United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired a government aide after he called for a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war after the&nbsp;Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked&nbsp;Israel.&nbsp;

The Conservative Member of Parliament Paul Bristow who served as Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan’s parliamentary private secretary broke ranks in a letter to the PM last week.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

Last week, Bristow in the letter to Sunak said that a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza would save lives and allow aid to reach those in need. However, the UK government has previously supported the idea of “humanitarian pauses” but not backed calls for a complete ceasefire.

The now-former government aide also warned against the “collective punishment” of the people of Gaza “for the crimes of Hamas.” Bristow, who is the Conservative MP for Peterborough, is among a few Tory MPs who have called for a ceasefire in Gaza.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-rishi-sunak-takes-off-for-wartime-israel-visit-first-and-then-wider-region-648593">After Biden, Rishi Sunak takes off for wartime Israel visit first, and then wider region</a>

The letter reportedly sent on Thursday (Oct 26) said, “My constituents and I are deeply grieved by the heart-breaking and devastating humanitarian crisis now unfolding in Gaza. Thousands have been killed and more than one million now displaced.”&nbsp;

Bristow, in the letter posted on Facebook also said some of his constituents have been “directly affected” by the ongoing war. “It is difficult to understand how this makes Israel more secure or indeed makes anything better,” said the Tory MP.&nbsp;

The UK government along with several other countries in the West have repeatedly said that Israel has a right to defend itself.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the UK PM also visited Israel and met with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and extended support to the country in its “darkest hour” amid its ongoing fight with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

Sunak has also announced millions of dollars in humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza while addressing the parliament last week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-old-mobile-number-voicemail-recording-leaked-online-650378">UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online</a>

The Tory MP also wrote how ordinary Palestinians “should not suffer collective punishment for the crimes of Hamas”. “I shall reiterate at every opportunity that ordinary people are not Hamas, and every innocent life in Gaza is precious. We must do everything we can to preserve life,” Bristow concluded. &nbsp;

<h2>‘Collective responsibility’&nbsp;</h2>

The Tory MP from Peterborough “has been asked to leave his post in government following comments that were not consistent with the principles of collective responsibility,” said a Downing Street spokesperson, according to British media reports. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-announces-extra-ps20-mn-aid-for-civilians-in-gaza-650412">UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza</a>

The term collective responsibility in this context refers to a convention where all members of the government must publicly support government policy even if they personally disagree with the decisions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired a government aide after he called for a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war after the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired a government aide after he called for a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war after the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel. The Conservative Member of Parliament Paul Bristow who served as Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan’s parliamentary private secretary broke ranks in a letter to the PM last week. What happened? Last week, Bristow in the letter to Sunak said that a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza would save lives and allow aid to reach those in need. However, the UK government has previously supported the idea of “humanitarian pauses” but not backed calls for a complete ceasefire. The now-former government aide also warned against the “collective punishment” of the people of Gaza “for the crimes of Hamas.” Bristow, who is the Conservative MP for Peterborough, is among a few Tory MPs who have called for a ceasefire in Gaza. ALSO READ | After Biden, Rishi Sunak takes off for wartime Israel visit first, and then wider region The letter reportedly sent on Thursday (Oct 26) said, “My constituents and I are deeply grieved by the heart-breaking and devastating humanitarian crisis now unfolding in Gaza. Thousands have been killed and more than one million now displaced.” Bristow, in the letter posted on Facebook also said some of his constituents have been “directly affected” by the ongoing war. “It is difficult to understand how this makes Israel more secure or indeed makes anything better,” said the Tory MP. The UK government along with several other countries in the West have repeatedly said that Israel has a right to defend itself. Earlier this month, the UK PM also visited Israel and met with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and extended support to the country in its “darkest hour” amid its ongoing fight with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Sunak has also announced millions of dollars in humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza while addressing the parliament last week. ALSO READ | UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online The Tory MP also wrote how ordinary Palestinians “should not suffer collective punishment for the crimes of Hamas”. “I shall reiterate at every opportunity that ordinary people are not Hamas, and every innocent life in Gaza is precious. We must do everything we can to preserve life,” Bristow concluded. ‘Collective responsibility’ The Tory MP from Peterborough “has been asked to leave his post in government following comments that were not consistent with the principles of collective responsibility,” said a Downing Street spokesperson, according to British media reports. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza The term collective responsibility in this context refers to a convention where all members of the government must publicly support government policy even if they personally disagree with the decisions. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza

Travelling to the United Kingdom is set to be expensive for tourism, visiting or studying purposes. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government announced that the UK visit visas for stays less than six months will incur an additional cost of ₹1,543 (GBP 15), while UK student visas will see an increase of ₹13,070 (GBP 127) for travellers worldwide, including Indians.

The new visa fees will come in effect starting October 4th.

<h2>UK visa fees hike: What does it look like for incoming students?</h2>

The UK Home Office said that while the fee for a UK visit visa for less than six months will increase to ₹11,835 (GBP 115), the fee for applying for a UK student visa from outside the UK will be ₹50,428 (GBP 490). This matches the amount charged for in-country applications.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-announces-increase-in-uk-visa-fees-health-surcharge-615293">Rishi Sunak announces increase in UK visa fees, health surcharge</a>

The UK Home Office has also noted a 15 per cent increase in the cost of most work and visit visas, along with a minimum 20 per cent hike in fees for priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship.

This decision follows British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's announcement in July to significantly raise fees and health surcharges paid by visa applicants to support the UK's state-funded National Health Service (NHS) and meet public sector wage increases.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK announces curbs on overseas: New visa limits for International students

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"We are going to increase the charges that we have for migrants who are coming to this country when they apply for visas and indeed something called the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is the levy that they pay to access the NHS," he said at the time.

"All of those fees are going to go up and that will raise over GBP 1 billion, so across the board visa application fees are going to go up significantly and similarly for the IHS," he said.

Furthermore, this fee hike extends to various visa categories, including health and care visas, applications for British citizenship, fees for visit visas spanning six months, two, five, and ten years, and numerous entry clearance and leave to remain fees in the UK for work, study, indefinite leave, and certificates of sponsorship.

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Travelling to the United Kingdom is set to be expensive for tourism, visiting or studying purposes. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government announced that the UK visit visas for stays less than six months will incur an additional cost of ₹1,543 (GBP 15), while UK student visas will see an increase of ₹13,070 (GBP 127) for travellers worldwide, including Indians.

Travelling to the United Kingdom is set to be expensive for tourism, visiting or studying purposes. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government announced that the UK visit visas for stays less than six months will incur an additional cost of ₹1,543 (GBP 15), while UK student visas will see an increase of ₹13,070 (GBP 127) for travellers worldwide, including Indians. The new visa fees will come in effect starting October 4th. UK visa fees hike: What does it look like for incoming students? The UK Home Office said that while the fee for a UK visit visa for less than six months will increase to ₹11,835 (GBP 115), the fee for applying for a UK student visa from outside the UK will be ₹50,428 (GBP 490). This matches the amount charged for in-country applications. Also read | Rishi Sunak announces increase in UK visa fees, health surcharge The UK Home Office has also noted a 15 per cent increase in the cost of most work and visit visas, along with a minimum 20 per cent hike in fees for priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship. This decision follows British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's announcement in July to significantly raise fees and health surcharges paid by visa applicants to support the UK's state-funded National Health Service (NHS) and meet public sector wage increases. Also watch | UK announces curbs on overseas: New visa limits for International students × "We are going to increase the charges that we have for migrants who are coming to this country when they apply for visas and indeed something called the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is the levy that they pay to access the NHS," he said at the time. "All of those fees are going to go up and that will raise over GBP 1 billion, so across the board visa application fees are going to go up significantly and similarly for the IHS," he said. Furthermore, this fee hike extends to various visa categories, including health and care visas, applications for British citizenship, fees for visit visas spanning six months, two, five, and ten years, and numerous entry clearance and leave to remain fees in the UK for work, study, indefinite leave, and certificates of sponsorship. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak government's UK visa fee hike to affect students, visitors

The UK government is set to move ahead with its plans to tackle illegal migration despite strong objections from rights groups. Human Rights watch says that asylum seekers are facing inadequate living conditions in the temporary housing provided by the government the group released a hundred page report criticizing the living conditions from migrants and long-standing policy failings the rights organization interviewed more than 50 Asylum seekers in England and according to the report the people placed in hotel accommodations are also facing serious habitability problems families are reported to be struggling to provide their children with an adequate diet.

UK: Asylum seekers in dire conditions, rights group slams government's migration plans

British Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt, on Sunday (September 3) vowed to “spend what it takes” to deal with the crumbling school buildings and said that the United Kingdom government will move to fix the unsafe infrastructure quickly. This comes days after more than 100 schools across England were forced to shut down over safety concerns as they were found to be made with a certain type of concrete that is prone to collapse.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Extremely quickly’</h2>

In interviews with the British media, on Sunday morning, Hunt said that the majority of the 104 affected schools will be able to operate largely normally. “We will spend what it takes to sort out this problem as quickly as possible,” the British finance minister told BBC.&nbsp;

Last week, the UK government issued an order to around 104 schools or “settings” &nbsp;– out of the more than 20,000 schools in England – that require urgent action after they were said to have been made with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-over-100-schools-across-england-forced-to-shut-down-after-being-made-with-raac-concrete-heres-why-631297">Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete or RAAC </a>and found to be at risk of collapse.

The announcement has left the institutes scrambling to make arrangements to continue teaching and angered parents as the order was issued days before the start of the autumn term, as per British media reports.&nbsp;

<h2>Fear&nbsp;of asbestos amid RAAC crisis</h2>

During the interviews on Sunday, Hunt also admitted that the government is also in the midst of responding to the longstanding asbestos problem in schools that is believed to be present in some of the same buildings affected by the RAAC concrete. This could further complicate the matter.&nbsp;

“We have 22,000 schools in the country and there has been since that incident a huge programme going through this Raac/asbestos issue because we want to be absolutely sure that every child is safe,” Hunt told Sky News after being asked if parents could be confident their child would be safe.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the concrete issue&nbsp;in UK about?</h2>

The UK government has also come under fire as they are yet to release the list of the schools affected while British Education Secretary Gillian Keegan previously said that the affected schools would contact parents directly and that “If you don’t hear, don’t worry.”&nbsp;

This has also prompted demands for transparency over the extent of the consequences of RAAC in public buildings over the weekend.&nbsp;

The RAAC is essentially a lightweight form of concrete which according to the UK government’s website was used to build roofs, schools, colleges and other buildings from the 1950s until the mid-1990s, but has since been found to be at risk of collapse.

It has also been described as “80 per cent air” and is said to have a lifespan of around 30 years. Shadow education secretary from the opposition Labour Party Bridget Phillipson took to X (formerly Twitter) and said, “The government has spent the summer sitting on its hands as the concrete crumbles in our schools.” 
 
 
 
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British Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt, on Sunday (September 3) vowed to “spend what it takes” to deal with the crumbling school buildings and said that the United Kingdom government will move to fix the unsafe infrastructure quickly.

British Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt, on Sunday (September 3) vowed to “spend what it takes” to deal with the crumbling school buildings and said that the United Kingdom government will move to fix the unsafe infrastructure quickly. This comes days after more than 100 schools across England were forced to shut down over safety concerns as they were found to be made with a certain type of concrete that is prone to collapse. ‘Extremely quickly’ In interviews with the British media, on Sunday morning, Hunt said that the majority of the 104 affected schools will be able to operate largely normally. “We will spend what it takes to sort out this problem as quickly as possible,” the British finance minister told BBC. Last week, the UK government issued an order to around 104 schools or “settings” – out of the more than 20,000 schools in England – that require urgent action after they were said to have been made with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete or RAAC and found to be at risk of collapse. The announcement has left the institutes scrambling to make arrangements to continue teaching and angered parents as the order was issued days before the start of the autumn term, as per British media reports. Fear of asbestos amid RAAC crisis During the interviews on Sunday, Hunt also admitted that the government is also in the midst of responding to the longstanding asbestos problem in schools that is believed to be present in some of the same buildings affected by the RAAC concrete. This could further complicate the matter. “We have 22,000 schools in the country and there has been since that incident a huge programme going through this Raac/asbestos issue because we want to be absolutely sure that every child is safe,” Hunt told Sky News after being asked if parents could be confident their child would be safe. What is the concrete issue in UK about? The UK government has also come under fire as they are yet to release the list of the schools affected while British Education Secretary Gillian Keegan previously said that the affected schools would contact parents directly and that “If you don’t hear, don’t worry.” This has also prompted demands for transparency over the extent of the consequences of RAAC in public buildings over the weekend. The RAAC is essentially a lightweight form of concrete which according to the UK government’s website was used to build roofs, schools, colleges and other buildings from the 1950s until the mid-1990s, but has since been found to be at risk of collapse. It has also been described as “80 per cent air” and is said to have a lifespan of around 30 years. Shadow education secretary from the opposition Labour Party Bridget Phillipson took to X (formerly Twitter) and said, “The government has spent the summer sitting on its hands as the concrete crumbles in our schools.” 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.

RAAC concrete crisis: UK govt vows to ‘spend what it takes’ to deal with crumbling school buildings

More than 100 schools across England have been told to shut down over safety concerns&nbsp;after being made with a certain type of concrete that is prone to collapse, reported the British media, on Friday (September 1).&nbsp;

The announcement has reportedly left the institutes scrambling to make arrangements to continue teaching as an order by the United Kingdom government was issued days before the start of the autumn term.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the UK government say?</h2>

The announcement was made by the UK Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, on Thursday (August 31) who said that the affected schools would contact parents directly and that “If you don't hear, don’t worry.”&nbsp;

However, she did not mention when the list of affected schools will be published, prompting criticism from the opposition Labour Party. Additionally, the teaching unions also slammed the government for the back-to-school chaos and called it “nothing short of a scandal”.&nbsp;

Keegan told reporters that as many as 156 school buildings have been identified as containing Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete or RAAC. Notably, there are more than 20,000 schools in England.

The education secretary said 104 schools or “settings” require urgent action while 52 have already received repair works. The Department for Education (DfE) has also noted that a vast majority of schools and colleges “will be unaffected”.&nbsp;

“We’re taking a very safety-first approach and we’re really being cautious here,” said the UK education secretary.&nbsp;

<h2>What is RAAC?</h2>

The RAAC is essentially a lightweight form of concrete which according to the UK government’s website was used to build roofs, schools, colleges and other buildings from the 1950s until the mid-1990s, but has since been found to be at risk of collapse.

It has also been described as “80 per cent air” and is said to have a lifespan of around 30 years. The UK government’s announcement also comes months after a report by the watchdog National Audit Office (NAO) noted the risk of injury or death from a school building collapse is “very likely”.&nbsp;

It also highlighted concerns for school buildings that still contained RAAC and identified 572 schools where this concrete might be present.&nbsp;

The DfE said it sent a questionnaire to schools in 2022 asking if they had any confirmed or suspected cases of RAAC in their buildings and sent DfE-commissioned engineers to check if the institutes provided a positive response.&nbsp;

The education department also said the British government has been aware of the use of RAAC in public sector buildings since 1994 but the issue came to light in 2018 when a roof collapsed at a Kent school.&nbsp;

<h2>UK government criticised</h2>

Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson said the Labour has also not seen the full list of schools affected and urged ministers to “come clean with parents” about the full scale of the challenge before them.&nbsp;

She also said that the government is “failing” children by shutting the schools just before the new term started. “This is an absolutely staggering display of Tory incompetence as they start a fresh term by failing our children again,” said Phillipson.&nbsp;

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT said that while the “news is shocking” it isn’t “hugely surprising”. 
 
“What we are seeing here are the very real consequences of a decade of swinging cuts to spending on school buildings,” said Whiteman, as quoted by Sky News.&nbsp;

The Local Government Association that they have been warning about the risk of RAAC since 2018. The timing of the announcement meant schools and councils had been left with “very little time to make urgent rearrangements and minimise disruption to classroom learning,” said Kevin Bentley, senior vice-chairman of the association.&nbsp;

<h2>What now?</h2>

The education secretary told reporters that the first thing to do is identify where the RAAC is used. “Some children will be moved to a different part of the building, some of the buildings will be propped up, so the roofs will be propped up, some of them will be having temporary classrooms,” said Keegan. &nbsp;

The DfE said the majority of the school sites would remain open for face-to-face learning and only specific parts of buildings will be closed where RAAC is used. According to media reports, some students have already been told they will be learning remotely, in temporary classrooms or at different schools.&nbsp;

One parent has told Sky they were warned that the “disruption will continue until 2025, or they may have to go to a new location altogether”.&nbsp;

<h2>Other buildings at risk</h2>

In an interview with Times Radio, the schools minister Nick Gibb also revealed that the British government is also in the midst of rebuilding seven hospitals due to issues related to RAAC.&nbsp;

“They use propping where they identify RAAC and also we are rebuilding seven hospitals because of extensive RAAC in those hospitals,” said Gibb.&nbsp;

British media reports have also reported that a number of public building,s including schools, hospitals and police stations, have been identified as being at risk because of RAAC.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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More than 100 schools across England have been told to shut down over safety concerns after being made with a certain type of concrete that is prone to collapse, reported the British media, on Friday (September 1).

More than 100 schools across England have been told to shut down over safety concerns after being made with a certain type of concrete that is prone to collapse, reported the British media, on Friday (September 1). The announcement has reportedly left the institutes scrambling to make arrangements to continue teaching as an order by the United Kingdom government was issued days before the start of the autumn term. What did the UK government say? The announcement was made by the UK Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, on Thursday (August 31) who said that the affected schools would contact parents directly and that “If you don't hear, don’t worry.” However, she did not mention when the list of affected schools will be published, prompting criticism from the opposition Labour Party. Additionally, the teaching unions also slammed the government for the back-to-school chaos and called it “nothing short of a scandal”. Keegan told reporters that as many as 156 school buildings have been identified as containing Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete or RAAC. Notably, there are more than 20,000 schools in England. The education secretary said 104 schools or “settings” require urgent action while 52 have already received repair works. The Department for Education (DfE) has also noted that a vast majority of schools and colleges “will be unaffected”. “We’re taking a very safety-first approach and we’re really being cautious here,” said the UK education secretary. What is RAAC? The RAAC is essentially a lightweight form of concrete which according to the UK government’s website was used to build roofs, schools, colleges and other buildings from the 1950s until the mid-1990s, but has since been found to be at risk of collapse. It has also been described as “80 per cent air” and is said to have a lifespan of around 30 years. The UK government’s announcement also comes months after a report by the watchdog National Audit Office (NAO) noted the risk of injury or death from a school building collapse is “very likely”. It also highlighted concerns for school buildings that still contained RAAC and identified 572 schools where this concrete might be present. The DfE said it sent a questionnaire to schools in 2022 asking if they had any confirmed or suspected cases of RAAC in their buildings and sent DfE-commissioned engineers to check if the institutes provided a positive response. The education department also said the British government has been aware of the use of RAAC in public sector buildings since 1994 but the issue came to light in 2018 when a roof collapsed at a Kent school. UK government criticised Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson said the Labour has also not seen the full list of schools affected and urged ministers to “come clean with parents” about the full scale of the challenge before them. She also said that the government is “failing” children by shutting the schools just before the new term started. “This is an absolutely staggering display of Tory incompetence as they start a fresh term by failing our children again,” said Phillipson. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT said that while the “news is shocking” it isn’t “hugely surprising”. “What we are seeing here are the very real consequences of a decade of swinging cuts to spending on school buildings,” said Whiteman, as quoted by Sky News. The Local Government Association that they have been warning about the risk of RAAC since 2018. The timing of the announcement meant schools and councils had been left with “very little time to make urgent rearrangements and minimise disruption to classroom learning,” said Kevin Bentley, senior vice-chairman of the association. What now? The education secretary told reporters that the first thing to do is identify where the RAAC is used. “Some children will be moved to a different part of the building, some of the buildings will be propped up, so the roofs will be propped up, some of them will be having temporary classrooms,” said Keegan. The DfE said the majority of the school sites would remain open for face-to-face learning and only specific parts of buildings will be closed where RAAC is used. According to media reports, some students have already been told they will be learning remotely, in temporary classrooms or at different schools. One parent has told Sky they were warned that the “disruption will continue until 2025, or they may have to go to a new location altogether”. Other buildings at risk In an interview with Times Radio, the schools minister Nick Gibb also revealed that the British government is also in the midst of rebuilding seven hospitals due to issues related to RAAC. “They use propping where they identify RAAC and also we are rebuilding seven hospitals because of extensive RAAC in those hospitals,” said Gibb. British media reports have also reported that a number of public building,s including schools, hospitals and police stations, have been identified as being at risk because of RAAC. (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.

Explained | Over 100 schools across England made with RAAC concrete forced to shut down. Here’s why

The threat of long waiting list in the NHS Stills looms over the United Kingdom a new analysis by the labor party claims that more than 120,000 people in England have died last year while they were simply just waiting for hospital treatment the United Kingdom's opposition party has collected the data from 138 Health trusts now they asked about the number of people who died while on the waiting list and at least about 35 of those trusts responded to their call the Health Trust must have said that more than 30,000 deaths occurred in 2022 applying the same logic the labor party estimated that across England 120,000 people in fact ended up losing their lives.

Labour claims huge rise in people dying, over 120,000 died due to treatment delays

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday.

The update will be part of the government's counter-terrorism strategy known as Contest. According to The Times, the Home Secretary will describe the threat of Islamist terrorism as the "most severe" in the UK, with MI5 spending around the majority or three-quarters of its time addressing this threat.

<h2>The upcoming warning</h2>

Home Secretary Suella Braverman, as per the Telegraph, is expected to highlight the evolving nature of terrorism, noting that it has become increasingly unpredictable and harder to detect and investigate.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-to-soon-get-its-new-super-sewer-which-will-end-thames-pollution-blight-616390">London to soon get its new 'super sewer' which will end Thames pollution blight</a>

She will reportedly note that while "Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, terrorism is becoming increasingly unpredictable, making cases harder to detect and investigate." 
&nbsp; 
While emphasising that Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, she will reportedly also highlight the growing danger posed by countries such as Russia, which are using terrorism to sow division within the UK.

Braverman is expected to emphasise that extremist activity is becoming more difficult to track, with online platforms playing a significant role in inspiring potential attackers.

<h2>Counter-terrorism in the UK</h2>

Telegraph reports that currently, there are approximately 800 live counter-terrorism policing investigations underway, and last year alone, 169 arrests were made in connection with terror-related offences.

Last month, a report by the Daily Mirror alleged that British Islamic State terrorists were planning a lethal attack on a public gathering. Reportedly, the Iraqi Counter Terror Service disclosed the plot, claiming to have shared the information with Western authorities.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-long-island-serial-killings-and-the-predator-that-ruins-families-616421">Explained: Long Island serial killings, and the 'predator that ruined families'</a>

The Times quoted&nbsp;a Whitehall source and emphasised that the new report is the first of its kind in five years, providing a comprehensive update on the UK's response to terrorism.

"This is the first [report] of its kind for five years and is a comprehensive update for the UK’s response to terrorism. It’s about how the fragmentation of Islamic State and al-Qaeda is now posing a very different threat to our people, while state actors like Russia and Iran will increasingly try to capitalise on terrorism here in the UK."

"We can’t be complacent, the terrorists are morphing and we have to keep our vigilance up."

Currently, the threat level set by MI5 is classified as "substantial," indicating that an attack is considered likely. This level was reduced in February 2022 after being raised to "severe" in November 2021.

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday.

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday. The update will be part of the government's counter-terrorism strategy known as Contest. According to The Times, the Home Secretary will describe the threat of Islamist terrorism as the "most severe" in the UK, with MI5 spending around the majority or three-quarters of its time addressing this threat. The upcoming warning Home Secretary Suella Braverman, as per the Telegraph, is expected to highlight the evolving nature of terrorism, noting that it has become increasingly unpredictable and harder to detect and investigate. Also read | London to soon get its new 'super sewer' which will end Thames pollution blight She will reportedly note that while "Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, terrorism is becoming increasingly unpredictable, making cases harder to detect and investigate." While emphasising that Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, she will reportedly also highlight the growing danger posed by countries such as Russia, which are using terrorism to sow division within the UK. Braverman is expected to emphasise that extremist activity is becoming more difficult to track, with online platforms playing a significant role in inspiring potential attackers. Counter-terrorism in the UK Telegraph reports that currently, there are approximately 800 live counter-terrorism policing investigations underway, and last year alone, 169 arrests were made in connection with terror-related offences. Last month, a report by the Daily Mirror alleged that British Islamic State terrorists were planning a lethal attack on a public gathering. Reportedly, the Iraqi Counter Terror Service disclosed the plot, claiming to have shared the information with Western authorities. Also read | Explained: Long Island serial killings, and the 'predator that ruined families' The Times quoted a Whitehall source and emphasised that the new report is the first of its kind in five years, providing a comprehensive update on the UK's response to terrorism. "This is the first [report] of its kind for five years and is a comprehensive update for the UK’s response to terrorism. It’s about how the fragmentation of Islamic State and al-Qaeda is now posing a very different threat to our people, while state actors like Russia and Iran will increasingly try to capitalise on terrorism here in the UK." "We can’t be complacent, the terrorists are morphing and we have to keep our vigilance up." Currently, the threat level set by MI5 is classified as "substantial," indicating that an attack is considered likely. This level was reduced in February 2022 after being raised to "severe" in November 2021.

Islamic State and Al-Qaeda actively plotting terror attacks in the UK; govt warning expected soon

Threat of strike still looms over the UK's National Health Service, the NHS well Junior doctors in England are set to stage three days of strength this week and experts predict almost all routine. NHS services in England will get disrupted as a result well thousands of Junior doctors are due to stages 72-hour walkout from Wednesday in April when the junior doctors conducted a four-day strike about 27 000 Junior doctors state of work every day and more than a hundred and ninety thousand outpatient appointments and operations were postponed or they are demanding a 35 salary rise.

Three-day strike by doctors in England expected to have enormous impact on NHS care

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak revealed on Wednesday that discussions between the UK and Moldova for a return arrangement for migrants have begun. The proposed agreement, which is identical to one recently negotiated with Georgia and now going into effect, would allow the UK to deport foreign nationals who have broken immigration laws. "Unprecedented threats are coming from within Europe. From [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's blatant disrespect for the sovereignty of other nations to the emergence of organised immigration crime across our continent, Mr. Sunak said in a statement on Wednesday.

Rishi Sunak to raise illegal migration in Moldova, to discuss ways of reducing illegal migration

The long-awaited data on immigration was released by the United Kingdom government, on Thursday (May 25), which showed that&nbsp;net migration to the UK hit a record 606,000, last year. This comes as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government has been facing mounting pressure to deal with immigration,&nbsp;which continues to be a key political issue in Britain.&nbsp;

<h2>The record rise in migration</h2>

The official figures released on Thursday by the government show that a record 606,000 people migrated to the UK in 2022. This rise has been attributed to a “series of unprecedented world events” which took place last year including&nbsp;the ease in restrictions after the COVID-19 pandemic, as per the director of the centre for international migration at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Jay Lindop.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunaks-immigration-clampdown-to-affect-thousands-of-indian-foreign-nationals-studying-in-uk-595660">Sunak's immigration clampdown to affect thousands of Indian, foreign nationals studying in UK</a>

He said that these factors have “led to record levels of international immigration to the UK”. According to Lindop, one of the main drivers were people coming to Britain from the non-European Union for “work, study, and humanitarian purposes”.&nbsp;

The figure also includes the influx of migrants arriving after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as, those coming from Hong Kong where the UK has eased restrictions for those with a British overseas passport amid China’s reported increased curbs&nbsp;on civil rights.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brexit-leaves-a-sour-taste-on-grocery-bill-in-uk-596460">Brexit leaves a sour taste on grocery bill in UK</a>

<h2>‘Government has completely lost control of our immigration system’: Opposition Labour Party</h2>

Immigration was also one of the key issues related to the 2016 Brexit referendum, where the Conservative government in the UK has said that leaving the EU and ending the free movement of people between the 27-nation bloc and Britain could take control of its borders back.&nbsp;

In an interview with Sky News, Stephen Kinnock, the shadow immigration minister and Labour MP, said “all the indications are that the government has completely lost control of our immigration system”. This comes as the Labour Party has refused to give a number for the migration cap and said doing so would make the party a “hostage to fortune”.&nbsp;

He added, “I don't think you need to have specific numbers… but you need to have a clear commitment to getting numbers down,” as quoted by Sky News. He also went on to blame the Tory government for not creating enough opportunities for the local workforce which has forced employers to reach for bringing overseas migrant labour into the country.&nbsp; 
 
“This is about balance, of course we need immigration in our country, but we need to balance that against maximising opportunities for local people,” the Labour MP told Sky News.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The long-awaited data on immigration was released by the United Kingdom government, on Thursday (May 25), which showed that net migration to the UK hit a record 606,000, last year.

The long-awaited data on immigration was released by the United Kingdom government, on Thursday (May 25), which showed that net migration to the UK hit a record 606,000, last year. This comes as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government has been facing mounting pressure to deal with immigration, which continues to be a key political issue in Britain. The record rise in migration The official figures released on Thursday by the government show that a record 606,000 people migrated to the UK in 2022. This rise has been attributed to a “series of unprecedented world events” which took place last year including the ease in restrictions after the COVID-19 pandemic, as per the director of the centre for international migration at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Jay Lindop. ALSO READ | Sunak's immigration clampdown to affect thousands of Indian, foreign nationals studying in UK He said that these factors have “led to record levels of international immigration to the UK”. According to Lindop, one of the main drivers were people coming to Britain from the non-European Union for “work, study, and humanitarian purposes”. The figure also includes the influx of migrants arriving after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as, those coming from Hong Kong where the UK has eased restrictions for those with a British overseas passport amid China’s reported increased curbs on civil rights. ALSO WATCH | Brexit leaves a sour taste on grocery bill in UK ‘Government has completely lost control of our immigration system’: Opposition Labour Party Immigration was also one of the key issues related to the 2016 Brexit referendum, where the Conservative government in the UK has said that leaving the EU and ending the free movement of people between the 27-nation bloc and Britain could take control of its borders back. In an interview with Sky News, Stephen Kinnock, the shadow immigration minister and Labour MP, said “all the indications are that the government has completely lost control of our immigration system”. This comes as the Labour Party has refused to give a number for the migration cap and said doing so would make the party a “hostage to fortune”. He added, “I don't think you need to have specific numbers… but you need to have a clear commitment to getting numbers down,” as quoted by Sky News. He also went on to blame the Tory government for not creating enough opportunities for the local workforce which has forced employers to reach for bringing overseas migrant labour into the country. “This is about balance, of course we need immigration in our country, but we need to balance that against maximising opportunities for local people,” the Labour MP told Sky News. (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.

A ‘record’ 606,000 people migrated to the UK in 2022; opposition criticises government

The UK government's strong stance on the immigration policy has come under fire again. Farmers and Defra ministers have been lobbying the Home Office to increase the number of temporary visas for agricultural workers, but Home Secretary, Suella Braverman was ideologically opposed to such a move.

Farmers, Mps urge gov to increase number of temporary visas

Nurses Union has rejected UK government's pay offer and will continue the strike. Earlier UK government said on Thursday that they had reached an agreement to raise pay by 5% in the upcoming fiscal year, perhaps putting a stop to disruptive strikes.

Some unions, including the Royal College of Nurses, reject UK government's pay offer

The UK government and unions that represent different health professionals in England said on Thursday that they had reached an agreement to raise pay by 5% in the upcoming fiscal year, perhaps putting a stop to disruptive strikes.

UK Government may give nurses and NHS staff 5% pay rise

The controversial illegal migration bill has made it through the lower house of the Parliament of UK House of commons approved the bill by 289 votes to 230. For more details. Watch the video to know more.

UK takes tough stance on illegal migration with new bill approved by House of Commons

According to data by a trade union, the NHS spends more than £1 million a week hiring private ambulances to respond to emergency calls. According to Unison, their findings were based on responses from two thirds of the ambulance trusts in England that pay for the coverage of seriously ill patients from private businesses. According to the union, ambulance trusts across throughout England have hired more than a dozen private companies to help close growing service gaps and keep up with the high demand.

NHS spends more than £1million a week on private ambulances: Report

Home Secretary's lawyers informed a family court that 66 unaccompanied minors seeking refuge are still missing from just one local authority, Brighton and Hove, after disappearing from a hotel.&nbsp;

The number was made public during a press hearing to address the issue of no agency having parental responsibility for the missing children, as reported by the Guardian.

More than two months ago, a minister disclosed that 200 children, many of whom had come to the UK on tiny boats without parents or guardians, vanished after being placed in hotels managed by contractors working for the Home Office.&nbsp;

The number includes 76 children who had disappeared from a hotel in Brighton amid concerns that they had been targeted by criminal gangs.

A children's charity has since filed an application with the high court's family division, citing "unusual circumstances," to have that group of 66 children declared the property of the court. If successful, this indicates that the court would be in charge of the children and make decisions regarding their care.&nbsp;

An veteran judge said that the missing children were falling into the wrong hands at a private hearing on Friday in London. Brighton and Hove is claiming that they are not the court's concern, Judge Nathalie Lieven said. "As individuals, it's not me," the secretary of state is claiming of [them].

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pool-part-at-sunaks-greenpeace-activists-gather-outside-uk-pms-home-in-protest-of-his-energy-draining-pool-577216">Pool party at Sunak's? Greenpeace activists gather outside UK PM's home in protest of his energy-draining pool</a>

It is unclear if the 66 children who are still missing are all among the 76 people who have already been reported missing, or if the number also includes fresh arrivals who have since vanished. Before the hearing, one of the children had been found.&nbsp;

The names, dates of birth, and nationalities of the children who are currently missing can be provided to the court, according to Suella Braverman, the home secretary. The information was requested by the NGO Article 39, which advocates for children in institutional settings, so that wardship may be taken into account.

The Home Office said the wellbeing of unaccompanied minors was a priority but that “those who arrive in the UK illegally” would not be able to settle here, reported the Guardian.

“The bill will enable the Home Office to provide accommodation and support for unaccompanied children who arrive in the UK illegally should we wish to use that power,” said a spokesperson.

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Home Secretary's lawyers informed a family court that 66 unaccompanied minors seeking refuge are still missing from just one local authority, Brighton and Hove, after disappearing from a hotel.

Home Secretary's lawyers informed a family court that 66 unaccompanied minors seeking refuge are still missing from just one local authority, Brighton and Hove, after disappearing from a hotel. The number was made public during a press hearing to address the issue of no agency having parental responsibility for the missing children, as reported by the Guardian. More than two months ago, a minister disclosed that 200 children, many of whom had come to the UK on tiny boats without parents or guardians, vanished after being placed in hotels managed by contractors working for the Home Office. The number includes 76 children who had disappeared from a hotel in Brighton amid concerns that they had been targeted by criminal gangs. A children's charity has since filed an application with the high court's family division, citing "unusual circumstances," to have that group of 66 children declared the property of the court. If successful, this indicates that the court would be in charge of the children and make decisions regarding their care. An veteran judge said that the missing children were falling into the wrong hands at a private hearing on Friday in London. Brighton and Hove is claiming that they are not the court's concern, Judge Nathalie Lieven said. "As individuals, it's not me," the secretary of state is claiming of [them]. ALSO READ | Pool party at Sunak's? Greenpeace activists gather outside UK PM's home in protest of his energy-draining pool It is unclear if the 66 children who are still missing are all among the 76 people who have already been reported missing, or if the number also includes fresh arrivals who have since vanished. Before the hearing, one of the children had been found. The names, dates of birth, and nationalities of the children who are currently missing can be provided to the court, according to Suella Braverman, the home secretary. The information was requested by the NGO Article 39, which advocates for children in institutional settings, so that wardship may be taken into account. The Home Office said the wellbeing of unaccompanied minors was a priority but that “those who arrive in the UK illegally” would not be able to settle here, reported the Guardian. “The bill will enable the Home Office to provide accommodation and support for unaccompanied children who arrive in the UK illegally should we wish to use that power,” said a spokesperson. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: 66 unaccompanied minors still missing after vanishing from Brighton asylum hotel

The cost of the government's plan to clamp down on Channel migrant crossings could amount to more than £9billion in the first three years, according to a refugee charity.

UK government's migrant plan could cost £9bn in first three years

NHS unions and ministers have reached a new pay offer for frontline staff in a move which could herald the end of walkouts by nurses and paramedics. The government and the NHS Staff Council – which represents nurses, ambulance staff and other NHS workers – reached the final offer after weeks of negotiations and months of strikes.

UK government agrees to pay rise for NHS workers

NHS strike: Sunk is delighted with the pay deal

The United Kingdom government came up with a major crackdown on research collaborations with China as more than 1,000 scientists and postgraduate students were prohibited from working in the country last year on national security grounds, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing figures it obtained.&nbsp;

The media outlet reported that the figures showed that a record 1,104 scientists and postgraduate students were rejected by Foreign Office vetting in 2022. The number saw an increase, up from 128 in 2020 and just 13 in 2016.&nbsp;

Last year in July, a report emerged that 50 Chinese students have left the UK in the past three years in the aftermath of Britain tightening its procedures to prevent the theft of sensitive academic research. It was said by the head of MI5 in a speech about the espionage threat posed by Beijing.&nbsp;

The Guardian reported that the Foreign Office hasn't given a detailed report, breaking down the nationality, but according to the data released by leading universities including Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial College, it can be seen that Chinese academics account for a majority of those denied clearance at these institutions at least.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-comes-up-with-20-recommendations-to-encourage-families-to-have-more-children-572313">Experts in China draft 20 new incentives to encourage families for having more babies</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US-China rivalry plays out in Africa&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, ICEF Monitor, which is a dedicated market intelligence resource for the international education industry, reported on Wednesday that the latest UK visa numbers indicate continuing strong growth in international HE enrolments this year.&nbsp;

According to the report, the UK study visa grants reached nearly 490,000 in 2022, which is an 81% increase over pre-pandemic levels. The report further mentioned that China and Nigeria were among other markets, which acted as the main growth drivers.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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The United Kingdom government came up with a major crackdown on research collaborations with China as more than 1,000 scientists and postgraduate students were prohibited from working in the country last year on national security grounds, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing figures it obtained.

The United Kingdom government came up with a major crackdown on research collaborations with China as more than 1,000 scientists and postgraduate students were prohibited from working in the country last year on national security grounds, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing figures it obtained. The media outlet reported that the figures showed that a record 1,104 scientists and postgraduate students were rejected by Foreign Office vetting in 2022. The number saw an increase, up from 128 in 2020 and just 13 in 2016. Last year in July, a report emerged that 50 Chinese students have left the UK in the past three years in the aftermath of Britain tightening its procedures to prevent the theft of sensitive academic research. It was said by the head of MI5 in a speech about the espionage threat posed by Beijing. The Guardian reported that the Foreign Office hasn't given a detailed report, breaking down the nationality, but according to the data released by leading universities including Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial College, it can be seen that Chinese academics account for a majority of those denied clearance at these institutions at least. ALSO READ | Experts in China draft 20 new incentives to encourage families for having more babies WATCH | US-China rivalry plays out in Africa × Meanwhile, ICEF Monitor, which is a dedicated market intelligence resource for the international education industry, reported on Wednesday that the latest UK visa numbers indicate continuing strong growth in international HE enrolments this year. According to the report, the UK study visa grants reached nearly 490,000 in 2022, which is an 81% increase over pre-pandemic levels. The report further mentioned that China and Nigeria were among other markets, which acted as the main growth drivers. (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.

Hundreds of scientists and students barred from UK amid government’s crackdown on China

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

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

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

This coming winter will be difficult for Europe amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, but for the United Kingdom, it might be worse as the country faces several crises.&nbsp;

As the nation looks for political stability, economic status continues to be a concerning issue for the policymakers because reports state that amid a cost-of-living crisis, Brits could be plunged into darkness this winter with the coldest months yet to come.&nbsp;

But how is the government planning to address the issue? As seen by the British media outlet The Guardian, official documents show that the authorities have "war gamed" emergency plans to cope with energy blackouts lasting up to seven days.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gchq-mi5and-mi6-alter-hiring-rules-will-recruit-non-british-parentage-spies-530470">UK PM Rishi Sunak is looking to close the Confucius Institutes, says security minister</a>&nbsp;

This comes amid growing fears over the security of supply this winter during a potential national power outage. The report mentioned that the documents were marked "official sensitive" and they warned that in a "reasonable worst-case scenario" all major sectors such as; transport, food and water supply, communications and energy, could be "severely disrupted" for up to a week.&nbsp;

The document also underlined that in case of such a scenario, the government will give priority to food, water and shelter to young and elderly people.&nbsp;

Guardian report mentioned that the country might experience a blackout for a week. Meanwhile, a BBC report also said the same thing as it reported quoting National Grid that the blackouts would be the last resort this winter if energy supplies stop or run low.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak makes U-turn on attending COP27, confirms his attendance&nbsp;

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UK National Grid's boss, John Pettigrew, told BBC that it assumed that the UK would have enough supplies to meet heating and lighting demand this winter, but short rolling power cuts were a possibility.&nbsp;

Pettigrew told BBC: "There could be energy shortfalls in the UK and we will manage that very carefully. This isn't a time for people to panic."&nbsp;

"Most importantly what we're doing is making sure that the infrastructure that we have and the networks are robust and ready for the winter, and I've got thousands of engineers making sure that the network is ready for whatever weather we see over the winter," he added.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that the UK government is currently stress-testing Programme Yarrow, which is a confidential plan to address power outages that will impact millions of households.&nbsp;

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This coming winter will be difficult for Europe amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, but for the United Kingdom, it might be worse as the country faces several crises.

This coming winter will be difficult for Europe amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, but for the United Kingdom, it might be worse as the country faces several crises. As the nation looks for political stability, economic status continues to be a concerning issue for the policymakers because reports state that amid a cost-of-living crisis, Brits could be plunged into darkness this winter with the coldest months yet to come. But how is the government planning to address the issue? As seen by the British media outlet The Guardian, official documents show that the authorities have "war gamed" emergency plans to cope with energy blackouts lasting up to seven days. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak is looking to close the Confucius Institutes, says security minister This comes amid growing fears over the security of supply this winter during a potential national power outage. The report mentioned that the documents were marked "official sensitive" and they warned that in a "reasonable worst-case scenario" all major sectors such as; transport, food and water supply, communications and energy, could be "severely disrupted" for up to a week. The document also underlined that in case of such a scenario, the government will give priority to food, water and shelter to young and elderly people. Guardian report mentioned that the country might experience a blackout for a week. Meanwhile, a BBC report also said the same thing as it reported quoting National Grid that the blackouts would be the last resort this winter if energy supplies stop or run low. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak makes U-turn on attending COP27, confirms his attendance × ALSO READ | GCHQ, MI5and MI6 alter hiring rules. Will recruit non-British parentage spies UK National Grid's boss, John Pettigrew, told BBC that it assumed that the UK would have enough supplies to meet heating and lighting demand this winter, but short rolling power cuts were a possibility. Pettigrew told BBC: "There could be energy shortfalls in the UK and we will manage that very carefully. This isn't a time for people to panic." "Most importantly what we're doing is making sure that the infrastructure that we have and the networks are robust and ready for the winter, and I've got thousands of engineers making sure that the network is ready for whatever weather we see over the winter," he added. The report mentioned that the UK government is currently stress-testing Programme Yarrow, which is a confidential plan to address power outages that will impact millions of households. 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.

Is the UK government working on 'war gamed' emergency plans to tackle energy blackouts?

India's Tata Steel sought financial support from the British government upon its operations. The firm is hopeful of receiving $1.5 bn in terms of subsidy package for proposed transition of furnaces to green energy.

India's Tata Steel seeks support from UK government

The British pound showed signs of recovery on Thursday after reports claiming that the Liz Truss-led government can completely abandon their plans to introduce unfunded tax cuts. The pound jumped against the United States Dollar by 1.5 per cent to reach $1.1269 during afternoon deals in London.

The mini budget presented by finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng was not accepted kindly by the public as the pound previously dropped to its lowest against the dollar. The tax cuts were a key element of Truss’ campaign promises but the implementation earned criticisms from all corners.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-live-updates-russian-missiles-target-more-than-40-ukraine-cities-and-towns-525102" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia war LIVE | Putin tells Erdogan about 'gas hub' in Türkiye</a>

A number of international organisations – including the International Monetary Fund and the Bank of England – expressed their concerns regarding the tax cuts. In the aftermath of the fall in pound’s value, the Bank of England had to expand their buying of government bonds to stablise the market.

However, Truss and Kwarteng have both decided to not implement all the measures mentioned in the budget and that has come as good news for the market. The pound has somewhat stabilised with the tax cuts not taking place and it was further boosted by the US inflation data.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Truss can be facing some rebellion from inside the Conservative Party. Paul Goodman, former Tory MP and editor of the influential ConservativeHome blog, said that party members can be looking at former finance minister Rishi Sunak as a possible alternative.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-says-want-talks-with-india-but-remains-silent-on-terrorism-525119">Pak PM Sharif says 'want talks with India', but remains silent on terrorism</a>

"All sorts of different people are talking about all sorts of different things because the Conservative backbenchers are casting around for a possible replacement for (finance minister) Kwasi Kwarteng, even for a possible replacement for Liz Truss," he told BBC in an interview.

"One idea doing the rounds is that Penny Mordaunt and Rishi Sunak, who, after all, between them got pretty much two-thirds of the votes of MPs (in the leadership contest), come to some kind of arrangement and essentially take over," he added when asked about possible options.

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The British pound showed signs of recovery on Thursday after reports claiming that the Liz Truss-led government can completely abandon their plans to introduce unfunded tax cuts.

The British pound showed signs of recovery on Thursday after reports claiming that the Liz Truss-led government can completely abandon their plans to introduce unfunded tax cuts. The pound jumped against the United States Dollar by 1.5 per cent to reach $1.1269 during afternoon deals in London. The mini budget presented by finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng was not accepted kindly by the public as the pound previously dropped to its lowest against the dollar. The tax cuts were a key element of Truss’ campaign promises but the implementation earned criticisms from all corners. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war LIVE | Putin tells Erdogan about 'gas hub' in Türkiye A number of international organisations – including the International Monetary Fund and the Bank of England – expressed their concerns regarding the tax cuts. In the aftermath of the fall in pound’s value, the Bank of England had to expand their buying of government bonds to stablise the market. However, Truss and Kwarteng have both decided to not implement all the measures mentioned in the budget and that has come as good news for the market. The pound has somewhat stabilised with the tax cuts not taking place and it was further boosted by the US inflation data. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Truss can be facing some rebellion from inside the Conservative Party. Paul Goodman, former Tory MP and editor of the influential ConservativeHome blog, said that party members can be looking at former finance minister Rishi Sunak as a possible alternative. Also read | Pak PM Sharif says 'want talks with India', but remains silent on terrorism "All sorts of different people are talking about all sorts of different things because the Conservative backbenchers are casting around for a possible replacement for (finance minister) Kwasi Kwarteng, even for a possible replacement for Liz Truss," he told BBC in an interview. "One idea doing the rounds is that Penny Mordaunt and Rishi Sunak, who, after all, between them got pretty much two-thirds of the votes of MPs (in the leadership contest), come to some kind of arrangement and essentially take over," he added when asked about possible options.

British pound rises after reports of UK government reversing tax cuts

Ratings agency Fitch said on Thursday that they have decided to lower the outlook for the British government’s credit rating from “stable” to “negative”. This announcement came just days after rival company Standard &amp; Poor's took a similar decision following the latest economic measures.

"The large and unfunded fiscal package announced as part of the new government's growth plan could lead to a significant increase in fiscal deficits over the medium term," Fitch said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-in-direction-of-japan-522855" hreflang="en">North Korea fires two ballistic missiles toward sea in direction of Japan</a>

According to Fitch, the British economy faces a major concern as the measures promised by the British government do not match the ones being implemented by the Bank of England. While the BoE is looking to raise interest rates, Downing Street has promised a number of tax cuts.

In the past week, finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng announced tax cuts for the top earners in the United Kingdom but after severe criticism from various corners, it was not implemented. In the meantime, the sterling fell massively and at one point, the pound reaches its lowest against the US dollar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-search-has-given-mar-a-lago-about-5b-worth-of-free-publicity-says-donald-trump-522853">FBI search has given Mar-a-Lago ‘about $5bn worth of free publicity’ - Trump</a>

"Although the government reversed the elimination of the 45p top rate tax ... the government's weakened political capital could further undermine the credibility of and support for the government's fiscal strategy," Fitch said in their latest report according to Reuters.

Tax cuts were a major feature of newly elected Prime Minister Liz Truss’s campaign and Kwarteng has said that although it was not implemented right now, tax cuts are a possibility in the future.

Fitch forecasted that the government deficit can reach “7.8% of gross domestic product (GDP) this year and 8.8% in 2023” while the government debt can skyrocket to 109 per cent of the GDP.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ratings agency Fitch said on Thursday that they have decided to lower the outlook for the British government’s credit rating from “stable” to “negative”. This announcement came just days after rival company Standard & Poor's took a similar decision following the latest economic measures.

Ratings agency Fitch said on Thursday that they have decided to lower the outlook for the British government’s credit rating from “stable” to “negative”. This announcement came just days after rival company Standard & Poor's took a similar decision following the latest economic measures. "The large and unfunded fiscal package announced as part of the new government's growth plan could lead to a significant increase in fiscal deficits over the medium term," Fitch said. Also read | North Korea fires two ballistic missiles toward sea in direction of Japan According to Fitch, the British economy faces a major concern as the measures promised by the British government do not match the ones being implemented by the Bank of England. While the BoE is looking to raise interest rates, Downing Street has promised a number of tax cuts. In the past week, finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng announced tax cuts for the top earners in the United Kingdom but after severe criticism from various corners, it was not implemented. In the meantime, the sterling fell massively and at one point, the pound reaches its lowest against the US dollar. Also read | FBI search has given Mar-a-Lago ‘about $5bn worth of free publicity’ - Trump "Although the government reversed the elimination of the 45p top rate tax ... the government's weakened political capital could further undermine the credibility of and support for the government's fiscal strategy," Fitch said in their latest report according to Reuters. Tax cuts were a major feature of newly elected Prime Minister Liz Truss’s campaign and Kwarteng has said that although it was not implemented right now, tax cuts are a possibility in the future. Fitch forecasted that the government deficit can reach “7.8% of gross domestic product (GDP) this year and 8.8% in 2023” while the government debt can skyrocket to 109 per cent of the GDP.

Fitch cuts outlook for UK credit rating to 'negative' from 'stable'

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea.

Prompting widespread horror among the public, recent discharges of sewage into popular river and sea bathing areas have caused activists to raise an alarm over waters shared with the European Union.

Several members of parliament have complained to the European Commission about British sewage allegedly being poured into the bloc's water bodies.

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Requiring them to invest £56 billion ($66 billion) over 25 years to improve infrastructure such as storm overflows, the UK government on Friday announced the "toughest targets ever" for water companies.

Britons have expressed frustration over the plan as some of that cost will be passed onto customers through bills.

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We're announcing the largest infrastructure programme in water company history to crack down on sewage spills and end pollution. 
 
Read more about our Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan: <a href="https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu">https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnvironmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnvironmentAct</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sewage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sewage</a> <a href="https://t.co/4nBxtUGoOm">pic.twitter.com/4nBxtUGoOm</a>
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While untreated wastewater goes directly into watercourses or the sea, storm channels are conduits used during heavy rain to prevent sewers from becoming overfull.

Criticising the plan, 'The Rivers Trust' charity said it was "too little, too late" and environment spokesman for the Liberal Democratic Party Tim Farron called it a "cruel joke".

''You could argue that governments down the decades should have prioritised this,'' said environment secretary George Eustice.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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&nbsp;

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea.

After opposition parties and environmentalists slammed the measures as insufficient and costly for consumers, Britain's environment minister on Saturday defended government plans to tackle sewage releases into rivers and sea. Prompting widespread horror among the public, recent discharges of sewage into popular river and sea bathing areas have caused activists to raise an alarm over waters shared with the European Union. Several members of parliament have complained to the European Commission about British sewage allegedly being poured into the bloc's water bodies. × Requiring them to invest £56 billion ($66 billion) over 25 years to improve infrastructure such as storm overflows, the UK government on Friday announced the "toughest targets ever" for water companies. Britons have expressed frustration over the plan as some of that cost will be passed onto customers through bills. We're announcing the largest infrastructure programme in water company history to crack down on sewage spills and end pollution. Read more about our Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan: https://t.co/SaCTkksRGu#EnvironmentAct #Sewage pic.twitter.com/4nBxtUGoOm — Defra UK (@DefraGovUK) August 26, 2022 × While untreated wastewater goes directly into watercourses or the sea, storm channels are conduits used during heavy rain to prevent sewers from becoming overfull. Criticising the plan, 'The Rivers Trust' charity said it was "too little, too late" and environment spokesman for the Liberal Democratic Party Tim Farron called it a "cruel joke". ''You could argue that governments down the decades should have prioritised this,'' said environment secretary George Eustice. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Environmentalists slam British government for releasing sewage into rivers, sea

Corporations and scientists in the pockets of big pharma are always on the lookout for a perfect opportunity to peddle their creations to an unsuspecting public. Both Brexit and the pandemic have given these capitalist opportunists a perfect situation to push for the loosening of legislation controlling the quality and safety of our food, both locally grown and imported from abroad. Westminster is hell-bent on removing environmental and health safeguards that environmentalists fought for in this country for decades.

So, what is happening now at Westminster?

The Tory government in London has introduced a Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill which would set different rules from the EU following Brexit and has asked all devolved nations, including Scotland, to allow gene-edited crops to be grown. The Scottish government's environment secretary, MSP Mairi McAllan, dismissed the idea, saying that Scotland will set its own food standards under devolution and will not accept any constraints placed on its food policies.

What is gene-editing?

Gene editing basically allows scientists to change a plant or animal's DNA. Many experts would consider it one step before GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms), which are currently banned in Europe and the UK as a whole. Since Brexit, the UK government has been hell bent on eroding all our food and environmental safety laws that we as a country have fought so hard to achieve over the past many decades. I have previously in my columns highlighted the need for citizens to be vigilant against corporations, lobbyists, and greedy politicians who are now convinced that the only way to grow and feed the population in the UK post-Brexit is via gene-edited or GMO foods!

Under the UK's internal market legislation, introduced by the Tory government at Westminster, anything approved for sale in one part of the UK must be available across the whole of the UK. This legislation basically undermines "devolution" in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. We are already seeing the chaos caused by the "Northern Ireland Protocol Bill" and its hasty signing off as an election promise in their manifesto by the Tories in the 2019 general elections. MSP Mairi McAllan has written to her Westminster counterpart saying: "If the UK government is determined to press ahead with this legislation, it must take steps to ensure that its revisions to the definition of a GMO (genetically modified organism) do not force products on Scotland which do not meet standards here without the consent of the Scottish Parliament." simultaneously raising concerns about the impact of the bill on Scotland’s food exports to the European Union, which currently still has a ban in place for GMO’s.

So, what can we do in Scotland to stop this mad onslaught on our food and its impact on Scottish soil and water in the coming decades if this bill is passed?&nbsp; Once again, be informed about the technology that is being promoted, ask questions to your elected MSP/MP and try to understand the link between corporations like Monsanto, politicians and large-scale food producers. The citizens always pay the price when things go wrong. Let’s make sure this does not happen to Scotland’s land, water, air, and health of its population.

Corporations and scientists in the pockets of big pharma are always on the lookout for a perfect opportunity to peddle their creations to an unsuspecting public.

Corporations and scientists in the pockets of big pharma are always on the lookout for a perfect opportunity to peddle their creations to an unsuspecting public. Both Brexit and the pandemic have given these capitalist opportunists a perfect situation to push for the loosening of legislation controlling the quality and safety of our food, both locally grown and imported from abroad. Westminster is hell-bent on removing environmental and health safeguards that environmentalists fought for in this country for decades. So, what is happening now at Westminster? The Tory government in London has introduced a Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill which would set different rules from the EU following Brexit and has asked all devolved nations, including Scotland, to allow gene-edited crops to be grown. The Scottish government's environment secretary, MSP Mairi McAllan, dismissed the idea, saying that Scotland will set its own food standards under devolution and will not accept any constraints placed on its food policies. What is gene-editing? Gene editing basically allows scientists to change a plant or animal's DNA. Many experts would consider it one step before GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms), which are currently banned in Europe and the UK as a whole. Since Brexit, the UK government has been hell bent on eroding all our food and environmental safety laws that we as a country have fought so hard to achieve over the past many decades. I have previously in my columns highlighted the need for citizens to be vigilant against corporations, lobbyists, and greedy politicians who are now convinced that the only way to grow and feed the population in the UK post-Brexit is via gene-edited or GMO foods! Under the UK's internal market legislation, introduced by the Tory government at Westminster, anything approved for sale in one part of the UK must be available across the whole of the UK. This legislation basically undermines "devolution" in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. We are already seeing the chaos caused by the "Northern Ireland Protocol Bill" and its hasty signing off as an election promise in their manifesto by the Tories in the 2019 general elections. MSP Mairi McAllan has written to her Westminster counterpart saying: "If the UK government is determined to press ahead with this legislation, it must take steps to ensure that its revisions to the definition of a GMO (genetically modified organism) do not force products on Scotland which do not meet standards here without the consent of the Scottish Parliament." simultaneously raising concerns about the impact of the bill on Scotland’s food exports to the European Union, which currently still has a ban in place for GMO’s. So, what can we do in Scotland to stop this mad onslaught on our food and its impact on Scottish soil and water in the coming decades if this bill is passed? Once again, be informed about the technology that is being promoted, ask questions to your elected MSP/MP and try to understand the link between corporations like Monsanto, politicians and large-scale food producers. The citizens always pay the price when things go wrong. Let’s make sure this does not happen to Scotland’s land, water, air, and health of its population.

UK government pushing for GMO's via gene-editing technology

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-malvika-bansod-beats-chinas-hue-yan-in-a-thriller-to-enter-second-round-468569">Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round</a>

Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles.

"We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement.

"This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-indias-lakshya-sen-sweats-it-out-versus-choi-ji-hoon-to-earn-hard-fought-win-468547">Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win</a>

"We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May."

British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London.

He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete.

Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May. Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation." ALSO READ: Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles. "We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement. "This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis. ALSO READ: Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win "We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May." British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London. He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete. Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said Abramovich, worth more than 9 billion pounds (USD 11 billion), is on a new list of seven wealthy Russians whose business empires, wealth and connections are closely associated with the Kremlin.

These oligarchs, with a collective net worth of around 15 billion pounds (USD 19 billion), will have their assets in the UK frozen, be banned from travelling to Britain and no UK citizen or company would be allowed to do business with them.

"There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine,"&nbsp;said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-kylian-mbappe-neymar-on-fire-as-paris-st-germain-thrash-clermont-6-1-469965">Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe, Neymar bag hat-tricks as Paris St-Germain thrash Clermont 6-1</a>

"Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies," he said.

Given the significant impact that sanctions on Abramovich would have on the Chelsea Football Club and potential knock on effects, the UK government has also published a licence which authorises a number of football-related activities to continue at Chelsea.

This includes permissions for the club to continue playing matches and other football related activity which will in turn protect the Premier League, the wider football pyramid, fans and other clubs.

"This licence will only allow certain explicitly named actions to ensure the designated individual is not able to circumvent UK sanctions. The licence will be kept under constant review and we will work closely with the football authorities,"&nbsp;the FCDO said.

Others newly-sanctioned by the UK include leading industrialist Oleg Deripaska worth 2 billion pounds (USD 2.6 billion), and Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin.

A further group of Russia-based oligarchs close to Putin have also been placed under sanction&nbsp;including Andrey Kostin, Chairman of VTB bank; Alexei Miller, CEO of energy company Gazprom; Nikolai Tokarev, president of the Russia state-owned pipeline company Transneft; and Dmitri Lebedev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bank Rossiya.

"Today's sanctions show once again that oligarchs and kleptocrats have no place in our economy or society. With their close links to Putin they are complicit in his aggression,"&nbsp;said UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss.

"The blood of the Ukrainian people is on their hands. They should hang their heads in shame. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not stop in this mission to ramp up the pressure on the Putin regime and choke off funds to his brutal war machine," she said.

The sanctions are described as the latest step in the UK's response to Putin's illegal and "unprovoked invasion", designed to ensure he fails in Ukraine by crippling Russia's economy supporting his war machine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-dusan-vlahovic-strikes-as-juventus-earn-crucial-win-against-cagliari-469953">Serie A: Dusan Vlahovic strikes as Juventus earn crucial win against Cagliari</a>

The FCDO said the UK has been at the forefront of this effort, shutting out large proportions of whole sectors of the Russian economy, such as its defence industry, its financial institutions and its transport sector.

The UK has previously sanctioned more than 200 of Russia's most significant and high-value individuals, entities and subsidiaries since the conflict began, with over 500 of them now covered by the UK's sanctions list.

Britain's fast-tracked Economic Crime Bill, which comes into force next week, is designed to significantly simplify the process of imposing sanctions, allow the UK to more easily sanction individuals, stop oligarchs threatening the UK with multi-million pound lawsuits for damages at the taxpayer's expense and also allow the UK to mirror allies' designations.

"The UK will keep going further, faster and deeper to punish Putin's regime for this callous war,"&nbsp;the FCDO said, adding that it will continue to lead global efforts to provide Ukraine with economic, diplomatic, humanitarian and defensive support.

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin.

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said Abramovich, worth more than 9 billion pounds (USD 11 billion), is on a new list of seven wealthy Russians whose business empires, wealth and connections are closely associated with the Kremlin. These oligarchs, with a collective net worth of around 15 billion pounds (USD 19 billion), will have their assets in the UK frozen, be banned from travelling to Britain and no UK citizen or company would be allowed to do business with them. "There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine," said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. ALSO READ: Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe, Neymar bag hat-tricks as Paris St-Germain thrash Clermont 6-1 "Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies," he said. Given the significant impact that sanctions on Abramovich would have on the Chelsea Football Club and potential knock on effects, the UK government has also published a licence which authorises a number of football-related activities to continue at Chelsea. This includes permissions for the club to continue playing matches and other football related activity which will in turn protect the Premier League, the wider football pyramid, fans and other clubs. "This licence will only allow certain explicitly named actions to ensure the designated individual is not able to circumvent UK sanctions. The licence will be kept under constant review and we will work closely with the football authorities," the FCDO said. Others newly-sanctioned by the UK include leading industrialist Oleg Deripaska worth 2 billion pounds (USD 2.6 billion), and Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin. A further group of Russia-based oligarchs close to Putin have also been placed under sanction including Andrey Kostin, Chairman of VTB bank; Alexei Miller, CEO of energy company Gazprom; Nikolai Tokarev, president of the Russia state-owned pipeline company Transneft; and Dmitri Lebedev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bank Rossiya. "Today's sanctions show once again that oligarchs and kleptocrats have no place in our economy or society. With their close links to Putin they are complicit in his aggression," said UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss. "The blood of the Ukrainian people is on their hands. They should hang their heads in shame. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not stop in this mission to ramp up the pressure on the Putin regime and choke off funds to his brutal war machine," she said. The sanctions are described as the latest step in the UK's response to Putin's illegal and "unprovoked invasion", designed to ensure he fails in Ukraine by crippling Russia's economy supporting his war machine. ALSO READ: Serie A: Dusan Vlahovic strikes as Juventus earn crucial win against Cagliari The FCDO said the UK has been at the forefront of this effort, shutting out large proportions of whole sectors of the Russian economy, such as its defence industry, its financial institutions and its transport sector. The UK has previously sanctioned more than 200 of Russia's most significant and high-value individuals, entities and subsidiaries since the conflict began, with over 500 of them now covered by the UK's sanctions list. Britain's fast-tracked Economic Crime Bill, which comes into force next week, is designed to significantly simplify the process of imposing sanctions, allow the UK to more easily sanction individuals, stop oligarchs threatening the UK with multi-million pound lawsuits for damages at the taxpayer's expense and also allow the UK to mirror allies' designations. "The UK will keep going further, faster and deeper to punish Putin's regime for this callous war," the FCDO said, adding that it will continue to lead global efforts to provide Ukraine with economic, diplomatic, humanitarian and defensive support.

UK govt adds Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich in sanctions list against Russian oligarchs for Putin link

UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. &nbsp;

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;

On being asked whether Britain can seize properties owned by Russian oligarchs, Raab told LBC: “If we’ve got the evidence and the legal basis, then we’ll do it.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weekend-special-who-is-a-russian-oligarch-heres-what-you-need-to-know-459198" hreflang="en">Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know</a>

When enquired about using these properties to house Ukrainian refugees, Raab replied: “Yes, absolutely. &nbsp;

The move has been called by the Liberal Democrats and argued for in the government reportedly by the housing secretary Michael Gove. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are looking at everything in the round, it is a team effort across government, from the foreign and defence secretary through to Michael Gove and, of course, the prime minister is driving this very hard,” Raab said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a>

The individuals, who had faced sanctions, would not be allowed to repair their property without a licence, or rent or sell it, as per sources. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Raab said, “There has been a running commentary that the UK has somehow been slow – we’ve not been slow. We’ve been at the vanguard of taking action and, of course, what is really important is we act in concert with our allies, European, American and other NATO&nbsp;allies.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine.

UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine. On being asked whether Britain can seize properties owned by Russian oligarchs, Raab told LBC: “If we’ve got the evidence and the legal basis, then we’ll do it.” Also Read: Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know When enquired about using these properties to house Ukrainian refugees, Raab replied: “Yes, absolutely. The move has been called by the Liberal Democrats and argued for in the government reportedly by the housing secretary Michael Gove. “We are looking at everything in the round, it is a team effort across government, from the foreign and defence secretary through to Michael Gove and, of course, the prime minister is driving this very hard,” Raab said. Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook The individuals, who had faced sanctions, would not be allowed to repair their property without a licence, or rent or sell it, as per sources. Raab said, “There has been a running commentary that the UK has somehow been slow – we’ve not been slow. We’ve been at the vanguard of taking action and, of course, what is really important is we act in concert with our allies, European, American and other NATO allies.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK government may hand over Russian oligarchs’ seized properties to Ukrainian refugees, says Raab  

Even after using virginity tests for years as ways to control immigration, the UK government has failed to apologise for the deplorable act. &nbsp;

The "virginity testing" was made a criminal offence in November 2021. And the government has also added a clause recently to its health and care bill to make "virginity repair" or hymenoplasty surgery illegal in England and Wales. &nbsp;

All of this has been done but a formal apology is still pending in the case. &nbsp;

The UK Home Office used to test women as a means of immigration control in the past. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-tory-mp-submits-no-confidence-letter-becomes-the-12th-one-calling-for-pm-to-quit-449954" hreflang="en">12th Tory MP submits no-confidence letter, calls for PM to quit</a>

The "’virginity’ testing involves visual inspection of the hymenal membrane by a medical professional. In some cases, the examination includes a 'two-finger' test to assess the size of the vaginal opening," as per an article on BMJ Global Health. &nbsp;

But studies show no test or exam can actually determine accurately about the virginity of a woman. &nbsp;

So, the idea of such a test is largely sexist. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-of-johnsons-closest-aides-desert-him-as-he-seeks-a-fresh-start-450297">Four of Johnson's closest aides desert him, as he seeks a fresh start</a>

The doctors also believe that the practice is based on misunderstanding about the female body and outdated notions of "purity." &nbsp;

Richard Holden, a British Parliament member who proposed the changes to the law, told CNN, "I couldn't believe it was still happening or that nobody had taken it up. I knew I had to campaign to change the law." &nbsp;

The amendments were evidence of a commitment to "safeguard all women and break down the pervasive myths that surround virginity and a woman's sexuality," a spokesperson of the government told CNN. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even after using virginity tests for years as ways to control immigration, the UK government has failed to apologise for the deplorable act. The "virginity testing" was made a criminal offence in November 2021.

Even after using virginity tests for years as ways to control immigration, the UK government has failed to apologise for the deplorable act. The "virginity testing" was made a criminal offence in November 2021. And the government has also added a clause recently to its health and care bill to make "virginity repair" or hymenoplasty surgery illegal in England and Wales. All of this has been done but a formal apology is still pending in the case. The UK Home Office used to test women as a means of immigration control in the past. Also Read: 12th Tory MP submits no-confidence letter, calls for PM to quit The "’virginity’ testing involves visual inspection of the hymenal membrane by a medical professional. In some cases, the examination includes a 'two-finger' test to assess the size of the vaginal opening," as per an article on BMJ Global Health. But studies show no test or exam can actually determine accurately about the virginity of a woman. So, the idea of such a test is largely sexist. Also Read: Four of Johnson's closest aides desert him, as he seeks a fresh start The doctors also believe that the practice is based on misunderstanding about the female body and outdated notions of "purity." Richard Holden, a British Parliament member who proposed the changes to the law, told CNN, "I couldn't believe it was still happening or that nobody had taken it up. I knew I had to campaign to change the law." The amendments were evidence of a commitment to "safeguard all women and break down the pervasive myths that surround virginity and a woman's sexuality," a spokesperson of the government told CNN. (With inputs from agencies)

Virginity test’s use as immigration control: UK government’s apology still pending

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