewiring. If people are once again to be authors of their own lives, and to feel secure, they must sense their influence in the collective decision-making endeavour that is democracy,” he was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Dangerous for UK democracy</strong></h2>

<p>The study revealed that the UK risked entering a “doom loop” where government policies were becoming less responsive to the needs of the citizens, “in turn stoking populism and further undermining faith in democracy”.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time</strong></p>

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<p>To counter this, it recommends a new wave of constitutional reform to spread power and influence in the UK, if living standards and life expectancy are to start improving across the board again.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The upcoming UK election is all set to be the most unequal in 60 years, a think-tank has revealed. Unequal election means that the gap in voter turnout based on age, income, class, home ownership and ethnicity has widened the most so far.

The upcoming UK election is all set to be the most unequal in 60 years, a think-tank has revealed. Unequal election means that the gap in voter turnout based on age, income, class, home ownership and ethnicity has widened the most so far. The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), a think tank, released a report recently which showed that the gap between social groups was the least in the 1960s but had grown to 18 per cent by 2010. Underrepresentation of humble classes It also noted that those who sit at the top of the social structure were more likely to vote in the elections than those sitting at the bottom, highlighting the sheer underrepresentation of humble classes in the general elections. The IPPR found that nine in every 10 people in the top third of the income distribution voted in the two most recent general elections, compared with only seven in 10 from the bottom third. The study also revealed that one in three university graduates has directly contacted a politician whereas the figure for people without degrees stood at just one in seven. Also read: UK PM Rishi Sunak apologises to bereaved families in Covid inquiry, faces critique on economic focus Dr Parth Patel, a senior research fellow at the IPPR, was quoted by the Guardian as saying that one of the consequences was that government policy was more attuned to the needs of the older, better-off and those with higher levels of education. “There are real differences in who gets their way in our democracy. Policy is more responsive to preferences of the well-heeled than of the worse off, and people know this – but it seems to be a blind spot for most politicians,” he said. “No matter who’s in power, our democratic machine needs rewiring. If people are once again to be authors of their own lives, and to feel secure, they must sense their influence in the collective decision-making endeavour that is democracy,” he was quoted as saying. Dangerous for UK democracy The study revealed that the UK risked entering a “doom loop” where government policies were becoming less responsive to the needs of the citizens, “in turn stoking populism and further undermining faith in democracy”. Watch: UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time × To counter this, it recommends a new wave of constitutional reform to spread power and influence in the UK, if living standards and life expectancy are to start improving across the board again. (With inputs from agencies)

Next UK elections all set to be most unequal in 60 years, says top think tank

<p>UK’s Conservative Party is going through its toughest phase under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s watch, as more and more voters turn to the right-wing Reform Party.</p>

<p>A pollster has found that Sunak’s popularity has dipped below that of his short-lived predecessor Liz Truss, who put the embattled party in power the last time.</p>

<p>JL Partners in a ‘deep-dive analysis’ claimed that Sunak’s period had caused ‘an implosion’ within the Conservatives, thus handing over a clear edge to the Labour Party in the January 2025 elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak’s miseries in numbers</strong></h2>

<p>According to the analysis by JL Partners, a mere 59 per cent of Conservatives who backed Boris Johnson in the 2019 elections, are throwing their weight behind Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That’s down from 74 per cent in August and 63 per cent in September last year.</p>

<p>The pollster also claimed that the Tories have lost a whopping 520,000 votes since the prime minister’s speech at the Conservative Party conference at the beginning of October.</p>

<h2><strong>Reform Party gaining traction</strong></h2>

<p>The report revealed that 15 per cent of Conservatives who backed the party in the 2019 elections were now rooting for the Reform Party. This translates into a net loss of 1.5 million votes for the Tories.</p>

<p>It also said that five per cent of 2019 voters turned to the centrist Liberal Democrat party, while 18 per cent have now started backing Labour.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak’s biggest challenge</strong></h2>

<p>Amongst all, the immigration policy remains Sunak’s biggest challenge as his plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda was ruled unlawful by the UK’s top court last month.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak</strong></p>

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<p>Now, it remains to be seen how far Sunak is willing to go to risk Britain’s commitments to international human rights law as he vows to erect a strong, hardline migration policy.</p>

<h2><strong>Silver lining</strong></h2>

<p>The only silver lining for Sunak that came out of the poll analysis is the ‘confusion’ of fence-sitters.</p>

<p>The poll said around 50 per cent of voters who say they are undecided are expected to vote Conservative on election day, a phenomenon which pundits often term the “shy Tory” effect.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-feels-special-as-he-jokes-about-being-referred-to-as-son-in-law-of-india-633758"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak feels `special` as he jokes about being referred to as `son-in-law of India`</strong></a></p>

<p>“Rishi Sunak can count on some undecided voters to narrow the Labour lead, and the British public is hardly elated by the prospect of a Labour government,” James Johnson, the founder of JL Partners, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That’s where the good news for the Tories stops: They are in dire straits,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK’s Conservative Party is going through its toughest phase under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s watch, as more and more voters turn to the right-wing Reform Party.

UK’s Conservative Party is going through its toughest phase under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s watch, as more and more voters turn to the right-wing Reform Party. A pollster has found that Sunak’s popularity has dipped below that of his short-lived predecessor Liz Truss, who put the embattled party in power the last time. JL Partners in a ‘deep-dive analysis’ claimed that Sunak’s period had caused ‘an implosion’ within the Conservatives, thus handing over a clear edge to the Labour Party in the January 2025 elections. Sunak’s miseries in numbers According to the analysis by JL Partners, a mere 59 per cent of Conservatives who backed Boris Johnson in the 2019 elections, are throwing their weight behind Sunak. That’s down from 74 per cent in August and 63 per cent in September last year. The pollster also claimed that the Tories have lost a whopping 520,000 votes since the prime minister’s speech at the Conservative Party conference at the beginning of October. Reform Party gaining traction The report revealed that 15 per cent of Conservatives who backed the party in the 2019 elections were now rooting for the Reform Party. This translates into a net loss of 1.5 million votes for the Tories. It also said that five per cent of 2019 voters turned to the centrist Liberal Democrat party, while 18 per cent have now started backing Labour. Sunak’s biggest challenge Amongst all, the immigration policy remains Sunak’s biggest challenge as his plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda was ruled unlawful by the UK’s top court last month. Watch: Gravitas Plus: The untold story of Rishi Sunak × Now, it remains to be seen how far Sunak is willing to go to risk Britain’s commitments to international human rights law as he vows to erect a strong, hardline migration policy. Silver lining The only silver lining for Sunak that came out of the poll analysis is the ‘confusion’ of fence-sitters. The poll said around 50 per cent of voters who say they are undecided are expected to vote Conservative on election day, a phenomenon which pundits often term the “shy Tory” effect. Also read: UK PM Rishi Sunak feels `special` as he jokes about being referred to as `son-in-law of India` “Rishi Sunak can count on some undecided voters to narrow the Labour lead, and the British public is hardly elated by the prospect of a Labour government,” James Johnson, the founder of JL Partners, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg. “That’s where the good news for the Tories stops: They are in dire straits,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Implosion’ within Conservatives, above 40% supporters turned away under Sunak: Poll

<p>The data of millions of British voters was accessible to hackers behina a cyber-attack by “hostile actors” which came to light last year, the United Kingdom Electoral Commission admitted on Tuesday (August 8). According to the independent body, the hackers were able to access internal emails of the commission and copies of voter data in a complex cyber attack.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the hack?</strong></h2>

<p>The cyber attack, as per the electoral commission, took place in August 2021 but it was not until October 2022 that it was identified. “We know which systems were accessible to the hostile actors, but are not able to know conclusively what files may or may not have been accessed,” said the Electoral Commission Chief Executive Shaun McNally, in a statement.</p>

<p>The watchdog has also apologised for the security breach and said that the incident was reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), as well as the National Crime Agency, back in October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about why the public was not informed about the hack, the watchdog chief said that it needed to “remove the actors and their access to our system, assess the extent of the incident, liaise with the National Cyber Security Centre and ICO, and put additional security measures in place before we could make the incident public”.<br />
<br />
The attack also involved “a sophisticated infiltration method,” which was why it took so long to detect, said the electoral commission chief.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Data accessed by hackers</strong></h2>

<p>The commission said that they were not able to “conclusively” know what information had been accessed but since the election process is largely paper-based it would be very hard for hackers to affect the outcome of a vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The UK’s democratic process is significantly dispersed and key aspects of it remain based on paper documentation and counting. This means it would be very hard to use a cyber-attack to influence the process,” said McNally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the attackers were able to access reference copies of the electoral registers which include the name and address of anyone in the UK who was registered to vote between 2014 and 2022, as well as the names of those registered as overseas voters. The commission’s email system was also accessible to the hackers.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Electoral security concerns</strong></h2>

<p>The incident also comes as electoral security has emerged as a key issue in many countries since United States officials found alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election to favour Donald Trump’s White House bid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2020, a British parliamentary committee also found that Russia allegedly interfered in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum and the Brexit vote.</p>

<p>“The successful attack on the Electoral Commission highlights that organisations involved in elections remain a target, and need to remain vigilant to the risks to processes around our elections,” said McNally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “We regret that sufficient protections were not in place to prevent this cyber-attack. Since identifying it, we have taken significant steps with the support of specialists to improve the security, resilience and reliability of our IT systems.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The data of millions of British voters was accessible to hackers behina a cyber-attack by “hostile actors” which came to light last year, the United Kingdom Electoral Commission admitted on Tuesday (August 8).

The data of millions of British voters was accessible to hackers behina a cyber-attack by “hostile actors” which came to light last year, the United Kingdom Electoral Commission admitted on Tuesday (August 8). According to the independent body, the hackers were able to access internal emails of the commission and copies of voter data in a complex cyber attack. What do we know about the hack? The cyber attack, as per the electoral commission, took place in August 2021 but it was not until October 2022 that it was identified. “We know which systems were accessible to the hostile actors, but are not able to know conclusively what files may or may not have been accessed,” said the Electoral Commission Chief Executive Shaun McNally, in a statement. The watchdog has also apologised for the security breach and said that the incident was reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), as well as the National Crime Agency, back in October. Speaking about why the public was not informed about the hack, the watchdog chief said that it needed to “remove the actors and their access to our system, assess the extent of the incident, liaise with the National Cyber Security Centre and ICO, and put additional security measures in place before we could make the incident public”. The attack also involved “a sophisticated infiltration method,” which was why it took so long to detect, said the electoral commission chief. Data accessed by hackers The commission said that they were not able to “conclusively” know what information had been accessed but since the election process is largely paper-based it would be very hard for hackers to affect the outcome of a vote. “The UK’s democratic process is significantly dispersed and key aspects of it remain based on paper documentation and counting. This means it would be very hard to use a cyber-attack to influence the process,” said McNally. However, the attackers were able to access reference copies of the electoral registers which include the name and address of anyone in the UK who was registered to vote between 2014 and 2022, as well as the names of those registered as overseas voters. The commission’s email system was also accessible to the hackers. Electoral security concerns The incident also comes as electoral security has emerged as a key issue in many countries since United States officials found alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election to favour Donald Trump’s White House bid. In 2020, a British parliamentary committee also found that Russia allegedly interfered in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum and the Brexit vote. “The successful attack on the Electoral Commission highlights that organisations involved in elections remain a target, and need to remain vigilant to the risks to processes around our elections,” said McNally. He added, “We regret that sufficient protections were not in place to prevent this cyber-attack. Since identifying it, we have taken significant steps with the support of specialists to improve the security, resilience and reliability of our IT systems.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK Electoral Commission hacked, millions of British voters’ data accessible to ‘hostile actors’

<p>Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations.</p>

<p>Raab, who has served in a number of major roles — including the UK foreign secretary, justice secretary and Brexit secretary — conveyed his decision to the chair of his local Conservative Association in an exchange of letters.</p>

<p>In the exchange which was seen by the Telegraph, Raab said: "I am writing to let you know of my decision to step down at the next General Election. It has been a huge honour to represent the Conservatives, since 2010, in this wonderful constituency."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-uk-deputy-pm-dominic-raab-resigns-after-bullying-allegations-584747">UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab resigns, says inquiry set threshold for bullying 'so low'</a></strong></p>

<p>He also wrote that he has "become increasingly concerned over the last few years about the pressure the job has placed on my young family". The Tory leader has two sons, 10-year-old Peter, and eight-year-old Joshua.</p>

<p>However, as per a Daily Mail report, when faced with the risk of losing the seat, the disgraced MP chose to step down.</p>

<p>As per Telegraph, this move means the end of Raab's parliamentary career. It is not yet clear what he plans to do when he leaves the UK House of Commons.</p>

<p>While&nbsp;Raab is the most high-profile figure to reveal he was standing down rather than fighting the elections, as per the report, more than 30 Tory ministers are planning to "depart from frontline politics or seek a different, safer seat - rather than fight what could be a losing battle."</p>

<p>Other former Cabinet ministers like former chancellor Sajid Javid, former health secretary Matt Hancock and former environment secretary George Eustice are also leaving. So are young Tories like Chloe Smith and William Wragg.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-sikh-councillor-creates-history-becomes-first-turban-clad-lord-mayor-of-uk-city-595432">British Sikh councillor creates history, becomes first turban-clad Lord Mayor of UK city</a></strong></p>

<p>Since 2010, Raab has represented Esher and Walton in Surrey. The constituency is one of the top targets for the opposition- the Liberal Democrats in the elections due to take place next year.</p>

<p>In 2017, Raab won the election with a majority of over 23,000 and in 2019, this number fell to 2,743, reports Daily Mail.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the Liberal Democrats are targeting the 'Blue Wall' — affluent seats in the London suburbs and Home Counties, that traditionally vote for the conservatives.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations.

Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations. Raab, who has served in a number of major roles — including the UK foreign secretary, justice secretary and Brexit secretary — conveyed his decision to the chair of his local Conservative Association in an exchange of letters. In the exchange which was seen by the Telegraph, Raab said: "I am writing to let you know of my decision to step down at the next General Election. It has been a huge honour to represent the Conservatives, since 2010, in this wonderful constituency." Also read | UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab resigns, says inquiry set threshold for bullying 'so low' He also wrote that he has "become increasingly concerned over the last few years about the pressure the job has placed on my young family". The Tory leader has two sons, 10-year-old Peter, and eight-year-old Joshua. However, as per a Daily Mail report, when faced with the risk of losing the seat, the disgraced MP chose to step down. As per Telegraph, this move means the end of Raab's parliamentary career. It is not yet clear what he plans to do when he leaves the UK House of Commons. While Raab is the most high-profile figure to reveal he was standing down rather than fighting the elections, as per the report, more than 30 Tory ministers are planning to "depart from frontline politics or seek a different, safer seat - rather than fight what could be a losing battle." Other former Cabinet ministers like former chancellor Sajid Javid, former health secretary Matt Hancock and former environment secretary George Eustice are also leaving. So are young Tories like Chloe Smith and William Wragg. Also read | British Sikh councillor creates history, becomes first turban-clad Lord Mayor of UK city Since 2010, Raab has represented Esher and Walton in Surrey. The constituency is one of the top targets for the opposition- the Liberal Democrats in the elections due to take place next year. In 2017, Raab won the election with a majority of over 23,000 and in 2019, this number fell to 2,743, reports Daily Mail. Reportedly, the Liberal Democrats are targeting the 'Blue Wall' — affluent seats in the London suburbs and Home Counties, that traditionally vote for the conservatives. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former UK deputy PM Dominic Raab says 'stepping down' from next year's general elections

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5c5471fa-b08d-4f00-90a5-ce1ee01f5f5f}{28}" paraid="149333628" >Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be running once again in the 2024 general election from Uxbridge and South Ruislip. According to The&nbsp;Telegraph, Johnson told his local Conservative Party leaders that he will be fighting the elections in a bid to become a Member of Parliament once again. All members of the Conservative Party will have to inform the leadership about their will to compete in the elections by Monday and Johnson is expected to throw his hat in the race.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5c5471fa-b08d-4f00-90a5-ce1ee01f5f5f}{28}" paraid="149333628" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-backs-eu-plan-to-create-tribunal-for-russian-officials-over-ukraine-war-539161">France backs EU plan to create tribunal for Russian officials over Ukraine war</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9bb526d8-cd97-44e9-9a24-90a8c9bf220f}{102}" paraid="993604801" >The former PM has represented Uxbridge and South Ruislip in the past and in case of a victory, he will receive any chance to launch a leadership campaign after losing his seat in 2021. He was touted as a competition to Rishi Sunak but Johnson opted out of the latest race citing personal reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0a98af25-323d-48f1-8d9e-49d7a36a5fba}{85}" paraid="1328014445" >“Uxbridge and South Ruislip Conservative Association fully support Boris Johnson as our local MP and candidate at any future election,” Richard Mills, the chairman of his local association, said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0a98af25-323d-48f1-8d9e-49d7a36a5fba}{85}" paraid="1328014445" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eases-covid-restrictions-in-beijing-hints-at-possible-change-in-stance-report-539115">China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0a98af25-323d-48f1-8d9e-49d7a36a5fba}{153}" paraid="94789363" >“Since his re-election in 2019, he has delivered on his plans for redevelopment and modernisation of Hillingdon Hospital as well as increasing police numbers across Uxbridge. We look forward to continuing to work alongside him to deliver for the residents and communities within the constituency, where he has strong connections and involvement,” he added during his interview with The Telegraph.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{12e00434-121b-44eb-adab-131b826e7725}{150}" paraid="602318740" >Johnson has already started his campaign in the constituency with visits to the Ruislip Synagogue and Uxbridge High School. This announcement also came as a relief for the Tories which has seen 12 of their big leaders opting out of the elections with Labour being tipped to achieve massive gains.&nbsp;<br />
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Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be running once again in the 2024 general election from Uxbridge and South Ruislip. According to The Telegraph, Johnson told his local Conservative Party leaders that he will be fighting the elections in a bid to become a Member of Parliament once again.

Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be running once again in the 2024 general election from Uxbridge and South Ruislip. According to The Telegraph, Johnson told his local Conservative Party leaders that he will be fighting the elections in a bid to become a Member of Parliament once again. All members of the Conservative Party will have to inform the leadership about their will to compete in the elections by Monday and Johnson is expected to throw his hat in the race. Also read | France backs EU plan to create tribunal for Russian officials over Ukraine war The former PM has represented Uxbridge and South Ruislip in the past and in case of a victory, he will receive any chance to launch a leadership campaign after losing his seat in 2021. He was touted as a competition to Rishi Sunak but Johnson opted out of the latest race citing personal reasons. “Uxbridge and South Ruislip Conservative Association fully support Boris Johnson as our local MP and candidate at any future election,” Richard Mills, the chairman of his local association, said. Also read | China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance “Since his re-election in 2019, he has delivered on his plans for redevelopment and modernisation of Hillingdon Hospital as well as increasing police numbers across Uxbridge. We look forward to continuing to work alongside him to deliver for the residents and communities within the constituency, where he has strong connections and involvement,” he added during his interview with The Telegraph. Johnson has already started his campaign in the constituency with visits to the Ruislip Synagogue and Uxbridge High School. This announcement also came as a relief for the Tories which has seen 12 of their big leaders opting out of the elections with Labour being tipped to achieve massive gains. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Boris Johnson announces plans to contest UK elections in 2024

Liz Truss has won the Conservative leadership race after defeating Rishi Sunak in the contest and is all set to become the next UK prime minister on Tuesday. Truss to become United Kingdom's third female Prime Minister.

From foreign secretary to Prime Minister: Lizz Truss named Conservative party head

<p>Liz Truss won the conservative party leadership election by a margin of around 20,000 votes. The former Foreign Secretary will be the United Kingdom's third female Prime Minister and the 15th under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.</p>

<p>As per an AFP report, the monarch is expected to ask Truss to form a government on Tuesday after Boris Johnson formally tenders his resignation.</p>

<p>Queen Elizabeth II took over the British throne in 1952, and during her 70 years of reign, fifteen leaders have resided in 10 Downing Street.</p>

<p>Here is a list of the fifteen UK Prime Ministers that have governed the United Kingdom alongside the current British monarch:</p>

<p>1. Winston Churchill (Conservative, 1951-55)</p>

<p>2. Anthony Eden (Conservative, 1955-57)</p>

<p>3. Harold Macmillan (Conservative, 1957-63)</p>

<p>4. Alec Douglas-Home (Conservative, 1963-64)</p>

<p>5. Harold Wilson (Labour, 1964-70 and 1974-76)</p>

<p>6. Edward Heath (Conservative, 1970-74)</p>

<p>7. James Callaghan (Labour, 1976-79)</p>

<p>8. Margaret Thatcher (Conservative, 1979-90)</p>

<p>9. John Major (Conservative, 1990-97)</p>

<p>10. Tony Blair (Labour, 1997-2007)</p>

<p>11. Gordon Brown (Labour, 2007-10)</p>

<p>12. David Cameron (Conservative, 2010-16)</p>

<p>13. Theresa May (Conservative, 2016-19)</p>

<p>14. Boris Johnson (Conservative, 2019-22) &nbsp;</p>

<p>15. Liz Truss (PM-elect)</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report, a palace representative announced last week that due to mobility concerns, the queen would appoint Britain's new prime minister at her Scottish estate of Balmoral Castle rather than at Buckingham Palace in London.</p>

<p>She will not attend the Braemar Highland Gathering in Scotland. This will be the first time she has missed the gathering since ascending to the throne 70 years ago.</p>

<p>The 96-year-old Queen Elizabeth II is the world's longest-reigning living monarch. She ascended to the throne at the age of 25 after the death of her father George VI.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Liz Truss won the conservative party leadership election by a margin of around 20,000 votes. The former Foreign Secretary will be the United Kingdom's third female Prime Minister and the 15th under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Liz Truss won the conservative party leadership election by a margin of around 20,000 votes. The former Foreign Secretary will be the United Kingdom's third female Prime Minister and the 15th under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. As per an AFP report, the monarch is expected to ask Truss to form a government on Tuesday after Boris Johnson formally tenders his resignation. Queen Elizabeth II took over the British throne in 1952, and during her 70 years of reign, fifteen leaders have resided in 10 Downing Street. Here is a list of the fifteen UK Prime Ministers that have governed the United Kingdom alongside the current British monarch: 1. Winston Churchill (Conservative, 1951-55) 2. Anthony Eden (Conservative, 1955-57) 3. Harold Macmillan (Conservative, 1957-63) 4. Alec Douglas-Home (Conservative, 1963-64) 5. Harold Wilson (Labour, 1964-70 and 1974-76) 6. Edward Heath (Conservative, 1970-74) 7. James Callaghan (Labour, 1976-79) 8. Margaret Thatcher (Conservative, 1979-90) 9. John Major (Conservative, 1990-97) 10. Tony Blair (Labour, 1997-2007) 11. Gordon Brown (Labour, 2007-10) 12. David Cameron (Conservative, 2010-16) 13. Theresa May (Conservative, 2016-19) 14. Boris Johnson (Conservative, 2019-22) 15. Liz Truss (PM-elect) As per a Reuters report, a palace representative announced last week that due to mobility concerns, the queen would appoint Britain's new prime minister at her Scottish estate of Balmoral Castle rather than at Buckingham Palace in London. She will not attend the Braemar Highland Gathering in Scotland. This will be the first time she has missed the gathering since ascending to the throne 70 years ago. The 96-year-old Queen Elizabeth II is the world's longest-reigning living monarch. She ascended to the throne at the age of 25 after the death of her father George VI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Liz Truss wins to become UK's 15th Prime Minister under Queen Elizabeth II. A look at her predecessors

<p>UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss, the current favorite to replace Boris Johnson and&nbsp;become next prime minister backtracked on a significant poll promise just a day after announcing it. This is being viewed as her first big misstep. She is currently facing ex-finance minister Rishi Sunak as she aims for the country’s top post.</p>

<p>Truss had set out plans to save billions of pounds in government spending. But leaders from Conservative party and opposition said that for this plan to become reality, salaries of public sector workers would have to be cut. These workers include nurses and teachers, outside of the wealthy southeast of England.</p>

<p>On Monday, as an apparent solution to this, Truss proposed introducing regional pay boards rather than having a national pay agreement, tailoring pay to the cost of living where people actually work.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Penny Mordaunt backs Liz Truss in contest to be next Tory leader</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, on Tuesday (August 2), a spokesperson for Truss said: “Our hard-working frontline staff are the bedrock of society and there will be no proposal taken forward on regional pay boards for civil servants or public sector workers.”</p>

<p>Truss currently the favorite to win the PM race, was previously trailing Sunak. Even now, her lead over Sunak is slim.</p>

<p>A survey of 807 Conservative Party members by Italian data company Techne carried out July 19-27 found Truss was backed by 48%, compared with 43% for former finance minister Sunak.</p>

<p>This is suggestive of a much closer race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Truss is already facing backlash on her public sector pay plan from within Conservative Party. But she enjoys confidence from her colleagues.</p>

<p>“This was a completely avoidable error, but I don’t think in the end it will stop her being prime minister,” said a Conservative lawmaker who supports Truss. The unnamed lawmaker was quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>Sunak supporter Ben Houchen, the Conservative mayor of Tees Valley, said he was “speechless” at the proposal.</p>

<p>“There is simply no way you can do this without a massive pay cut for 5.5m people, including nurses, police officers and our armed forces outside London,” he had said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss, the current favorite to replace Boris Johnson and become next prime minister backtracked on a significant poll promise just a day after announcing it.

UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss, the current favorite to replace Boris Johnson and become next prime minister backtracked on a significant poll promise just a day after announcing it. This is being viewed as her first big misstep. She is currently facing ex-finance minister Rishi Sunak as she aims for the country’s top post. Truss had set out plans to save billions of pounds in government spending. But leaders from Conservative party and opposition said that for this plan to become reality, salaries of public sector workers would have to be cut. These workers include nurses and teachers, outside of the wealthy southeast of England. On Monday, as an apparent solution to this, Truss proposed introducing regional pay boards rather than having a national pay agreement, tailoring pay to the cost of living where people actually work. Watch | Penny Mordaunt backs Liz Truss in contest to be next Tory leader × However, on Tuesday (August 2), a spokesperson for Truss said: “Our hard-working frontline staff are the bedrock of society and there will be no proposal taken forward on regional pay boards for civil servants or public sector workers.” Truss currently the favorite to win the PM race, was previously trailing Sunak. Even now, her lead over Sunak is slim. A survey of 807 Conservative Party members by Italian data company Techne carried out July 19-27 found Truss was backed by 48%, compared with 43% for former finance minister Sunak. This is suggestive of a much closer race. Truss is already facing backlash on her public sector pay plan from within Conservative Party. But she enjoys confidence from her colleagues. “This was a completely avoidable error, but I don’t think in the end it will stop her being prime minister,” said a Conservative lawmaker who supports Truss. The unnamed lawmaker was quoted by Reuters. Sunak supporter Ben Houchen, the Conservative mayor of Tees Valley, said he was “speechless” at the proposal. “There is simply no way you can do this without a massive pay cut for 5.5m people, including nurses, police officers and our armed forces outside London,” he had said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK: Liz Truss makes U-turn on pledge, first major campaign misstep

<p>UK opposition leader Labour's Keir Starmer is being investigated by the police over alleged breach of Covid rules while partying with colleagues during lockdown.</p>

<p>According to the British media, Starmer was pictured drinking a beer with colleagues when rules still prohibited social mixing.</p>

<p>The UK media are now calling it a ‘beergate’ scandal.</p>

<p>The revelation would likely deal a major blow to the Labour party which has been vociferously demanding resignation from Prime Minister Boris Johnson after police found that he hosted and attended several parties in the Downing Street during the lockdown period.</p>

<p>Durham police said they would begin the investigation after receiving “significant new information”.</p>

<p>In a statement, the police said, “Earlier this year, Durham Constabulary carried out an assessment as to whether COVID-19 regulations had been breached at a gathering in Durham City on April 30 2021. At that time, it was concluded that no offence had been established and therefore no further action would be taken.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK Local Elections: Local polls part referendum on Boris Johnson?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-local-elections-local-polls-part-referendum-on-boris-johnson-476524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Following the receipt of significant new information over recent days, Durham Constabulary has reviewed that position and now, following the conclusion of the pre-election period, we can confirm that an investigation into potential breaches of COVID-19 regulations relating to this gathering is now being conducted.”</p>

<p>Responding to the reports, the Labour party said it was “happy to answer any questions there are and we remain clear that no rules were broken”, reports the Daily Mail.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-uk-pms-conservative-party-pays-for-long-slew-of-scandals-loses-strongholds-in-local-polls-476864" hreflang="en">Finally, UK PM's party pays for scandals with setbacks in local polls</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Conservative party members have expressed frustration saying that the decision was only taken after the local elections - when the PM's own fine over the Partygate scandal damaged his support.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-conservative-party-loses-53-council-seats-in-local-elections-476714">&nbsp;</a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-conservative-party-loses-53-council-seats-in-local-elections-476714">UK's Conservative Party loses 53 council seats in local elections</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tory MP Richard Holden, backed by several ministers, wrote to Durham Constabulary insisting there was now “incontrovertible” evidence&nbsp;Labour had 'lied' about the events of a year ago, including their own disproved claim that the deputy leader Angela Rayner was not there, the UK tabloid reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE</strong></p>

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<p><strong><em>Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>


UK opposition leader Labour's Keir Starmer is being investigated by the police over alleged breach of Covid rules while partying with colleagues during lockdown.

UK opposition leader Labour's Keir Starmer is being investigated by the police over alleged breach of Covid rules while partying with colleagues during lockdown. According to the British media, Starmer was pictured drinking a beer with colleagues when rules still prohibited social mixing. The UK media are now calling it a ‘beergate’ scandal. The revelation would likely deal a major blow to the Labour party which has been vociferously demanding resignation from Prime Minister Boris Johnson after police found that he hosted and attended several parties in the Downing Street during the lockdown period. Durham police said they would begin the investigation after receiving “significant new information”. In a statement, the police said, “Earlier this year, Durham Constabulary carried out an assessment as to whether COVID-19 regulations had been breached at a gathering in Durham City on April 30 2021. At that time, it was concluded that no offence had been established and therefore no further action would be taken. Watch | UK Local Elections: Local polls part referendum on Boris Johnson? “Following the receipt of significant new information over recent days, Durham Constabulary has reviewed that position and now, following the conclusion of the pre-election period, we can confirm that an investigation into potential breaches of COVID-19 regulations relating to this gathering is now being conducted.” Responding to the reports, the Labour party said it was “happy to answer any questions there are and we remain clear that no rules were broken”, reports the Daily Mail. Also read | Finally, UK PM's party pays for scandals with setbacks in local polls Meanwhile, the Conservative party members have expressed frustration saying that the decision was only taken after the local elections - when the PM's own fine over the Partygate scandal damaged his support. Also read | UK's Conservative Party loses 53 council seats in local elections Tory MP Richard Holden, backed by several ministers, wrote to Durham Constabulary insisting there was now “incontrovertible” evidence Labour had 'lied' about the events of a year ago, including their own disproved claim that the deputy leader Angela Rayner was not there, the UK tabloid reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

UK Labour leader Keir Starmer faces police probe over lockdown party

People across the UK are getting ready to head to their local polling station to vote in the local elections 2022. According to a latest opinion poll, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative party will lose nearly 550 seats this time.

United Kingdom gets ready for local elections on May 5

According to a latest opinion poll, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative party will lose nearly 550 seats in the upcoming local elections. It would be the worst showing since Tony Blair was Labour leader in the 1990s.

UK Local Election: Survey predicts heaviest losses for Tories in years

Survey: Tories 'set to lose 550 seats' in UK local elections

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