The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Social distancing rules demanding people stay two metres apart mean only 50 MPs will be able to sit in the 650-strong lower House of Commons at any one time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-drop-to-new-low-in-uk-with-449-fatalities-in-24-hours-16509-dead-293668" hreflang="en">Coronavirus deaths drop to new low in UK with 449 fatalities in 24 hours; 16,509 dead</a>

They are instead being asked to call in via Zoom, an internet video conferencing service, in a first for the 700-year-old parliament.

Screens will be placed around the chamber so that those physically present , themselves separated by tape and signs on the green benches, can see their colleagues dialling in.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-tedros-politicises-covid-19-pandemic-on-social-media-293650" hreflang="en">Now, Tedros 'politicises' COVID-19 pandemic on social media</a>

Parliament began its Easter holiday a week early last month due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has so far killed more than 16,500 people in Britain.

Britain remains on lockdown, with people asked to stay at home, but MPs were determined that parliament return as planned on Tuesday.

"In times of crisis, we must find new ways of working, just as we have done throughout history," said Commons speaker Lindsay Hoyle.

He added: "It will be a historic moment in our 700 years of history, to have MPs contributing to prime minister's questions, urgent questions and statements via videolink from the safety of their homes and offices."

Johnson's Conservatives are under mounting pressure over their response to the outbreak, from years of underfunding the health service to the decision to delay imposing a nationwide lockdown.

As healthcare staff continue to complain about a lack of protective equipment, and testing for coronavirus remains limited, debate is shifting to how the confinement measures can be eased.

Raphael Hogarth of the Institute for Government think tank said parliament did not approve the lockdown but must play a role in what comes next.

''Decisions over imposing the lockdown had to be made at pace, but decisions on the exit strategy do not need to be made as rapidly -- and must be made more transparently," he said.

MPs who attend in person on Tuesday will be asked to approve the new measures and the option to dial in to certain sessions will begin on Wednesday.

There will be a limit of 120 MPs allowed to join via videoconference, and there is currently no way for MPs to vote digitally.

The unelected upper House of Lords is also trialling a new way of operating using Microsoft Teams software, although proceedings will not

London was particularly hard hit and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among many in parliament who became infected. He is still recovering after a week in hospital.be broadcast live to the public.

The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Social distancing rules demanding people stay two metres apart mean only 50 MPs will be able to sit in the 650-strong lower House of Commons at any one time. Also read: Coronavirus deaths drop to new low in UK with 449 fatalities in 24 hours; 16,509 dead They are instead being asked to call in via Zoom, an internet video conferencing service, in a first for the 700-year-old parliament. Screens will be placed around the chamber so that those physically present , themselves separated by tape and signs on the green benches, can see their colleagues dialling in. Also read: Now, Tedros 'politicises' COVID-19 pandemic on social media Parliament began its Easter holiday a week early last month due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has so far killed more than 16,500 people in Britain. Britain remains on lockdown, with people asked to stay at home, but MPs were determined that parliament return as planned on Tuesday. "In times of crisis, we must find new ways of working, just as we have done throughout history," said Commons speaker Lindsay Hoyle. He added: "It will be a historic moment in our 700 years of history, to have MPs contributing to prime minister's questions, urgent questions and statements via videolink from the safety of their homes and offices." Johnson's Conservatives are under mounting pressure over their response to the outbreak, from years of underfunding the health service to the decision to delay imposing a nationwide lockdown. As healthcare staff continue to complain about a lack of protective equipment, and testing for coronavirus remains limited, debate is shifting to how the confinement measures can be eased. Raphael Hogarth of the Institute for Government think tank said parliament did not approve the lockdown but must play a role in what comes next. ''Decisions over imposing the lockdown had to be made at pace, but decisions on the exit strategy do not need to be made as rapidly -- and must be made more transparently," he said. MPs who attend in person on Tuesday will be asked to approve the new measures and the option to dial in to certain sessions will begin on Wednesday. There will be a limit of 120 MPs allowed to join via videoconference, and there is currently no way for MPs to vote digitally. The unelected upper House of Lords is also trialling a new way of operating using Microsoft Teams software, although proceedings will not London was particularly hard hit and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among many in parliament who became infected. He is still recovering after a week in hospital.be broadcast live to the public.

UK parliament returns with virtual virus measures

A 360-year-old secret passageway has been discovered inside the British Parliament. This report gets you a glimpse of the secret doorway.

Gravitas: The British Parliament has a secret passage

A forgotten passageway in the British parliament constructed for the 1661 coronation of king Charles II has been rediscovered during renovation work, officials said Wednesday.

Hidden door spills centuries-old secrets of UK parliament

State opening of the U.K. Parliament after the victory of Boris Johnson in recent elections.

Gravitas: The queen outlines Boris Johnson government's agenda

On December 19 Queen Elizabeth II formally opened a new session of Britain's Parliament with a speech laying out Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plans to use his commanding majority to take the U.K. out of the European Union and shake up the country's public services. #UKParliament #UKElections

State opening of the UK Parliament, Queen lays out Boris Johnson's Brexit Plans

UK Houses of Parliament officially reopen following the 2019 general election and Queen Elizabeth delivers a Queen's Speech. #UK #UKParliament #QueenElizabeth

Queen Elizabeth officially opens UK Parliament

Parliament welcomed three babies today as female MPs were sworn in with newborns strapped to their chests. #HouseofCommons #UKParliament

Babies day out at the House of Commons

Early Christmas in UK Parliament; Lawmakers dress up as Santa in House of Commons. #UKParliament #UK #Queen

Early Christmas in UK Parliament; Lawmakers dress up as Santa in House of Commons

The famous bellows of “Order!” by former British parliamentary Speaker John Bercow has gone viral after its remix version by Belgian dance musician Michael Schack.

Speaking to WION, Micheal told how he came up with such an idea.

"With any music track, always look for some kind of vocal hook which sounds positive or ironic to make listeners connect more with the music. So I sometimes experiment with quotes and vocals I can find online, and as I'm also interested in worldwide news and especially news from Europe, I stumbled upon John Bercow's exquisite English and his famous "Oooorrrrderrrr" just after the UK referendum on Brexit, now more than 3 years ago", said Schack.

When asked why only Bercow, Schack said, "I find him to be a real vocal artist actually. When he speaks, it's with so much confidence and clarity and rich vocabulary. And without him probably realising, he's very musical too, as his words always have great rhythm and tonality. So when I started experimenting with his quotes on top of music, I discovered I could do it in any music tempo and music key as his vocals keep on standing out. Even when you have louder music underneath, his pronunciation stays so strong and understandable."

Schack believes that Bercow is the most Rock and Roll figure in the whole Brexit Saga, "I wouldn't call him a hero&nbsp;just yet like a Superman&nbsp;or Spiderman, but he is certainly the most rock 'and' roll figure in this whole saga. During the debates, he called parliament members by name and character when they were misbehaving. And while doing so, the charismatic sound of his voice became the sound of Brexit in general, even now that he stepped down everyone still talks more about him than about any of those three prime ministers of these three&nbsp;past Brexit years''.

When asked if Speaker Bercow has heard&nbsp;the remix, Schack replied, "We did hear that he has seen it and liked it. I cannot imagine he didn't check it out yet as so many in the UK have been sharing it on their social media as well, tagging him along. Mister Bercow does have a sense of humour and as no one of his entourage has contacted me directly yet, I guess silence is sort of an approval. The ultimate would be to meet him in person, thank him for the inspiration while hearing him speak for real and then have our picture taken, just the three of us: John Bercow, myself and the #SpeakerJohn puppet in the middle. How epic would that be!"

The famous bellows of “Order!” by former British parliamentary Speaker John Bercow has gone viral after its remix version by Belgian dance musician Michael Schack.

The famous bellows of “Order!” by former British parliamentary Speaker John Bercow has gone viral after its remix version by Belgian dance musician Michael Schack. Speaking to WION, Micheal told how he came up with such an idea. "With any music track, always look for some kind of vocal hook which sounds positive or ironic to make listeners connect more with the music. So I sometimes experiment with quotes and vocals I can find online, and as I'm also interested in worldwide news and especially news from Europe, I stumbled upon John Bercow's exquisite English and his famous "Oooorrrrderrrr" just after the UK referendum on Brexit, now more than 3 years ago", said Schack. When asked why only Bercow, Schack said, "I find him to be a real vocal artist actually. When he speaks, it's with so much confidence and clarity and rich vocabulary. And without him probably realising, he's very musical too, as his words always have great rhythm and tonality. So when I started experimenting with his quotes on top of music, I discovered I could do it in any music tempo and music key as his vocals keep on standing out. Even when you have louder music underneath, his pronunciation stays so strong and understandable." Schack believes that Bercow is the most Rock and Roll figure in the whole Brexit Saga, "I wouldn't call him a hero just yet like a Superman or Spiderman, but he is certainly the most rock 'and' roll figure in this whole saga. During the debates, he called parliament members by name and character when they were misbehaving. And while doing so, the charismatic sound of his voice became the sound of Brexit in general, even now that he stepped down everyone still talks more about him than about any of those three prime ministers of these three past Brexit years''. When asked if Speaker Bercow has heard the remix, Schack replied, "We did hear that he has seen it and liked it. I cannot imagine he didn't check it out yet as so many in the UK have been sharing it on their social media as well, tagging him along. Mister Bercow does have a sense of humour and as no one of his entourage has contacted me directly yet, I guess silence is sort of an approval. The ultimate would be to meet him in person, thank him for the inspiration while hearing him speak for real and then have our picture taken, just the three of us: John Bercow, myself and the #SpeakerJohn puppet in the middle. How epic would that be!"

Bercow's 'order' cruises from UK parliament to top of Belgian charts after remix by Michael Schack

After delaying Brexit for the third time, will the UK finally leave European Union on 31st January 2020? Answer to that will be decided after the general elections on December 12, 2019.

WION Dispatch: Brexit-scrambled UK heads to polls

British MPs on Monday selected veteran Labour lawmaker Lindsay Hoyle to be parliament's new speaker, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-on-new-speaker-after-bercows-departure-259774">replacing John Bercow</a> in a role once little-noticed but now reshaped by the fractious turmoil over Brexit.

Hoyle, a Labour MP for 22 years and Bercow's deputy since 2010, beat out six other contenders in a protracted day of voting in the House of Commons, winning the support of 325 of 540 members of parliament in a fourth and final round of votes.

Bercow, whose shouts of "Order! Order!" have rung out across the famous chamber since June 2009, stood down on Thursday, having enraged the ruling Conservatives with a series of decisions they saw as trying to stymie Brexit.

The 56-year-old vehemently denied ever taking sides in the parliamentary tumult over Britain's stalled withdrawal from the European Union but earned praise from pro-Europeans and a global following with his rulings and outsized personality.

Hoyle, the favourite to fill his shoes ahead of Monday's vote, won the first three rounds of voting,&nbsp;knocking out political heavyweight Harriet Harman, the longest-serving female MP,&nbsp;but each time fell short of the required absolute majority.

But in the last round of voting which pitted him against fellow Labour MP Chris Bryant, he finally garnered 60 per cent of lawmakers' votes.

"It's about the challenges ahead for me and this chamber," Hoyle told MPs after being dragged to the speaker's elevated green chair, in keeping with parliamentary tradition.

"We've got to make sure that tarnish is polished away," he added, in reference to recent rancour in the House of Commons largely over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-rejects-calls-for-no-deal-brexit-in-election-pitch-259559">Brexit</a>.

Welcoming him to the role, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "Over the years I have observed that you have many good qualities."

Johnson added Hoyle would bring his "signature kindness and reasonableness to our proceedings."

However, Hoyle will not have too long to get comfortable as parliament will be dissolved late Tuesday for the December 12 election, after which he will return to sit in the speaker's green chair.

The new speaker will now give up his party affiliation while rival parties are traditionally not expected to field a candidate to contest his seat in elections.

Chosing a new speaker has been an unremarkable event in the past, but Bercow became a key player in the chaotic process of Britain's exit from the European Union.

With the Commons divided over how, when and even if Brexit should happen, Bercow oversaw more than three years of crucial debates that defined the course of Brexit.

His supporters say he has empowered ordinary MPs by granting time for emergency debates and amendments, which had the effect of pressuring or even tying ministers' hands.

But critics accused him of subverting centuries of parliamentary tradition with the aim of frustrating Brexit.

Bercow, who was a Conservative MP before he took on the politically neutral role of speaker, has also been accused of failing to tackle a culture of bullying.

Last week, Johnson paid guarded tribute, likening Bercow's glare to a "trademark Tony Montana scowl", after Al Pacino's character in the 1983 film "Scarface".

Opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn praised Bercow's modernising reforms, which included increasing staff diversity, boosting public access to parliament and switching from traditional robes to suits.

But it was his colourful personality and eccentric performances in parliament that gave him an international profile.

A social media mash-up by German television of footage of Bercow calming rowdy MPs has been seen more than a million times. A Belgian newspaper called him "irreplaceable".

If Johnson succeeds in his goal of winning a majority in the December election,&nbsp;as opinion polls suggest,&nbsp;the next speaker's job could be fairly straightforward as chair of debates.

But if he fails and there is another minority government, the new arrival will have to arbitrate between yet another group of divided MPs.

As a veteran Labour MP and as Bercow's deputy Hoyle has often sat in the speaker's chair in his place, when his distinctive Lancashire accent would grace the Commons.

The 62-year-old is as unimpressed as his predecessor by the shouting and braying from MPs, once chastising Scottish Nationalists for humming the EU anthem "Ode to Joy" in the chamber.

Hoyle pledged in an interview published in the Sunday Times,&nbsp;in which he introduced his parrot "Boris",&nbsp;to repair what he claims has become a "toxic parliament".

"I don't want the abuse of each other and I think we have got to close that down quickly and make sure it is a calmer place to be," he said.

Bryant, an openly gay former Church of England vicar, was a surprise finalist in the contest, winning 213 of the 540 votes in the last round.

British MPs on Monday selected veteran Labour lawmaker Lindsay Hoyle to be parliament's new speaker, replacing John Bercow in a role once little-noticed but now reshaped by the fractious turmoil over Brexit.

British MPs on Monday selected veteran Labour lawmaker Lindsay Hoyle to be parliament's new speaker, replacing John Bercow in a role once little-noticed but now reshaped by the fractious turmoil over Brexit. Hoyle, a Labour MP for 22 years and Bercow's deputy since 2010, beat out six other contenders in a protracted day of voting in the House of Commons, winning the support of 325 of 540 members of parliament in a fourth and final round of votes. Bercow, whose shouts of "Order! Order!" have rung out across the famous chamber since June 2009, stood down on Thursday, having enraged the ruling Conservatives with a series of decisions they saw as trying to stymie Brexit. The 56-year-old vehemently denied ever taking sides in the parliamentary tumult over Britain's stalled withdrawal from the European Union but earned praise from pro-Europeans and a global following with his rulings and outsized personality. Hoyle, the favourite to fill his shoes ahead of Monday's vote, won the first three rounds of voting, knocking out political heavyweight Harriet Harman, the longest-serving female MP, but each time fell short of the required absolute majority. But in the last round of voting which pitted him against fellow Labour MP Chris Bryant, he finally garnered 60 per cent of lawmakers' votes. "It's about the challenges ahead for me and this chamber," Hoyle told MPs after being dragged to the speaker's elevated green chair, in keeping with parliamentary tradition. "We've got to make sure that tarnish is polished away," he added, in reference to recent rancour in the House of Commons largely over Brexit. Welcoming him to the role, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "Over the years I have observed that you have many good qualities." Johnson added Hoyle would bring his "signature kindness and reasonableness to our proceedings." However, Hoyle will not have too long to get comfortable as parliament will be dissolved late Tuesday for the December 12 election, after which he will return to sit in the speaker's green chair. The new speaker will now give up his party affiliation while rival parties are traditionally not expected to field a candidate to contest his seat in elections. Chosing a new speaker has been an unremarkable event in the past, but Bercow became a key player in the chaotic process of Britain's exit from the European Union. With the Commons divided over how, when and even if Brexit should happen, Bercow oversaw more than three years of crucial debates that defined the course of Brexit. His supporters say he has empowered ordinary MPs by granting time for emergency debates and amendments, which had the effect of pressuring or even tying ministers' hands. But critics accused him of subverting centuries of parliamentary tradition with the aim of frustrating Brexit. Bercow, who was a Conservative MP before he took on the politically neutral role of speaker, has also been accused of failing to tackle a culture of bullying. Last week, Johnson paid guarded tribute, likening Bercow's glare to a "trademark Tony Montana scowl", after Al Pacino's character in the 1983 film "Scarface". Opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn praised Bercow's modernising reforms, which included increasing staff diversity, boosting public access to parliament and switching from traditional robes to suits. But it was his colourful personality and eccentric performances in parliament that gave him an international profile. A social media mash-up by German television of footage of Bercow calming rowdy MPs has been seen more than a million times. A Belgian newspaper called him "irreplaceable". If Johnson succeeds in his goal of winning a majority in the December election, as opinion polls suggest, the next speaker's job could be fairly straightforward as chair of debates. But if he fails and there is another minority government, the new arrival will have to arbitrate between yet another group of divided MPs. As a veteran Labour MP and as Bercow's deputy Hoyle has often sat in the speaker's chair in his place, when his distinctive Lancashire accent would grace the Commons. The 62-year-old is as unimpressed as his predecessor by the shouting and braying from MPs, once chastising Scottish Nationalists for humming the EU anthem "Ode to Joy" in the chamber. Hoyle pledged in an interview published in the Sunday Times, in which he introduced his parrot "Boris", to repair what he claims has become a "toxic parliament". "I don't want the abuse of each other and I think we have got to close that down quickly and make sure it is a calmer place to be," he said. Bryant, an openly gay former Church of England vicar, was a surprise finalist in the contest, winning 213 of the 540 votes in the last round.

British MPs choose Lindsay Hoyle as parliament speaker to replace Bercow

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson takes questions in the Parliament today. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: UK PM Boris Johnson takes questions in Parliament

UK PM Boris Johnson takes questions in Parliament

UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson will push for an early election in the parliament today. European Union leaders will be meeting to discuss yet another Brexit delay. Watch this video to know more.

UK PM Johnson will push for an early election in parliament today

In an exclusive interview with WION,&nbsp;Indian-origin London assembly member Navin Shah spoke about his letter to London Mayor&nbsp;Sadiq Khan and Home Secretary of Britain&nbsp;Priti Patel&nbsp;to ban anti-India protests planned on Diwali in London.

WION: You wrote a letter to London Mayor Sadiq Khan about the upcoming protest march. Are you happy with the response that you have received?

Navin Shah: I am pleased that the Mayor of London has given a very comprehensive response to my letter in which he has strongly condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/london-pak-plans-another-march-outside-indian-high-commission-on-diwali-wion-dispatch-257362">demonstrations planned on Diwali</a>. He has reassured me that the metropolitan police will have a robust policing plan to ensure that violence and the mayhem that took place on India's Independence Day outside the Indian High Commission is not repeated again. The Mayor in the letter has also confirmed the&nbsp;Indian community's rich contribution towards London's&nbsp;success as a&nbsp;world city.

It is further reassuring that the Mayor is concerned about the divisions that such protests can create and he has copied my letter to the Metropolitan Commissioner as well as the Home Secretary to see whether they are prepared to ban the demonstration planned on Diwali day.

WION: The Indian High Commission has witnessed two violent protests already.&nbsp;What do you make of the action the British government has taken so far? &nbsp;

Navin Shah: The ugly and violent incidents that took&nbsp;place outside the India High Commission is&nbsp;certainly not acceptable in any civilised society. There is no excuse for such behaviour in any community and therefore the wide condemnations of those incidents is&nbsp;the right thing.

In my view, the metropolitan&nbsp;police could have done better but I am pretty sure the lessons have been learnt&nbsp;and if the demonstrations go ahead on&nbsp;Diwali, I expect the metropolitan police to be prepared to deal with any behaviour which is unruly and&nbsp;brings about public disorder. It is the reason why in addition to writing to the Mayor of London, I have also written to the commissioner of metropolitan police to make sure there is no repeat of such incidents that had&nbsp;taken place outside the Indian High Commission.

WION: Is the British government doing enough to address India's concerns about the protests?

Navin Shah: I appreciate the way the Indian government is concerned about the situation with regard to the situation&nbsp;in Kashmir. I truly believe that UK government or UK politicians should not interfere with the internal affairs of third countries. Those countries should be left to determine on how matters like these should be resolved in a right and&nbsp;responsible way espeically when it involves complex matters like Kashmir.

WION: Should foreign governments and politicians be interfering with India’s constitutional matters such as removal of the special status of Kashmir? &nbsp;

Navin Shah: I am of the view that foreign governments and politicians should not be interfering in what is clearly India's constitutional matter. India should be left alone to determine what it wants to do in terms of such constitutional matters, they tend to be complex and let India deal with that instead of foreign government or politicians.

WION: What actions do you expect after raising your concerns?

Navin Shah: Manning of demonstrations is entirely the responsibility of the Home Secretary and that is why I have written to honourable Priti Patel to ban the planned demonstrations at the earliest opportunity. This is the right thing to do. I hope the Home Secretary, the government and the commissioner of police will listen to me, will listen to the community at large and do the right thing. And let us hope that we will have a happy, peaceful and the kind of Diwali we always expect, appreciate and demand.&nbsp;

WION: The leader of the Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, has taken a tough stand against the Indian government on Kashmir. Do you agree with your party's position?

Navin Shah: I am appalled that the accepted protocol of not interfering in the internal affairs of a third country was dumped by the Labour Party at the conference and an ill-conceived, partisan motion was allowed to go through. This demonstrates my party’s astounding insensitivity and failure to scrutinise the motion before accepting it for debate.

The debate was unbalanced and went unchecked - for example one of the speakers supporting the motion made deplorable comments about the Indian army raping women; comparing Modi with Hitler and allegations of 10,000 women being gangraped. I wonder what efforts were made to check the authenticity of such statements!

Given the partisan and ill-conceived position taken by the Labour Party, it is no wonder that the&nbsp;Indian community&nbsp;and community organisations are fuming across the nation. Diplomatic relations with India are in tatters and divisions and conflict have been created within diverse communities.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
REVISED TWEET: Concerned re <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a> Rally planned on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> day &amp; resultant disorder+deep offence 2 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindu</a> community. Written to <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorofLondon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MayorofLondon</a> to help stop the Rally. Glad Mayor condemns the protest &amp; approached <a href="https://twitter.com/metpoliceuk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@metpoliceuk</a> Commissioner &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/patel4witham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@patel4witham</a> to ban the Rally. <a href="https://t.co/KuuXLqHcxu">pic.twitter.com/KuuXLqHcxu</a>
— Navin Shah AM (@NavinShah2016) <a href="https://twitter.com/NavinShah2016/status/1185585069907419142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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All our hard work of community cohesion and credibility is being challenged due to partisan politics and is seen as an anti-India stance taken by the Labour Party through the disastrous motion on Kashmir.

It is true but very sad that we the Labour politicians were banned by some Indian organisations from attending Navratri celebrations which to me is very painful and does a huge deal of damage to the standing of the party. I fully understand the hurt and the pain the Indian community feels.

To this end, I welcome Jeremy Corbyn’s recent letter offering to meet members across the Indian community and hear their views. This will be a good start but it is imperative that the party also engages positively with the Indian diplomatic service and the Indian government; meets with British-Indian elected representatives to address the way forward to restore relations with the Indian community and see how best the party can genuinely engage with&nbsp;British- Indians and other communities to avoid similar disasters in the future.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Indian-origin London assembly member Navin Shah spoke about his letter to London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Home Secretary of Britain Priti Patel to ban anti-India protests planned on Diwali in London.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Indian-origin London assembly member Navin Shah spoke about his letter to London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Home Secretary of Britain Priti Patel to ban anti-India protests planned on Diwali in London. WION: You wrote a letter to London Mayor Sadiq Khan about the upcoming protest march. Are you happy with the response that you have received? Navin Shah: I am pleased that the Mayor of London has given a very comprehensive response to my letter in which he has strongly condemned the demonstrations planned on Diwali. He has reassured me that the metropolitan police will have a robust policing plan to ensure that violence and the mayhem that took place on India's Independence Day outside the Indian High Commission is not repeated again. The Mayor in the letter has also confirmed the Indian community's rich contribution towards London's success as a world city. It is further reassuring that the Mayor is concerned about the divisions that such protests can create and he has copied my letter to the Metropolitan Commissioner as well as the Home Secretary to see whether they are prepared to ban the demonstration planned on Diwali day. WION: The Indian High Commission has witnessed two violent protests already. What do you make of the action the British government has taken so far? Navin Shah: The ugly and violent incidents that took place outside the India High Commission is certainly not acceptable in any civilised society. There is no excuse for such behaviour in any community and therefore the wide condemnations of those incidents is the right thing. In my view, the metropolitan police could have done better but I am pretty sure the lessons have been learnt and if the demonstrations go ahead on Diwali, I expect the metropolitan police to be prepared to deal with any behaviour which is unruly and brings about public disorder. It is the reason why in addition to writing to the Mayor of London, I have also written to the commissioner of metropolitan police to make sure there is no repeat of such incidents that had taken place outside the Indian High Commission. WION: Is the British government doing enough to address India's concerns about the protests? Navin Shah: I appreciate the way the Indian government is concerned about the situation with regard to the situation in Kashmir. I truly believe that UK government or UK politicians should not interfere with the internal affairs of third countries. Those countries should be left to determine on how matters like these should be resolved in a right and responsible way espeically when it involves complex matters like Kashmir. WION: Should foreign governments and politicians be interfering with India’s constitutional matters such as removal of the special status of Kashmir? Navin Shah: I am of the view that foreign governments and politicians should not be interfering in what is clearly India's constitutional matter. India should be left alone to determine what it wants to do in terms of such constitutional matters, they tend to be complex and let India deal with that instead of foreign government or politicians. WION: What actions do you expect after raising your concerns? Navin Shah: Manning of demonstrations is entirely the responsibility of the Home Secretary and that is why I have written to honourable Priti Patel to ban the planned demonstrations at the earliest opportunity. This is the right thing to do. I hope the Home Secretary, the government and the commissioner of police will listen to me, will listen to the community at large and do the right thing. And let us hope that we will have a happy, peaceful and the kind of Diwali we always expect, appreciate and demand. WION: The leader of the Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, has taken a tough stand against the Indian government on Kashmir. Do you agree with your party's position? Navin Shah: I am appalled that the accepted protocol of not interfering in the internal affairs of a third country was dumped by the Labour Party at the conference and an ill-conceived, partisan motion was allowed to go through. This demonstrates my party’s astounding insensitivity and failure to scrutinise the motion before accepting it for debate. The debate was unbalanced and went unchecked - for example one of the speakers supporting the motion made deplorable comments about the Indian army raping women; comparing Modi with Hitler and allegations of 10,000 women being gangraped. I wonder what efforts were made to check the authenticity of such statements! Given the partisan and ill-conceived position taken by the Labour Party, it is no wonder that the Indian community and community organisations are fuming across the nation. Diplomatic relations with India are in tatters and divisions and conflict have been created within diverse communities. REVISED TWEET: Concerned re #Kashmir Rally planned on #Diwali day & resultant disorder+deep offence 2 #Hindu community. Written to @MayorofLondon to help stop the Rally. Glad Mayor condemns the protest & approached @metpoliceuk Commissioner & @patel4witham to ban the Rally. pic.twitter.com/KuuXLqHcxu — Navin Shah AM (@NavinShah2016) October 19, 2019 × All our hard work of community cohesion and credibility is being challenged due to partisan politics and is seen as an anti-India stance taken by the Labour Party through the disastrous motion on Kashmir. It is true but very sad that we the Labour politicians were banned by some Indian organisations from attending Navratri celebrations which to me is very painful and does a huge deal of damage to the standing of the party. I fully understand the hurt and the pain the Indian community feels. To this end, I welcome Jeremy Corbyn’s recent letter offering to meet members across the Indian community and hear their views. This will be a good start but it is imperative that the party also engages positively with the Indian diplomatic service and the Indian government; meets with British-Indian elected representatives to address the way forward to restore relations with the Indian community and see how best the party can genuinely engage with British- Indians and other communities to avoid similar disasters in the future.

Written to London Mayor to ensure violence outside Indian High Commission is not repeated on Diwali: London assembly member Navin Shah to WION

Johnson faces a Brexit showdown with parliament on Saturday after clinching a last-minute divorce deal with the European Union that his Northern Irish allies and opposition parties, oppose.

UK Parliament to vote on Brexit Deal Today

Brexit Super Saturday: Brexit vote on Boris Johnson's deal in Parliament. Watch video to know more.

Brexit Super Saturday: Brexit vote on Boris Johnson's deal in Parliament

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-new-way-forward-for-britain-and-eu-pm-boris-johnson-256870">The British parliament may end up forcing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to request another Brexit delay</a> and give only provisional support to his divorce deal with the European Union.

An amendment penned by former government minister Oliver Letwin forces Johnson to write a letter to Brussels requesting an extension of the Brexit deadline until January 31 of next year.

Johnson is currently required to ask for an extension if parliament on Saturday votes down the revised withdrawal agreement he signed with EU leaders in Brussels this week.

But Letwin's amendment, which was selected by House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, would decline to approve Johnson's deal in full "unless and until" every other part of the formal Withdrawal Agreement Bill is passed.

Johnson hopes to introduce the formal bill next week once MPs have voted on Saturday's political agreement.

Letwin says he backs Johnson's agreement but is concerned that lawmakers might fail to push through the required Brexit implementation mechanism by the October 31 deadline.

This would, theoretically, result in a "no-deal" split at the end of the month, a scenario Letwin's amendment is designed to avoid.

The British parliament may end up forcing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to request another Brexit delay and give only provisional support to his divorce deal with the European Union.

The British parliament may end up forcing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to request another Brexit delay and give only provisional support to his divorce deal with the European Union. An amendment penned by former government minister Oliver Letwin forces Johnson to write a letter to Brussels requesting an extension of the Brexit deadline until January 31 of next year. Johnson is currently required to ask for an extension if parliament on Saturday votes down the revised withdrawal agreement he signed with EU leaders in Brussels this week. But Letwin's amendment, which was selected by House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, would decline to approve Johnson's deal in full "unless and until" every other part of the formal Withdrawal Agreement Bill is passed. Johnson hopes to introduce the formal bill next week once MPs have voted on Saturday's political agreement. Letwin says he backs Johnson's agreement but is concerned that lawmakers might fail to push through the required Brexit implementation mechanism by the October 31 deadline. This would, theoretically, result in a "no-deal" split at the end of the month, a scenario Letwin's amendment is designed to avoid.

United Kingdom Brexit vote amendment could cause another delay

UK PM Johnson address to the Parliament. He said, 'We won't impose regulations on Ireland without the consent. EU has very little appetite for another extension'. UK Parliament to vote for Brexit shortly.

UK PM Johnson address to the Parliament as the UK Parl to vote for Brexit shortly

Brexit Party's Nigel Farage urges MPs to reject the deal. Today is the 'Historical Saturday' in the history of Brexit as UK Parliament to vote today for the same. Watch this video to know more.

'Historical Saturday' in the history of Brexit, UK Parliament to vote

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-brexit-talks-with-eu-teeter-on-verge-of-collapse-254597">Boris&nbsp;Johnson</a>&nbsp;is facing a fresh rebellion in his&nbsp;cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-is-essentially-impossible-ever-downing-street-source-254498"> no-deal&nbsp;Brexit,</a> The Times newspaper&nbsp;reported on Wednesday.

Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times&nbsp;report.

An unnamed&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

The Times said that ministers had warned&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;in a&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings,&nbsp;Johnson's top adviser.

"Cabinet&nbsp;will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the&nbsp;report&nbsp;quoted another&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister as saying.

While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal&nbsp;scenario, the Financial Times&nbsp;reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will&nbsp;revolt&nbsp;against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT&nbsp;report&nbsp;added.

The media&nbsp;reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game"&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;after a Downing Street source told Reuters a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands.

With just&nbsp;over&nbsp;three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday. Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times report. An unnamed cabinet minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal Brexit. The Times said that ministers had warned Johnson in a cabinet meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings, Johnson's top adviser. "Cabinet will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the report quoted another cabinet minister as saying. While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal scenario, the Financial Times reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will revolt against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal Brexit. Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual Brexit platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT report added. The media reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game" over Brexit after a Downing Street source told Reuters a deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands. With just over three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

UK PM Boris Johnson faces cabinet revolt over no-deal Brexit: Report

London police said Tuesday they detained a man who was dousing himself with what appeared to be a flammable liquid outside parliament.

"The man, who had a lighter, was sprayed with a fire extinguisher," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. "There was no ignition and the man was detained."

The man was assessed by ambulance workers and taken to the hospital. His age or condition was not immediately released.

One lawmaker who was at the scene tweeted the substance "smells like petrol".

The incident came against a background of heightened tension over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-prime-minister-johnson-to-submit-brexit-grand-bargain-but-ireland-sceptical-253001">Britain's</a> imminent departure from the European Union, which has divided the country.

MPs are currently debating ways to make sure Britain does not crash out of the EU without a negotiated agreement on its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-will-leave-eu-on-october-31-finance-minister-javid-says-252779">October 31</a> departure date.

London police said Tuesday they detained a man who was dousing himself with what appeared to be a flammable liquid outside parliament. "The man, who had a lighter, was sprayed with a fire extinguisher," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

London police said Tuesday they detained a man who was dousing himself with what appeared to be a flammable liquid outside parliament. "The man, who had a lighter, was sprayed with a fire extinguisher," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. "There was no ignition and the man was detained." The man was assessed by ambulance workers and taken to the hospital. His age or condition was not immediately released. One lawmaker who was at the scene tweeted the substance "smells like petrol". The incident came against a background of heightened tension over Britain's imminent departure from the European Union, which has divided the country. MPs are currently debating ways to make sure Britain does not crash out of the EU without a negotiated agreement on its October 31 departure date.

Man held outside UK parliament in 'petrol' incident: Police

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mps-return-to-parliament-after-supreme-court-ruling-251945">Boris Johnson</a> on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?"

As he faced MPs for the first time since the Supreme Court quashed his suspension of parliament, Johnson asked, "Will they have the courage to act?... Come on, then."

Johnson was reaction follows the Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn calling on Johnson to resign while also adding that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated.

"Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn was quoted as saying by local media.

Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes!

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Reacting on Supreme Court's ruling, Johnson said the top court was "wrong" to get involved in "what is essentially a political question at a time of great national controversy".

The court's judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels.

The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday challenged opposition parties to call a vote of no confidence in his government, telling them in parliament, "what are they scared of?" As he faced MPs for the first time since the Supreme Court quashed his suspension of parliament, Johnson asked, "Will they have the courage to act?... Come on, then." Johnson was reaction follows the Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn calling on Johnson to resign while also adding that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated. "Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn was quoted as saying by local media. Watch: Trouble follows Boris Johnson, wherever he goes! × Reacting on Supreme Court's ruling, Johnson said the top court was "wrong" to get involved in "what is essentially a political question at a time of great national controversy". The court's judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31. The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

'What are they scared of?': UK PM Johnson challenges opposition to call confidence vote

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs)&nbsp;return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful.

The judgement has challenged&nbsp;Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-pm-boris-johnson-resign-donald-trump-says-hes-not-going-anywhere-251837">resignation</a> and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

The Conservative leader was due to arrive back from New York, heading straight into a political maelstrom triggered by Tuesday's damning court ruling that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks was unlawful.

Britain's right-wing tabloids reacted angrily to the ruling, with The Sun saying it had been bombarded with letters from readers expressing "fury".

The Daily Telegraph said Johnson was "seen as the champion of the people against an establishment determined to stop Brexit", while for the Daily Mail, "The real political vandals are the out of touch MPs blocking Brexit".&nbsp;

The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, announced that MPs would reconvene at 1030 GMT&nbsp;on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return later the same day.

Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn called on Johnson to resign but said that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated.

"Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn told BBC radio.

Bercow said there would be no Prime Minister's Questions - a weekly session held on Wednesdays - but there would be "full scope for urgent questions, for ministerial statements, and for applications for emergency debates".

Cabinet member Michael Gove said that&nbsp;the government would outline its next steps in parliament later on Wednesday.

"I don't think that the government should apologise for having a strong domestic agenda. I don't think we should apologise also for seeking to advance our exit from the European Union," Gove told the BBC.

Hammer blows for Johnson

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">ruling</a> throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels.

Johnson told British media that&nbsp;he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but would respect it.

The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do".

Despite the series of hammer blows in the House of Commons and the courts as well as losing his parliamentary majority, Johnson is still riding high in the polls and keen for an election to try and win enough seats to push through Brexit.

But he requires the consent of opposition parties to hold a snap election and they are so far reluctant, preferring to use their working majority to keep a tight leash on Johnson as the EU departure deadline of October 31 looms.

Dead in a ditch

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/decision-to-suspend-uk-parliament-was-unlawful-supreme-court-251746">11 Supreme Court judges ruled on Tuesday</a> that the parliamentary suspension, which came into effect this month, was "unlawful, void and of no effect".

Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme.

But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs.

Johnson is likely to resist resignation calls, insisting that he must take Britain out of the EU next month regardless of the circumstances.

In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal".

It obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17 and 18.

But the Prime Minister has said he would rather "be dead in a ditch" than ask for another extension, setting up a potential showdown.

Johnson said Tuesday that he hoped to amend the divorce deal struck between the EU and his predecessor Theresa May, which has been rejected by MPs three times.

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs) return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful.

British Ministers of Parliament (MPs) return to the parliament on Wednesday following a momentous Supreme Court ruling that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to suspend the parliament was unlawful. The judgement has challenged Johnson's authority, prompting calls for his resignation and casting further doubt on his promise to pull Britain out of the European Union on October 31. The Conservative leader was due to arrive back from New York, heading straight into a political maelstrom triggered by Tuesday's damning court ruling that his decision to suspend parliament for five weeks was unlawful. Britain's right-wing tabloids reacted angrily to the ruling, with The Sun saying it had been bombarded with letters from readers expressing "fury". The Daily Telegraph said Johnson was "seen as the champion of the people against an establishment determined to stop Brexit", while for the Daily Mail, "The real political vandals are the out of touch MPs blocking Brexit". The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, announced that MPs would reconvene at 1030 GMT on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return later the same day. Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn called on Johnson to resign but said that he would not call a no-confidence vote in the parliament until the possibility of a no-deal Brexit had been eliminated. "Our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the European Union on October 31," Corbyn told BBC radio. Bercow said there would be no Prime Minister's Questions - a weekly session held on Wednesdays - but there would be "full scope for urgent questions, for ministerial statements, and for applications for emergency debates". Cabinet member Michael Gove said that the government would outline its next steps in parliament later on Wednesday. "I don't think that the government should apologise for having a strong domestic agenda. I don't think we should apologise also for seeking to advance our exit from the European Union," Gove told the BBC. Hammer blows for Johnson The ruling throws Johnson's Brexit planning into disarray - coming after a series of defeats in the parliament that have curbed his plans for Brexit even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. Johnson told British media that he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but would respect it. The Prime Minister is likely to also renew his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament, having said in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that it was "the obvious thing to do". Despite the series of hammer blows in the House of Commons and the courts as well as losing his parliamentary majority, Johnson is still riding high in the polls and keen for an election to try and win enough seats to push through Brexit. But he requires the consent of opposition parties to hold a snap election and they are so far reluctant, preferring to use their working majority to keep a tight leash on Johnson as the EU departure deadline of October 31 looms. Dead in a ditch The 11 Supreme Court judges ruled on Tuesday that the parliamentary suspension, which came into effect this month, was "unlawful, void and of no effect". Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme. But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs. Johnson is likely to resist resignation calls, insisting that he must take Britain out of the EU next month regardless of the circumstances. In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal". It obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17 and 18. But the Prime Minister has said he would rather "be dead in a ditch" than ask for another extension, setting up a potential showdown. Johnson said Tuesday that he hoped to amend the divorce deal struck between the EU and his predecessor Theresa May, which has been rejected by MPs three times.

UK MPs return to parliament after Supreme Court ruling

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plans for Brexit on October 31 despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday vowed to press ahead with his plans for Brexit on October 31 despite a momentous Supreme Court ruling that found his decision to suspend parliament unlawful. The judgement dealt a huge blow to Johnson's authority, coming after a series of defeats in parliament that have curbed his plans to leave the European Union even if there is no divorce deal with Brussels. The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, immediately announced MPs would reconvene on Wednesday. The Conservative leader, who is currently in New York, told British media he "strongly disagreed" with the decision but said he would respect it. Johnson also renewed his call for an early election to end the stand-off with parliament. He said it was "the obvious thing to do". 'Void and of no effect' Johnson had argued that shutting down parliament until October 14 was a routine move to allow his new government to set out a new legislative programme. But critics accused him of trying to silence MPs. Delivering the unanimous verdict of 11 judges, Supreme Court president Brenda Hale said "the decision to advise Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth II) to prorogue was unlawful". She said this was "because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions". As a result, the suspension was "void and of no effect", Hale said, adding: "Parliament has not been prorogued." Bercow subsequently announced he would reconvene the Commons at 11.30 am (1030 GMT) on Wednesday, while the upper House of Lords said it would return the same day. The judges "have vindicated the right and duty of parliament to meet at this crucial time to scrutinise the executive", Bercow said. A small group of protesters outside the court hailed the decision, with one, Gareth Daniels, telling AFP: "This is a great day for democracy." Resignation calls Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the main opposition Labour party, led calls for the prime minister to step down. "I invite Boris Johnson, in the historic words, to consider his position, and become the shortest serving prime minister there has ever been," he told his party's annual conference. He brought forward his concluding speech to the meeting in Brighton, southern England, from Wednesday to Tuesday to allow him to return to parliament. Some opposition MPs called for a confidence vote in Johnson, and Bercow indicated he would allow time for this if a formal request were made. But Corbyn indicated he would only table a motion of no-confidence once he was sure the Brexit October 31 deadline was delayed should no compromise agreement with Brussels come through. "This crisis can only be settled with a general election," he told a party conference. "That election needs to take place as soon as this government's threat of a disastrous no-deal (Brexit) is taken off the table." Meeting the British leader on the sidelines of a United Nations meeting in New York, US President Donald Trump, a strong Johnson and Brexit supporter, said it would be "terrible" if his plan for getting out of the EU was blocked. "It takes a man like this to get it done," Trump said of Johnson, adding: "I think he is going to get it done." Torrid time in office Opinion polls suggest Johnson's battles with MPs over Brexit are actually making him more popular with voters. Johnson only took office on July 24 but has endured a torrid few weeks in office as he fights a hostile parliament over Brexit. Three years after the 2016 referendum, he insists Britain must leave the EU next month whatever the circumstances. But lawmakers fear the disruptive impact of leaving without a deal, which the government itself has admitted could cause food and medicine shortages, and civil unrest. In the week between returning from their summer holiday and prorogation on September 10, MPs passed a law aiming to stop "no deal". The law obliges Johnson to ask to delay Brexit by three months if he has not agreed a divorce deal by an EU summit on October 17 and 18. Johnson said Tuesday he hoped he can agree new exit terms to replace those struck by his predecessor Theresa May, which was rejected by MPs. But EU leaders are not as hopeful, accusing London of failing to come up with serious alternatives to the current agreement.

UK PM vows to pursue Brexit plan despite Supreme Court blow

Britain's main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn called Tuesday on Boris Johnson to resign as prime minister and call an early election after the Supreme Court ruled his suspension of parliament "unlawful".

Britain's main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn called Tuesday on Boris Johnson to resign as prime minister and call an early election after the Supreme Court ruled his suspension of parliament "unlawful". "I invite Boris Johnson... to consider his position, and become the shortest-serving prime minister there has ever been," Corbyn told Labour's party conference, calling on the Conservative party leader to "have an election to elect a government that respects democracy". Corbyn called for Johnson's resignation after UK Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that prime minister had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

UK Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn calls on PM Johnson to resign

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

The ruling paves the way for legislators to return to parliament, where Johnson has no majority. It could give lawmakers, most of whom are opposed to leaving without the EU without a divorce agreement as he has threatened to do, further opportunity to impede his strategy.

"The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification," Supreme Court President Brenda Hale said.

"Parliament has not been prorogued. This is the unanimous judgment of all 11 justices," she added. "It is for parliament, and in particular the speaker and the (House of) Lords speaker, to decide what to do next."

Parliament was suspended, or prorogued in the British jargon, from Sept. 10 to Oct. 14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral head of state, on the advice of the prime minister.

"I welcome the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">Supreme Cour</a>t's judgment that the prorogation of Parliament was unlawful," said the speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow.

"As the embodiment of our Parliamentary democracy, the House of Commons must convene without delay. To this end, I will now consult the party leaders as a matter of urgency."

Some lawmakers, including those thrown out of Johnson's Conservative Party for rebelling against his Brexit plans, had said he should resign if he was found to have misled the queen.

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void.

The United Kingdom's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had acted unlawfully when he advised Queen Elizabeth to suspend parliament weeks before Brexit - and that therefore the suspension was void. The ruling paves the way for legislators to return to parliament, where Johnson has no majority. It could give lawmakers, most of whom are opposed to leaving without the EU without a divorce agreement as he has threatened to do, further opportunity to impede his strategy. "The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification," Supreme Court President Brenda Hale said. "Parliament has not been prorogued. This is the unanimous judgment of all 11 justices," she added. "It is for parliament, and in particular the speaker and the (House of) Lords speaker, to decide what to do next." Parliament was suspended, or prorogued in the British jargon, from Sept. 10 to Oct. 14. The prorogation was approved by Queen Elizabeth, Britain's politically neutral head of state, on the advice of the prime minister. "I welcome the Supreme Court's judgment that the prorogation of Parliament was unlawful," said the speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow. "As the embodiment of our Parliamentary democracy, the House of Commons must convene without delay. To this end, I will now consult the party leaders as a matter of urgency." Some lawmakers, including those thrown out of Johnson's Conservative Party for rebelling against his Brexit plans, had said he should resign if he was found to have misled the queen.

Decision to suspend UK parliament was 'unlawful': Supreme Court

UK Parliament Suspension Case: Verdict on UK Parliament suspension next week

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-told-boris-johnson-is-father-of-lies-250462">Supreme Court</a> rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday.

The document, submitted to the court by Johnson's lawyers, was disclosed as Britain's top judicial body was hearing a third and final day of legal arguments on whether the prime minister's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-for-courts-to-decide-parliament-suspension-uk-pm-boris-johnsons-lawyer-250441">decision to suspend parliament</a> from September&nbsp;10 to October&nbsp;14 was lawful.

On Tuesday, one of Johnson's lawyers had told the court that if the prime minister lost the case, he could recall parliament earlier than scheduled.

This would give more time for legislators to scrutinise and oppose his plans to lead Britain out of the European Union, with or without a divorce deal, on October&nbsp;31.

But in the new document, not disclosed to media but published by lawyer Jo Maugham - one of those involved in the legal challenge - Johnson's legal team appeared to say there would still be a way for him to keep parliament from sitting, depending on the exact wording of the court's judgment.

"Depending on the court's reasoning it would still either be open or not open to the PM to consider a further prorogation," two senior lawyers representing Johnson said in a written submission to the court.

Johnson's lawyers had been asked by the judges to explain what he would do if it ruled against him. The document tweeted by Maugham was their response, he said.

"The (submissions from Johnson's lawyers) contemplate a world where the Supreme Court rules this prorogation unlawful and the government is plainly contemplating, in that world, continuing the prorogation until October 14," Maugham said on Sky News.

"So they are very delicate, very careful submissions, seeking to persuade the Supreme Court to leave that door open to the government. That is striking stuff."

Countdown to Brexit

The reason given by Johnson for suspending parliament for five weeks was that he needed time to prepare a new legislative agenda. His opponents say the real reason why he sought the suspension was to prevent parliament from interfering with his Brexit strategy.

Before the suspension, Johnson suffered one defeat after another in parliament, where he has no majority.

Most members of the House of Commons are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, predicting that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains.

A ruling could come late on Thursday at the earliest, but is more likely to be delivered in the following days. The 11 justices have given no indication of how long they would take.

Among Johnson's opponents in the Supreme Court hearing is one of his predecessors as prime minister and Conservative Party leader, John Major, who has submitted a written witness statement saying that the evidence showed that the reason given by Johnson for the suspension was not true.

"The inescapable inference to be drawn (from the evidence) is that the prorogation is to prevent parliament from exercising its right to disagree with the government and legislate as it sees fit," Major said in the witness statement, according to an excerpt read out in court by his lawyer.

Major's years in office between 1990 and 1997 were marked by bitter divisions and conflict within his party and government over Britain's relations with the EU. He described some of his own anti-EU cabinet members as "bastards".

The Conservatives are more divided than ever over the EU issue. Using his authority as an elder statesman, Major has said Britain should remain in the EU, and has warned that a no-deal Brexit would be disastrous for the nation.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the Supreme Court rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again even if the Supreme Court rules that his original suspension, or prorogation, was unlawful, a court document tweeted by an opposition lawyer showed on Thursday. The document, submitted to the court by Johnson's lawyers, was disclosed as Britain's top judicial body was hearing a third and final day of legal arguments on whether the prime minister's decision to suspend parliament from September 10 to October 14 was lawful. On Tuesday, one of Johnson's lawyers had told the court that if the prime minister lost the case, he could recall parliament earlier than scheduled. This would give more time for legislators to scrutinise and oppose his plans to lead Britain out of the European Union, with or without a divorce deal, on October 31. But in the new document, not disclosed to media but published by lawyer Jo Maugham - one of those involved in the legal challenge - Johnson's legal team appeared to say there would still be a way for him to keep parliament from sitting, depending on the exact wording of the court's judgment. "Depending on the court's reasoning it would still either be open or not open to the PM to consider a further prorogation," two senior lawyers representing Johnson said in a written submission to the court. Johnson's lawyers had been asked by the judges to explain what he would do if it ruled against him. The document tweeted by Maugham was their response, he said. "The (submissions from Johnson's lawyers) contemplate a world where the Supreme Court rules this prorogation unlawful and the government is plainly contemplating, in that world, continuing the prorogation until October 14," Maugham said on Sky News. "So they are very delicate, very careful submissions, seeking to persuade the Supreme Court to leave that door open to the government. That is striking stuff." Countdown to Brexit The reason given by Johnson for suspending parliament for five weeks was that he needed time to prepare a new legislative agenda. His opponents say the real reason why he sought the suspension was to prevent parliament from interfering with his Brexit strategy. Before the suspension, Johnson suffered one defeat after another in parliament, where he has no majority. Most members of the House of Commons are opposed to a so-called "no-deal Brexit" scenario, predicting that it would cause economic damage and severe disruption, including to food and medicine supply chains. A ruling could come late on Thursday at the earliest, but is more likely to be delivered in the following days. The 11 justices have given no indication of how long they would take. Among Johnson's opponents in the Supreme Court hearing is one of his predecessors as prime minister and Conservative Party leader, John Major, who has submitted a written witness statement saying that the evidence showed that the reason given by Johnson for the suspension was not true. "The inescapable inference to be drawn (from the evidence) is that the prorogation is to prevent parliament from exercising its right to disagree with the government and legislate as it sees fit," Major said in the witness statement, according to an excerpt read out in court by his lawyer. Major's years in office between 1990 and 1997 were marked by bitter divisions and conflict within his party and government over Britain's relations with the EU. He described some of his own anti-EU cabinet members as "bastards". The Conservatives are more divided than ever over the EU issue. Using his authority as an elder statesman, Major has said Britain should remain in the EU, and has warned that a no-deal Brexit would be disastrous for the nation.

If he loses in court, PM Boris Johnson could suspend parliament again: Report

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/uk-needs-inspiring-leadership-to-break-brexit-impasse-250360"> Boris Johnson</a>'s lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit.

In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments, James Eadie told the country's top court that parliament had been considering Britain's exit from the European Union for years.

He argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to say before Johnson suspended their sitting earlier this month, barely weeks before Brexit is due to take place on October 31.

Eadie said that any suggestion that Johnson's motives were improper in proroguing, or suspending parliament, were "unsustainable".

Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering

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The Supreme Court is deliberating the legality of the advice Johnson gave Queen Elizabeth II to suspend parliament for five weeks until October 14, after two lower courts made conflicting rulings.

Johnson, who took office in July, says he suspended parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda.

His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on time, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels.

Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting.

"This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said.

"If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable."

He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so it was not for the court to decide upon.

'True reasons'

The maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case, which began on Tuesday and will end on Thursday, although a decision may be deferred.

Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister.

"Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked.

Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda.

The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions.

Scotland's highest civil court called the suspension of parliament "unlawful", but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges.

The Supreme Court must rule on whether they even have the right to adjudicate on the politically contentious issue, before considering Johnson's motivations.

Unlike Tuesday's chaotic scenes, there were few protesters outside the court on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's lawyer told Britain's Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was not for judges to intervene over his decision to suspend parliament in the run-up to Brexit. In the second of three days of highly-charged arguments, James Eadie told the country's top court that parliament had been considering Britain's exit from the European Union for years. He argued that if MPs had needed more time, they had the opportunity to say before Johnson suspended their sitting earlier this month, barely weeks before Brexit is due to take place on October 31. Eadie said that any suggestion that Johnson's motives were improper in proroguing, or suspending parliament, were "unsustainable". Watch: No-deal Brexit could leave UK teetering × The Supreme Court is deliberating the legality of the advice Johnson gave Queen Elizabeth II to suspend parliament for five weeks until October 14, after two lower courts made conflicting rulings. Johnson, who took office in July, says he suspended parliament to open a new session with a fresh legislative agenda. His opponents claim he did so to silence opposition to his plans to take Britain out of the EU on time, with or without a divorce deal with Brussels. Eadie said any decision to prorogue parliament was "inherently and fundamentally political in nature" as it concerned managing the government's legislative agenda, curtailing parliamentary debate and deciding on when it might be appropriate to end a sitting. "This is, we submit, therefore the territory of political judgement, not legal standards," he said. "If the basic attack is this was improper purpose, motivation or effect, because it was designed to stymie parliament, we respectfully submit: that is unsustainable." He said parliament had previously passed laws on prorogation, but there was no law relevant to the case and so it was not for the court to decide upon. 'True reasons' The maximum 11 of the 12 Supreme Court judges are hearing the case, which began on Tuesday and will end on Thursday, although a decision may be deferred. Judge Nicholas Wilson questioned Eadie on the lack of a witness statement from the prime minister. "Isn't it odd that nobody has signed a witness statement to say 'this is true, these are the true reasons for what was done'?" he asked. Eadie said cabinet documents had been produced which showed the aim of prorogation was to bring forward a new legislative agenda. The Supreme Court is hearing appeals against two conflicting lower court decisions. Scotland's highest civil court called the suspension of parliament "unlawful", but the High Court in England said it was not a matter for judges. The Supreme Court must rule on whether they even have the right to adjudicate on the politically contentious issue, before considering Johnson's motivations. Unlike Tuesday's chaotic scenes, there were few protesters outside the court on Wednesday.

Not for courts to decide parliament suspension: UK PM Boris Johnson's lawyer

There is another big blow for UK's PM Boris Johnson. Scotland's highest civilian court ruled that the suspension of UK's Parliament is unlawful. UK govt reverted saying the suspension of UK Parliament is necessary. WION speaks to London Bureau chief Mandy Clark for more on this.

WION Dispatch: UK govt reverted Scotland saying 'suspension of UK Parliament is necessary'

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