Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction."

Gray, a former civil servant, said that she has accepted a new position as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations after serving in Downing Street for three months. Morgan McSweeney will take over her role.

Gray said, “After leading the Labour Party’s preparation for government and kickstarting work on our programme for change, I am looking forward to drawing on my experience to support the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to help deliver the government’s objectives across the nations and regions of the UK.”

She added, “Throughout my career, my first interest has always been public service. However, in recent weeks it has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the government’s vital work of change."

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“It is for that reason I have chosen to stand aside, and I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minister in my new role."

Sir Keir Starmer, in a written statement, thanked Gray, “I want to thank Sue for all the support she has given me, both in opposition and government, and her work to prepare us for government and get us started on our programme of change.”

“Sue has played a vital role in strengthening our relations with the regions and nations. I am delighted that she will continue to support that work,” he added.

Gray’s resignation comes after months of negative briefings while she served as chief of staff, with some within Labour criticising the level of influence she had in Downing Street. Additionally, details of her salary, which was £3,000 more than Sir Keir's, were leaked to the media.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction.

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction." Gray, a former civil servant, said that she has accepted a new position as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations after serving in Downing Street for three months. Morgan McSweeney will take over her role. Gray said, “After leading the Labour Party’s preparation for government and kickstarting work on our programme for change, I am looking forward to drawing on my experience to support the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to help deliver the government’s objectives across the nations and regions of the UK.” She added, “Throughout my career, my first interest has always been public service. However, in recent weeks it has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the government’s vital work of change." Also read: Dinner with Kim Jong Un or George Soros? Indian EAM Jaishankar's witty reply wins internet - WATCH “It is for that reason I have chosen to stand aside, and I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minister in my new role." Sir Keir Starmer, in a written statement, thanked Gray, “I want to thank Sue for all the support she has given me, both in opposition and government, and her work to prepare us for government and get us started on our programme of change.” “Sue has played a vital role in strengthening our relations with the regions and nations. I am delighted that she will continue to support that work,” he added. Gray’s resignation comes after months of negative briefings while she served as chief of staff, with some within Labour criticising the level of influence she had in Downing Street. Additionally, details of her salary, which was £3,000 more than Sir Keir's, were leaked to the media. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Sue Gray steps down as Starmer's chief of staff; set to assist PM in new regional envoy position

#gravitas | UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, also the leader of the Labour party has avoided being investigated over a potential breach of parliamentary rules. The situation revolves around gifts that included designer clothes, garments, and alterations, purchased for Starmer’s wife, Victoria, by a long-time Labour supporter and donor. Starmer did not disclose details about the purchases within the stipulated time raising concerns and questions over ethics.

Dressing Down: Top Earning UK PM Accepts More Gifts For Personal Lifestyle

Britain's police and crime minister had her bag stolen at a conference for senior and midranking police officers where she spoke about the growing problem of theft and shoplifting, a government official said on Thursday.

Britain's police and crime minister had her bag stolen at a conference for senior and midranking police officers where she spoke about the growing problem of theft and shoplifting, a government official said on Thursday. The incident occurred when Diana Johnson attended the Police Superintendents' Association conference in central England on Tuesday where one senior officer told her in a speech that the criminal justice system was broken. The official said Johnson had her bag stolen at the conference, but no security risk had been identified. In her speech, Johnson said Britain had been "gripped by an epidemic of anti-social behaviour, theft and shoplifting". The Home Office, or interior ministry, declined to comment. Warwickshire Police said a 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and released on bail in connection to the incident. Britain has been hit by an increase in thefts and shoplifting in recent years. While overall crime has generally been decreasing, the number of thefts from individuals of items like bags and mobile phones rose by 40% in the year ending March, according to the Office for National Statistics. Also read: Bill Gates fears tensions triggering a global war, another pandemic breakout within 25 years This has contributed to public support for the police falling to record lows. A poll by YouGov earlier this year found more than half of the public do not trust the police to solve crimes, and over a third said they have no faith in the police to maintain law and order. In her speech, Johnson announced plans to give more police officers training to tackle anti-social behaviour after a "decade of decline". "Too many town centres and high streets across the country have been gripped by an epidemic of anti-social behaviour, theft and shoplifting which is corroding our communities and cannot be allowed to continue," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain’s crime minister’s bag gets stolen at police conference on rising theft

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.”

Findings by the cancer surgeon and former minister Ara Darzi revealed that the NHS was in ‘critical condition’ owing to years of neglect and falling productivity.

After collecting evidence from 227 organisations, the report found that the “awful state” of NHS was likely causing more deaths in UK annually, estimated at 14,000, than going to wars.

<h2>Sorry state of NHS</h2>

To put things into perspective, the report revealed that patients turning up at A&amp;E (accident and emergency) could now see 100 people lined up ahead of them. Just 15 years ago, the number was 39.

In 2010, 94 per cent of patients at A&amp;E would be taken care of within four hours. Now, 10 per cent of them may have to wait for more than 12 hours. Also, just 60 per cent of the patients are now seen within four hours.

<h2>PM vows action</h2>

UK PM Starmer said he will not shy away from taking “controversial” action to fix the NHS and public health in England.

He also said that the NHS had to “reform or die” and it would take 10 years to implement the changes needed. “We need to have the courage to deliver long-term reform – major surgery not sticking plasters. We’ve got to face up to the challenges – ageing society, a higher burden of disease,” he said.

“I know some prevention measures will be controversial, but I’m prepared to be bold, even in the face of loud opposition. So no, some of our changes won’t be universally popular, we know that, but I will do the right thing for our NHS, our economy and our children,” the PM said.

Starmer said his administration is committed to build 40 new hospitals, a promise that was initially offered by Boris Johnson in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.” Findings by the cancer surgeon and former minister Ara Darzi revealed that the NHS was in ‘critical condition’ owing to years of neglect and falling productivity. After collecting evidence from 227 organisations, the report found that the “awful state” of NHS was likely causing more deaths in UK annually, estimated at 14,000, than going to wars. Sorry state of NHS To put things into perspective, the report revealed that patients turning up at A&E (accident and emergency) could now see 100 people lined up ahead of them. Just 15 years ago, the number was 39. In 2010, 94 per cent of patients at A&E would be taken care of within four hours. Now, 10 per cent of them may have to wait for more than 12 hours. Also, just 60 per cent of the patients are now seen within four hours. PM vows action UK PM Starmer said he will not shy away from taking “controversial” action to fix the NHS and public health in England. He also said that the NHS had to “reform or die” and it would take 10 years to implement the changes needed. “We need to have the courage to deliver long-term reform – major surgery not sticking plasters. We’ve got to face up to the challenges – ageing society, a higher burden of disease,” he said. “I know some prevention measures will be controversial, but I’m prepared to be bold, even in the face of loud opposition. So no, some of our changes won’t be universally popular, we know that, but I will do the right thing for our NHS, our economy and our children,” the PM said. Starmer said his administration is committed to build 40 new hospitals, a promise that was initially offered by Boris Johnson in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Starmer vows ‘surgery’ as UK NHS found to be surviving on ventilator support

United Kingdom's Ministry of justice has expressed its apprehension over the early release of program being implemented to free prison space. The ministry admitted that the scheme would make eligible even the serious offenders for an early release. Watch to know more.

UK's Prison: Over 5,500 prisoners planned to be released between september & october

Authorities in the United Kingdom have charged the first adult with rioting in connection with the recent nationwide anti-immigration protests which turned violent. Crown Prosecution Service said 32-year-old Kieran Usher wouldn’t be the only individual to be charged with the crime that carries a maximum of 10 years in jail, double that of violent disorder.

Earlier on Friday (Aug 16), the Hull Crown Court sentenced two men to jail for “racist violence”. A 25-year-old named John Honey was jailed for four years and eight months after pleading guilty to violent disorder, committing racially aggravated criminal damage during an incident involving a BMW, as well as damaging nine other cars.

Watch:&nbsp;UK private tutor jailed for 6 years, arrested for sexually abusing teenage boy

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48-year-old David Wilkinson was sentenced to six years in prison&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;after he pleaded guilty to violent disorder, racially aggravated criminal damage and attempted arson.

Before that, two men and a woman were jailed for violent disorder at a protest in Plymouth on August 5. Kerry Gove, 34, Andrew Ball, 49, and Grant Braidwood, 40 had also&nbsp;pleaded guilty to the charge earlier.

A man named Roger Haywood was&nbsp;sentenced to 30 months in prison for causing disorder in Blackpool, England. According to the judge presiding over his case, Haywood led an "angry" mob through the seaside town in Lancashire - throwing missiles at police officers and injuring a security guard at a shopping centre.

As per data from the Ministry of Justice, around 460 people have been detained for causing violent disorder, and at least 99 of them have already been sentenced.&nbsp;

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According to the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), the violent unrest that erupted after the Southport attack and spread throughout the nation left 277 police officers wounded.

Some officers had to be hospitalised as they sustained serious injuries like fractures and broken bones.

"Officers do not go to work to be assaulted or attacked and it is completely unacceptable,” said one spokesperson.

“Such events have a very real impact on our workforce in terms of wellbeing and psychological damage, and we know that significant issues related to PTSD can come years later,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Authorities in the United Kingdom have charged the first adult with rioting in connection with the recent nationwide anti-immigration protests which turned violent.

Authorities in the United Kingdom have charged the first adult with rioting in connection with the recent nationwide anti-immigration protests which turned violent. Crown Prosecution Service said 32-year-old Kieran Usher wouldn’t be the only individual to be charged with the crime that carries a maximum of 10 years in jail, double that of violent disorder. Earlier on Friday (Aug 16), the Hull Crown Court sentenced two men to jail for “racist violence”. A 25-year-old named John Honey was jailed for four years and eight months after pleading guilty to violent disorder, committing racially aggravated criminal damage during an incident involving a BMW, as well as damaging nine other cars. Watch: UK private tutor jailed for 6 years, arrested for sexually abusing teenage boy × 48-year-old David Wilkinson was sentenced to six years in prison on Thursday after he pleaded guilty to violent disorder, racially aggravated criminal damage and attempted arson. Before that, two men and a woman were jailed for violent disorder at a protest in Plymouth on August 5. Kerry Gove, 34, Andrew Ball, 49, and Grant Braidwood, 40 had also pleaded guilty to the charge earlier. A man named Roger Haywood was sentenced to 30 months in prison for causing disorder in Blackpool, England. According to the judge presiding over his case, Haywood led an "angry" mob through the seaside town in Lancashire - throwing missiles at police officers and injuring a security guard at a shopping centre. As per data from the Ministry of Justice, around 460 people have been detained for causing violent disorder, and at least 99 of them have already been sentenced. Also read: Pakistanis sing Jana Gana Mana with Indians in UK; some netizens like it, some call it `irony` | Video According to the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), the violent unrest that erupted after the Southport attack and spread throughout the nation left 277 police officers wounded. Some officers had to be hospitalised as they sustained serious injuries like fractures and broken bones. "Officers do not go to work to be assaulted or attacked and it is completely unacceptable,” said one spokesperson. “Such events have a very real impact on our workforce in terms of wellbeing and psychological damage, and we know that significant issues related to PTSD can come years later,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK riots: First adult charged with rioting, around 100 given sentences so far

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by&nbsp;The Telegraph.

The report highlights that some people have already received payments for serious conditions like strokes, heart attacks, dangerous blood clots, inflammation of the spinal cord, severe swelling in the vaccinated arm, and even facial paralysis.

AstraZeneca is said to be behind 97 per cent&nbsp;of all the approved claims, with only a few related to Pfizer or Moderna.

The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS), initiated in 1979, has received a total of 16,000 applications over the years, and the majority of recent claims are related to COVID-19 vaccines. Many have been denied payments because they weren’t considered “disabled enough.”

Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine attacks Russia's key supply routes

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For those who are successful, there’s a one-time payment of £120,000 ($155,321). However, the government has only approved payments in 175 cases so far, which is less than two per cent&nbsp;of the total applications, according to The Telegraph.

Over 5,500 claims have been reportedly rejected, and another 519 were dismissed before even reaching a medical assessment. Out of nearly 1,000 people who asked for their cases to be reconsidered, only 12 have had their decisions reversed and received a payment.

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Around 350 claims were denied because, while the vaccine was recognised as harmful, it was determined that the harm didn’t cause “severe disablement.” To qualify, applicants need to be at least 60 per cent disabled. More than 700 people have been waiting over a year for a decision.

Despite warnings and increasing reports of blood clots, the UK government continued to recommend the AstraZeneca vaccine, even as other countries like Germany, Italy, France, and Spain stopped using it by March 2021.

Last year, AstraZeneca admitted that its vaccine could cause VITT in some cases, and in May, it started pulling the vaccine worldwide, saying that newer vaccines were better at targeting COVID-19&nbsp;variants.

However, AstraZeneca was given legal protection early in the pandemic, so even if someone won a civil case, it would be UK taxpayers who foot the bill for compensation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by The Telegraph.

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by The Telegraph. The report highlights that some people have already received payments for serious conditions like strokes, heart attacks, dangerous blood clots, inflammation of the spinal cord, severe swelling in the vaccinated arm, and even facial paralysis. AstraZeneca is said to be behind 97 per cent of all the approved claims, with only a few related to Pfizer or Moderna. The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS), initiated in 1979, has received a total of 16,000 applications over the years, and the majority of recent claims are related to COVID-19 vaccines. Many have been denied payments because they weren’t considered “disabled enough.” Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine attacks Russia's key supply routes × For those who are successful, there’s a one-time payment of £120,000 ($155,321). However, the government has only approved payments in 175 cases so far, which is less than two per cent of the total applications, according to The Telegraph. Over 5,500 claims have been reportedly rejected, and another 519 were dismissed before even reaching a medical assessment. Out of nearly 1,000 people who asked for their cases to be reconsidered, only 12 have had their decisions reversed and received a payment. Also read: Elon Musk's X to end operations in Brazil 'effective immediately' following spat with judge Around 350 claims were denied because, while the vaccine was recognised as harmful, it was determined that the harm didn’t cause “severe disablement.” To qualify, applicants need to be at least 60 per cent disabled. More than 700 people have been waiting over a year for a decision. Despite warnings and increasing reports of blood clots, the UK government continued to recommend the AstraZeneca vaccine, even as other countries like Germany, Italy, France, and Spain stopped using it by March 2021. Last year, AstraZeneca admitted that its vaccine could cause VITT in some cases, and in May, it started pulling the vaccine worldwide, saying that newer vaccines were better at targeting COVID-19 variants. However, AstraZeneca was given legal protection early in the pandemic, so even if someone won a civil case, it would be UK taxpayers who foot the bill for compensation. (With inputs from agencies)

UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation

A teenager was charged with rioting on Thursday (Aug 15), becoming the first person prosecuted for involvement in the widespread violence that has gripped the United Kingdom.

Britain's Crown Prosecution Service said the 15-year-old boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, would appear at South Tyneside Youth Court later Thursday and be asked to enter a plea.

The teenager was charged following turmoil in Sunderland in northern England on Aug. 2.

“This defendant is one of a number of individuals who we anticipate will be charged with riot," said Gale Gilchrist, chief crown prosecutor for northeast England.

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Fueled by misinformation that the suspect in the fatal stabbing of three children was a Muslim asylum seeker, riots broke out on July 30. Hundreds have been detained as the violence spread across the nation, targeting mosques and other locations.

Many have been charged with violent disorder and sentenced, but no one had so far been charged with rioting, a more serious offense that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Last week, a 26-year-old individual was sentenced to a prison term exceeding three years for disseminating incendiary content on social media platforms, targeting hotels accommodating asylum seekers.

<h1>Mayor of London urges Londoners to check on friends</h1>

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has urged Londoners to check on their friends and neighbors, as Muslims and minority ethnic communities have been left feeling fearful following the recent UK riots.

“The acts of violence and disorder on the streets of London will not be tolerated.&nbsp;Anyone found guilty of committing a crime will be arrested and face the full force of the law,' said Khan.

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“The disorder, racism and violence that we have seen in towns and cities across the country in the last week have been truly shocking,” Khan&nbsp;wrote on X.

“The disturbing events have left many Muslims and minority ethnic communities feeling scared and fearful. I urge my fellow Londoners to check on their friends and neighbors, demonstrating that care and compassion are what Londoners stand for,” the mayor urged.

(With inputs from agencies)

A teenager was charged with rioting on Thursday (Aug 15), becoming the first person prosecuted for involvement in the widespread violence that has gripped the United Kingdom.

A teenager was charged with rioting on Thursday (Aug 15), becoming the first person prosecuted for involvement in the widespread violence that has gripped the United Kingdom. Britain's Crown Prosecution Service said the 15-year-old boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, would appear at South Tyneside Youth Court later Thursday and be asked to enter a plea. The teenager was charged following turmoil in Sunderland in northern England on Aug. 2. “This defendant is one of a number of individuals who we anticipate will be charged with riot," said Gale Gilchrist, chief crown prosecutor for northeast England. Also read: ‘Cut all their throats...,’ UK councillor arrested after making threat at anti-violence rally Fueled by misinformation that the suspect in the fatal stabbing of three children was a Muslim asylum seeker, riots broke out on July 30. Hundreds have been detained as the violence spread across the nation, targeting mosques and other locations. Many have been charged with violent disorder and sentenced, but no one had so far been charged with rioting, a more serious offense that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Last week, a 26-year-old individual was sentenced to a prison term exceeding three years for disseminating incendiary content on social media platforms, targeting hotels accommodating asylum seekers. Mayor of London urges Londoners to check on friends Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has urged Londoners to check on their friends and neighbors, as Muslims and minority ethnic communities have been left feeling fearful following the recent UK riots. “The acts of violence and disorder on the streets of London will not be tolerated. Anyone found guilty of committing a crime will be arrested and face the full force of the law,' said Khan. Also read: UK protests: Anti-racism protests sweep post riots “The disorder, racism and violence that we have seen in towns and cities across the country in the last week have been truly shocking,” Khan wrote on X. “The disturbing events have left many Muslims and minority ethnic communities feeling scared and fearful. I urge my fellow Londoners to check on their friends and neighbors, demonstrating that care and compassion are what Londoners stand for,” the mayor urged. (With inputs from agencies)

UK unrest: 15-year-old boy becomes first to be charged with rioting

Just days after the Southport stabbing incident that threw the United Kingdom into a period of unrest, an 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman were stabbed in London's Leicester Square.

A 32-year-old man&nbsp;has been detained by the Met Police and they believe there weren't "any outstanding suspects." The girl is hospitalised, and her injuries are not life-threatening. The woman also sustained minor injuries and is undergoing treatment.

The Met police said that the incident was not terror-related. “Officers are at the scene of a stabbing in Leicester Square. A man has been arrested and is in custody. Two victims, an 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman, have been taken to hospital and we await an update on their condition,” police said in a statement.

Shortly after the attack, several police officers were still at the scene next to the Lego store on Swiss Court, just off the square itself. A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said paramedics were called at 11:36 BST to reports of a stabbing.

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“We sent resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, an advanced paramedic and an incident response officer. We also dispatched members of our tactical response unit. We treated a child and an adult at the scene and took them to a major trauma centre," they told BBC.

Soon after the incident, multiple police officers remained on the scene near the Lego store on Swiss Court, close to the square. A spokesperson from the London Ambulance Service stated that paramedics were alerted at 11:36 BST to a reported stabbing.

This incident comes at a time when the situation in UK remains volatile, with rioters clashing with police and chanting anti-immigration and Islamophobic slogans. The unrest has been fuelled by right-wing activists spreading false information on social media about a knife attack that left three girls dead at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

(With inputs from agencies)

Just days after the Southport stabbing incident that threw the United Kingdom into a period of unrest, an 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman were stabbed in London's Leicester Square.

Just days after the Southport stabbing incident that threw the United Kingdom into a period of unrest, an 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman were stabbed in London's Leicester Square. A 32-year-old man has been detained by the Met Police and they believe there weren't "any outstanding suspects." The girl is hospitalised, and her injuries are not life-threatening. The woman also sustained minor injuries and is undergoing treatment. The Met police said that the incident was not terror-related. “Officers are at the scene of a stabbing in Leicester Square. A man has been arrested and is in custody. Two victims, an 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman, have been taken to hospital and we await an update on their condition,” police said in a statement. Shortly after the attack, several police officers were still at the scene next to the Lego store on Swiss Court, just off the square itself. A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said paramedics were called at 11:36 BST to reports of a stabbing. Also read: Sweden's proposed 'snitch law' against immigrants creates stir and concern “We sent resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, an advanced paramedic and an incident response officer. We also dispatched members of our tactical response unit. We treated a child and an adult at the scene and took them to a major trauma centre," they told BBC. Soon after the incident, multiple police officers remained on the scene near the Lego store on Swiss Court, close to the square. A spokesperson from the London Ambulance Service stated that paramedics were alerted at 11:36 BST to a reported stabbing. This incident comes at a time when the situation in UK remains volatile, with rioters clashing with police and chanting anti-immigration and Islamophobic slogans. The unrest has been fuelled by right-wing activists spreading false information on social media about a knife attack that left three girls dead at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. (With inputs from agencies)

London stabbing: Girl, 11, woman stabbed at Leicester Square; suspect arrested

In a blow to Indian techies, the new United Kingdom government has indicated plans to cut down on overseas hiring by technology and engineering companies.&nbsp;

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has asked the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the dependence by these sectors on skilled worker visas.

On Wednesday (Aug 7), Cooper wrote to the MAC Chair saying there is a need to understand why key occupations remain heavily dependent on international recruitment.&nbsp;

She was keen to cite information technology and telecommunications professionals as well as engineering professionals among sectors that have been top users of work visas.

"The Government values their skills and the vitality they bring to Britain…The system needs to be managed and controlled," Cooper said. "The current levels of international recruitment are not sustainable in the longer term and continue to indicate ongoing UK skills shortages," she added.

The UK home secretary also&nbsp;said that the government wants to bring down migration by implementing an approach that is linked towards policy on skills, leading to a fairer and more coherent approach towards the labour market.&nbsp;

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"The system as it exists is not operating in the national interest. This Government will deliver a fair, coherent, more joined-up approach to the labour market by linking immigration with skills policy," she added.

However, recent Home Office statistics reveal a significant fall in visa applications from students and skilled workers. This comes&nbsp;months after&nbsp;the policy on family dependents&nbsp;tightened.&nbsp;

According to Home Office data, compared with the same period last year, the number of visa applications for main applicants and their dependents in key UK visa categories — skilled worker, health and care, and study — has dipped by a whopping 35 per cent, that is 187,900, between&nbsp;January to July 2024.&nbsp;

A spokesman from the UK Home Office said, "Immigration brings many benefits to the UK, but it must be controlled and delivered through a fair system."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a blow to Indian techies, the new United Kingdom government has indicated plans to cut down on overseas hiring by technology and engineering companies. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has asked the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the dependence by these sectors on skilled worker visas.

In a blow to Indian techies, the new United Kingdom government has indicated plans to cut down on overseas hiring by technology and engineering companies. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has asked the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the dependence by these sectors on skilled worker visas. On Wednesday (Aug 7), Cooper wrote to the MAC Chair saying there is a need to understand why key occupations remain heavily dependent on international recruitment. She was keen to cite information technology and telecommunications professionals as well as engineering professionals among sectors that have been top users of work visas. "The Government values their skills and the vitality they bring to Britain…The system needs to be managed and controlled," Cooper said. "The current levels of international recruitment are not sustainable in the longer term and continue to indicate ongoing UK skills shortages," she added. The UK home secretary also said that the government wants to bring down migration by implementing an approach that is linked towards policy on skills, leading to a fairer and more coherent approach towards the labour market. Also read: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of Wayanad, meets victims' families "The system as it exists is not operating in the national interest. This Government will deliver a fair, coherent, more joined-up approach to the labour market by linking immigration with skills policy," she added. However, recent Home Office statistics reveal a significant fall in visa applications from students and skilled workers. This comes months after the policy on family dependents tightened. According to Home Office data, compared with the same period last year, the number of visa applications for main applicants and their dependents in key UK visa categories — skilled worker, health and care, and study — has dipped by a whopping 35 per cent, that is 187,900, between January to July 2024. A spokesman from the UK Home Office said, "Immigration brings many benefits to the UK, but it must be controlled and delivered through a fair system." (With inputs from agencies)

UK government set to crack down on overseas hiring. Here's how it will affect Indians

A 55-year-old woman in the United Kingdom has been detained for sharing a social media post with false details about the suspect in the Southport murders.

The woman, from the Chester area, was arrested on Thursday (Aug 8) on charges of spreading material that could incite racial hatred and making false statements. She is currently held by Cheshire police.

“We have all seen the violent disorder that has taken place across the UK over the past week, much of which has been fuelled by malicious and inaccurate communications online,"&nbsp;Cheshire police Superintendent Alison Ross said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-must-feel-consequences-of-its-invasion-says-zelensky-748724">Ukraine war: Russia must feel consequences of its invasion, says Zelensky</a>

“It’s a stark reminder of the dangers of posting information on social media platforms without checking the accuracy. It also acts as a warning that we are all accountable for our actions, whether that be online or in person,” he added

<h2 itemprop="headline">Court jails UK man for inciting 'racial hatred'</h2>

A 28-year-old man was sentenced to 20 months in prison by a judge in Leeds, northern England, on Friday. He admitted to posting on Facebook with the aim of "stirring racial hatred" during the recent riots.

This is the first case tied to the riots where someone has been punished. Jordan Parlour was convicted for making posts that encouraged attacks on a hotel in the city that was sheltering asylum seekers and refugees.

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Police across the UK have warned about the spread of an "incorrect" name for the Southport suspect, now identified as 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, and false information about his background.

A 39-year-old from Lancashire was also arrested for allegedly using social media to incite violent behaviour, according to Merseyside police.

The man, from Rufford, Ormskirk, is suspected of encouraging or assisting in serious crimes and was also arrested for his involvement in violent disorder in Southport on July 30.

On July 29, three girls were tragically killed in a knife attack during a Taylor Swift-themed&nbsp;dance class. This incident sparked protests in Southport, Liverpool city centre, and Walton, fueled by false claims that the attacker was an immigrant and a radical Islamist.

On the day of the attack, police said&nbsp;that they had arrested a 17-year-old from a nearby village and confirmed that they were not treating the incident as a terror-related act.

Over 100 police officers were injured while handling the riots which eventually spread to multiple cities across the UK. As of&nbsp;Tuesday (Aug 6), more than 400 arrests had been made, with the number likely to increase. Some of those arrested are as young as 11.

UK Prime Minister&nbsp;Keir Starmer has denounced what he refers to as "far-right thuggery." He has vowed to pursue charges and convictions "whatever the apparent cause or motivation" and warned that those involved in the violence, including those inciting it online, will face consequences.

<h2>All injured children from Southport knife attack discharged</h2>

The UK police said&nbsp;that all children who were injured in the knife attack in Southport have now been sent home from the hospital.

Ten people, including two adults, were seriously injured and were taken to hospitals in the North West after the Southport knife attack. The last injured girl, who was being treated at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, has now been discharged and will recover at home.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 55-year-old woman in the United Kingdom has been detained for sharing a social media post with false details about the suspect in the Southport murders. The woman, from the Chester area, was arrested on Thursday (Aug 8) on charges of spreading material that could incite racial hatred and making false statements.

A 55-year-old woman in the United Kingdom has been detained for sharing a social media post with false details about the suspect in the Southport murders. The woman, from the Chester area, was arrested on Thursday (Aug 8) on charges of spreading material that could incite racial hatred and making false statements. She is currently held by Cheshire police. “We have all seen the violent disorder that has taken place across the UK over the past week, much of which has been fuelled by malicious and inaccurate communications online," Cheshire police Superintendent Alison Ross said. Also read: Ukraine war: Russia must feel consequences of its invasion, says Zelensky “It’s a stark reminder of the dangers of posting information on social media platforms without checking the accuracy. It also acts as a warning that we are all accountable for our actions, whether that be online or in person,” he added Court jails UK man for inciting 'racial hatred' A 28-year-old man was sentenced to 20 months in prison by a judge in Leeds, northern England, on Friday. He admitted to posting on Facebook with the aim of "stirring racial hatred" during the recent riots. This is the first case tied to the riots where someone has been punished. Jordan Parlour was convicted for making posts that encouraged attacks on a hotel in the city that was sheltering asylum seekers and refugees. Police across the UK have warned about the spread of an "incorrect" name for the Southport suspect, now identified as 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, and false information about his background. A 39-year-old from Lancashire was also arrested for allegedly using social media to incite violent behaviour, according to Merseyside police. The man, from Rufford, Ormskirk, is suspected of encouraging or assisting in serious crimes and was also arrested for his involvement in violent disorder in Southport on July 30. On July 29, three girls were tragically killed in a knife attack during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. This incident sparked protests in Southport, Liverpool city centre, and Walton, fueled by false claims that the attacker was an immigrant and a radical Islamist. On the day of the attack, police said that they had arrested a 17-year-old from a nearby village and confirmed that they were not treating the incident as a terror-related act. Over 100 police officers were injured while handling the riots which eventually spread to multiple cities across the UK. As of Tuesday (Aug 6), more than 400 arrests had been made, with the number likely to increase. Some of those arrested are as young as 11. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has denounced what he refers to as "far-right thuggery." He has vowed to pursue charges and convictions "whatever the apparent cause or motivation" and warned that those involved in the violence, including those inciting it online, will face consequences. All injured children from Southport knife attack discharged The UK police said that all children who were injured in the knife attack in Southport have now been sent home from the hospital. Ten people, including two adults, were seriously injured and were taken to hospitals in the North West after the Southport knife attack. The last injured girl, who was being treated at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, has now been discharged and will recover at home. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Woman, 55, arrested for sharing false posts about Southport murders

Downing Street has condemned Elon Musk after the Tesla CEO said that "civil war is inevitable" in the UK. Musk, the billionaire owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), made these comments on his social media platform in response to a video showing protesters shooting fireworks at police.

The footage, which showed rioters clashing with officers, was shared by Ashley St Clair, a right-wing commentator, who attributed the unrest to "the effects of mass migration and open borders."&nbsp;

Musk replied to the post with "civil war is inevitable" and also responded with an exclamation mark to another post showing fireworks being thrown during the disorder in Liverpool.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK riots: UK heading towards civil war?

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When asked about Musk's remarks, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official spokesperson stated: “There’s no justification for comments like that. What we’ve seen in this country is organized thuggery, which has no place on our streets or online. As the Home Secretary said, we’re dealing with a minority of thugs who do not represent Britain. In response, we’ve witnessed the best of our communities coming together to clean up the mess and disruption caused by those who do not speak for our country.”

Musk has faced criticism for reinstating the accounts of far-right figures, including Tommy Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon), in November last year after rebranding Twitter as X.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-revives-lawsuit-against-openai-and-ceo-sam-altman-747463">Elon Musk revives lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman</a>

On Sunday (August 4), he engaged with a post shared by Yaxley-Lennon’s account.

In a further intervention, Musk claimed it was "one-sided" that Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had announced emergency security measures for mosques but not for churches or synagogues. Responding to a post by UK PM Keir Starmer on Monday (August 4), where he stated, “we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities,” Musk wrote: “Shouldn’t you be concerned about attacks on all communities?”

This follows unrest during which a mosque in Southport was targeted despite no link between the man suspected of killing three young girls at a dance class and Islam.

(With inputs from agencies)

Downing Street has condemned Elon Musk after the Tesla CEO said that "civil war is inevitable" in the UK. Musk, the billionaire owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), made these comments on his social media platform in response to a video showing protesters shooting fireworks at police.

Downing Street has condemned Elon Musk after the Tesla CEO said that "civil war is inevitable" in the UK. Musk, the billionaire owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), made these comments on his social media platform in response to a video showing protesters shooting fireworks at police. The footage, which showed rioters clashing with officers, was shared by Ashley St Clair, a right-wing commentator, who attributed the unrest to "the effects of mass migration and open borders." Musk replied to the post with "civil war is inevitable" and also responded with an exclamation mark to another post showing fireworks being thrown during the disorder in Liverpool. Also watch | UK riots: UK heading towards civil war? × When asked about Musk's remarks, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official spokesperson stated: “There’s no justification for comments like that. What we’ve seen in this country is organized thuggery, which has no place on our streets or online. As the Home Secretary said, we’re dealing with a minority of thugs who do not represent Britain. In response, we’ve witnessed the best of our communities coming together to clean up the mess and disruption caused by those who do not speak for our country.” Musk has faced criticism for reinstating the accounts of far-right figures, including Tommy Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon), in November last year after rebranding Twitter as X. Also read | Elon Musk revives lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman On Sunday (August 4), he engaged with a post shared by Yaxley-Lennon’s account. In a further intervention, Musk claimed it was "one-sided" that Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had announced emergency security measures for mosques but not for churches or synagogues. Responding to a post by UK PM Keir Starmer on Monday (August 4), where he stated, “we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities,” Musk wrote: “Shouldn’t you be concerned about attacks on all communities?” This follows unrest during which a mosque in Southport was targeted despite no link between the man suspected of killing three young girls at a dance class and Islam. (With inputs from agencies)

'Civil war is inevitable': Elon Musk vs Keir Starmer showdown on UK rioting

After a man was detained over&nbsp;comments made on Facebook, Tesla CEO Elon Musk escalated his dispute with the United Kingdom, calling the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer&nbsp;"two-tier Keir" and questioning if the riots were taking place in&nbsp;Britain or the Soviet Union.

The X owner has been at odds with Sir Keir Starmer over police response&nbsp;to riots in the UK. In his latest retort, Musk shared a video that shows police officers detaining a man for making inappropriate comments on Facebook.

Musk wrote on X, "Arrested for making comments on Facebook!"

"Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Is this accurate @Community Notes," he added.

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In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didn’t like <a href="https://t.co/UhKDLeCPJb">pic.twitter.com/UhKDLeCPJb</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1820799076310352124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the video, an officer informs a man that he is being detained on suspicion of using the electronic communications network inappropriately.

Watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh crisis: Sources say, UK rejects Hasina's asylum request

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This includes sending messages that are "grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character" and could result in up to six months in jail or a fine.

In reaction to a video that showed multiple groups of masked individuals gathered outside a pub, some carrying the Palestinian&nbsp;flag, Musk, in another post aimed at Keir questioned, "Why aren't all communities protected in Britain?"&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-violence-400-arrested-man-attacked-in-belfast-hate-crime-police-attacked-with-petrol-bombs-747736">UK violence: 400 arrested, man assaulted in Belfast 'race hate crime'</a>

On Monday, Musk made similar&nbsp;comments towards Starmer's&nbsp;announcement that he would not stand for violence against Muslim communities. Over the last week, protesters have targeted mosques and hotels that house asylum seekers around the United Kingdom.

In another post, Musk used "#twotierKeir", referring to "two-tier policing." This term is frequently used by far-right groups to imply that police treat different groups unfairly.

Downing Street has decided not to engage with&nbsp;the owner of X&nbsp;anymore. They previously stated his comments about a potential civil war in the UK had "no justification." Despite this, Musk continues to target Starmer on his social media platform.

Chief Whip Alan Campbell, in a letter to MPs, emphasised the importance of avoiding actions that might spread misinformation on social media and advised against getting involved in online debates.

(With inputs from agencies)

After a man was detained over comments made on Facebook, Tesla CEO Elon Musk escalated his dispute with the United Kingdom, calling the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer "two-tier Keir" and questioning if the riots were taking place in Britain or the Soviet Union.

After a man was detained over comments made on Facebook, Tesla CEO Elon Musk escalated his dispute with the United Kingdom, calling the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer "two-tier Keir" and questioning if the riots were taking place in Britain or the Soviet Union. The X owner has been at odds with Sir Keir Starmer over police response to riots in the UK. In his latest retort, Musk shared a video that shows police officers detaining a man for making inappropriate comments on Facebook. Musk wrote on X, "Arrested for making comments on Facebook!" "Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Is this accurate @Community Notes," he added. In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didn’t like pic.twitter.com/UhKDLeCPJb — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2024 × In the video, an officer informs a man that he is being detained on suspicion of using the electronic communications network inappropriately. Watch | Bangladesh crisis: Sources say, UK rejects Hasina's asylum request × This includes sending messages that are "grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character" and could result in up to six months in jail or a fine. In reaction to a video that showed multiple groups of masked individuals gathered outside a pub, some carrying the Palestinian flag, Musk, in another post aimed at Keir questioned, "Why aren't all communities protected in Britain?" Also read: UK violence: 400 arrested, man assaulted in Belfast 'race hate crime' On Monday, Musk made similar comments towards Starmer's announcement that he would not stand for violence against Muslim communities. Over the last week, protesters have targeted mosques and hotels that house asylum seekers around the United Kingdom. In another post, Musk used "#twotierKeir", referring to "two-tier policing." This term is frequently used by far-right groups to imply that police treat different groups unfairly. Downing Street has decided not to engage with the owner of X anymore. They previously stated his comments about a potential civil war in the UK had "no justification." Despite this, Musk continues to target Starmer on his social media platform. Chief Whip Alan Campbell, in a letter to MPs, emphasised the importance of avoiding actions that might spread misinformation on social media and advised against getting involved in online debates. (With inputs from agencies)

UK riots: Elon Musk calls PM 'two-tier Keir', compares Britain to Soviet Union

Several UK cities witnessed large violent protests over the last week, leading to the arrest of over 400 people and injuries&nbsp;to scores of policemen. &nbsp;On Monday (Aug 5), police in Plymouth were attacked as they tried to keep right-wing rioters at bay. In Belfast, protesters threw petrol bombs at officers. Unrest and chaos also erupted in the east of Birmingham.

Rioters damaged cars and homes around the week as police tried to quell the agitations.

<h2>Racial crime in Belfast</h2>

Belfast Police said they were investigating an assault on a man in his 50s as a racially motivated crime, the first in connection with the recent violence,&nbsp;after witnesses saw rioters stamping on his head.

Onlookers tried to shield him from the attackers but to no avail. The man was later rushed to a hospital in serious condition.

Police Service of Northern Ireland in a statement said, “In a second night of rioting and disorder, mainly in the areas of Donegall Road and Sandy Row, police officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours."

Police arrested a 15-year-old boy for instigating riots, who was still in custody.

<h2>Leeds man arrested for spreading online hatred</h2>

Meanwhile, in connection with last week’s riots, a 28-year-old man was arrested for posting incendiary content online. Jordan Parlour is the first individual to be booked for posting allegedly hateful content in relation to the riots.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjY4MP3qeCHAxXoXWwGHW-kJQAQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-advices-its-citizens-to-exercise-caution-amid-riots-in-the-uk-747720" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-advices-its-citizens-to-exercise-caution-amid-riots-in-the-uk-747720&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjY4MP3qeCHAxXoXWwGHW-kJQAQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">India advices its citizens to `exercise caution` amid riots in the UK</a>

The man allegedly posted content to stir up racial hatred between Aug 1 and Aug 5.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has described the riots as "far-right thuggery" on Monday, held an emergency meeting of national agencies and branches of government – to discuss the response to the disorder.

“This is not protest,” he was quoted as saying by CNN. “It is organized, violent thuggery and it has no place on our streets, or online,” he added.

<h2>Why riots erupted in UK?</h2>

Anti-immigrant riots erupted in UK the night after three young children were killed in Southport in a stabbing attack last Monday.

Watch:&nbsp;Blood test for over-40s could save UK economy billions: Study

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The unrest worsened after false rumours spread on social media claiming the attacker was an immigrant male and a Muslim.

The UK government has vowed to "ramp up" the law to deal with the violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several UK cities witnessed large violent protests over the last week, leading to the arrest of over 400 people and injuries to scores of policemen. On Monday (Aug 5), police in Plymouth were attacked as they tried to keep right-wing rioters at bay.

Several UK cities witnessed large violent protests over the last week, leading to the arrest of over 400 people and injuries to scores of policemen. On Monday (Aug 5), police in Plymouth were attacked as they tried to keep right-wing rioters at bay. In Belfast, protesters threw petrol bombs at officers. Unrest and chaos also erupted in the east of Birmingham. Rioters damaged cars and homes around the week as police tried to quell the agitations. Racial crime in Belfast Belfast Police said they were investigating an assault on a man in his 50s as a racially motivated crime, the first in connection with the recent violence, after witnesses saw rioters stamping on his head. Onlookers tried to shield him from the attackers but to no avail. The man was later rushed to a hospital in serious condition. Police Service of Northern Ireland in a statement said, “In a second night of rioting and disorder, mainly in the areas of Donegall Road and Sandy Row, police officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours." Police arrested a 15-year-old boy for instigating riots, who was still in custody. Leeds man arrested for spreading online hatred Meanwhile, in connection with last week’s riots, a 28-year-old man was arrested for posting incendiary content online. Jordan Parlour is the first individual to be booked for posting allegedly hateful content in relation to the riots. Also read: India advices its citizens to `exercise caution` amid riots in the UK The man allegedly posted content to stir up racial hatred between Aug 1 and Aug 5. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has described the riots as "far-right thuggery" on Monday, held an emergency meeting of national agencies and branches of government – to discuss the response to the disorder. “This is not protest,” he was quoted as saying by CNN. “It is organized, violent thuggery and it has no place on our streets, or online,” he added. Why riots erupted in UK? Anti-immigrant riots erupted in UK the night after three young children were killed in Southport in a stabbing attack last Monday. Watch: Blood test for over-40s could save UK economy billions: Study × The unrest worsened after false rumours spread on social media claiming the attacker was an immigrant male and a Muslim. The UK government has vowed to "ramp up" the law to deal with the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

UK violence: 400 arrested, man assaulted in Belfast hate crime; police attacked with petrol bombs

Several cities in the United Kingdom witnessed extreme chaos on Saturday (Aug 3) as right-wing protesters&nbsp;turned violent and staged attacks on riot police. In Liverpool, a crowd of people threw&nbsp;bricks, bottles, and flares at riot police, causing injuries to security officials&nbsp;and damage to police vehicles. Law enforcement personnel&nbsp;made multiple arrests in these areas while dealing with "serious disorder".

In Sunderland,&nbsp;Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Mark Hall said four police officials were injured on Friday as a result of the violence.&nbsp;

“During the course of the evening, our officers were met with serious and sustained levels of violence," he said. “Make no mistake, if you were involved last night, expect to be met with the full force of the law."

The unrest also spread to Manchester, Sunderland, Hull, Belfast, and Leeds, with UK Prime Minister&nbsp;Keir Starmer, on Saturday,&nbsp;offering "full support" to police to take action against the "extremists".

The PM added that the protesters wanted to&nbsp;“sow hate" among the people.&nbsp;Starmer said he backed the police to take “all necessary action to keep our streets safe.”

Earlier, the home secretary said people engaging in&nbsp;violent disorder “will pay the price”.&nbsp;“Criminal violence and disorder has no place on Britain’s streets," said&nbsp;Yvette Cooper.

<h2>Why there is unrest in UK cities?</h2>

The violence erupted earlier this week after a 17-year-old male was arrested for a stabbing incident in Southport, which resulted in the death of three young girls at a dance class.&nbsp;The incident triggered anti-immigrant protests in UK cities after rumours surfaced that the male was an immigrant and a Muslim.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjHh9Hor9mHAxXMsFYBHfV7CukQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-child-dies-following-mass-stabbing-in-uks-southport-745634" jsname="YKoRaf" original_target="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-child-dies-following-mass-stabbing-in-uks-southport-745634" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/third-child-dies-following-mass-stabbing-in-uks-southport-745634&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjHh9Hor9mHAxXMsFYBHfV7CukQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" saprocessedanchor="true">Third child dies following mass stabbing in UK`s Southport</a>

Suspects under the age of 18 are not publicly identified as per UK law; however, given the severity of the case,&nbsp;Judge Andrew Menary ordered Axel Rudakubana, born in Wales to Rwandan parents, to be identified.

<h2>Police bracing for more protests</h2>

Dozens of protests are scheduled to take place over the weekend and the police have deployed thousands of officers onto the streets.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Southport stabbing leads to riots and attack on Mosque

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There were no reports of far-right marches in London but a large, peaceful pro-Palestinian&nbsp;march was organised on Saturday. Meanwhile, mosques around the country have been asked to stay alert and ramp up security measures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several cities in the United Kingdom witnessed extreme chaos on Saturday (Aug 3) as right-wing protesters turned violent and staged attacks on riot police. In Liverpool, a crowd of people threw bricks, bottles, and flares at riot police, causing injuries to security officials and damage to police vehicles.

Several cities in the United Kingdom witnessed extreme chaos on Saturday (Aug 3) as right-wing protesters turned violent and staged attacks on riot police. In Liverpool, a crowd of people threw bricks, bottles, and flares at riot police, causing injuries to security officials and damage to police vehicles. Law enforcement personnel made multiple arrests in these areas while dealing with "serious disorder". In Sunderland, Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Mark Hall said four police officials were injured on Friday as a result of the violence. “During the course of the evening, our officers were met with serious and sustained levels of violence," he said. “Make no mistake, if you were involved last night, expect to be met with the full force of the law." The unrest also spread to Manchester, Sunderland, Hull, Belfast, and Leeds, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on Saturday, offering "full support" to police to take action against the "extremists". The PM added that the protesters wanted to “sow hate" among the people. Starmer said he backed the police to take “all necessary action to keep our streets safe.” Earlier, the home secretary said people engaging in violent disorder “will pay the price”. “Criminal violence and disorder has no place on Britain’s streets," said Yvette Cooper. Why there is unrest in UK cities? The violence erupted earlier this week after a 17-year-old male was arrested for a stabbing incident in Southport, which resulted in the death of three young girls at a dance class. The incident triggered anti-immigrant protests in UK cities after rumours surfaced that the male was an immigrant and a Muslim. Also read: Third child dies following mass stabbing in UK`s Southport Suspects under the age of 18 are not publicly identified as per UK law; however, given the severity of the case, Judge Andrew Menary ordered Axel Rudakubana, born in Wales to Rwandan parents, to be identified. Police bracing for more protests Dozens of protests are scheduled to take place over the weekend and the police have deployed thousands of officers onto the streets. Watch: UK: Southport stabbing leads to riots and attack on Mosque × There were no reports of far-right marches in London but a large, peaceful pro-Palestinian march was organised on Saturday. Meanwhile, mosques around the country have been asked to stay alert and ramp up security measures. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Starmer offers 'full support' to police as anti-immigrant 'extremists' wreak havoc in UK cities

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest.

The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister.

"These thugs are mobile; they move from community to community. We must have a policing response that can do the same," he stated.

Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings.

The protests said to be stirred up by far-right groups, expanded from the coastal town where the stabbings took place to other cities in England.

"Shockingly, what we've also seen is marauding mobs on the streets of Southport, attacking the very same police officers who responded to the awful attack on those girls," Starmer told police leaders.

"This government supports the police. It supports what you are doing. And to be absolutely clear, this is not protest, this is violent disorder, and action needs to be taken," he added.

False reports circulating on social media played a role in the violent clashes in Southport. These clashes resulted in bricks being thrown at a mosque and injuries to numerous police officers.

Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation.

"It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence.

Among the false online posts were claims that the attacker was an "illegal migrant."

Police have accused members of the far-right group, the English Defence League, of involvement. This anti-Islam organisation, established 15 years ago, has supporters known for football-related violence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hails-release-of-wsj-reporter-evan-gershkovich-other-prisoners-from-russia-brutal-ordeal-is-over-746379">Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’</a>

On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel.

In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests.

Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries for several officers.

Starmer emphasised that while the right to protest must be upheld, "criminals who exploit that right to sow hatred and carry out violent acts will face the full force of the law."

Addressing police chiefs, he stated: "The government will make sure you've got the powers you need, and we will back you in using those powers, and I think it's very important that we say that."

(With inputs from agencies)

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest.

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest. The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister. "These thugs are mobile; they move from community to community. We must have a policing response that can do the same," he stated. Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings. The protests said to be stirred up by far-right groups, expanded from the coastal town where the stabbings took place to other cities in England. "Shockingly, what we've also seen is marauding mobs on the streets of Southport, attacking the very same police officers who responded to the awful attack on those girls," Starmer told police leaders. "This government supports the police. It supports what you are doing. And to be absolutely clear, this is not protest, this is violent disorder, and action needs to be taken," he added. False reports circulating on social media played a role in the violent clashes in Southport. These clashes resulted in bricks being thrown at a mosque and injuries to numerous police officers. Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation. "It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence. Among the false online posts were claims that the attacker was an "illegal migrant." Police have accused members of the far-right group, the English Defence League, of involvement. This anti-Islam organisation, established 15 years ago, has supporters known for football-related violence. Also read: Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’ On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel. In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests. Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries for several officers. Starmer emphasised that while the right to protest must be upheld, "criminals who exploit that right to sow hatred and carry out violent acts will face the full force of the law." Addressing police chiefs, he stated: "The government will make sure you've got the powers you need, and we will back you in using those powers, and I think it's very important that we say that." (With inputs from agencies)

Southport stabbing: Teen suspect appeared in court; Starmer announces new national security reforms

An England court found an alternative healer who promoted slapping therapy as a healing method after a woman died at one of his workshops. Hongchi Xiao, a 61-year-old from California, was convicted following the 2016 death of 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm, who had diabetes.

An England court found an alternative healer who promoted slapping therapy as a healing method after a woman died at one of his workshops. Hongchi Xiao, a 61-year-old from California, was convicted following the 2016 death of 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm, who had diabetes. Carr-Gomm who had Type 1 diabetes stopped using insulin while attending a retreat in Wiltshire, where Xiao suggested slapping therapy as a "cure" for diabetes. Carr-Gomm needed daily insulin to regulate her blood glucose levels but had a lifelong fear of needles and often looked for alternative treatments. Watch | Gravitas: Does body composition affect risk for dementia? × In July 2016, she participated in a paida lajin workshop led by Xiao in Bulgaria. Paida lajin, meaning "slapping and stretching," involves slapping oneself and others to supposedly expel toxins from the body. In October 2016, she participated in another workshop led by Xiao at Cleeve House in Seend, Wiltshire. On the first day, she announced that she had ceased taking her insulin, and Xiao “congratulated” her for this decision. She joined other participants in fasting but quickly became seriously ill, feeling "tired," "weak," and "howling in pain" by the third day. By the fourth day, Carr-Gomm had died from diabetic ketoacidosis. Xiao claimed he was not the organiser of the Wiltshire workshop and received a fee for leading it. He repeatedly emphasised in court that he was not a doctor, had no medical training, and did not offer health care. Not the first incident of negligence Xiao had previous encounters with other diabetics who ceased taking insulin during his workshops. Carr-Gomm had discontinued her medication at the 2016 Bulgaria conference. At that time, she experienced vomiting, but Xiao convinced her to resume insulin, leading to her recovery. Also read: Breathing polluted air as kid? Your lungs might be paying the price years later: Study In 2015, a six-year-old boy died at Xiao’s Sydney workshop after his parents halted his insulin treatment. Consequently, Xiao was imprisoned in Australia and banned from providing any medical care. "Hongchi Xiao knew the consequences of Danielle Carr-Gomm's decision to stop taking insulin could be fatal, he had seen it before," Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division, Rosemary Ainslie said after the verdict. "Hongchi Xiao was the man in charge, yet he failed to respond to Carr-Gomm's worsening condition with tragic consequences. His failure to take reasonable steps to help Carr-Gomm substantially contributed to her death and amounted to gross negligence," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Slapping therapy' healer convicted after woman dies in his workshop

A video of&nbsp;protesters overturning a police vehicle and setting a double-decker bus on fire is making rounds on social media. The video came after major riots broke out in Leeds, United Kingdom.

When the&nbsp;officers&nbsp;arrived, they "found an ongoing disturbance which involved some agency workers and some children," said the local police.&nbsp;As a crowd began to gather, the officers moved the agency workers and children to a safer location.

However, the situation worsened, and "pockets of disorder" emerged in the area, said the police. Social media posts seemingly showed a large crowd on the street, a police car overturned, and a bus set on fire.

Reports suggest that the riots began after a protest over social services separating four children from a family. This was after one of the children had been hospitalised for an injury caused by a sibling. 
 
Disclaimer: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION&nbsp;cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.

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Two imbeciles setting fire to buses in Harehills, Leeds. They don’t even cover their faces because they don’t fear the law.<a href="https://twitter.com/WestYorksPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WestYorksPolice</a> arrest them. The law needs to make an example of them. <a href="https://t.co/h89SLr6DMM">pic.twitter.com/h89SLr6DMM</a>
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The local media reported that the hospital informed social services about the incident, resulting in the children's removal from the family and triggering protests.

Police arrived to find a disturbance in progress. By 9:00 pm (local time), no uniformed officers were visible at the main disturbance site, but a police helicopter was monitoring the situation from above.

Yorkshire police said they would conduct a&nbsp;thorough investigation into all criminal activities, including property damage caused by fires, and stressed their commitment to accountability.

"We want to emphasise that those responsible will face the full consequences of the law," said the police.

Tom Riordan, the chief executive of Leeds City Council, reported that calm was restored by around 1:00 am (local time), and cleanup efforts have already begun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-trial-of-us-reporter-evan-gershkovich-nears-verdict-as-prosecutor-seeks-18-year-sentence-742343">Russian trial of US reporter Evan Gershkovich nears verdict as prosecutor seeks 18-year sentence</a>

"There was a family incident earlier in the day that the police attended and our officials attended that a lot of the community got concerned about," Riordan explained in an interview with the BBC.

"And that appeared to be the trigger of concern for groups of people being concerned about what had happened."

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, thanked emergency services in a social media post and urged those escalating tensions to reconsider their actions. She also mentioned that no serious injuries had been reported.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the violence, emphasising&nbsp;that such disorder is not acceptable in society.

Councillor Salma Arif of Gipton and Harehills asked people to stay indoors in a video statement, stating that police were handling the matter. "There is an ongoing situation currently in Harehills, we’re aware of that so police are here. We are asking everybody in the area to please stay at home at this moment in time," said Arif.

(With inputs from agencies)

A video of protesters overturning a police vehicle and setting a double-decker bus on fire is making rounds on social media. The video came after major riots broke out in Leeds, United Kingdom.

A video of protesters overturning a police vehicle and setting a double-decker bus on fire is making rounds on social media. The video came after major riots broke out in Leeds, United Kingdom. When the officers arrived, they "found an ongoing disturbance which involved some agency workers and some children," said the local police. As a crowd began to gather, the officers moved the agency workers and children to a safer location. However, the situation worsened, and "pockets of disorder" emerged in the area, said the police. Social media posts seemingly showed a large crowd on the street, a police car overturned, and a bus set on fire. Reports suggest that the riots began after a protest over social services separating four children from a family. This was after one of the children had been hospitalised for an injury caused by a sibling. Disclaimer: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. Two imbeciles setting fire to buses in Harehills, Leeds. They don’t even cover their faces because they don’t fear the law.@WestYorksPolice arrest them. The law needs to make an example of them. pic.twitter.com/h89SLr6DMM — Chris Rose (@ArchRose90) July 18, 2024 × The local media reported that the hospital informed social services about the incident, resulting in the children's removal from the family and triggering protests. Police arrived to find a disturbance in progress. By 9:00 pm (local time), no uniformed officers were visible at the main disturbance site, but a police helicopter was monitoring the situation from above. Yorkshire police said they would conduct a thorough investigation into all criminal activities, including property damage caused by fires, and stressed their commitment to accountability. "We want to emphasise that those responsible will face the full consequences of the law," said the police. Tom Riordan, the chief executive of Leeds City Council, reported that calm was restored by around 1:00 am (local time), and cleanup efforts have already begun. Also read: Russian trial of US reporter Evan Gershkovich nears verdict as prosecutor seeks 18-year sentence "There was a family incident earlier in the day that the police attended and our officials attended that a lot of the community got concerned about," Riordan explained in an interview with the BBC. "And that appeared to be the trigger of concern for groups of people being concerned about what had happened." Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, thanked emergency services in a social media post and urged those escalating tensions to reconsider their actions. She also mentioned that no serious injuries had been reported. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the violence, emphasising that such disorder is not acceptable in society. Councillor Salma Arif of Gipton and Harehills asked people to stay indoors in a video statement, stating that police were handling the matter. "There is an ongoing situation currently in Harehills, we’re aware of that so police are here. We are asking everybody in the area to please stay at home at this moment in time," said Arif. (With inputs from agencies)

Leeds riots: Viral video shows bus being set on fire amid unrest in UK city

The UK's political violence adviser warned that the growing "toxic, dangerous environment" in public life heightens the risk of an assassination attempt on a British politician. He urged the home secretary to investigate the intimidation of election candidates.

On Friday, John Woodcock wrote to Yvette Cooper to convey his concerns that several events during the election campaign could have been part of a "concerted campaign by extremists" that "underlined the gravity of the threat to our democracy."

Woodcock, also known as Lord Walney, stated in an interview with the Guardian that the alleged attempt to assassinate Donald Trump was "a vivid reminder of the vulnerability of all politicians."

“We have seen the growth in the UK of US-style politics of aggressive confrontation and intimidation which is unfortunately, exactly the toxic environment that could lead to another assassination attempt on a UK politician, of which we have already tragically seen a number in recent years,” Woodcock said.

In the UK, the recently concluded elections saw more political candidates and their staff receiving threats and intimidation during the campaign.

Woodcock stated that he believed intimidation was increasingly employed as "a core electoral strategy to try to either get candidates defeated or bully candidates into submission."

He added that there was a particular pattern of abuse "created by aggressive pro-Palestine activists."

“The stories coming back from constituencies, from election campaigns are horrific. I think our frontline politicians were shaken before this and they have come back from the campaign determined to do something about it," he said.

"And the question is now what measures will be effective and how you create the atmosphere for a change of culture,” Woodcock added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-assassination-attempt-state-law-allows-gun-near-rnc-but-tennis-balls-banned-740882">Donald Trump assassination attempt: State law allows gun near RNC but tennis balls banned</a>

Woodcock said on Sunday that in addition to providing stronger security at MPs' offices, he wants the home secretary to "call an urgent review of the environment around Whitehall" where "there can be clear points of vulnerability" for MPs.

He said, “It’s a toxic, dangerous environment. And we have to keep reminding ourselves that we’re not talking in theoretical terms."

"We are blessed to have the sister of Jo Cox in parliament today, but she started her political career in the aftermath of her sister being murdered; David Amess was assassinated," he continued.

“The threat is real and thankfully there has been a big increase in the amount of protection that is offered to MPs, but unless we can do more to address the culture that is driving this there will always be an element of mortal risk to our politicians because the whole of our democracy is based on connection with the public and MPs and councillors would never have it any other way,” Woodcock said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK's political violence adviser warned that the growing "toxic, dangerous environment" in public life heightens the risk of an assassination attempt on a British politician.

The UK's political violence adviser warned that the growing "toxic, dangerous environment" in public life heightens the risk of an assassination attempt on a British politician. He urged the home secretary to investigate the intimidation of election candidates. On Friday, John Woodcock wrote to Yvette Cooper to convey his concerns that several events during the election campaign could have been part of a "concerted campaign by extremists" that "underlined the gravity of the threat to our democracy." Woodcock, also known as Lord Walney, stated in an interview with the Guardian that the alleged attempt to assassinate Donald Trump was "a vivid reminder of the vulnerability of all politicians." “We have seen the growth in the UK of US-style politics of aggressive confrontation and intimidation which is unfortunately, exactly the toxic environment that could lead to another assassination attempt on a UK politician, of which we have already tragically seen a number in recent years,” Woodcock said. In the UK, the recently concluded elections saw more political candidates and their staff receiving threats and intimidation during the campaign. Woodcock stated that he believed intimidation was increasingly employed as "a core electoral strategy to try to either get candidates defeated or bully candidates into submission." He added that there was a particular pattern of abuse "created by aggressive pro-Palestine activists." “The stories coming back from constituencies, from election campaigns are horrific. I think our frontline politicians were shaken before this and they have come back from the campaign determined to do something about it," he said. "And the question is now what measures will be effective and how you create the atmosphere for a change of culture,” Woodcock added. Also read: Donald Trump assassination attempt: State law allows gun near RNC but tennis balls banned Woodcock said on Sunday that in addition to providing stronger security at MPs' offices, he wants the home secretary to "call an urgent review of the environment around Whitehall" where "there can be clear points of vulnerability" for MPs. He said, “It’s a toxic, dangerous environment. And we have to keep reminding ourselves that we’re not talking in theoretical terms." "We are blessed to have the sister of Jo Cox in parliament today, but she started her political career in the aftermath of her sister being murdered; David Amess was assassinated," he continued. “The threat is real and thankfully there has been a big increase in the amount of protection that is offered to MPs, but unless we can do more to address the culture that is driving this there will always be an element of mortal risk to our politicians because the whole of our democracy is based on connection with the public and MPs and councillors would never have it any other way,” Woodcock said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK government adviser warns of rising assassination threat amid toxic political climate

Thousands of prisoners are to be released early starting September to prevent the "collapse" of the prison system, the UK's new justice minister announced on Friday.

Shabana Mahmood said failure to do so risked the "total breakdown of law and order", with just 700 places left for men, and jails operating at 99 per cent capacity since 2023.

England and Wales have the highest per capita prison population in Western Europe.

The release initiative would not apply to violent offenders serving more than four years, sex offenders, and those in prison for domestic abuse offences as well as those on life sentences.

The chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, said this week that urgent action was required, as prisons were at "breaking point".

Mahmood, appointed last week after Labour's general election win, warned in dramatic language that if prisons ran out of cell space, there could be "van-loads of dangerous people circling the country with nowhere to go".

"With officers unable to act, criminals could do whatever they want, without consequence. We could see looters running amok, smashing in windows, robbing shops, and setting neighbourhoods alight," she said in a speech at a prison.

"In short, if we fail to act now, we face the collapse of the criminal justice system. And a total breakdown of law and order."

Under the plans, prisoners who are eligible for automatic release after serving half their sentence will be freed earlier than normal.

The plans involve a temporary reduction of how long prisoners must serve behind bars, from 50 per cent to 40 per cent of their sentence.

The releases will start in September to give the Prison and Probation Service time to plan.

The total number of prisoners hit over 87,505 on Friday -- of whom over 83,800 were men -- leaving just 1,451 spaces available, official figures showed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-arrested-over-plot-to-rape-murder-british-tv-personality-holly-willoughby-740354">Man arrested over plot to rape, murder British TV personality Holly Willoughby</a>

Since the start of 2023, the average occupancy rate in men's prisons had "routinely been higher than 99 percent", according to the Ministry of Justice.

Officials say the prison system needs a buffer of around 1,425 cell spaces in men's prisons at all times to deal with sudden influxes of inmates.

Six new prisons to create an extra 20,000 places are being built.

The Prison Governors' Association (PGA) said it welcomed the speed of the new measures while demanding a "full review" and that "the public must never be placed in this position again".

PGA chairman Mark Fairhurst said the measures would free up around 4,500-5,000 more spaces and give prisons around 12 to 18 months before further steps would be needed.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Thousands of prisoners are to be released early starting September to prevent the "collapse" of the prison system, the UK's new justice minister announced on Friday.

Thousands of prisoners are to be released early starting September to prevent the "collapse" of the prison system, the UK's new justice minister announced on Friday. Shabana Mahmood said failure to do so risked the "total breakdown of law and order", with just 700 places left for men, and jails operating at 99 per cent capacity since 2023. England and Wales have the highest per capita prison population in Western Europe. The release initiative would not apply to violent offenders serving more than four years, sex offenders, and those in prison for domestic abuse offences as well as those on life sentences. The chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, said this week that urgent action was required, as prisons were at "breaking point". Mahmood, appointed last week after Labour's general election win, warned in dramatic language that if prisons ran out of cell space, there could be "van-loads of dangerous people circling the country with nowhere to go". "With officers unable to act, criminals could do whatever they want, without consequence. We could see looters running amok, smashing in windows, robbing shops, and setting neighbourhoods alight," she said in a speech at a prison. "In short, if we fail to act now, we face the collapse of the criminal justice system. And a total breakdown of law and order." Under the plans, prisoners who are eligible for automatic release after serving half their sentence will be freed earlier than normal. The plans involve a temporary reduction of how long prisoners must serve behind bars, from 50 per cent to 40 per cent of their sentence. The releases will start in September to give the Prison and Probation Service time to plan. The total number of prisoners hit over 87,505 on Friday -- of whom over 83,800 were men -- leaving just 1,451 spaces available, official figures showed. Also read: Man arrested over plot to rape, murder British TV personality Holly Willoughby Since the start of 2023, the average occupancy rate in men's prisons had "routinely been higher than 99 percent", according to the Ministry of Justice. Officials say the prison system needs a buffer of around 1,425 cell spaces in men's prisons at all times to deal with sudden influxes of inmates. Six new prisons to create an extra 20,000 places are being built. The Prison Governors' Association (PGA) said it welcomed the speed of the new measures while demanding a "full review" and that "the public must never be placed in this position again". PGA chairman Mark Fairhurst said the measures would free up around 4,500-5,000 more spaces and give prisons around 12 to 18 months before further steps would be needed. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK to release thousands of prisoners early to avert 'collapse' of overcrowded system

Four migrants have died while trying to cross the English Channel on an inflatable boat from France to the UK, French authorities said Friday.

The migrants' vessel capsized and punctured off the coast of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in northern France, the prefecture responsible for the region said in a statement. Sixty-three people were rescued by the French coast guard.

The prefecture said a French navy patrol boat spotted the overcrowded vessel early Friday as it deflated off the French coast. Several people were “drifting in the water while others were still clinging to the broken rubber dingy," the statement said.

Navy vessels, a fishing boat and a Navy helicopter joined the effort. Survivors were brought to the shore in Boulogne to receive medical attention and temporary shelter, the statement also said.

Migrants trying to reach the UK&nbsp;risk drowning as they try to cross the busy English Channel, often aboard crowded, unseaworthy boats.

French maritime officials responsible for the Channel and the North Sea have warned anyone who plans to cross the Channel to reconsider due to the many risks involved in the perilous journey. The channel is one of the busiest waterways in the world, with more than 600 commercial ships sailing through it daily, officials said, adding that weather conditions are often difficult due to strong winds that prevail 120 days a year.

"It's dangerous even when the sea seems calm," they said in a statement.

Friday's tragedy in the channel comes amid a continuing flow of people making the journey to the UK&nbsp;The latest figures from Britain’s Home Office, which deals with immigration issues, show that 419 people made the journey across the Channel from France to the UK&nbsp;in six boats on Tuesday, taking the provisional total for 2024 to date to 14,058.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who took over earlier this month after the Labour Party’s election victory, has launched a Border Security Command designed to crack down on people-smuggling gangs orchestrating the crossings. A commander for the new entity has not yet been appointed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-crossbow-attack-man-suspected-of-killing-3-women-formally-arrested-740254">UK crossbow attack: Man suspected of killing 3 women formally arrested</a>

“The further loss of life in the Channel...is truly awful. My thoughts are with all those affected,″ Cooper wrote. “Criminal gangs are making vast profit from putting lives at risk. We are accelerating action with international partners to pursue and bring down dangerous smuggler gangs.”

The leader of Britain's anti-immigrant Reform UK party, Nigel Farage, underscored the pressure to address the issue in a post on X Friday.

“The new government had better start moving fast,” he said.

Last month, British authorities rescued 80 migrants at sea after a small boat got into difficulty while crossing the English Channel from France.

An estimated 30,000 people made the crossing in 2023, according to UK&nbsp;government figures.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Four migrants have died while trying to cross the English Channel on an inflatable boat from France to the UK, French authorities said Friday. The migrants' vessel capsized and punctured off the coast of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in northern France, the prefecture responsible for the region said in a statement.

Four migrants have died while trying to cross the English Channel on an inflatable boat from France to the UK, French authorities said Friday. The migrants' vessel capsized and punctured off the coast of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in northern France, the prefecture responsible for the region said in a statement. Sixty-three people were rescued by the French coast guard. The prefecture said a French navy patrol boat spotted the overcrowded vessel early Friday as it deflated off the French coast. Several people were “drifting in the water while others were still clinging to the broken rubber dingy," the statement said. Navy vessels, a fishing boat and a Navy helicopter joined the effort. Survivors were brought to the shore in Boulogne to receive medical attention and temporary shelter, the statement also said. Migrants trying to reach the UK risk drowning as they try to cross the busy English Channel, often aboard crowded, unseaworthy boats. French maritime officials responsible for the Channel and the North Sea have warned anyone who plans to cross the Channel to reconsider due to the many risks involved in the perilous journey. The channel is one of the busiest waterways in the world, with more than 600 commercial ships sailing through it daily, officials said, adding that weather conditions are often difficult due to strong winds that prevail 120 days a year. "It's dangerous even when the sea seems calm," they said in a statement. Friday's tragedy in the channel comes amid a continuing flow of people making the journey to the UK The latest figures from Britain’s Home Office, which deals with immigration issues, show that 419 people made the journey across the Channel from France to the UK in six boats on Tuesday, taking the provisional total for 2024 to date to 14,058. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who took over earlier this month after the Labour Party’s election victory, has launched a Border Security Command designed to crack down on people-smuggling gangs orchestrating the crossings. A commander for the new entity has not yet been appointed. Also read: UK crossbow attack: Man suspected of killing 3 women formally arrested “The further loss of life in the Channel...is truly awful. My thoughts are with all those affected,″ Cooper wrote. “Criminal gangs are making vast profit from putting lives at risk. We are accelerating action with international partners to pursue and bring down dangerous smuggler gangs.” The leader of Britain's anti-immigrant Reform UK party, Nigel Farage, underscored the pressure to address the issue in a post on X Friday. “The new government had better start moving fast,” he said. Last month, British authorities rescued 80 migrants at sea after a small boat got into difficulty while crossing the English Channel from France. An estimated 30,000 people made the crossing in 2023, according to UK government figures. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

English Channel crossing: Four migrants die, dozens rescued after boat capsizes

UK police on Wednesday (Jul 10) detained a man, after an extensive search campaign, suspected of killing three women in Bushey, northwest of London, with a crossbow. The man was caught in the Hilly Fields area of Enfield, north London. The suspect was found with injuries and was being treated. Police officers fired no shots during the exercise, as per reports in local media.

The tragic incident, which the police termed 'targeted', happened Tuesday as the Hertfordshire Police were called to the murder site just before 7 pm local time. The police found the three women, aged 25, 28 and 61, with critical injuries.

The three victims have been identified as the relatives of&nbsp;news broadcaster BBC's&nbsp;racing commentator John Hunt. His wife and two daughters became targets of the attack, said BBC in a statement. Police earlier said they believed the suspect was known to the victims.

Emergency services were rushed to the scene, including a Hazardous Area Response Team and two air ambulances. However, the ladies were pronounced dead on the scene by the doctors.

<h2>The suspect</h2>

Police have identified the suspect as Kyle Clifford and issued an appeal to the public regarding his whereabouts.

The 26-year-old suspect is understood to have served in the British Army for a brief period until he quit in 2022.&nbsp;

The authorities have advised people not to approach Clifford as he may still be in possession of the crossbow that he may have used in the murder. Police didn’t rule out the possibility of the use of some other weapon.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Kemi Badenoch 'rips into' Sunak at first shadow cabinet meeting over election

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Hertfordshire Police Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson on Wednesday directly addressed the suspect through media and urged him to get in touch with police. "Kyle, if you are seeing or hearing this, please make contact," he said.

<h2>UK home secretary's statement</h2>

Meanwhile, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said she was constantly being briefed about the situation by the officials. She also urged members of the public with any information to hand it over to police.

"The loss of three women's lives in Bushey last night is truly shocking. My thoughts are with the family &amp; friends of those who have been killed &amp; with the community," she said.

Local city councillor Laurence Brass told local media that the incident had left him "very shocked."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjvruyay5yHAxU9sFYBHQfhD_oQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-faces-fiscal-tightrope-imf-urges-reforms-amid-high-debt-739225" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-faces-fiscal-tightrope-imf-urges-reforms-amid-high-debt-739225&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjvruyay5yHAxU9sFYBHQfhD_oQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">UK faces fiscal tightrope: IMF urges reforms amid high debt</a>

"We're not used to this in this area, it's a very typical, leafy Bushey suburb… and suddenly we're told there are three murders. We had a helicopter landing at the top of my road last night, police all over the place. So, I'm concerned for residents, who I think are a little bit traumatised by what's going on here," he said.

Notably, people can carry crossbows legally in the UK without having to obtain any government approval. However, they may be asked to provide a reasonable excuse if they are found to be carrying it in public.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK police on Wednesday (Jul 10) detained a man, after an extensive search campaign, suspected of killing three women in Bushey, northwest of London, with a crossbow.

UK police on Wednesday (Jul 10) detained a man, after an extensive search campaign, suspected of killing three women in Bushey, northwest of London, with a crossbow. The man was caught in the Hilly Fields area of Enfield, north London. The suspect was found with injuries and was being treated. Police officers fired no shots during the exercise, as per reports in local media. The tragic incident, which the police termed 'targeted', happened Tuesday as the Hertfordshire Police were called to the murder site just before 7 pm local time. The police found the three women, aged 25, 28 and 61, with critical injuries. The three victims have been identified as the relatives of news broadcaster BBC's racing commentator John Hunt. His wife and two daughters became targets of the attack, said BBC in a statement. Police earlier said they believed the suspect was known to the victims. Emergency services were rushed to the scene, including a Hazardous Area Response Team and two air ambulances. However, the ladies were pronounced dead on the scene by the doctors. The suspect Police have identified the suspect as Kyle Clifford and issued an appeal to the public regarding his whereabouts. The 26-year-old suspect is understood to have served in the British Army for a brief period until he quit in 2022. The authorities have advised people not to approach Clifford as he may still be in possession of the crossbow that he may have used in the murder. Police didn’t rule out the possibility of the use of some other weapon. Watch: UK: Kemi Badenoch 'rips into' Sunak at first shadow cabinet meeting over election × Hertfordshire Police Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson on Wednesday directly addressed the suspect through media and urged him to get in touch with police. "Kyle, if you are seeing or hearing this, please make contact," he said. UK home secretary's statement Meanwhile, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said she was constantly being briefed about the situation by the officials. She also urged members of the public with any information to hand it over to police. "The loss of three women's lives in Bushey last night is truly shocking. My thoughts are with the family & friends of those who have been killed & with the community," she said. Local city councillor Laurence Brass told local media that the incident had left him "very shocked." Also read: UK faces fiscal tightrope: IMF urges reforms amid high debt "We're not used to this in this area, it's a very typical, leafy Bushey suburb… and suddenly we're told there are three murders. We had a helicopter landing at the top of my road last night, police all over the place. So, I'm concerned for residents, who I think are a little bit traumatised by what's going on here," he said. Notably, people can carry crossbows legally in the UK without having to obtain any government approval. However, they may be asked to provide a reasonable excuse if they are found to be carrying it in public. (With inputs from agencies)

UK town in shock after crossbow attack linked to triple murder, suspect held

Police in the UK's Hertfordshire, are looking for a man in connection with deaths of three women on Tuesday (July 9).

Detectives are looking for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, who they say could be armed and dangerous, after the triple murder.

What happened in Hertfordshire?

The three women, who were reportedly relatives, were found severely injured on Tuesday evening by police who were called to a property in Bushey. They died at the scene.

Hertfordshire triple murder: Where is Kyle Clifford?

Local top detective Rob Hall asked those who know Kyle Clifford to contact police, and not to approach him as he may still be carrying arms.

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“Whilst we are still in the early stages of this investigation, we are actively seeking Kyle Clifford who we believe could be in the areas of Hertfordshire or North London," Hall said.

“Given the serious nature of the incident, I would ask anyone who knows where he is to contact police immediately. &nbsp;If you believe you see him, please do not approach him and dial 999 straight away. He may still be in possession of a weapon," he dded.

Hall also asked for the family's privacy to be respected.

Crime against women rising in UK

According to a report in The Independent in March this year, at least 350 women were killed by men since the murder of Sarah Everard, which had led to a national outcry on crimes against women.

The statistic is alarming, as it works out to three women killed every three days.

Everard, 33, was kidnapped and killed by a serving police officer on 3 March 2021.

In February this year, a United Nations human rights expert said the UK must take action to end all forms of violence against women and girls, having labelled it a “national threat”.

&nbsp;Special Rapporteur Reem Alsalem also highlighted the same data- that a woman is killed by a man every three days in the UK.

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Alsalem also pointed out that one in four women in the country experiences some form of domestic violence in her lifetime.

“Entrenched patriarchy at almost every level of society, combined with a rise in misogyny that permeates the physical and online world, is denying thousands of women and girls across the UK the right to live in safety, free from fear and violence,” she said in a statement on February 21 after a 10-day visit to the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in the UK's Hertfordshire, are looking for a man in connection with deaths of three women on Tuesday (July 9). Detectives are looking for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, who they say could be armed and dangerous, after the triple murder.

Police in the UK's Hertfordshire, are looking for a man in connection with deaths of three women on Tuesday (July 9). Detectives are looking for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, who they say could be armed and dangerous, after the triple murder. What happened in Hertfordshire? The three women, who were reportedly relatives, were found severely injured on Tuesday evening by police who were called to a property in Bushey. They died at the scene. Hertfordshire triple murder: Where is Kyle Clifford? Local top detective Rob Hall asked those who know Kyle Clifford to contact police, and not to approach him as he may still be carrying arms. Also read: Human plague case reported in Colorado, US: Know about bubonic plague - cause, symptoms, treatment “Whilst we are still in the early stages of this investigation, we are actively seeking Kyle Clifford who we believe could be in the areas of Hertfordshire or North London," Hall said. “Given the serious nature of the incident, I would ask anyone who knows where he is to contact police immediately. If you believe you see him, please do not approach him and dial 999 straight away. He may still be in possession of a weapon," he dded. Hall also asked for the family's privacy to be respected. Crime against women rising in UK According to a report in The Independent in March this year, at least 350 women were killed by men since the murder of Sarah Everard, which had led to a national outcry on crimes against women. The statistic is alarming, as it works out to three women killed every three days. Everard, 33, was kidnapped and killed by a serving police officer on 3 March 2021. In February this year, a United Nations human rights expert said the UK must take action to end all forms of violence against women and girls, having labelled it a “national threat”. Special Rapporteur Reem Alsalem also highlighted the same data- that a woman is killed by a man every three days in the UK. Also read: Record-breaking Beryl hints at active hurricane season, new forecast predicts Alsalem also pointed out that one in four women in the country experiences some form of domestic violence in her lifetime. “Entrenched patriarchy at almost every level of society, combined with a rise in misogyny that permeates the physical and online world, is denying thousands of women and girls across the UK the right to live in safety, free from fear and violence,” she said in a statement on February 21 after a 10-day visit to the country. (With inputs from agencies)

UK triple murder: Urgent manhunt for armed suspect after three women found dead

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration".

Following Labour's resounding victory, Starmer began his third day as prime minister on Sunday by touring Scotland.

Blair stated that even with Labour's commanding majority in power, obstacles presented by the anti-immigration Reform UK Party still exist.

Reform, spearheaded by Brexit ardent supporter Nigel Farage, divided the right-wing vote to maximise the damage to the Conservatives in the election.

It gained five seats in Parliament and 14% of the vote, prompting Farage to warn that it will target Labour supporters next.

Blair suggested using artificial intelligence (AI) to regulate illegal immigration in a Sunday Times essay, stating that "traditional political parties are suffering disruption all over the Western world."

"Where the system allows new entrants to emerge, they are running riot everywhere. Look at France or Italy," Blair said.

"We need a plan to control immigration. If we don't have rules, we get prejudices," Blair&nbsp;

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A major topic during the most recent election campaign was immigration limitation, and Blair, the only Labour leader to lead his party to three straight election victories beginning with his landslide victory in 1997, stated he thought digital ID technology was the greatest answer.

"We should move as the world is moving to digital ID. If not, new border controls will have to be highly effective," he wrote.

"A tough new approach to law and order" was one of the other proposals. Fearing that "criminal elements are modernizing faster than law enforcement," he expressed his concern.

Blair cautioned against initiatives that many saw as unduly politically correct, saying that the government should "avoid any vulnerability on 'wokeism'".

(With inputs from agencies)

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration".

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration". Following Labour's resounding victory, Starmer began his third day as prime minister on Sunday by touring Scotland. Blair stated that even with Labour's commanding majority in power, obstacles presented by the anti-immigration Reform UK Party still exist. Reform, spearheaded by Brexit ardent supporter Nigel Farage, divided the right-wing vote to maximise the damage to the Conservatives in the election. It gained five seats in Parliament and 14% of the vote, prompting Farage to warn that it will target Labour supporters next. Blair suggested using artificial intelligence (AI) to regulate illegal immigration in a Sunday Times essay, stating that "traditional political parties are suffering disruption all over the Western world." "Where the system allows new entrants to emerge, they are running riot everywhere. Look at France or Italy," Blair said. "We need a plan to control immigration. If we don't have rules, we get prejudices," Blair Also read: Pope Francis deplores state of democracy, warns against 'populists' A major topic during the most recent election campaign was immigration limitation, and Blair, the only Labour leader to lead his party to three straight election victories beginning with his landslide victory in 1997, stated he thought digital ID technology was the greatest answer. "We should move as the world is moving to digital ID. If not, new border controls will have to be highly effective," he wrote. "A tough new approach to law and order" was one of the other proposals. Fearing that "criminal elements are modernizing faster than law enforcement," he expressed his concern. Blair cautioned against initiatives that many saw as unduly politically correct, saying that the government should "avoid any vulnerability on 'wokeism'". (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Labour PM Tony Blair warns Starmer: Use AI to curb immigration amid right-wing surge

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer. Just last week, she had admitted to killing her son with a drug overdose decades ago to end his 'suffering' and 'quietly end his life'. She said her son Hamish was in 'a lot of pain' and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering'.

She also stressed that she was 'willing to face the consequences' of her actions. Following her confession, Thames Valley Police had opened a probe into the incident.

Cooper's daughter was quoted as saying by BBC that her mom died at home in peace. "It was exactly the way she wanted it. She lived life on her terms and she died on her terms," she said.

<h2>Assisted death illegal in UK</h2>

It must be noted that assisted death is illegal in UK. Back in 2015, members of parliament rejected such a proposal 330-118. However, support for an alternative policy has grown over the last few years. One opinion poll showed that 75 per cent of the public now supports legislation for assisted death.

Watch:&nbsp;UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has now promised to revive debate over the issue.

<h2>Admission of guilt</h2>

Cooper last week recalled how she 'helped' her son escape a lot of pain' that came from his stage 4 cancer and “beastly” treatment.

“On Hamish’s last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: ‘Would you like me to remove the pain?’ and he said: ‘Yes please, mama.’

“And through his Hickman catheter, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life,” she added.

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Cooper's son was suffering from neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that mostly affects children.

“I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen …. It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that,” the mother said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer.

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer. Just last week, she had admitted to killing her son with a drug overdose decades ago to end his 'suffering' and 'quietly end his life'. She said her son Hamish was in 'a lot of pain' and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering'. She also stressed that she was 'willing to face the consequences' of her actions. Following her confession, Thames Valley Police had opened a probe into the incident. Cooper's daughter was quoted as saying by BBC that her mom died at home in peace. "It was exactly the way she wanted it. She lived life on her terms and she died on her terms," she said. Assisted death illegal in UK It must be noted that assisted death is illegal in UK. Back in 2015, members of parliament rejected such a proposal 330-118. However, support for an alternative policy has grown over the last few years. One opinion poll showed that 75 per cent of the public now supports legislation for assisted death. Watch: UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet × Prime Minister Keir Starmer has now promised to revive debate over the issue. Admission of guilt Cooper last week recalled how she 'helped' her son escape a lot of pain' that came from his stage 4 cancer and “beastly” treatment. “On Hamish’s last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: ‘Would you like me to remove the pain?’ and he said: ‘Yes please, mama.’ “And through his Hickman catheter, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life,” she added. Also read: `Politics that puts people first`: Rahul Gandhi congratulates UK PM Starmer, extends sympathies to Rishi Sunak Cooper's son was suffering from neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that mostly affects children. “I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen …. It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that,” the mother said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK mom who killed her son to 'remove his pain' in 1981 dies of cancer

Rachel Reeves, Britain's first woman finance minister, is a former child chess champion and Bank of England economist who has pledged to grow the nation's economy while showing strong fiscal discipline.

Reeves, 45, becomes chancellor of the exchequer after her centre-left Labour party won Thursday's UK general election by a landslide, ending 14 years of rule by the right-wing Conservatives.

"It is the honour of my life to have been appointed chancellor of the exchequer," Reeves wrote on social media platform X after her appointment by new Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"To every young girl and woman reading this, let today show that there should be no limits on your ambitions."

Labour had put the economy at the heart of its election manifesto, targeting growth and wealth creation as key priorities in government, while its emphasis on the latter is not normally associated with the party's traditionally leftist policies.

"Economic growth was the Labour Party's mission," Reeves added Friday.

"It is now a national mission. Let's get to work," said the married mother of two children.

<h2>'Iron chancellor'</h2>

Reeves recently told company bosses that Labour had become "the natural party of British business", adding that the party would show "iron discipline" over public finances.

The comments drew comparisons with 'Iron Lady' Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first woman prime minister.

Unlike Conservative leader Thatcher, who privatised key sectors after becoming prime minister in 1979, Reeves wants a form of renationalisation, notably for energy, as she takes inspiration from policy enacted by US President Joe Biden.

Labour has pledged to create Great British Energy, a publicly owned company that would spearhead funding, alongside the private sector, for the "green" transition away from fossil fuels.

James Wood, senior teaching associate in political economy at the University of Cambridge, said Labour and Reeves were seeking a "responsible" approach to the public purse.

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"When she talks about being an iron chancellor, I think what she means is: we're going to balance the books and we're going to be responsible -- and we're going to try and get Britain's economy running... in a responsible way," he told AFP.

London-born Reeves tapped into public anger over Sunak's predecessor Liz Truss, whose unfunded 2022 mini-budget crashed the pound and sent mortgage rates soaring, worsening a cost-of-living crisis.

"They want to distance themselves from fiscal irresponsibility, not making big promises about spending that they can't possibly keep," Wood added.

<h2>Banking career</h2>

Reeves, whose parents were teachers, is no stranger to outmanoeuvring opponents.

She became British girls' chess champion aged 14 before studying philosophy, politics and economics at the University of Oxford, which was followed by a Master's degree at the London School of Economics.

After graduating, she worked as an economist for a decade, first at the Bank of England before switching to the private sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmers-first-address-new-british-pm-pledges-to-rebuild-britain-brick-by-brick-738290">Keir Starmer’s first address: New British PM pledges to 'rebuild Britain brick by brick'</a>

While working for British retail bank HBOS, the global financial crisis struck in 2008, resulting in her employer receiving a huge bailout, along with other lenders, from Gordon Brown's Labour government.

In 2010, when the Conservatives entered power in a coalition with the Liberal Democrats, Reeves was elected Labour MP for Leeds West in northern England.

Eleven years later, Starmer appointed her as Labour's finance spokesperson. Her sister Ellie Reeves is also a Labour MP.

Rachel Reeves, Britain's first woman finance minister, is a former child chess champion and Bank of England economist who has pledged to grow the nation's economy while showing strong fiscal discipline.

Rachel Reeves, Britain's first woman finance minister, is a former child chess champion and Bank of England economist who has pledged to grow the nation's economy while showing strong fiscal discipline. Reeves, 45, becomes chancellor of the exchequer after her centre-left Labour party won Thursday's UK general election by a landslide, ending 14 years of rule by the right-wing Conservatives. "It is the honour of my life to have been appointed chancellor of the exchequer," Reeves wrote on social media platform X after her appointment by new Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "To every young girl and woman reading this, let today show that there should be no limits on your ambitions." Labour had put the economy at the heart of its election manifesto, targeting growth and wealth creation as key priorities in government, while its emphasis on the latter is not normally associated with the party's traditionally leftist policies. "Economic growth was the Labour Party's mission," Reeves added Friday. "It is now a national mission. Let's get to work," said the married mother of two children. 'Iron chancellor' Reeves recently told company bosses that Labour had become "the natural party of British business", adding that the party would show "iron discipline" over public finances. The comments drew comparisons with 'Iron Lady' Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first woman prime minister. Unlike Conservative leader Thatcher, who privatised key sectors after becoming prime minister in 1979, Reeves wants a form of renationalisation, notably for energy, as she takes inspiration from policy enacted by US President Joe Biden. Labour has pledged to create Great British Energy, a publicly owned company that would spearhead funding, alongside the private sector, for the "green" transition away from fossil fuels. James Wood, senior teaching associate in political economy at the University of Cambridge, said Labour and Reeves were seeking a "responsible" approach to the public purse. Also read: UK election 2024: Record number of Indian-origin MPs elected as Labour party triumphs over Conservatives "When she talks about being an iron chancellor, I think what she means is: we're going to balance the books and we're going to be responsible -- and we're going to try and get Britain's economy running... in a responsible way," he told AFP. London-born Reeves tapped into public anger over Sunak's predecessor Liz Truss, whose unfunded 2022 mini-budget crashed the pound and sent mortgage rates soaring, worsening a cost-of-living crisis. "They want to distance themselves from fiscal irresponsibility, not making big promises about spending that they can't possibly keep," Wood added. Banking career Reeves, whose parents were teachers, is no stranger to outmanoeuvring opponents. She became British girls' chess champion aged 14 before studying philosophy, politics and economics at the University of Oxford, which was followed by a Master's degree at the London School of Economics. After graduating, she worked as an economist for a decade, first at the Bank of England before switching to the private sector. Also read: Keir Starmer’s first address: New British PM pledges to 'rebuild Britain brick by brick' While working for British retail bank HBOS, the global financial crisis struck in 2008, resulting in her employer receiving a huge bailout, along with other lenders, from Gordon Brown's Labour government. In 2010, when the Conservatives entered power in a coalition with the Liberal Democrats, Reeves was elected Labour MP for Leeds West in northern England. Eleven years later, Starmer appointed her as Labour's finance spokesperson. Her sister Ellie Reeves is also a Labour MP.

Meet Rachel Reeves: First woman to become UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer

After 14 years, the Keir Starmer-led Labour Party defeated Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party in the UK elections. This time, UK polls saw a high representation of Indian-origin candidates.

After 14 years, the Keir Starmer-led Labour Party defeated Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party in the UK elections. This time, UK polls saw a high representation of Indian-origin candidates. Total number of Indian-origin candidates who emerged victorious: 26 British-Indian candidates in the last House of Commons: 15 Total number of Indian-origin candidates who contested the polls: 107 Here are the names and seats of British-Indian MPs from both the Conservative and Labour parties who were elected to the House of Commons. Despite Labour's overall victory in the general election, Rishi Sunak, the departing prime minister and leader of the Conservative Party, has managed to hold onto his seats in Richmond and Northallerton in northern England. In the 2024 UK General Election, Conservative Priti Patel kept her Witham seat in Essex. The Conservative candidate Shivani Raja won the seat for Leicester East. Suella Braverman, a politician of Indian descent and member of the Conservative Party, won the Fareham and Waterlooville seat. The Conservative Gagan Mohindra of South West Hertfordshire was re-elected. In 2002, he became a Conservative Party member. The Conservative Party's Claire Coutinho became victorious in the East Surrey constituency. Alun Cairns, a former Welsh Secretary, lost to Labour Party candidate Kanishka Narayan. At 12, Narayan moved to Cardiff from India to become the first MP from a minority ethnic background in Wales. Seema Malhotra retained her electorate of Feltham and Heston with a large lead. Since 2011, she has represented Feltham and Heston in parliament. British Labour politician and solicitor Valerie Vaz has won the seat in Bloxwich and Walsall. She was elected to represent Walsall South as a member of parliament in 2010. The British politician Nadia Whittome, who is of Indian descent, won the Nottingham East seat. In the UK general election of 2019, she was elected as Nottingham East's first member of parliament. From the Birmingham Edgbaston seat, Preet Kaur Gill of the Labour Party was re-elected. Currently holding the position of UK Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public Health, she is the first female British Sikh member of Parliament. The Labour Party's Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi was re-elected to represent Slough as an MP. He was re-elected in 2019 after winning the Slough seat with a 17,000 majority in the 2017 General Election. When Sojan Joseph, a candidate for the Labour Party, emerged victorious in the Ashford constituency, there were festivities in his Kottayam home. Also read: PM Modi congratulates Keir Starmer, eyes new India-UK strategic partnership The Labour Party's Lisa Nandy secured 19,401 votes to hold onto her Wigan seat, which she has held since 2010. The Labour Party's Navendu Mishra was elected to the Stockport seat. In the 2019 General Election, he was chosen to represent Stockport as a member of parliament. The Southampton Test seat was won by Labour Party candidate Satvir Kaur, a British Indian. 2011 saw her join the Labour Party. The Labour Party has the most number of candidates of Indian descent who won, including Jas Athwal (Ilford South), Baggy Shanker (Derby South), Harpreet Uppal (Huddersfield), Warinder Juss (Wolverhampton West), Gurinder Josan (Smethwick), Sonia Kumar (Dudley), Sureena Brackenbridge (Wolverhampton North East), Kirith Entwistle (Bolton North East), and Jeevun Sandher (Loughborough). Munira Wilson won back her Twickenham seat for the Liberal Democrats, a political party that made notable advances in the UK and now has over 60 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

UK election 2024: Record number of Indian-origin MPs elected as Labour party triumphs over Conservatives

After the Labour Party won the UK elections with a resounding victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated PM-elect Keir Starmer on Friday (July 5). “Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections.

After the Labour Party won the UK elections with a resounding victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated PM-elect Keir Starmer on Friday (July 5). “Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections. I look forward to our positive and constructive collaboration to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in all areas, fostering mutual growth and prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on X. A shift in the party's stance towards India is evident in its election manifesto, which pledges to forge a "new strategic partnership" that includes a free trade pact. The former human rights barrister turned politician has also spearheaded attempts to mend fences with British Indians who felt cut off from their country under former leader Jeremy Corbyn because of the latter's perceived anti-India position on Kashmir. Also read: Why did Conservatives lose UK election? How Sunak managed to end 14-year Tory rule In another tweet, PM Modi complimented ex-PM Rishi Sunak for his "admirable leadership" and contributions to strengthening India-UK relations. "Thank you @RishiSunak for your admirable leadership of the UK, and your active contribution to deepen the ties between India and the UK during your term in office. Best wishes to you and your family for the future," PM Modi wrote on X. Watch | UK: Big win for Labour Party in UK elections, Keir Starmer says 'Public ready for change' × After more than 10 years in the opposition, the Labour Party emerged victorious in Thursday's legislative polls, taking 412 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons and toppling the 14-year-old Conservative government. “Our task is nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold this country together. National renewal. Whoever you are, wherever you started in life, if you work hard, if you play by the rules, this country should give you a fair chance to get on,” Starmer said in his victory speech. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi congratulates Keir Starmer, eyes new India-UK strategic partnership

A new dawn is rising on Britain that will see the Labour Party return to power after 14 years in a landslide election victory. For the UK's Conservatives who will now sit among the opposition, the 2024 election results were only the last push to the ditch that started with Brexit and progressed through misgoverning, scandal and infights.

The soon-to-be former prime minister Rishi Sunak, in a manner of speaking, became the last one in line holding the baby handed over to him by previous prime ministers from his party.

And it was indeed a revolving door of prime ministers. Between 2010 and 2024, there were five: David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak.

Cameron set the ball rolling for the downfall of Tories with the Brexit referendum in 2016. While he himself was confident that Britons would vote in favour of staying within the European Union, the party itself fought against him, led by so-called 'Brexiteers' like Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

Once the referendum favoured Brexit, Cameron had no other option but to quit, which led to Theresa May taking charge.

The national mood was in favour of Brexit, and even a sense of national pride spread in the nation, as much of the population, the rural folk and working class in particular, thought Britain's exit from EU would lead to an exodus of European workers and businesses out of UK, which will benefit local labour, businesses and industry.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-2024-labour-wins-ready-to-change-our-country-for-the-better-says-starmer-738219">UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer</a>

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But year after year, data seemed to suggest that the cost of Brexit exceeded the benefits. On trade, Britain scrambled to find alternative partners in the Commonwealth, particularly India, with which it is negotiating a free trade deal. The European labour exodus did only create shortages, that had to be filled with immigration from elsewhere, again from Commonwealth countries like India.

Despite all these, an overconfident May called a snap poll in 2017, with the intention of increasing the Conservative majority accruing from the 'success' of Brexit. That was not to be. The Conservatives did win, but they lost five seats from the previous tally.&nbsp;

During the years running up to the 2017 election and after that, Boris Johnson emerged as a more robust advocate for British conservatism and protectionism. With a mix of populist right-wing rhetoric and insider politics, Boris managed to oust May in an inner-party coup, mainly arising from her inability to pass the Brexit legislation in parliament. He led the Tories to victory in yet another snap election in 2019, with one of the biggest majorities for the party.

As Boris was affirming his grip on power, Covid pandemic hit, making UK one of the greatest sufferers.

It was followed by the so-called 'partygate' scandal, which exposed how Prime Minister Boris Johnson and others were flouting Covid norms they had set for common folk, by holding parties in official premises.&nbsp;

Infightings, backstabbing and no-trust motions followed, with Liz Truss replacing Boris, only to become the shortest-serving PM of UK, defeated by opposition within the party to her budget and economic reform plans.&nbsp;

In place of Truss came Rishi Sunak, the first Asian and Indian-origin prime minister of Britain.

Throughout his career, Sunak was fighting the twin flames of cost of living crisis in the UK, and the no-holds-barred squabbles and clamour for Tory leadership. His erstwhile allies, notably Suella Braverman who became UK home secretary, left the cabinet over issues ranging from immigration reform to British economy.

Added to these were Sunak's image as a rich PM out of touch with the nation and its problems, particularly exacerbated by the wealth of his wife Akshata Murty, the daughter of Indian tech titan Narayana Murty.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-general-elections-2024-how-uk-voted-key-constituency-wise-winners-and-losers-738198">UK General elections 2024: How UK voted- Key constituency-wise winners and losers</a>

In a way, Sunak's troubles are now over, and Britain has got a more decisive verdict in the form of the return of Labour for the first time since 2010.

But the damage has been done for Tories. So many top party leaders, at least 11 of them cabinet members, have lost the election.

They include Penny Mordaunt, the leader of the House of Commons, Grant Shapps and Jacob Rees-Mogg.

While he himself won the &nbsp;Richmond and Northallerton constituency, Sunak conceded defeat for his party.

He said there is much to learn from the "sobering verdict", adding, "I take responsibility for the loss."

Suella Braverman, meanwhile, won her seat of Fareham and Waterlooville.

Boris Johnson, who stayed away during much of campaigning, returned in the last days to the podium, only to 'dance on Sunak's grave' as one report put it. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A new dawn is rising on Britain that will see the Labour Party return to power after 14 years in a landslide election victory. For the UK's Conservatives who will now sit among the opposition, the 2024 election results were only the last push to the ditch that started with Brexit and progressed through misgoverning, scandal and infights.

A new dawn is rising on Britain that will see the Labour Party return to power after 14 years in a landslide election victory. For the UK's Conservatives who will now sit among the opposition, the 2024 election results were only the last push to the ditch that started with Brexit and progressed through misgoverning, scandal and infights. The soon-to-be former prime minister Rishi Sunak, in a manner of speaking, became the last one in line holding the baby handed over to him by previous prime ministers from his party. And it was indeed a revolving door of prime ministers. Between 2010 and 2024, there were five: David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. Cameron set the ball rolling for the downfall of Tories with the Brexit referendum in 2016. While he himself was confident that Britons would vote in favour of staying within the European Union, the party itself fought against him, led by so-called 'Brexiteers' like Boris Johnson. Once the referendum favoured Brexit, Cameron had no other option but to quit, which led to Theresa May taking charge. The national mood was in favour of Brexit, and even a sense of national pride spread in the nation, as much of the population, the rural folk and working class in particular, thought Britain's exit from EU would lead to an exodus of European workers and businesses out of UK, which will benefit local labour, businesses and industry. Watch | UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer × But year after year, data seemed to suggest that the cost of Brexit exceeded the benefits. On trade, Britain scrambled to find alternative partners in the Commonwealth, particularly India, with which it is negotiating a free trade deal. The European labour exodus did only create shortages, that had to be filled with immigration from elsewhere, again from Commonwealth countries like India. Despite all these, an overconfident May called a snap poll in 2017, with the intention of increasing the Conservative majority accruing from the 'success' of Brexit. That was not to be. The Conservatives did win, but they lost five seats from the previous tally. During the years running up to the 2017 election and after that, Boris Johnson emerged as a more robust advocate for British conservatism and protectionism. With a mix of populist right-wing rhetoric and insider politics, Boris managed to oust May in an inner-party coup, mainly arising from her inability to pass the Brexit legislation in parliament. He led the Tories to victory in yet another snap election in 2019, with one of the biggest majorities for the party. As Boris was affirming his grip on power, Covid pandemic hit, making UK one of the greatest sufferers. It was followed by the so-called 'partygate' scandal, which exposed how Prime Minister Boris Johnson and others were flouting Covid norms they had set for common folk, by holding parties in official premises. Infightings, backstabbing and no-trust motions followed, with Liz Truss replacing Boris, only to become the shortest-serving PM of UK, defeated by opposition within the party to her budget and economic reform plans. In place of Truss came Rishi Sunak, the first Asian and Indian-origin prime minister of Britain. Throughout his career, Sunak was fighting the twin flames of cost of living crisis in the UK, and the no-holds-barred squabbles and clamour for Tory leadership. His erstwhile allies, notably Suella Braverman who became UK home secretary, left the cabinet over issues ranging from immigration reform to British economy. Added to these were Sunak's image as a rich PM out of touch with the nation and its problems, particularly exacerbated by the wealth of his wife Akshata Murty, the daughter of Indian tech titan Narayana Murty. Also read: UK General elections 2024: How UK voted- Key constituency-wise winners and losers In a way, Sunak's troubles are now over, and Britain has got a more decisive verdict in the form of the return of Labour for the first time since 2010. But the damage has been done for Tories. So many top party leaders, at least 11 of them cabinet members, have lost the election. They include Penny Mordaunt, the leader of the House of Commons, Grant Shapps and Jacob Rees-Mogg. While he himself won the Richmond and Northallerton constituency, Sunak conceded defeat for his party. He said there is much to learn from the "sobering verdict", adding, "I take responsibility for the loss." Suella Braverman, meanwhile, won her seat of Fareham and Waterlooville. Boris Johnson, who stayed away during much of campaigning, returned in the last days to the podium, only to 'dance on Sunak's grave' as one report put it. (With inputs from agencies)

Why did Conservatives lose UK election? How Rishi Sunak's term helped end 14-year Tory rule, return of Labour

The Crown Prosecution (CPS) has announced that a lady who killed two eight-year-old kids when her car smashed into a school in southwest London would not be prosecuted.

The Crown Prosecution (CPS) has announced that a lady who killed two eight-year-old kids when her car smashed into a school in southwest London would not be prosecuted. On July 6, 2023, a Land Rover struck and killed Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau during an end-of-term tea party at The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon. The CPS has notified the families that the driving woman will not face charges due to an epileptic episode. The driver of the car, Claire Freemantle, stated that she had "no recollection of what took place" and expressed her "deepest sorrow". "Justice has neither been done nor has it been seen to be done today," the girls' families said. They said so many lives were "irreparably shattered" and they remained "unconvinced" that the investigation had been conducted thoroughly. "All the victims of the events of 6 July 2023 did nothing wrong. We were all in the safest place we could have been outside our own homes." "We were celebrating a day filled with joy. Nuria and Selena’s lives were taken in a moment," they said in a statement. According to the CPS, Freemantle lost control of the car and it crashed into the school as a result of an epileptic episode while she was driving. The collision also caused injuries to many other people. Watch | UK elections 2024: Poll survey indicate Labour in lead × According to the CPS, Freemantle had no prior medical diagnosis and there was no proof that she had ever experienced a seizure similar to this one. The parents of the girls, Sajjad Butt, Smera Chohan, Franky Lau, and Jessie Deng, expressed their opinion that the procedure had been "questionable" in their statement. "We continue to live with horrific memories, some of us will never physically recover from our injuries, and the pain of our loss will never subside," they said. Also read: Joe Biden to pardon US military personnel convicted of homosexuality "And yet, it is suggested that we must continue to live with the claim that the person solely responsible for the deaths of two and the maiming of others bears no consequence for the actions that they solely are responsible, without providing us with sufficient evidence that no criminal act was conducted," they added. According to Freemantle, her "heartfelt sympathy" is extended to all of the impacted children and families, but particularly to Nuria and Selena's parents. Detective Supt Clair Kelland stated, "I can understand that some may be confused - perhaps even feel let down - by this outcome, and want to give every reassurance that our officers worked tirelessly through every detail of the incident to ensure a complete investigation be passed to the CPS." She continued by saying that there had to be a "simply not borne out on this occasion" "element of responsibility" to file charges against the driver. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Families outraged as driver not charged after fatal school crash in Wimbledon

According to media&nbsp;reports, personal protective equipment (PPE) worth an estimated £1.4 billion that the government purchased in a single transaction during the epidemic has been destroyed or 'written off'.

According to data shared by the BBC, Full Support Healthcare, a Northamptonshire-based provider, supplied at least 1.57 billion PPE pieces that would never be utilised.

In April 2020, the business signed a £1.78 billion contract with the government to supply respirators, aprons, face masks, and eye protection. This was the biggest Covid-19 PPE order, accounting for&nbsp;about 13% of the government's entire expenditure, according to the BBC article.

“We know that billions of pounds were wasted during the pandemic on corruption and incompetence by the Conservatives, but this is the worst example I have ever seen," shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said.

“£1.4bn on one contract, paying for PPE that was never used, and Rishi Sunak’s fingerprints are all over it. That is money that could have been used to pay the salaries of 37,000 NHS nurses," he added.

Only 232 million of the 2.02 billion PPE items that Full Support Healthcare supplied have been sent to the NHS or other care settings.

The BBC reports that 825 million more items are categorised as surplus stock, and that around 749 million items have already been burnt or destroyed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-korean-air-flight-drops-25000-feet-mid-air-passengers-share-harrowing-experiences-735076">Watch: Korean Air flight drops 25,000 feet mid-air, passengers share harrowing experiences</a>

Prior to this, the government predicted that PPE obtained under the deal, valued around £85 million, would not be used.

Since its purchase, the BBC report claimed, at least £100 million more in public funds have been used for the storage and destruction of the surplus stock.

“We do not recognise the £1.4 billion quoted. Our position on PPE stock is set out in the department’s annual accounts as audited by the National Audit Office," a Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) spokesperson said.

Amounts spent on PPE of £13.6 billion were written off, according to DHSC records shared in January. This was because some items were not fit or damaged, while others would not be utilised before they expired.

The government intends to get rid of "nearly all" of the PPE gear that is now kept in warehouses and containers, according to a National Audit Office (NAO) accountability report.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to media reports, personal protective equipment (PPE) worth an estimated £1.4 billion that the government purchased in a single transaction during the epidemic has been destroyed or 'written off'.

According to media reports, personal protective equipment (PPE) worth an estimated £1.4 billion that the government purchased in a single transaction during the epidemic has been destroyed or 'written off'. According to data shared by the BBC, Full Support Healthcare, a Northamptonshire-based provider, supplied at least 1.57 billion PPE pieces that would never be utilised. In April 2020, the business signed a £1.78 billion contract with the government to supply respirators, aprons, face masks, and eye protection. This was the biggest Covid-19 PPE order, accounting for about 13% of the government's entire expenditure, according to the BBC article. “We know that billions of pounds were wasted during the pandemic on corruption and incompetence by the Conservatives, but this is the worst example I have ever seen," shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said. “£1.4bn on one contract, paying for PPE that was never used, and Rishi Sunak’s fingerprints are all over it. That is money that could have been used to pay the salaries of 37,000 NHS nurses," he added. Only 232 million of the 2.02 billion PPE items that Full Support Healthcare supplied have been sent to the NHS or other care settings. The BBC reports that 825 million more items are categorised as surplus stock, and that around 749 million items have already been burnt or destroyed. Also read: Watch: Korean Air flight drops 25,000 feet mid-air, passengers share harrowing experiences Prior to this, the government predicted that PPE obtained under the deal, valued around £85 million, would not be used. Since its purchase, the BBC report claimed, at least £100 million more in public funds have been used for the storage and destruction of the surplus stock. “We do not recognise the £1.4 billion quoted. Our position on PPE stock is set out in the department’s annual accounts as audited by the National Audit Office," a Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) spokesperson said. Amounts spent on PPE of £13.6 billion were written off, according to DHSC records shared in January. This was because some items were not fit or damaged, while others would not be utilised before they expired. The government intends to get rid of "nearly all" of the PPE gear that is now kept in warehouses and containers, according to a National Audit Office (NAO) accountability report. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: PPE worth £1.4 billion purchased during pandemic destroyed or unused - Reports

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