In a bid to avert a looming financial crisis within the UK's town halls, Simon Hoare, the Minister for Local Government, is encouraging councils to utilise their reserves for day-to-day expenses.<o:p></o:p>

According to Bloomberg, Hoare emphasised that the reserves, often allocated for emergencies, should be deployed cautiously to benefit communities. <o:p></o:p>

He argued that many councils bolstered their rainy-day funds during the pandemic and that tapping into these reserves is a sensible approach.<o:p></o:p>

However, the call has faced criticism from the Labour opposition, deeming it "ridiculous," along with scepticism from local authorities.<o:p></o:p>

At the Local Government Association conference on council finances, Minister Simon Hoare defended the idea. <o:p></o:p>

"Reserves are not there to be guarded like they are the sort of flame of the vestal virgins, never to be touched. They are to be used prudently and sensibly for the benefit of communities," Bloomberg quoted Hoare as saying. <o:p></o:p>

He emphasised that the reserves are up post-Covid and encouraged councils to leverage these funds.<o:p></o:p>

However, Labour's shadow minister, Jim McMahon, criticised the notion, stating that tapping into one-off reserves to address financial pressures is "ridiculous" and that the higher the risk, the more reserves are needed.<o:p></o:p>

The government's urging of councils to use reserves for day-to-day spending, such as employing staff and running public services, contradicts the usual advice to maintain reserves for sudden emergencies and to even out cash flow. <o:p></o:p>

The Local Government Association (LGA) has cautioned that one in five councils are on the verge of declaring effective bankruptcy in the coming year or two. <o:p></o:p>

Despite ministerial assurances that the number of councils at risk is lower, the LGA maintains that cuts to central government grants, inflation, and rising service demand have left many councils financially strained.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a bid to avert a looming financial crisis within the UK's town halls, Simon Hoare, the Minister for Local Government, is encouraging councils to utilise their reserves for day-to-day expenses.

In a bid to avert a looming financial crisis within the UK's town halls, Simon Hoare, the Minister for Local Government, is encouraging councils to utilise their reserves for day-to-day expenses. According to Bloomberg, Hoare emphasised that the reserves, often allocated for emergencies, should be deployed cautiously to benefit communities. He argued that many councils bolstered their rainy-day funds during the pandemic and that tapping into these reserves is a sensible approach. However, the call has faced criticism from the Labour opposition, deeming it "ridiculous," along with scepticism from local authorities. At the Local Government Association conference on council finances, Minister Simon Hoare defended the idea. "Reserves are not there to be guarded like they are the sort of flame of the vestal virgins, never to be touched. They are to be used prudently and sensibly for the benefit of communities," Bloomberg quoted Hoare as saying. He emphasised that the reserves are up post-Covid and encouraged councils to leverage these funds. However, Labour's shadow minister, Jim McMahon, criticised the notion, stating that tapping into one-off reserves to address financial pressures is "ridiculous" and that the higher the risk, the more reserves are needed. The government's urging of councils to use reserves for day-to-day spending, such as employing staff and running public services, contradicts the usual advice to maintain reserves for sudden emergencies and to even out cash flow. The Local Government Association (LGA) has cautioned that one in five councils are on the verge of declaring effective bankruptcy in the coming year or two. Despite ministerial assurances that the number of councils at risk is lower, the LGA maintains that cuts to central government grants, inflation, and rising service demand have left many councils financially strained. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK government urges councils to dip into reserves amid financial crisis concerns

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Sunday (Jan 7) said that his government is considering a move which would exonerate hundreds of employees of the state-owned Post Office who were wrongfully convicted in the Horizon scandal.&nbsp;

The UK PM&nbsp;would back a probe into whether to revoke&nbsp;former Post Office boss Paula Vennells’ CBE in the wake of the Horizon scandal, said his spokesperson.&nbsp;

The decades-long scandal, often described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK history, involving thousands of branch owner-operators and hundreds of wrongful convictions is making the headlines once again.&nbsp;

This time after an ITV drama which has reportedly led to 50 more potential victims coming forward. Here’s what you need to know.&nbsp;

<h2>Horizon IT scandal</h2>

Between 1999 and 2015, the Post Office prosecuted hundreds of sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses based on the information from a recently installed IT system for alleged theft, fraud and false accounting.&nbsp;

The UK Post Office, in the late 1990s, installed the Horizon IT system.&nbsp;Developed by a Japanese company named&nbsp;Fujitsu, the software was used for tasks such as transactions, accounting and stocktaking.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-sunak-calls-post-office-scandal-appalling-miscarriage-of-justice-677795">UK: PM Sunak calls 'Post Office' scandal 'appalling miscarriage of justice'</a>

Around 3,500 branch owner-operators were wrongly accused of stealing money from their businesses and 736 of them were given criminal convictions based on faulty accounting software.&nbsp;

As a result, hundreds of sub-post office operators who maintained their innocence all these years and said that they had complained about bugs in the system after it reported shortfalls amounting to thousands of pounds, ended up with a criminal record.

The UK Post Office employees also claimed that their concerns were often dismissed by their employers who said that the issues were the fault of the individual branch managers and not the system.

Even those who did not end up going to court had to gather money to cover nonexistent shortfalls. Notably, this was happening even before the convictions.&nbsp;

It was reported that some sub-postmasters would try to bridge the gap with their own money since their contracts stated they were responsible for any shortfalls, going as far as to remortgage their homes to correct the error, without any success.&nbsp;

<h2>The impact</h2>

The criminal convictions led to punishments ranging from community service to wearing electronic tags to being jailed. While others were left struggling financially or even went bankrupt and some were reportedly shunned by their communities.&nbsp;

The victims and their families over the years witnessed severe stress, including many illnesses, addiction and even premature deaths. The scandal is also linked to at least four suicides.&nbsp;

It was not until two decades later that the campaigners managed to get their cases reconsidered based on the claims that the computer system was flawed.&nbsp;

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However, these convictions had done lasting damage. Recently, the courts heard how over the years the scandal has led the victims’ marriages to break down, while some families believe the stress led to long-term health conditions.

Notably, the UK Post Office&nbsp;has the power to investigate and prosecute without the need for police involvement.&nbsp;

<h2>What proved the victims’ innocence?</h2>

The turning point in the decades-long case can be traced back to December 2019, towards the end of a series of civil cases where a group of post office operators won a High Court case in which their convictions were found to be wrongful and Horizon IT system was ruled to be at fault.&nbsp;

The ruling came three years after sub-postmasters initiated civil proceedings against the Post Office which over time saw the participation of more than 500 employees.&nbsp;

The judge said that the IT system had “bugs, errors and defects” and was not “remotely robust” in the first 10 years after it was installed. The Post Office agreed to settle with 555 claimants after accepting it made mistakes while dealing with a number of postmasters.&nbsp;

The Post Office agreed to pay 58 million pounds ($73.8 million) in damages, while the claimants received a share of 12 million pounds ($15.3 million) after their legal fees were paid.&nbsp;

In 2021, the ruling was upheld on appeal and led to the quashing of convictions of some workers who were wrongly accused and paved the way for compensation.

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The High Court ruling also led to more cases being brought forward to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), an independent body which investigates suspected miscarriages of justice.

<h2>Criminal convictions and compensation</h2>

As of last month, 142 appeal case reviews have been completed out of 900 people convicted during the scandal, reported The Guardian. To date, 93 convictions have been overturned while &nbsp;54 upheld, withdrawn or refused permission to appeal, said the Post Office.&nbsp;

So far, a total of 24 million pounds ($30.5 million) have been given in relation to overturned convictions. However, the Post Office has recently come under fire for delaying payments and blunders, including victims being taxed on the compensation received.&nbsp;

Several victims have reportedly died before they could receive their compensation due to the delays by the Post Office. Notably, the overturned convictions process is one of three different compensation schemes which has been established concerning the scandal.&nbsp;

As the British government has previously said every branch owner-operator who has had wrongful convictions for theft and false accounting overturned is to be offered 600,000 pounds ($764,010) each in compensation.&nbsp;

More than 130 million pounds ($165.6 million) have been paid out to about 2,500 Post Office workers across the three schemes, reported The Guardian.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-spots-more-chinese-balloons-over-strait-accuses-beijing-of-psychological-warfare-ahead-of-elections-677750">Taiwan spots more Chinese balloons over strait, accuses Beijing of 'psychological warfare' ahead of elections</a>

So far, neither the Post Office nor Fujitsu has been held accountable, however, the High Court judge had said that the Japanese company would be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions for possible further action.

<h2>Why is the scandal making headlines now?</h2>

It is worth noting that it was after a TV series titled Mr Bates vs the Post Office aired on British television last week that the scandal was once again brought to the forefront of the public’s mind. The show and the attention it garnered have also reportedly led to new potential victims coming forward.&nbsp;

The story follows a former sub-postmaster named Alan Bates played by Toby Jones, who led the campaign for justice at the High Court. Post Office Chief Executive Nick Read said that he hoped the TV show “encourages anyone affected who has not yet come forward to seek the redress and compensation they deserve.”

<h2>‘Appalling’</h2>

In an interview, on Sunday, UK PM said that his government was considering a move to exonerate hundreds of employees who have been wrongfully convicted.&nbsp;

Sunak was asked if Justice Minister Alex Chalk was exploring ways to exonerate them or remove the Post Office’s ability to investigate and prosecute, the UK PM responded by saying that the case was “an appalling miscarriage of justice”.&nbsp;

“The Justice Secretary is looking at the things that you described,” he told BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme.&nbsp;

“It’s right that we find every which way we can do to try and make this right for the people who were so wrongfully treated at the time.” Sunak said, adding there was some “legal complexity in all of those things.”&nbsp;

The UK PM&nbsp;would “strongly support”&nbsp;the forfeiture committee “if they were to choose to investigate” and revoke Vennells’ CBE in the wake of the&nbsp;Horizon scandal.&nbsp;

"The prime minister shares the public's feeling of outrage on this issue. He would strongly support the Forfeiture Committee if it chose to review the case," said Sunak's spokesperson, adding that the decision is "for the committee, rather than the government".&nbsp;

Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire&nbsp;or&nbsp;CBE is among the highest ranking Order of the British Empire level award&nbsp;and is bestowed upon an&nbsp;individual for&nbsp;having a prominent role at the national level, or a leading role at the regional level in the UK.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;petition&nbsp;addressed to Sir Chris Wormald, the chair of the forfeiture committee calling for revoking&nbsp;Vennells'&nbsp;CBE over the scandal has garnered more than one million&nbsp;signatures.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Sunday (Jan 7) said that his government is considering a move which would exonerate hundreds of employees of the state-owned Post Office who were wrongfully convicted in the Horizon scandal.

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Sunday (Jan 7) said that his government is considering a move which would exonerate hundreds of employees of the state-owned Post Office who were wrongfully convicted in the Horizon scandal. The UK PM would back a probe into whether to revoke former Post Office boss Paula Vennells’ CBE in the wake of the Horizon scandal, said his spokesperson. The decades-long scandal, often described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK history, involving thousands of branch owner-operators and hundreds of wrongful convictions is making the headlines once again. This time after an ITV drama which has reportedly led to 50 more potential victims coming forward. Here’s what you need to know. Horizon IT scandal Between 1999 and 2015, the Post Office prosecuted hundreds of sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses based on the information from a recently installed IT system for alleged theft, fraud and false accounting. The UK Post Office, in the late 1990s, installed the Horizon IT system. Developed by a Japanese company named Fujitsu, the software was used for tasks such as transactions, accounting and stocktaking. ALSO WATCH | UK: PM Sunak calls 'Post Office' scandal 'appalling miscarriage of justice' Around 3,500 branch owner-operators were wrongly accused of stealing money from their businesses and 736 of them were given criminal convictions based on faulty accounting software. As a result, hundreds of sub-post office operators who maintained their innocence all these years and said that they had complained about bugs in the system after it reported shortfalls amounting to thousands of pounds, ended up with a criminal record. The UK Post Office employees also claimed that their concerns were often dismissed by their employers who said that the issues were the fault of the individual branch managers and not the system. Even those who did not end up going to court had to gather money to cover nonexistent shortfalls. Notably, this was happening even before the convictions. It was reported that some sub-postmasters would try to bridge the gap with their own money since their contracts stated they were responsible for any shortfalls, going as far as to remortgage their homes to correct the error, without any success. The impact The criminal convictions led to punishments ranging from community service to wearing electronic tags to being jailed. While others were left struggling financially or even went bankrupt and some were reportedly shunned by their communities. The victims and their families over the years witnessed severe stress, including many illnesses, addiction and even premature deaths. The scandal is also linked to at least four suicides. It was not until two decades later that the campaigners managed to get their cases reconsidered based on the claims that the computer system was flawed. ALSO READ | Russian billionaire accuses Sotheby’s of art fraud collusion in high-stakes legal battle However, these convictions had done lasting damage. Recently, the courts heard how over the years the scandal has led the victims’ marriages to break down, while some families believe the stress led to long-term health conditions. Notably, the UK Post Office has the power to investigate and prosecute without the need for police involvement. What proved the victims’ innocence? The turning point in the decades-long case can be traced back to December 2019, towards the end of a series of civil cases where a group of post office operators won a High Court case in which their convictions were found to be wrongful and Horizon IT system was ruled to be at fault. The ruling came three years after sub-postmasters initiated civil proceedings against the Post Office which over time saw the participation of more than 500 employees. The judge said that the IT system had “bugs, errors and defects” and was not “remotely robust” in the first 10 years after it was installed. The Post Office agreed to settle with 555 claimants after accepting it made mistakes while dealing with a number of postmasters. The Post Office agreed to pay 58 million pounds ($73.8 million) in damages, while the claimants received a share of 12 million pounds ($15.3 million) after their legal fees were paid. In 2021, the ruling was upheld on appeal and led to the quashing of convictions of some workers who were wrongly accused and paved the way for compensation. ALSO READ | Pope calls for universal ban on 'despicable' practice of surrogate motherhood The High Court ruling also led to more cases being brought forward to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), an independent body which investigates suspected miscarriages of justice. Criminal convictions and compensation As of last month, 142 appeal case reviews have been completed out of 900 people convicted during the scandal, reported The Guardian. To date, 93 convictions have been overturned while 54 upheld, withdrawn or refused permission to appeal, said the Post Office. So far, a total of 24 million pounds ($30.5 million) have been given in relation to overturned convictions. However, the Post Office has recently come under fire for delaying payments and blunders, including victims being taxed on the compensation received. Several victims have reportedly died before they could receive their compensation due to the delays by the Post Office. Notably, the overturned convictions process is one of three different compensation schemes which has been established concerning the scandal. As the British government has previously said every branch owner-operator who has had wrongful convictions for theft and false accounting overturned is to be offered 600,000 pounds ($764,010) each in compensation. More than 130 million pounds ($165.6 million) have been paid out to about 2,500 Post Office workers across the three schemes, reported The Guardian. ALSO READ | Taiwan spots more Chinese balloons over strait, accuses Beijing of 'psychological warfare' ahead of elections So far, neither the Post Office nor Fujitsu has been held accountable, however, the High Court judge had said that the Japanese company would be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions for possible further action. Why is the scandal making headlines now? It is worth noting that it was after a TV series titled Mr Bates vs the Post Office aired on British television last week that the scandal was once again brought to the forefront of the public’s mind. The show and the attention it garnered have also reportedly led to new potential victims coming forward. The story follows a former sub-postmaster named Alan Bates played by Toby Jones, who led the campaign for justice at the High Court. Post Office Chief Executive Nick Read said that he hoped the TV show “encourages anyone affected who has not yet come forward to seek the redress and compensation they deserve.” ‘Appalling’ In an interview, on Sunday, UK PM said that his government was considering a move to exonerate hundreds of employees who have been wrongfully convicted. Sunak was asked if Justice Minister Alex Chalk was exploring ways to exonerate them or remove the Post Office’s ability to investigate and prosecute, the UK PM responded by saying that the case was “an appalling miscarriage of justice”. “The Justice Secretary is looking at the things that you described,” he told BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme. “It’s right that we find every which way we can do to try and make this right for the people who were so wrongfully treated at the time.” Sunak said, adding there was some “legal complexity in all of those things.” The UK PM would “strongly support” the forfeiture committee “if they were to choose to investigate” and revoke Vennells’ CBE in the wake of the Horizon scandal. "The prime minister shares the public's feeling of outrage on this issue. He would strongly support the Forfeiture Committee if it chose to review the case," said Sunak's spokesperson, adding that the decision is "for the committee, rather than the government". Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire or CBE is among the highest ranking Order of the British Empire level award and is bestowed upon an individual for having a prominent role at the national level, or a leading role at the regional level in the UK. The petition addressed to Sir Chris Wormald, the chair of the forfeiture committee calling for revoking Vennells' CBE over the scandal has garnered more than one million signatures. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | What is the Horizon IT scandal that might cost ex-UK post office chief her royal honour?

As part of years-long attempts to meddle in British politics, Russia's intelligence services have targeted prominent British lawmakers, civil workers, and journalists with cyberespionage, the British government announced on Thursday. According to the Foreign Office, Russia's FSB agency was in charge of a number of ongoing cyberespionage operations in the United Kingdom from at least 2015 until this year. These operations included targeting lawmakers from various political parties and selectively leaking and amplifying sensitive information to further Russian interests.

UK government blames Russian intelligence for prolonged efforts to meddle in UK politics

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's approval rating takes a hit. Sunak's rating worse than ex-PM Truss among UK voters. Five prominent Tory ministers are now in negative rating.

UK's PM Rishi Sunak falls to his lowest negative ratings to date

In what comes as a blow to the proposed takeover of the Telegraph newspaper by a consortium backed by the UAE, the British government on Thursday (Nov 30) said&nbsp;it had triggered a formal probe, citing public interest grounds.&nbsp;

UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer wrote a letter to the Barclay family that owns Telegraph Media Group (TMG) and RedBird IMI - the company set to take over the media house, stating that she was issuing a&nbsp;Public Interest Intervention Notice (PIIN) in relation to the deal.

"This relates to concerns I have that there may be public interest considerations... that are relevant to the anticipated acquisition of TMG by RedBird IMI and that these concerns warrant further investigation," Frazer wrote.&nbsp;

The in-depth inquiry will be conducted by Ofcom - a media regulator, to ascertain if the complex deal could impede the accurate presentation of news, free expression of opinion and sufficient plurality of views.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will look into any competition issues and if the new entity could pose a problem to the established journalistic setup in the country.&nbsp;

Both Ofcom and CMA have been given time until January 26, 2024, to prepare a report and present it to the government.&nbsp;

Since the announcement of the deal, there has been a major furore within the journalism and political circles. The Tories have expressed apprehensions over the deal saying&nbsp;“influence over a quality national newspaper being passed to a foreign ruler at any time should raise concerns [and] must be investigated”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-mps-warn-against-uae-takeover-of-telegraph-to-review-proposed-sale-of-telegraph-media-group-661896">Watch |&nbsp;UK MPs warn against UAE takeover of Telegraph, to review proposed sale of Telegraph Media Group</a>

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<h2>The face behind the deal</h2>

Notabbly. RedBird IMI is a joint venture between the US company RedBird Capital and International Media Investments (IMI) of Abu Dhabi, the investment vehicle for Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Mansour is a known face in the UK. He bought Premier League club Manchester City in 2008, transforming the mid-table club into treble winners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-uaes-sheikh-mansours-bid-to-buy-the-telegraph-newspaper-662714">Also read |&nbsp;Inside UAE's Sheikh Mansour's bid to buy The Telegraph newspaper</a>

However, the club is currently under investigation for breaching Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules among other charges. According to reports, the club breached 115 regulations since the start of the 2009-10 season.&nbsp;

Hence, there has been a degree of uneasiness among the higher echelons of British bureaucracy over the proposed deal. If the takeover goes through, UAE will have control of&nbsp;The Daily and Sunday Telegraph sister newspapers and The Spectator magazine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a blow to the proposed takeover of the Telegraph newspaper by a consortium backed by the UAE, the British government on Thursday (Nov 30) said it had triggered a formal probe, citing public interest grounds.

In what comes as a blow to the proposed takeover of the Telegraph newspaper by a consortium backed by the UAE, the British government on Thursday (Nov 30) said it had triggered a formal probe, citing public interest grounds. UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer wrote a letter to the Barclay family that owns Telegraph Media Group (TMG) and RedBird IMI - the company set to take over the media house, stating that she was issuing a Public Interest Intervention Notice (PIIN) in relation to the deal. "This relates to concerns I have that there may be public interest considerations... that are relevant to the anticipated acquisition of TMG by RedBird IMI and that these concerns warrant further investigation," Frazer wrote. The in-depth inquiry will be conducted by Ofcom - a media regulator, to ascertain if the complex deal could impede the accurate presentation of news, free expression of opinion and sufficient plurality of views. Meanwhile, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will look into any competition issues and if the new entity could pose a problem to the established journalistic setup in the country. Both Ofcom and CMA have been given time until January 26, 2024, to prepare a report and present it to the government. Since the announcement of the deal, there has been a major furore within the journalism and political circles. The Tories have expressed apprehensions over the deal saying “influence over a quality national newspaper being passed to a foreign ruler at any time should raise concerns [and] must be investigated”. Watch | UK MPs warn against UAE takeover of Telegraph, to review proposed sale of Telegraph Media Group × The face behind the deal Notabbly. RedBird IMI is a joint venture between the US company RedBird Capital and International Media Investments (IMI) of Abu Dhabi, the investment vehicle for Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Mansour is a known face in the UK. He bought Premier League club Manchester City in 2008, transforming the mid-table club into treble winners. Also read | Inside UAE's Sheikh Mansour's bid to buy The Telegraph newspaper However, the club is currently under investigation for breaching Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules among other charges. According to reports, the club breached 115 regulations since the start of the 2009-10 season. Hence, there has been a degree of uneasiness among the higher echelons of British bureaucracy over the proposed deal. If the takeover goes through, UAE will have control of The Daily and Sunday Telegraph sister newspapers and The Spectator magazine. (With inputs from agencies)

'Setback for Barclay family?': UK government to probe proposed Telegraph takeover by UAE-backed consortium

The United Kingdom, on Wednesday (Nov 8) imposed a ban on the recreational use and possession of nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’ in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour and reduce damage to users’ health. In line with this, possession of the substance, which is now categorised as a class C drug, has become a criminal offence in Britain.&nbsp;

<h2>What is nitrous oxide aka ‘laughing gas’?</h2>

Nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’ or NOS, is an odourless, colourless, and non-flammable gas. It has a number of uses, from reducing pain during childbirth to being used by dentists as a safe and effective means of managing pain and anxiety during dental procedures.&nbsp;

As for industrial purposes, the gas is used for producing whipped cream. However, the UK government’s ban comes after the gas was being used as a common drug among teenagers and adults and is said to be fuelling nuisance behaviour and posing a health hazard.

<h2>Why is it being banned?</h2>

The ban makes it illegal for people to produce, supply or sell the drug and could lead to long prison sentences.&nbsp;The ban, first proposed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative government in March, went into effect on Wednesday (Nov 8).

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Nitrous oxide causes feelings of euphoria, relaxation and dissociation from reality, and has recently gained popularity and is among one of the most commonly used recreational drugs, particularly among teenagers and young adults.&nbsp;

Therefore, the UK government has introduced the ban as a part of its action plan against anti-social behaviour.&nbsp;

“Today we are sending a clear signal to people, especially young people, that not only is abuse of nitrous oxide dangerous to their health, but it is also illegal and those caught possessing it will face consequences,” said Crime and Policing Minister Chris Philp in a statement.&nbsp;

He added, “For too long, the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on communities. We will not accept it.”&nbsp;

The UK government also noted how the use of nitrous oxide and the associated antisocial behaviour had caused a wider impact on the community and the environment, including group gatherings to abuse the drug in public spaces like children’s parks or high streets.&nbsp;

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Subsequently, discarded canisters are littered affecting the environment. There have also been deaths connected to drug-driving incidents, said the UK government.&nbsp;

<h2>Use and abuse of ‘laughing gas’</h2>

Nitrous oxide is used for pain relief in medical settings and in a number of manufacturing as well as technical processes, such as food packaging and propellant gas for whipped cream and other industrial purposes.&nbsp;

However, despite the ban, the gas will still be available for such uses as long as individual users are able to prove that they are lawfully in possession of the substance, and do not intend to use it for its “psychoactive effects” to “get a high” by inhalation, said the UK government, in a statement.&nbsp;

The government also noted that the legitimate use of the gas or “wrongful inhalation” will be decided on a case-by-case basis by the police. However, licences will not be required.&nbsp;

“Wrongful inhalation” has been defined as “inhalation other than for medical or dental purposes, and which is not accidental inhalation of nitrous oxide which has been released into the atmosphere (such as in industrial processes),” by the UK government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-falls-short-of-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-as-israel-hamas-war-rages-on-656560">G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war rages on</a>

Notably, while nitrous oxide can make people feel relaxed or light-headed, it can also cause headaches and make some users anxious or paranoid to the point of making them dizzy, according to a report by the UK government citing various studies.&nbsp;

Additionally, heavy use of nitrous oxide has also been linked to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and anaemia which can lead to serious nerve damage, cause numbness in the fingers and toes, making walking difficult and even lead to paralysis.&nbsp;

According to health ministry figures, nitrous oxide is the third most common drug used by 16 to 24-year-olds.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the ban all about?</h2>

Under the ban, nitrous oxide will be prescribed as a ‘Class C’ drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and classified in “the least harmful” category of drugs under Britain’s laws alongside benzodiazepines and growth hormones.

The government also said “reckless” producers and suppliers who do not thoroughly check the purpose for which the gas will be used will also be breaking the law. Those who supply or produce nitrous oxide nicknamed “hippy crack” – could face up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/explained-what-is-laughing-gas-and-why-is-uk-banning-it-556090">&nbsp;Explained: What is laughing gas, and why is the United Kingdom going to ban it?</a>

In line with the new rules, those found in unlawful possession of the drug could now face a prison sentence or unlimited fine while repeat offenders could serve up to two years in prison.&nbsp;

Notably, the UK is the second country to ban the use of nitrous oxide after the Netherlands took a similar step in January 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>Experts stopped short of recommending ban. Here’s why</h2>

Earlier this year, experts from the Advisory Council on The Misuse of Drugs reassessed the risk of nitrous oxide and stopped short of recommending a ban. This was amid fears that it would discourage users from seeking medical help.&nbsp;

In a letter to the government, 15 neurologists and related health experts warned that the ban could worsen the stigma around users and the move was “unlikely to translate to health benefits in our patients.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-plans-to-make-laughing-gas-illegal-amid-increased-use-of-the-drug-576535">UK plans to make laughing gas illegal amid increased use of the drug</a>

The ban would also risk creating “fear of a criminal record” among young users, wrote Dr Alastair Noyce, Professor of Neurology and Neuroepidemiology, as per BBC, adding that there is “very little evidence that the criminalisation will lead to reductions in neurological harm” but it will impact people’s opportunities to gain employment or education.&nbsp;

However, the government has argued that it is “entitled and expected to take a broader view and consider other relevant factors,” which includes the aforementioned anti-social behaviour and its impact on the wider community.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom, on Wednesday (Nov 8) imposed a ban on the recreational use and possession of nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’ in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour and reduce damage to users’ health.

The United Kingdom, on Wednesday (Nov 8) imposed a ban on the recreational use and possession of nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’ in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour and reduce damage to users’ health. In line with this, possession of the substance, which is now categorised as a class C drug, has become a criminal offence in Britain. What is nitrous oxide aka ‘laughing gas’? Nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’ or NOS, is an odourless, colourless, and non-flammable gas. It has a number of uses, from reducing pain during childbirth to being used by dentists as a safe and effective means of managing pain and anxiety during dental procedures. As for industrial purposes, the gas is used for producing whipped cream. However, the UK government’s ban comes after the gas was being used as a common drug among teenagers and adults and is said to be fuelling nuisance behaviour and posing a health hazard. Why is it being banned? The ban makes it illegal for people to produce, supply or sell the drug and could lead to long prison sentences. The ban, first proposed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative government in March, went into effect on Wednesday (Nov 8). ALSO READ | UK women are way ahead when it comes to binge drinking, study finds Nitrous oxide causes feelings of euphoria, relaxation and dissociation from reality, and has recently gained popularity and is among one of the most commonly used recreational drugs, particularly among teenagers and young adults. Therefore, the UK government has introduced the ban as a part of its action plan against anti-social behaviour. “Today we are sending a clear signal to people, especially young people, that not only is abuse of nitrous oxide dangerous to their health, but it is also illegal and those caught possessing it will face consequences,” said Crime and Policing Minister Chris Philp in a statement. He added, “For too long, the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on communities. We will not accept it.” The UK government also noted how the use of nitrous oxide and the associated antisocial behaviour had caused a wider impact on the community and the environment, including group gatherings to abuse the drug in public spaces like children’s parks or high streets. ALSO READ | Ohio voters add abortion rights to state’s constitution, Biden says 'MAGA lost' Subsequently, discarded canisters are littered affecting the environment. There have also been deaths connected to drug-driving incidents, said the UK government. Use and abuse of ‘laughing gas’ Nitrous oxide is used for pain relief in medical settings and in a number of manufacturing as well as technical processes, such as food packaging and propellant gas for whipped cream and other industrial purposes. However, despite the ban, the gas will still be available for such uses as long as individual users are able to prove that they are lawfully in possession of the substance, and do not intend to use it for its “psychoactive effects” to “get a high” by inhalation, said the UK government, in a statement. The government also noted that the legitimate use of the gas or “wrongful inhalation” will be decided on a case-by-case basis by the police. However, licences will not be required. “Wrongful inhalation” has been defined as “inhalation other than for medical or dental purposes, and which is not accidental inhalation of nitrous oxide which has been released into the atmosphere (such as in industrial processes),” by the UK government. ALSO READ | G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war rages on Notably, while nitrous oxide can make people feel relaxed or light-headed, it can also cause headaches and make some users anxious or paranoid to the point of making them dizzy, according to a report by the UK government citing various studies. Additionally, heavy use of nitrous oxide has also been linked to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and anaemia which can lead to serious nerve damage, cause numbness in the fingers and toes, making walking difficult and even lead to paralysis. According to health ministry figures, nitrous oxide is the third most common drug used by 16 to 24-year-olds. What is the ban all about? Under the ban, nitrous oxide will be prescribed as a ‘Class C’ drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and classified in “the least harmful” category of drugs under Britain’s laws alongside benzodiazepines and growth hormones. The government also said “reckless” producers and suppliers who do not thoroughly check the purpose for which the gas will be used will also be breaking the law. Those who supply or produce nitrous oxide nicknamed “hippy crack” – could face up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. ALSO READ | Explained: What is laughing gas, and why is the United Kingdom going to ban it? In line with the new rules, those found in unlawful possession of the drug could now face a prison sentence or unlimited fine while repeat offenders could serve up to two years in prison. Notably, the UK is the second country to ban the use of nitrous oxide after the Netherlands took a similar step in January 2023. Experts stopped short of recommending ban. Here’s why Earlier this year, experts from the Advisory Council on The Misuse of Drugs reassessed the risk of nitrous oxide and stopped short of recommending a ban. This was amid fears that it would discourage users from seeking medical help. In a letter to the government, 15 neurologists and related health experts warned that the ban could worsen the stigma around users and the move was “unlikely to translate to health benefits in our patients.” ALSO READ | UK plans to make laughing gas illegal amid increased use of the drug The ban would also risk creating “fear of a criminal record” among young users, wrote Dr Alastair Noyce, Professor of Neurology and Neuroepidemiology, as per BBC, adding that there is “very little evidence that the criminalisation will lead to reductions in neurological harm” but it will impact people’s opportunities to gain employment or education. However, the government has argued that it is “entitled and expected to take a broader view and consider other relevant factors,” which includes the aforementioned anti-social behaviour and its impact on the wider community. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | UK bans recreational use of ‘laughing gas’. Here's why

The United Kingdom has taken a significant step by removing the guarantees on £979 million ($1.2 billion) worth of loans extended to businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, Reuters reported on Wednesday.

Though the government's decision only impacts a small percentage of all loans, it could result in losses for lenders in the event that the loans are not repaid. Meanwhile, there is pressure on the Conservative administration to lower the losses from its Covid loans because of complaints that the borrower checks were insufficient and the anti-fraud procedures were put in place too late.

As per the Reuters report, British Business Bank has already removed state guarantees from 10,786 loans as of October 11, according to figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request. &nbsp;

A spokesperson for the UK's business department said that lenders have been engaging with British Business Bank over the loan schemes. These discussions revolve around the question whether it would be suitable to eliminate any loans from the guarantee.

The UK Finance, a lobbying group representing the industry, pointed out that in some cases, lenders have voluntarily removed loans from the guarantee, even when the guarantee might be valid. &nbsp;

This action places the full burden of potential losses on the lenders, ensuring that taxpayers are not exposed to any further financial risks. A breakdown of the removal of state guarantee loans by lender, however, was not disclosed, according to Reuters' report. &nbsp;

In response to the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic, the UK government established three government-guaranteed loan programs in the first half of 2020, with an aim to support businesses impacted by the Covid-19 crisis. &nbsp;

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These programs included the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, which provided 100 per cent guarantees on loans to smaller businesses for rapid access to financing. While these loans were intended to support businesses swiftly, they have faced criticism for the high levels of fraudulent activity. &nbsp;

In contrast, the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and the Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme, targeting larger companies, received 80 per cent guarantees from the UK government and have experienced considerably lower levels of fraud. &nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters and Bloomberg) &nbsp;

The United Kingdom has taken a significant step by removing the guarantees on £979 million ($1.2 billion) worth of loans extended to businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, Reuters reported on Wednesday.

The United Kingdom has taken a significant step by removing the guarantees on £979 million ($1.2 billion) worth of loans extended to businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, Reuters reported on Wednesday. Though the government's decision only impacts a small percentage of all loans, it could result in losses for lenders in the event that the loans are not repaid. Meanwhile, there is pressure on the Conservative administration to lower the losses from its Covid loans because of complaints that the borrower checks were insufficient and the anti-fraud procedures were put in place too late. As per the Reuters report, British Business Bank has already removed state guarantees from 10,786 loans as of October 11, according to figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request. A spokesperson for the UK's business department said that lenders have been engaging with British Business Bank over the loan schemes. These discussions revolve around the question whether it would be suitable to eliminate any loans from the guarantee. The UK Finance, a lobbying group representing the industry, pointed out that in some cases, lenders have voluntarily removed loans from the guarantee, even when the guarantee might be valid. This action places the full burden of potential losses on the lenders, ensuring that taxpayers are not exposed to any further financial risks. A breakdown of the removal of state guarantee loans by lender, however, was not disclosed, according to Reuters' report. In response to the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic, the UK government established three government-guaranteed loan programs in the first half of 2020, with an aim to support businesses impacted by the Covid-19 crisis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE These programs included the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, which provided 100 per cent guarantees on loans to smaller businesses for rapid access to financing. While these loans were intended to support businesses swiftly, they have faced criticism for the high levels of fraudulent activity. In contrast, the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and the Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme, targeting larger companies, received 80 per cent guarantees from the UK government and have experienced considerably lower levels of fraud. (With inputs from Reuters and Bloomberg)

UK removes guarantees on £1 bn Covid loans. Here's why it matters

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)

&nbsp;

 
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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.

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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;

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<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

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