British grocery stores are stockpiling food amid the possibility of a no-deal scenario as Brexit trade deal negotiations between the EU and U.K.

WION Dispatch: Fears of food shortage amid Brexit no-deal triggers panic buying in UK

Social media and other internet companies face big fines in Britain if they don’t limit the amount of harmful material such as child sexual abuse or terrorist content on their platforms

UK plans big fines for online companies over harmful content

Britain gave emergency use approval for the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech last week.

Your Story: UK has ordered 40 million doses of the vaccine

UK is preparing to become the first country to roll out the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine this week.

UK is getting Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine this week

The UK and EU have decided to return to the negotiating table to try to agree a post-Brexit trade deal, despite "significant differences".

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks to resume over certain issues

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that a strengthened three-tiered system will be introduced in the country on Monday to curb the spread of coronavirus after the lockdown ends on December 2.

WION Dispatch: Coronavirus | UK to move into tougher regional COVID-19 restrictions

The leader of Britain's main opposition Labour party on Wednesday refused to re-admit his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn to its parliamentary ranks as a row over anti-Semitism intensified.

"In those circumstances, I have taken the decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn. I will keep this situation under review," leader Keir Starmer tweeted, after a disciplinary panel Tuesday decided to revoke Corbyn's suspension from the party.

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In those circumstances, I have taken the decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn. I will keep this situation under review.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1329017098736185344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;Britain's former main opposition leader Jeremy&nbsp;Corbyn&nbsp;said he has been readmitted to the Labour Party after being suspended following his comments downplaying a report critical of its handling of anti-Semitism complaints.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission said in October it had found evidence of failure adequately to train people investigating alleged anti-Semitism, political interference in the processing of complaints, and harassment of individuals.

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Corbyn, 71, reacted to the report by saying the scale of Labour's anti-Semitism problem had been overstated by the media and his political opponents, and that his attempts to deal with the issue had been blocked by "obstructive party bureaucracy".

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I am pleased to have been reinstated in the Labour Party and would like to thank party members, trade unionists and all who have offered solidarity. 
 
Our movement must now come together to oppose and defeat this deeply damaging Conservative government.
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeremycorbyn/status/1328786477430566916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Current leader Keir Starmer has been trying to make a clean break from the hard-left&nbsp;Corbyn&nbsp;era as he seeks to turn around Labour's fortunes after four successive general election defeats since 2010.

"I know that this has been another painful day for the Jewish community and those Labour members who have fought so hard to tackle antisemitism," Starmer wrote on Twitter.

"I am absolutely resolute in my determination to make the Labour Party a safe place for Jewish people."

Corbyn&nbsp;welcomed the decision by Labour's National Executive Committee to reinstate him after three weeks and said the focus should now be on challenging Prime Minister Boris Johnson's administration.

"Our movement must now come together to oppose and defeat this deeply damaging Conservative government," he said.

But the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Jewish Leadership Council and Community Security Trust were critical of&nbsp;Corbyn's readmission in a joint statement.

"Labour’s mountain to climb to win back the trust of our community just got higher," they said.

The leader of Britain's main opposition Labour party on Wednesday refused to re-admit his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn to its parliamentary ranks as a row over anti-Semitism intensified.

The leader of Britain's main opposition Labour party on Wednesday refused to re-admit his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn to its parliamentary ranks as a row over anti-Semitism intensified. "In those circumstances, I have taken the decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn. I will keep this situation under review," leader Keir Starmer tweeted, after a disciplinary panel Tuesday decided to revoke Corbyn's suspension from the party. In those circumstances, I have taken the decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn. I will keep this situation under review. — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) November 18, 2020 × Earlier, Britain's former main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said he has been readmitted to the Labour Party after being suspended following his comments downplaying a report critical of its handling of anti-Semitism complaints. The Equality and Human Rights Commission said in October it had found evidence of failure adequately to train people investigating alleged anti-Semitism, political interference in the processing of complaints, and harassment of individuals. Corbyn, 71, reacted to the report by saying the scale of Labour's anti-Semitism problem had been overstated by the media and his political opponents, and that his attempts to deal with the issue had been blocked by "obstructive party bureaucracy". I am pleased to have been reinstated in the Labour Party and would like to thank party members, trade unionists and all who have offered solidarity. Our movement must now come together to oppose and defeat this deeply damaging Conservative government. — Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) November 17, 2020 × Current leader Keir Starmer has been trying to make a clean break from the hard-left Corbyn era as he seeks to turn around Labour's fortunes after four successive general election defeats since 2010. "I know that this has been another painful day for the Jewish community and those Labour members who have fought so hard to tackle antisemitism," Starmer wrote on Twitter. "I am absolutely resolute in my determination to make the Labour Party a safe place for Jewish people." Corbyn welcomed the decision by Labour's National Executive Committee to reinstate him after three weeks and said the focus should now be on challenging Prime Minister Boris Johnson's administration. "Our movement must now come together to oppose and defeat this deeply damaging Conservative government," he said. But the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Jewish Leadership Council and Community Security Trust were critical of Corbyn's readmission in a joint statement. "Labour’s mountain to climb to win back the trust of our community just got higher," they said.

UK: Labour Party denies Corbyn's reinstatement after suspension over anti-Semitism

The firm has claimed that so far results suggest the vaccine has a 94.5% effectiveness against the disease.

UK secures 5 Million doses of potential vaccine by Moderna

The accelerated timeline is reportedly meant to spur the market for electric cars and help get the UK closer to its climate targets.

UK might ban sales of fossil fuel cars as early as 2030

The UK government on Sunday relented anew to a vocal campaign by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, promising to give free meals to poorer children over the coronavirus-afflicted Christmas holidays and beyond.

After one U-turn already for the summer holidays, the government has dropped its opposition to extending the scheme over the festive period, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Rashford on Saturday to brief him on his new spending commitment.

The 23-year-old striker received the call after he played in Manchester United's 3-1 Premier League win over Everton.&nbsp;

In a statement, Rashford said "I had a good conversation with the prime minister to better understand the proposed plan, and I very much welcome the steps that have been taken to combat child food poverty in the UK".

The footballer, who grew up impoverished himself, said he was "so proud" of those who had united behind his campaign on social media, promising to "fight for the rest of my life" to end child hunger in Britain.

In recognition of his widely praised campaign, Rashford was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in Queen Elizabeth II's latest honours list last month, and he sports the title proudly on his Twitter feed.

The economic fallout from the virus outbreak is pushing more British families into poverty, leaving many unable to afford essentials such as food and heating.&nbsp;

Poorer children are guaranteed free meals during school term-time, but not in the holidays. The government had resisted giving out meal vouchers to tide their families over, preferring to offer support via its wider benefits system.

But Rashford's campaign has struck a chord with many, especially with Christmas coming up, and the government has been confronted with regular headlines accusing it of being heartless.&nbsp;

New funds of £170 million ($225 million) will pay for a winter grant scheme to support families over Christmas, and will be extended to cover the Easter, summer and Christmas breaks in 2021, Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey announced.

"We want to make sure vulnerable people feel cared for throughout this difficult time and, above all, no one should go hungry or be unable to pay their bills this winter," she said.

The UK government on Sunday relented anew to a vocal campaign by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, promising to give free meals to poorer children over the coronavirus-afflicted Christmas holidays and beyond.

The UK government on Sunday relented anew to a vocal campaign by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, promising to give free meals to poorer children over the coronavirus-afflicted Christmas holidays and beyond. After one U-turn already for the summer holidays, the government has dropped its opposition to extending the scheme over the festive period, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Rashford on Saturday to brief him on his new spending commitment. The 23-year-old striker received the call after he played in Manchester United's 3-1 Premier League win over Everton. In a statement, Rashford said "I had a good conversation with the prime minister to better understand the proposed plan, and I very much welcome the steps that have been taken to combat child food poverty in the UK". The footballer, who grew up impoverished himself, said he was "so proud" of those who had united behind his campaign on social media, promising to "fight for the rest of my life" to end child hunger in Britain. In recognition of his widely praised campaign, Rashford was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in Queen Elizabeth II's latest honours list last month, and he sports the title proudly on his Twitter feed. The economic fallout from the virus outbreak is pushing more British families into poverty, leaving many unable to afford essentials such as food and heating. Poorer children are guaranteed free meals during school term-time, but not in the holidays. The government had resisted giving out meal vouchers to tide their families over, preferring to offer support via its wider benefits system. But Rashford's campaign has struck a chord with many, especially with Christmas coming up, and the government has been confronted with regular headlines accusing it of being heartless. New funds of £170 million ($225 million) will pay for a winter grant scheme to support families over Christmas, and will be extended to cover the Easter, summer and Christmas breaks in 2021, Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey announced. "We want to make sure vulnerable people feel cared for throughout this difficult time and, above all, no one should go hungry or be unable to pay their bills this winter," she said.

Marcus Rashford forces new UK U-turn over free school meals

The UK government has published guidance it says will help UK firms negotiate the "ethical, legal and commercial" questions they may encounter in China, or when working with Chinese businesses, and safeguard national security concerns.

The guidance released by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on Friday sets out key issues digital and tech small and medium enterprises (SMEs) should consider as they weigh the benefits and risks of commercial ventures, as well as signposting specialist sources of advice.

The DCMS notes that China is the UK's third-largest export market and the world's second-largest and fastest-growing major economy. But warns that accessing the market should be done 'safely'&nbsp;and in a way that reflects the UK's values and takes account of national security concerns.

"The latest statistics show UK-China bilateral trade has exceeded the 76 billion pound mark for the first time and our digital tech sector is the fifth biggest exporter of services in the world. But we recognise the ethical, legal and commercial questions businesses face when they work in China or with Chinese businesses, said UK Minister for Digital and Culture Caroline Dinenage.

"The UK is determined to support our businesses to engage with China in a way that reflects the UK's values and takes account of national security concerns," she said.

A new online hub, which the DCMS said has been developed in response to demand from the tech sector, will support "safe and appropriate" UK-China collaboration in digital and tech. The guidance will help SMEs to make a success of business ventures linked to China, to choose the right partners and to manage risk by taking appropriate steps.

"We welcome the government's launch of the bespoke guidance to SMEs and we look forward to working together to help digital and tech SMEs to grow safely and successfully in China," said Julian David, CEO of tech UK.

"At techUK, we recognise the massive opportunity that China presents for the UK's digital and tech businesses as well as challenges that firms face when navigating each other's unique marketplaces. To be successful and protect their operations, digital and tech businesses need to know the challenges and take the right steps to navigate them," he said.

The DCMS said that the new hub complements measures announced earlier in the year to support UK tech companies to seize trade and investment opportunities overseas.

These included a new Digital Trade Network for Asia-Pacific, which will support UK SMEs to break into the Asian market, and a new Tech Exporting Academy to provide expert advice to UK scaleups on subject areas essential to expansion, including regulation, intellectual property, and compliance.

In June, the UK government had stipulated that Chinese giant Huawei will be completely removed from the UK's 5G networks by the end of 2027 in the wake of US sanctions on the company over data privacy concerns.&nbsp;

Restrictions on Huawei operating in the 'sensitive'&nbsp;and critical parts of the UK network have also been in place.

The UK government has published guidance it says will help UK firms negotiate the "ethical, legal and commercial" questions they may encounter in China, or when working with Chinese businesses, and safeguard national security concerns.

The UK government has published guidance it says will help UK firms negotiate the "ethical, legal and commercial" questions they may encounter in China, or when working with Chinese businesses, and safeguard national security concerns. The guidance released by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on Friday sets out key issues digital and tech small and medium enterprises (SMEs) should consider as they weigh the benefits and risks of commercial ventures, as well as signposting specialist sources of advice. The DCMS notes that China is the UK's third-largest export market and the world's second-largest and fastest-growing major economy. But warns that accessing the market should be done 'safely' and in a way that reflects the UK's values and takes account of national security concerns. "The latest statistics show UK-China bilateral trade has exceeded the 76 billion pound mark for the first time and our digital tech sector is the fifth biggest exporter of services in the world. But we recognise the ethical, legal and commercial questions businesses face when they work in China or with Chinese businesses, said UK Minister for Digital and Culture Caroline Dinenage. "The UK is determined to support our businesses to engage with China in a way that reflects the UK's values and takes account of national security concerns," she said. A new online hub, which the DCMS said has been developed in response to demand from the tech sector, will support "safe and appropriate" UK-China collaboration in digital and tech. The guidance will help SMEs to make a success of business ventures linked to China, to choose the right partners and to manage risk by taking appropriate steps. "We welcome the government's launch of the bespoke guidance to SMEs and we look forward to working together to help digital and tech SMEs to grow safely and successfully in China," said Julian David, CEO of tech UK. "At techUK, we recognise the massive opportunity that China presents for the UK's digital and tech businesses as well as challenges that firms face when navigating each other's unique marketplaces. To be successful and protect their operations, digital and tech businesses need to know the challenges and take the right steps to navigate them," he said. The DCMS said that the new hub complements measures announced earlier in the year to support UK tech companies to seize trade and investment opportunities overseas. These included a new Digital Trade Network for Asia-Pacific, which will support UK SMEs to break into the Asian market, and a new Tech Exporting Academy to provide expert advice to UK scaleups on subject areas essential to expansion, including regulation, intellectual property, and compliance. In June, the UK government had stipulated that Chinese giant Huawei will be completely removed from the UK's 5G networks by the end of 2027 in the wake of US sanctions on the company over data privacy concerns. Restrictions on Huawei operating in the 'sensitive' and critical parts of the UK network have also been in place.

UK creates tech hub for more 'ethical' business with China

The first 20 containers of medical waste, which included body parts from mortuaries, were loaded on the MV Texas Triumph on Friday

Why Sri Lanka is sending back illegal waste to the UK? Explainer

The UK's first permanent vegan 'butcher' will open in London next week, serving faux versions of bacon, chicken, and turkey made from soya and seitan.

UK's first vegan butcher is all set to open

Corbyn denounced the report, which highlighted numerous complaints made during his tenure, saying they were “dramatically overstated for political reasons”.

Jeremy Corbyn suspended from Labour party over response to anti-Semitism allegations

A UK task force has voiced concerns that an early coronavirus vaccine may turn out to be imperfect even as the global race continues to deliver the first vaccine against Covid-19.

UK panel fears early vaccine may be imperfect

England's Care Quality Commission said that a large number of people with learning disability or Autism were getting "inhumane care" in specialist hospitals. The report by England's independent health and social care eve said that it could not be confident that patients' human rights were upheld.

The report looked at the use of seclusion, segregation and restraint in specialist units on people with autism or learning disability.

The commission found that people were kept segregated for duration ranging from 3 days to 13 years.

The report has recommended increasing community support to ensure people were not admitted to hospitals and for 'ministerial ownership' to ensure the implementation of changes. The use of seclusion and restraint has only been recommended by the commission in extreme cases.

England's Care Quality Commission said that a large number of people with learning disability or Autism were getting "inhumane care" in specialist hospitals. The report by England's independent health and social care eve said that it could not be confident that patients' human rights were upheld.

England's Care Quality Commission said that a large number of people with learning disability or Autism were getting "inhumane care" in specialist hospitals. The report by England's independent health and social care eve said that it could not be confident that patients' human rights were upheld. The report looked at the use of seclusion, segregation and restraint in specialist units on people with autism or learning disability. The commission found that people were kept segregated for duration ranging from 3 days to 13 years. The report has recommended increasing community support to ensure people were not admitted to hospitals and for 'ministerial ownership' to ensure the implementation of changes. The use of seclusion and restraint has only been recommended by the commission in extreme cases.

Patients with Autism get 'inhumane' treatment in hospitals: Report

EU leaders have called for post-Brexit trade talks to continue beyond the end of the week - the deadline suggested by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

EU-UK trade deal post-Brexit: EU leaders stress unity of 27-nation bloc

The&nbsp;European Union leaders on Thursday&nbsp;refused&nbsp;to ''compromise at any cost'' on Brexit with the United Kingdom.

However, agreeing upon a fair trade with Britain, EU said it is ready for an abrupt split in trade worth a trillion euros every year.

Meeting face-to-face for only the third time in the coronavirus pandemic, the EU leaders wore masks and kept their distance as they gathered in Brussels to discuss Brexit, where a new trade pact is still elusive as an year-end deadline nears.

"We want a deal, but obviously not at any price. It has to be a fair agreement that serves the interests of both sides. This is worth every effort," said German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Britain left the EU in January and the estranged allies have since been locked in complex negotiations to try and keep trading without tariffs or quotas from 2021.

Talks have narrowed gaps on issues from social welfare to transport but three contentious areas have so far prevented a deal: fair competition, dispute resolution and fisheries, which is particularly important to France.

"In no case shall our fishermen be sacrificed for Brexit," French President Emmanuel Macron said on arriving in Brussels.

"If these conditions are not met, it's possible we won't have a deal. If the right terms can't be found at the end of these discussions, we're ready for a no-deal for our future relations," he added.

With businesses and markets increasingly jittery as the deadline nears, Thursday's EU summit is to approve extending the negotiations with a demand for Britain to budge, as well as stepping up contingency plans for an abrupt split.

Ireland, the EU member most exposed to a chaotic rupture, said smooth post-Brexit trade between the world's sixth largest economy and biggest trading bloc was still possible and even more essential given the economic havoc of the COVID-19 crisis.

"Where there is a will there's a way," Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin told EU leaders meeting in Brussels.

"With COVID-19 having such a devastating impact on society and on the economies in the United Kingdom and across Europe obviously leaders will not want to hit citizens with a shock a no-deal would represent."

'CRAZY'

The pandemic has thrust Europe into unprecedented recession and many nations are tightening restrictions again to combat a second infection wave sweeping the continent as winter looms.

Given the economic malaise and global instability, it would be "crazy" if the estranged allies failed to agree, said Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said Britain would reflect on the Brussels meeting before deciding next steps. "We've always been clear that a negotiated outcome is our preference," he said.

Many on financial markets expect a thin deal by early November, though after several more weeks of drama.

The EU has warned it will not leave fishing rights to last and that they must be part of a wider deal together with issues like financial services where London has a weaker hand.

The sides are also far apart on fair competition safeguards covering social, labour and environment standards, as well as state aid.

Britain wants to be able to regulate its own corporate subsidies freely in the future, while the EU seeks to lock in joint rules.

Otherwise, the bloc says Britain cannot have free access to its cherished single market of 450 million consumers.

The European Union leaders on Thursday refused to ''compromise at any cost'' on Brexit with the United Kingdom. However, agreeing upon a fair trade with Britain, EU said it is ready for an abrupt split in trade worth a trillion euros every year.

The European Union leaders on Thursday refused to ''compromise at any cost'' on Brexit with the United Kingdom. However, agreeing upon a fair trade with Britain, EU said it is ready for an abrupt split in trade worth a trillion euros every year. Meeting face-to-face for only the third time in the coronavirus pandemic, the EU leaders wore masks and kept their distance as they gathered in Brussels to discuss Brexit, where a new trade pact is still elusive as an year-end deadline nears. "We want a deal, but obviously not at any price. It has to be a fair agreement that serves the interests of both sides. This is worth every effort," said German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Britain left the EU in January and the estranged allies have since been locked in complex negotiations to try and keep trading without tariffs or quotas from 2021. Talks have narrowed gaps on issues from social welfare to transport but three contentious areas have so far prevented a deal: fair competition, dispute resolution and fisheries, which is particularly important to France. "In no case shall our fishermen be sacrificed for Brexit," French President Emmanuel Macron said on arriving in Brussels. "If these conditions are not met, it's possible we won't have a deal. If the right terms can't be found at the end of these discussions, we're ready for a no-deal for our future relations," he added. With businesses and markets increasingly jittery as the deadline nears, Thursday's EU summit is to approve extending the negotiations with a demand for Britain to budge, as well as stepping up contingency plans for an abrupt split. Ireland, the EU member most exposed to a chaotic rupture, said smooth post-Brexit trade between the world's sixth largest economy and biggest trading bloc was still possible and even more essential given the economic havoc of the COVID-19 crisis. "Where there is a will there's a way," Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin told EU leaders meeting in Brussels. "With COVID-19 having such a devastating impact on society and on the economies in the United Kingdom and across Europe obviously leaders will not want to hit citizens with a shock a no-deal would represent." 'CRAZY' The pandemic has thrust Europe into unprecedented recession and many nations are tightening restrictions again to combat a second infection wave sweeping the continent as winter looms. Given the economic malaise and global instability, it would be "crazy" if the estranged allies failed to agree, said Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said Britain would reflect on the Brussels meeting before deciding next steps. "We've always been clear that a negotiated outcome is our preference," he said. Many on financial markets expect a thin deal by early November, though after several more weeks of drama. The EU has warned it will not leave fishing rights to last and that they must be part of a wider deal together with issues like financial services where London has a weaker hand. The sides are also far apart on fair competition safeguards covering social, labour and environment standards, as well as state aid. Britain wants to be able to regulate its own corporate subsidies freely in the future, while the EU seeks to lock in joint rules. Otherwise, the bloc says Britain cannot have free access to its cherished single market of 450 million consumers.

European Union refuses to 'compromise at any cost' on Brexit with UK

With coronavirus cases skyrocketing in Britain again, Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the House of Commons about a three-tier lockdown plan to focus on areas where the potentially deadly virus is spreading.

Boris Johnson announces 3-tier lockdown plan in Britain

Bar and restaurant workers have dumped piles of leftover ice outside the Scottish Parliament in protest at being forced to close by COVID-19 restrictions.

Bar workers dump piles of ice in Glasgow in Scotland

Race to find a vaccine against coronavirus is on. Research, test and trials are going on in all corners of the world. But now, a new approach is being adopted in global fight against the pandemic. BCG tuberculosis vaccine will now be tested on frontline care workers in Britain for its effectiveness against COVID-19.

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is used to protect against tuberculosis. However, researchers are drawn towards the broad innate immune-system response the BCG vaccine elicits. This immune response is shown to protect against infection or severe illness with other respiratory pathogens.

"BCG has been shown to boost immunity in a generalised way, which may offer some protection against COVID-19," Professor John Campbell, of the University of Exeter Medical School, said.

"We are seeking to establish whether the BCG vaccine could help protect people who are at risk of COVID-19. If it does, we could save lives by administering or topping up this readily available and cost-effective vaccination."

The UK study is part of an existing Australian-led trial, which launched in April and also has arms in the Netherlands, Spain and Brazil. The BCG vaccine is also being tested as a protection against COVID-19 in South Africa.

The British trial is recruiting volunteers ahead of winter months that officials have warned may be tough as the country grapples with a second wave of infections.

The trial`s UK arm, which is being run from Exeter, southwest England, is seeking to recruit 1,000 people who work in care homes and community healthcare nearby.

Meanwhile, UK is preparing to put in place a three-tier lockdown regime. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce the outline on Monday.

The three-tier system is meant to clarify the patchwork of rules for England that has evolved since infection rates started to climb again in September, according to reports.

(With agency inputs)

Race to find a vaccine against coronavirus is on. Research, test and trials are going on in all corners of the world. But now, a new approach is being adopted in global fight against the pandemic.

Race to find a vaccine against coronavirus is on. Research, test and trials are going on in all corners of the world. But now, a new approach is being adopted in global fight against the pandemic. BCG tuberculosis vaccine will now be tested on frontline care workers in Britain for its effectiveness against COVID-19. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is used to protect against tuberculosis. However, researchers are drawn towards the broad innate immune-system response the BCG vaccine elicits. This immune response is shown to protect against infection or severe illness with other respiratory pathogens. "BCG has been shown to boost immunity in a generalised way, which may offer some protection against COVID-19," Professor John Campbell, of the University of Exeter Medical School, said. "We are seeking to establish whether the BCG vaccine could help protect people who are at risk of COVID-19. If it does, we could save lives by administering or topping up this readily available and cost-effective vaccination." The UK study is part of an existing Australian-led trial, which launched in April and also has arms in the Netherlands, Spain and Brazil. The BCG vaccine is also being tested as a protection against COVID-19 in South Africa. The British trial is recruiting volunteers ahead of winter months that officials have warned may be tough as the country grapples with a second wave of infections. The trial`s UK arm, which is being run from Exeter, southwest England, is seeking to recruit 1,000 people who work in care homes and community healthcare nearby. Meanwhile, UK is preparing to put in place a three-tier lockdown regime. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce the outline on Monday. The three-tier system is meant to clarify the patchwork of rules for England that has evolved since infection rates started to climb again in September, according to reports. (With agency inputs)

BCG vaccine to be tested in UK for effectiveness against COVID-19

Action Fraud, the UK centre for reporting cybercrime and fraud, said on Thursday that between August 2019 and August 2020, losses reported by victims amounted to $86,242,444.

Millions of pounds have been lost to ‘romance fraud’ when people confined to spells of isolation during the coronavirus pandemic turn to online dating and end up handing over money after fraudsters gain their trust and ask for help in non-existing emergencies.

From June to August, the centre received more than 600 reports per month for romance fraud, indicating the victims may have met, and begun talking to, romance fraudsters during the lockdown caused by the pandemic.

Diana Fawcett, chief executive of charity Victim Support, said: "Lockdown restrictions meant people could not meet in person for a number of months, which led to many seeking to form new connections online.

Romance fraud, or dating fraud, occurs when people think they have met the perfect partner online. They gain trust over a number of weeks or months and have the victims believe that they are in a loving, caring relationship. Fraudsters may be based anywhere across the globe.

The centre launched a multi-agency campaign throughout October to raise awareness of romance fraud and provide clear and unambiguous protection advice to the public, following a 26 per cent&nbsp;rise in reports in the past year.

Action Fraud, the UK centre for reporting cybercrime and fraud, said on Thursday that between August 2019 and August 2020, losses reported by victims amounted to $86,242,444.

Action Fraud, the UK centre for reporting cybercrime and fraud, said on Thursday that between August 2019 and August 2020, losses reported by victims amounted to $86,242,444. Millions of pounds have been lost to ‘romance fraud’ when people confined to spells of isolation during the coronavirus pandemic turn to online dating and end up handing over money after fraudsters gain their trust and ask for help in non-existing emergencies. From June to August, the centre received more than 600 reports per month for romance fraud, indicating the victims may have met, and begun talking to, romance fraudsters during the lockdown caused by the pandemic. Diana Fawcett, chief executive of charity Victim Support, said: "Lockdown restrictions meant people could not meet in person for a number of months, which led to many seeking to form new connections online. Romance fraud, or dating fraud, occurs when people think they have met the perfect partner online. They gain trust over a number of weeks or months and have the victims believe that they are in a loving, caring relationship. Fraudsters may be based anywhere across the globe. The centre launched a multi-agency campaign throughout October to raise awareness of romance fraud and provide clear and unambiguous protection advice to the public, following a 26 per cent rise in reports in the past year.

Romance fraud on the rise in UK amid coronavirus pandemic

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets. This covers futures, options, exchange-traded notes and contracts-for-difference. Although analysts believe that the decision will not affect the actual sale of cryptocurrencies, the online trading platforms for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ripple and Ether among others are expected to get a hit.

UK's Financial Conduct Authority said that it has taken the decision to safeguard retail consumers as they are exposed to unexpected financial losses due to unregulated crypto-assets. Volatility and unreliable valuations add to retail consumers' woes.

The latest decision by the FCA came a year after it actually proposed such a ban. The authority took a review of the situation in its analysis that went on for a year.

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Soon after the decision of the FCA, shares in the online trading platform fell by 2-3 per cent.

Cryptocurrencies have attracted a lot of interest from investors all around the globe in recent years. According to an estimate, the cryptocurrency market is worth around USD 337 billion. It was worth USD 200 billion just 2 years ago.

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets.

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets. This covers futures, options, exchange-traded notes and contracts-for-difference. Although analysts believe that the decision will not affect the actual sale of cryptocurrencies, the online trading platforms for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ripple and Ether among others are expected to get a hit. UK's Financial Conduct Authority said that it has taken the decision to safeguard retail consumers as they are exposed to unexpected financial losses due to unregulated crypto-assets. Volatility and unreliable valuations add to retail consumers' woes. The latest decision by the FCA came a year after it actually proposed such a ban. The authority took a review of the situation in its analysis that went on for a year. × Soon after the decision of the FCA, shares in the online trading platform fell by 2-3 per cent. Cryptocurrencies have attracted a lot of interest from investors all around the globe in recent years. According to an estimate, the cryptocurrency market is worth around USD 337 billion. It was worth USD 200 billion just 2 years ago.

Cryptocurrency products banned in UK after year-long review

British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson has said he expects&nbsp;the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy.

According to British media,&nbsp;Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom. It will contain an Alert Level One which will include the pubs and bars.

The tough new measures were outlined in a document leaked by The Guardian, were parallel to the complete lockdown measures in March.

<img alt="UK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99ffafc8-8d5c-4138-9e0b-315ab391dfd8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/33976606-8804313-image-a-2_1601842973742.jpg" />&nbsp;

In picture: The three-tier 'traffic light' lockdown system

It comes as Britain recorded nearly 23,000 more new cases of the novel virus on Sunday.&nbsp;The total number of COVID-19 infections in the country stands at just over 480,000, with more than 2,400 patients in hospital.

In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation,Johnson&nbsp;said he knew many people were furious with him over perceived inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the local measures, but he was seeking to strike a balance between public health and the wider needs of society and the economy.

"In these areas, and I appreciate the fatigue that people are experiencing, but we have to work together, follow the guidance and get the virus down whilst keeping the economy moving, that's the balance we're trying to find," he said in an interview.

"I know people are furious at me and they're furious at the government, but I've got to tell you, in all candour, it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond, but this is the only way to do it."

Johnson&nbsp;had to correct himself on social media on Tuesday after getting his facts wrong while answering a question about social distancing rules that apply to a large swathe of England.

During his Sunday interview,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;denied a suggestion that the local restrictions were not working given infection rates were still rising in the affected areas and there was no end in sight to the measures.

"I'm afraid it's simply too early to say," he said, adding that the advice to the government was that it was necessary to wait and see if the R number, the reproduction rate of the virus, started to come down.

Striking a more optimistic note,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;said he expected the scientific equation to change over the coming months with progress on testing and on vaccines, which would enable the government to take a different approach.

"If you talk to the scientists, they're all virtually unanimous that by the spring things will be radically different and we'll be in a different world, that is the normal cycle of a pandemic like this," he said.

Asked about past promises and forecasts he had made that had not been matched by reality, such as his prediction that Britain's test-and-trace system would be "world-beating",&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;defended his rhetoric.

"This is a pandemic in which people need to understand that there is hope," he said. "We will get through this very well."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he expects the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy. According to British media, Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he expects the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy. According to British media, Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom. It will contain an Alert Level One which will include the pubs and bars. The tough new measures were outlined in a document leaked by The Guardian, were parallel to the complete lockdown measures in March. In picture: The three-tier 'traffic light' lockdown system It comes as Britain recorded nearly 23,000 more new cases of the novel virus on Sunday. The total number of COVID-19 infections in the country stands at just over 480,000, with more than 2,400 patients in hospital. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation,Johnson said he knew many people were furious with him over perceived inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the local measures, but he was seeking to strike a balance between public health and the wider needs of society and the economy. "In these areas, and I appreciate the fatigue that people are experiencing, but we have to work together, follow the guidance and get the virus down whilst keeping the economy moving, that's the balance we're trying to find," he said in an interview. "I know people are furious at me and they're furious at the government, but I've got to tell you, in all candour, it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond, but this is the only way to do it." Johnson had to correct himself on social media on Tuesday after getting his facts wrong while answering a question about social distancing rules that apply to a large swathe of England. During his Sunday interview, Johnson denied a suggestion that the local restrictions were not working given infection rates were still rising in the affected areas and there was no end in sight to the measures. "I'm afraid it's simply too early to say," he said, adding that the advice to the government was that it was necessary to wait and see if the R number, the reproduction rate of the virus, started to come down. Striking a more optimistic note, Johnson said he expected the scientific equation to change over the coming months with progress on testing and on vaccines, which would enable the government to take a different approach. "If you talk to the scientists, they're all virtually unanimous that by the spring things will be radically different and we'll be in a different world, that is the normal cycle of a pandemic like this," he said. Asked about past promises and forecasts he had made that had not been matched by reality, such as his prediction that Britain's test-and-trace system would be "world-beating", Johnson defended his rhetoric. "This is a pandemic in which people need to understand that there is hope," he said. "We will get through this very well."

Boris Johnson warns bumpy COVID winter; mulling 'three-tier lockdown'

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage. Assange faces accuasations from US authorities of conspiring to hack government computers and violating espionage law in connection with the release of confidential cables. These cables were leaked by Wikileaks in 2010-2011.

Assange's lawyer say that the charges against the Australian-born are politically motivated. They also say that Assange's mental health is at risk and that conditions of US prisons are in violation of Britain's human rights laws. They also allege that Julian Assange and his lawyers were spied on while he was in Ecuaorian embassy in the UK.

The legal team representing the United States have countered that many of those arguments are issues which should be addressed in a trial, and have no bearing on extradition.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser told London`s Old Bailey Court at the conclusion of hearings from witnesses in the case that she would deliver her verdict on January 4.

(With Reuters inputs)

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage.

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage. Assange faces accuasations from US authorities of conspiring to hack government computers and violating espionage law in connection with the release of confidential cables. These cables were leaked by Wikileaks in 2010-2011. Assange's lawyer say that the charges against the Australian-born are politically motivated. They also say that Assange's mental health is at risk and that conditions of US prisons are in violation of Britain's human rights laws. They also allege that Julian Assange and his lawyers were spied on while he was in Ecuaorian embassy in the UK. The legal team representing the United States have countered that many of those arguments are issues which should be addressed in a trial, and have no bearing on extradition. Judge Vanessa Baraitser told London`s Old Bailey Court at the conclusion of hearings from witnesses in the case that she would deliver her verdict on January 4. (With Reuters inputs)

Julian Assange US extradition: UK judge to give verdict early next year

Britain stood by its provocative bid to change the terms of its EU divorce deal on Monday, as a make-or-break week of post-Brexit trade talks began under a storm cloud.&nbsp;

Britain's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, said on Monday&nbsp;that the clauses of the Internal Market Bill that undercut the Withdrawal Treaty would remain, despite a demand from the European Union that London scrap them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-uk-trade-deal-if-brexit-risks-northern-irish-peace-deal-biden-to-johnson-328182">No US-UK trade deal if Brexit risks Northern Irish peace deal: Biden to Johnson</a>

The British government unveiled an "Internal Markets Bill" last month which is&nbsp;now winding its way through parliament and would override parts of the Brexit treaty that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson struck with the European Union last year.

Johnson argues it will provide a "safety net" against what he claimed are EU threats to impose tariffs on UK internal trade and even stop food going from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland,&nbsp;although his government has admitted that in overwriting a treaty it breaks international law.

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The proposed law has infuriated the Europeans, who had demanded that it be withdrawn or amended before a deadline of Wednesday this week,&nbsp;but, after his meeting in Brussels with Sefcovic, Gove insisted it would not be changed.

"We want to make sure that the Withdrawal Agreement is implemented in full," Gove told reporters after talks in Brussels with European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic.

"But those clauses are there, they're in legislation, supported by the House of Commons, as a safety net, if need be. And those clauses will remain in that bill."

Gove said that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had been very clear that there needed to be progress in trade talks between chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost for the process to conclude in time.

After talks with Sefcovic on the implementation of the 2020 Brexit divorce treaty, Gove said: "We had a constructive meeting. We both were clear with each other where we were still some distance apart but we were both also clear that we wanted to bridge that gap."

He added: "Maros Sefcovic and I are committed to using every moment available: every second, every minute, every hour, in order to reach agreement and I'm confident that we will."

'Big trouble'

The last scheduled round of trade talks begins on Tuesday as scores of officials meet in Brussels in talks presided by Europe's Michel Barnier and his counterpart David Frost.

"This is the final formal round of negotiations but we expect discussion to continue in the run up to the European council, which is taking place on 15 to 16 October," a Downing Street spokesman said.

"Significant gaps remain&nbsp;as the EU still needs to adopt more realistic policy positions, but we are ready to work as hard as necessary to move things forward this week."

Both London and Brussels say a deal on a free trade agreement must be struck by mid-October to allow time for it to be ratified before coming into force from January 1 next year.

Failure to do so would see trade conducted on World Trade Organization rules, with higher tariffs and quotas and almost certain economic chaos for Britain and Europe.

Britain stood by its provocative bid to change the terms of its EU divorce deal on Monday, as a make-or-break week of post-Brexit trade talks began under a storm cloud.

Britain stood by its provocative bid to change the terms of its EU divorce deal on Monday, as a make-or-break week of post-Brexit trade talks began under a storm cloud. Britain's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, said on Monday that the clauses of the Internal Market Bill that undercut the Withdrawal Treaty would remain, despite a demand from the European Union that London scrap them. Also read: No US-UK trade deal if Brexit risks Northern Irish peace deal: Biden to Johnson The British government unveiled an "Internal Markets Bill" last month which is now winding its way through parliament and would override parts of the Brexit treaty that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson struck with the European Union last year. Johnson argues it will provide a "safety net" against what he claimed are EU threats to impose tariffs on UK internal trade and even stop food going from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland, although his government has admitted that in overwriting a treaty it breaks international law. The proposed law has infuriated the Europeans, who had demanded that it be withdrawn or amended before a deadline of Wednesday this week, but, after his meeting in Brussels with Sefcovic, Gove insisted it would not be changed. "We want to make sure that the Withdrawal Agreement is implemented in full," Gove told reporters after talks in Brussels with European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic. "But those clauses are there, they're in legislation, supported by the House of Commons, as a safety net, if need be. And those clauses will remain in that bill." Gove said that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had been very clear that there needed to be progress in trade talks between chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost for the process to conclude in time. After talks with Sefcovic on the implementation of the 2020 Brexit divorce treaty, Gove said: "We had a constructive meeting. We both were clear with each other where we were still some distance apart but we were both also clear that we wanted to bridge that gap." He added: "Maros Sefcovic and I are committed to using every moment available: every second, every minute, every hour, in order to reach agreement and I'm confident that we will." 'Big trouble' The last scheduled round of trade talks begins on Tuesday as scores of officials meet in Brussels in talks presided by Europe's Michel Barnier and his counterpart David Frost. "This is the final formal round of negotiations but we expect discussion to continue in the run up to the European council, which is taking place on 15 to 16 October," a Downing Street spokesman said. "Significant gaps remain as the EU still needs to adopt more realistic policy positions, but we are ready to work as hard as necessary to move things forward this week." Both London and Brussels say a deal on a free trade agreement must be struck by mid-October to allow time for it to be ratified before coming into force from January 1 next year. Failure to do so would see trade conducted on World Trade Organization rules, with higher tariffs and quotas and almost certain economic chaos for Britain and Europe.

Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that as he set out a raft of new coronavirus restrictions for England which could last for up to six months. Watch report.

Boris Johnson announces new COVID-19 restrictions for UK

Britain&nbsp;has issued new a travel advisory for China, warning that its nationals may be at risk of arbitrary detention, after several foreigners were held on various charges including cases involving state secrets and national security.

"China's authorities have under certain circumstances detained foreigners citing 'endangering national security'," the British Foreign Office said in its latest advice posted on its website.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-warns-citizens-against-arbitrary-detention-risk-in-china-311511">Australia warns citizens against 'arbitrary detention' risk in China</a>

"There is also a risk of arbitrary detention, including of British Nationals," it said.

British advice previously contained no reference to the risk of arbitrary detention.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-citizens-of-heightened-risks-of-arbitrary-detention-in-china-312591">US warns citizens of 'heightened risks of arbitrary detention' in China</a>

A spokesman for the British embassy in Beijing said the advice had been updated to "clearly and factually reflect recent incidents".

"But the level of our advice has not changed," the spokesman said.

The British warning comes after several foreigners were detained in China on national security charges, including Canadians, Australians, Japanese and at least one American. Some of them remain in detention.

In one of the latest high-profile cases, Cheng Lei, an Australian citizen and anchor on Chinese state television, was detained in August for "carrying out criminal activities endangering China's national security," according to China's foreign ministry.

Her detention follows a period of strained relations between China and Australia.

Britain has issued new a travel advisory for China, warning that its nationals may be at risk of arbitrary detention, after several foreigners were held on various charges including cases involving state secrets and national security.

Britain has issued new a travel advisory for China, warning that its nationals may be at risk of arbitrary detention, after several foreigners were held on various charges including cases involving state secrets and national security. "China's authorities have under certain circumstances detained foreigners citing 'endangering national security'," the British Foreign Office said in its latest advice posted on its website. Also read: Australia warns citizens against 'arbitrary detention' risk in China "There is also a risk of arbitrary detention, including of British Nationals," it said. British advice previously contained no reference to the risk of arbitrary detention. Also read: US warns citizens of 'heightened risks of arbitrary detention' in China A spokesman for the British embassy in Beijing said the advice had been updated to "clearly and factually reflect recent incidents". "But the level of our advice has not changed," the spokesman said. The British warning comes after several foreigners were detained in China on national security charges, including Canadians, Australians, Japanese and at least one American. Some of them remain in detention. In one of the latest high-profile cases, Cheng Lei, an Australian citizen and anchor on Chinese state television, was detained in August for "carrying out criminal activities endangering China's national security," according to China's foreign ministry. Her detention follows a period of strained relations between China and Australia.

Britain warns citizens of risk of arbitrary detention in China

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

“There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said.

He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/johnson-accuses-eu-of-plotting-food-blockade-on-uk-327029">Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK</a> 
 
He had stern message for those flouting rules.

“We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said.

The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect. “There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said. He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected. Also Read | Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK He had stern message for those flouting rules. “We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said. The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Coronavirus: Avoid considering this a 'party weekend', police union tells public

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times.

The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU.

"What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair.

Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner.

"This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said.

Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future.

Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland.

"We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter.

Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday.

Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday.

"We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made.

European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action.

(With Reuters inputs)

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'. Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times. The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU. "What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair. Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner. "This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said. Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future. Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland. "We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter. Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday. Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday. "We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made. European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action. (With Reuters inputs)

Brexit: Former PMs Tony Blair, John Major slam Boris Johnson for 'shaming' UK

British finance minister Rishi Sunak plans to drop a tax on technology companies such as Facebook and Google

UK denies plans to drop 'Facebook tax'

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