The threat posed by Covid-19 is still present. Covid instances are on the rise once more worldwide, from the US to the UK. Currently, infections are surging throughout nations.

UK: Covid hospitalisations among elderly rise

Britain's home secretary Suella Braverman has said that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is the biggest threat to Britain's national security, amid fresh evidence of its reach into the country.

Braverman expressed fears that the group is stepping up its activities and is concerned by intelligence reports on Iranian spies attempting to recriut members of organised crime gangs to target opponents of the regime.

“The Iranian threat is the one that worries us the most,” a source close to the home secretary said as quoted by The Times &nbsp;“It’s a big issue because they are getting much more aggressive and their appetite is increasing. They are very defensive to anyone challenging their regime and just want to stamp it out. They are increasing their agitation.”

There have been calls for Iran's Revolutionary Guard to be proscribed as a terror organisation but such efforts have met resistance from UK's Foreign Office which has expressed concerns that such a move may permanently damage diplomatic relations between the UK and Iran.

The Sunday Times has said that it had information that reveals details of close ties between the Islamic Republic and a student organisation which is based in former Methodist church in Hammersmith, west London.

The Islamic Students Association, the student organisation, was reportedly founded to champion political and religious philosophy of Ayatollah Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran who led 1979 Islamic revolution in the country.

In the month of January this year, Mohammam Hussain Ataee, a former chairman of the association and a master's degree student at the University of Bradford, made a trip to Tehran. He met Khamanei there and a picture of him kneeling solemnly before Khamanei (84). He later received a 'blessed' keffiyeh, which is a traditional Arabic headdress as a gift.

The association's Telegram channel had reportedly made posts praising Qasem Soleimani who was a senior military officer in the Revolutionary Guards who was killed by the US. These posts described Soleimani as a "martyr" and a leader of "resistance". Another prominent Iranian figure, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh who is the assassinated chief scientists of Iran's nuclear programme was called a "martyr" in these posts.

Earlier this year, UK's Foreign Secretary Secretary James Cleverly had announced sanctions on Iran's Revolutionary Guards. But now, pressure from lawmakers in the British Parliament is increasing to proscribe the Guards.

US and Canada, two of Britain's allies in Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance have taken steps to move in such direction.

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Britain's home secretary Suella Braverman has said that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is the biggest threat to Britain's national security, amid fresh evidence of its reach into the country.

Britain's home secretary Suella Braverman has said that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is the biggest threat to Britain's national security, amid fresh evidence of its reach into the country. Braverman expressed fears that the group is stepping up its activities and is concerned by intelligence reports on Iranian spies attempting to recriut members of organised crime gangs to target opponents of the regime. “The Iranian threat is the one that worries us the most,” a source close to the home secretary said as quoted by The Times “It’s a big issue because they are getting much more aggressive and their appetite is increasing. They are very defensive to anyone challenging their regime and just want to stamp it out. They are increasing their agitation.” There have been calls for Iran's Revolutionary Guard to be proscribed as a terror organisation but such efforts have met resistance from UK's Foreign Office which has expressed concerns that such a move may permanently damage diplomatic relations between the UK and Iran. The Sunday Times has said that it had information that reveals details of close ties between the Islamic Republic and a student organisation which is based in former Methodist church in Hammersmith, west London. The Islamic Students Association, the student organisation, was reportedly founded to champion political and religious philosophy of Ayatollah Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran who led 1979 Islamic revolution in the country. In the month of January this year, Mohammam Hussain Ataee, a former chairman of the association and a master's degree student at the University of Bradford, made a trip to Tehran. He met Khamanei there and a picture of him kneeling solemnly before Khamanei (84). He later received a 'blessed' keffiyeh, which is a traditional Arabic headdress as a gift. The association's Telegram channel had reportedly made posts praising Qasem Soleimani who was a senior military officer in the Revolutionary Guards who was killed by the US. These posts described Soleimani as a "martyr" and a leader of "resistance". Another prominent Iranian figure, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh who is the assassinated chief scientists of Iran's nuclear programme was called a "martyr" in these posts. Earlier this year, UK's Foreign Secretary Secretary James Cleverly had announced sanctions on Iran's Revolutionary Guards. But now, pressure from lawmakers in the British Parliament is increasing to proscribe the Guards. US and Canada, two of Britain's allies in Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance have taken steps to move in such direction. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Braverman calls Iranian state ‘biggest threat to UK’: Report

An endangered red panda has given birth to two cubs in the Karlsruhe Zoo which is located in the southern German state of Baden-Württemberg, reported state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), on Friday (August 4).&nbsp;

This also comes days after the United Kingdom’s Whipsnade Zoo also announced the birth of twin red panda cubs. Notably, all four red panda cubs were born in two different parts of the world and share the same birthday, which is June 25.

<h2>First red panda birth in German zoo</h2>

The announcement was made on the Karlsruhe Zoo’s Facebook page where they reported the birth of male and female cubs on Friday and said the birth was the first for a red panda inside the zoo.&nbsp;

A zoo spokesman told the German DPA news agency, that the cubs were taken out of the den for the first time on August 4 for their first checkup with a veterinarian. According to the zoo’s statement, the red panda offspring are “developing very well” and were born on June 25.

The cubs have also been microchipped and currently weigh 410 and 500 grams, the statement added. “The cubs will spend the next weeks in the den and will be cared for by their mother Akuti,” said the German zoo.&nbsp;

<h2>Double hope for the species: UK zoo</h2>

Earlier, , on Wednesday (August 2), the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) announced the birth of twin red panda cubs at Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, United Kingdom. The ZSL, which runs the British zoo said that the birth of the pair, whose sex is yet to be determined offers “double hope for the species”.&nbsp;

The twin red panda cubs, at Whipsnade Zoo were also born on June 25 and each weighed just 113 grams at birth and were yet to venture out of their nest. Grant Timberlake, a zookeeper said, “We were ecstatic when we spotted her curled up in one of the nesting boxes we had prepared, using her bushy red tail to keep the two cubs warm.”&nbsp;

He also said that the red panda cubs are being taken care of by their parents Ruby and Nilo and will be named after their first visit to the veterinarian. “Ruby has been doing an incredible job feeding and caring for the twins, so we’re leaving the family to bond together, only checking in on them when she pops outside to eat,” said Timberlake, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

<h2>Endangered red pandas</h2>

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), red pandas are among the world’s endangered species. Furthermore, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) estimates that there are less than 10,000 red pandas left on Earth.&nbsp;

“These twin cubs give us double hope for the species, as they were born as part of an important European breeding programme for endangered red pandas, designed to keep a backup population safe in conservation zoos – while we tackle the issues they’re facing in the wild,” said Timberlake.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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An endangered red panda has given birth to two cubs in the Karlsruhe Zoo which is located in the southern German state of Baden-Württemberg, reported state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), on Friday (August 4).

An endangered red panda has given birth to two cubs in the Karlsruhe Zoo which is located in the southern German state of Baden-Württemberg, reported state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), on Friday (August 4). This also comes days after the United Kingdom’s Whipsnade Zoo also announced the birth of twin red panda cubs. Notably, all four red panda cubs were born in two different parts of the world and share the same birthday, which is June 25. First red panda birth in German zoo The announcement was made on the Karlsruhe Zoo’s Facebook page where they reported the birth of male and female cubs on Friday and said the birth was the first for a red panda inside the zoo. A zoo spokesman told the German DPA news agency, that the cubs were taken out of the den for the first time on August 4 for their first checkup with a veterinarian. According to the zoo’s statement, the red panda offspring are “developing very well” and were born on June 25. The cubs have also been microchipped and currently weigh 410 and 500 grams, the statement added. “The cubs will spend the next weeks in the den and will be cared for by their mother Akuti,” said the German zoo. Double hope for the species: UK zoo Earlier, , on Wednesday (August 2), the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) announced the birth of twin red panda cubs at Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, United Kingdom. The ZSL, which runs the British zoo said that the birth of the pair, whose sex is yet to be determined offers “double hope for the species”. The twin red panda cubs, at Whipsnade Zoo were also born on June 25 and each weighed just 113 grams at birth and were yet to venture out of their nest. Grant Timberlake, a zookeeper said, “We were ecstatic when we spotted her curled up in one of the nesting boxes we had prepared, using her bushy red tail to keep the two cubs warm.” He also said that the red panda cubs are being taken care of by their parents Ruby and Nilo and will be named after their first visit to the veterinarian. “Ruby has been doing an incredible job feeding and caring for the twins, so we’re leaving the family to bond together, only checking in on them when she pops outside to eat,” said Timberlake, as quoted by The Guardian. Endangered red pandas According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), red pandas are among the world’s endangered species. Furthermore, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) estimates that there are less than 10,000 red pandas left on Earth. “These twin cubs give us double hope for the species, as they were born as part of an important European breeding programme for endangered red pandas, designed to keep a backup population safe in conservation zoos – while we tackle the issues they’re facing in the wild,” said Timberlake. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Endangered red panda gives birth to two cubs at Germany’s Karlsruhe Zoo

From fanciful costumes and working drafts of Bohemian Rhapsody to ashtrays and art, hundreds of items Freddie Mercury owned go on show in Britain on Friday before being sold next month.

Sotheby's has transformed its central London gallery to resemble the Queen frontman's former home in the UK capital for the month-long exhibition, ahead of its six-stage sale of more than 1,400 lots.&nbsp;

The singer-songwriter, who died in 1991, had assembled an array of "treasures" which had been left largely untouched at his one-time West London house in the three decades since, according to the auctioneers.

They include a treasured Yamaha baby grand piano, revealed to be among the lots by Sotheby's Thursday, which Mercury composed numerous hits on. It is estimated to fetch up to £3 million (3.8 million).&nbsp; 
 
The replica of Britain's St Edward's Crown and an accompanying cloak -- in fake fur, red velvet and rhinestones -- worn by the star on stage in the 1980s is also on display.

He performed in both at the world-famous Live Aid concert in 1985 and the finale renditions of God Save The Queen&nbsp;during his last tour with the band in 1986.&nbsp;

The 16,000 square feet (1,500 sq m) multi-room showcase, which runs until September 5 -- the late singer's birthday -- also features numerous elements from his so-called Japanese collection.

Mercury had collected Japanese decorative arts, glass, graphic arts, ceramics and other objects originating from the country during his life.

"It constitutes an ensemble which is completely unique," Sotheby's Cecile Bernard told AFP during an exhibition preview.

&nbsp;Surviving school book - 
 
Furniture once used at Mercury's Garden Lodge home also forms part of the Sotheby's showcase.

A worn kitchen table, ornate cutlery and distinctive crockery hint at the entertainment, and attention to detail, the Queen frontman lavished on his guests.

A gilt-tooled leather-bound "dinner party guest and menu book", detailing seating plans, menus and refreshments -- and annotated with doodles -- helps complete the picture.

A multicoloured, illuminated 1941 Wurlitzer jukebox, which Mercury kept in his kitchen and still operates on its original coinage, is another rare item.

Loaded with records such as Ray Charles' Hallelujah I Love Her So, Little Richard's Rit It Up&nbsp;and Bill Haley's Shake, Rattle and Roll, it is estimated to net £25,000 at auction.

The musical manuscripts set for display and sale include 15 pages of working drafts for Bohemian Rhapsody, and reveal Mercury initially planned to call the hit Mongolian Rhapsody.

Meanwhile, the contents of his elaborate dressing room also feature, from jackets and sequinned stage suits to shoes to glasses.&nbsp;

A yellow "Champion" vest worn for the first half of his final Queen performance at Knebworth Park on August 9, 1986, is among them. Auction valuation: £6,000-£8,000.

A surviving school book with Fred Bulsara -- Mercury's real name -- inscribed at the front is among the rarer items.

Dating back to the mid-1960s, it features the then 18-year-old's commentary and judgement on certain poetry, as well as a poem he composed entitled Bird ('Feather flutter in the sky...')". 
 
- 'Best tribute' - 
 
The vast array of items -- being auctioned by Mary Austin, one of the icon's closest friends who cared for them at his former home -- are expected to fetch at least £6 million ($7.6 million) in total.

Austin will be donating a portion of the proceeds to the Mercury Phoenix Trust -- founded by fellow Queen members Brian May, Roger Taylor and their manager Jim Beach to support HIV/Aids initiatives -- and to the Elton John Aids Foundation.

For Bernard, helping to curate the exhibition has been a treasured experience itself, as the team tried to place pieces within Mercury's creative process and journey.

"When we went to Garden Lodge... we have been like archaeologists doing that, with so much fun," she recounted.&nbsp; 
 
Bernard added the sales -- live events in the British capital on September 6-8 and online from Friday to September 11 -- are "the best homage" to Mercury, given he "loved to collect" and buy at auctions.&nbsp;

"He was himself very familiar with the process of collections going from one owner to another so it makes sense," she said.

Some 30,000 to 40,000 items are available within the more than 1,400 lots, according to Sotheby's cataloguer Fenella Theis.&nbsp;

"Every piece is so autobiographical," she told AFP. "So every piece resembles one of Freddie's many, many, many facets of his personality."

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From fanciful costumes and working drafts of Bohemian Rhapsody to ashtrays and art, hundreds of items Freddie Mercury owned go on show in Britain on Friday before being sold next month.

From fanciful costumes and working drafts of Bohemian Rhapsody to ashtrays and art, hundreds of items Freddie Mercury owned go on show in Britain on Friday before being sold next month. Sotheby's has transformed its central London gallery to resemble the Queen frontman's former home in the UK capital for the month-long exhibition, ahead of its six-stage sale of more than 1,400 lots. The singer-songwriter, who died in 1991, had assembled an array of "treasures" which had been left largely untouched at his one-time West London house in the three decades since, according to the auctioneers. They include a treasured Yamaha baby grand piano, revealed to be among the lots by Sotheby's Thursday, which Mercury composed numerous hits on. It is estimated to fetch up to £3 million (3.8 million). The replica of Britain's St Edward's Crown and an accompanying cloak -- in fake fur, red velvet and rhinestones -- worn by the star on stage in the 1980s is also on display. He performed in both at the world-famous Live Aid concert in 1985 and the finale renditions of God Save The Queen during his last tour with the band in 1986. The 16,000 square feet (1,500 sq m) multi-room showcase, which runs until September 5 -- the late singer's birthday -- also features numerous elements from his so-called Japanese collection. Mercury had collected Japanese decorative arts, glass, graphic arts, ceramics and other objects originating from the country during his life. "It constitutes an ensemble which is completely unique," Sotheby's Cecile Bernard told AFP during an exhibition preview. Surviving school book - Furniture once used at Mercury's Garden Lodge home also forms part of the Sotheby's showcase. A worn kitchen table, ornate cutlery and distinctive crockery hint at the entertainment, and attention to detail, the Queen frontman lavished on his guests. A gilt-tooled leather-bound "dinner party guest and menu book", detailing seating plans, menus and refreshments -- and annotated with doodles -- helps complete the picture. A multicoloured, illuminated 1941 Wurlitzer jukebox, which Mercury kept in his kitchen and still operates on its original coinage, is another rare item. Loaded with records such as Ray Charles' Hallelujah I Love Her So, Little Richard's Rit It Up and Bill Haley's Shake, Rattle and Roll, it is estimated to net £25,000 at auction. The musical manuscripts set for display and sale include 15 pages of working drafts for Bohemian Rhapsody, and reveal Mercury initially planned to call the hit Mongolian Rhapsody. Meanwhile, the contents of his elaborate dressing room also feature, from jackets and sequinned stage suits to shoes to glasses. A yellow "Champion" vest worn for the first half of his final Queen performance at Knebworth Park on August 9, 1986, is among them. Auction valuation: £6,000-£8,000. A surviving school book with Fred Bulsara -- Mercury's real name -- inscribed at the front is among the rarer items. Dating back to the mid-1960s, it features the then 18-year-old's commentary and judgement on certain poetry, as well as a poem he composed entitled Bird ('Feather flutter in the sky...')". - 'Best tribute' - The vast array of items -- being auctioned by Mary Austin, one of the icon's closest friends who cared for them at his former home -- are expected to fetch at least £6 million ($7.6 million) in total. Austin will be donating a portion of the proceeds to the Mercury Phoenix Trust -- founded by fellow Queen members Brian May, Roger Taylor and their manager Jim Beach to support HIV/Aids initiatives -- and to the Elton John Aids Foundation. For Bernard, helping to curate the exhibition has been a treasured experience itself, as the team tried to place pieces within Mercury's creative process and journey. "When we went to Garden Lodge... we have been like archaeologists doing that, with so much fun," she recounted. Bernard added the sales -- live events in the British capital on September 6-8 and online from Friday to September 11 -- are "the best homage" to Mercury, given he "loved to collect" and buy at auctions. "He was himself very familiar with the process of collections going from one owner to another so it makes sense," she said. Some 30,000 to 40,000 items are available within the more than 1,400 lots, according to Sotheby's cataloguer Fenella Theis. "Every piece is so autobiographical," she told AFP. "So every piece resembles one of Freddie's many, many, many facets of his personality." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Freddie Mercury's private collection goes on show in UK

Scotland's Loch Ness famous for hosting an alleged mythical monster is facing a climate challenge. Another prolonged dry spell is now having implications on everything from native Wildlife to species. According to figures released by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency Loch Ness's fresh waters have dropped to the lowest level in decades.

Scotland witness drier, warmer weather than ever

An allegedly "racist" campaign brochure promoting a new traveler site in his district has led to a police probe into a Cabinet minister. In a flier distributed to households in July, Welsh Secretary David TC Davies expressed his worries about the inadequateness of a council consultation on the property.

UK cabinet minister's alleged 'racist' leaflet

UK has approved the construction of its first large scale lithium refinery. Run by 'green lithium', the refinery will produce critically needed material for electric car batteries.

UK's first large scale lithium refinery | World Climate Tracker

In the UK, the Bank of England is set to raise its key interest rate for the 14th time in a row, this comes as inflation in the UK stays stubbornly high.

Bank of England to raise interest rates for 14th time in a row

Britain's prime minister Rishi Sunak defends climate record despite new oil and gas licenses, says UK's climate record is fantastic.

Sunak defends UK's climate record

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to confirm that the British Government will issue 100 licences to companies that want to extract oil and gas from the North Sea.

UK PM Sunak approves more drilling in North Sea, 100 new licences accepted | World Business Watch

In England, the strike has been called off. The members of the UK's biggest Teaching Union have voted to end the strikes now after accepting the government's offer to pay a 6.5% pay rise ending fears of widespread disruption.

UK: Members of four education institutions accept 6.5% pay rise

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.&nbsp;

<h2>What does UK government plan to do?</h2>

The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted.&nbsp;

“Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office&nbsp;in a statement. &nbsp;

It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.”&nbsp;

Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals.

The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government.&nbsp;

The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.”&nbsp;

<h2>UK’s carbon capture and storage</h2>

Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030.

A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments 
 
The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea.&nbsp;

The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-deadly-heatwaves-across-europe-us-would-be-virtually-impossible-without-climate-change-619402">predominantly blaming</a> human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets.&nbsp;

“Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government.

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. What does UK government plan to do? The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted. “Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office in a statement. It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.” Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas. Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals. The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government. The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.” UK’s carbon capture and storage Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030. A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists predominantly blaming human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets. “Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK to approve ‘hundreds’ of new North Sea oil and gas licences despite net zero carbon emissions aim

UK: Education unions vote to accept pay deal

Britain has imposed sanctions on Russian judges and prosecutors involved in the trial of the Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza, who holds a dual citizenship - Russia and Britain. He lost his appeal against his 25-year jail sentence on Monday.

UK sanctions Russian judges, prosecutors; include asset freeze & travel bans | World News | WION

Despite the UK having led the imposition of Western sanctions on Russia new reports now suggest that UK manufacturers continue to supply Russia with key industrial equipment.

UK companies find loopholes to continue trade with Russia

As of now as countries battle global and inflation post the covid-19 pandemic the UK is facing a particularly tough time scrambling through a cost of living and housing crisis.

UK economy struggles with inflation

More than 20,000 rail employees went on a strike in the United Kingdom over wages job cuts and working conditions the strike by UK's largest rail Union has crippled.

UK: Train strike heavily affects services in UK

UK inflation: Post Brexit trade ties with the rest of the Europe shrinking

UK PM Rishi Sunak's energy policy deepens rift between Tories and Labour

An Indian-origin man has been sentenced to nine years in prison by a United Kingdom court after he was found guilty of attacking one of his neighbours brutally with a wooden pole.&nbsp;

As per news agency PTI, Bedfordshire Police, which conducted the probe, said that the convicted, Rishi Casseeram, aged 35, left the victim with multiple serious facial fractures as well as substantial bruising to his back.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the month of June this year when Casseeram was arrested at his flat in Luton, eastern England, and sentenced for the crime at Luton Crown Court earlier this month.

“This was an extraordinarily violent attack that left behind a truly shocking crime scene,” said Detective Sergeant Bill Haigh from Bedfordshire Police.

“The victim, in this case, will have to live with the impact of Casseeram's actions for the rest of his life. Violent thugs like Casseeram have no place on the streets of Bedfordshire. I am glad we have been able to put him behind bars for a considerable period of time,” he said.

The court heard that a few days prior to the attack, Casseeram and the victim got into a verbal fight. On June 25, 2022, the victim returned home and saw Casseeram coming towards him in his flat and before he could shut the door, the assailant forcibly got inside his house.

Surgeons who treated the victim said his wounds were consistent with being attacked with a blunt instrument like a baseball bat, said the police.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dismembered-remains-of-missing-cryptocurrency-influencer-fernando-perez-algaba-found-in-suitcase-620426">Dismembered remains of missing cryptocurrency influencer Fernando Pérez Algaba found in suitcase</a>

The victim told police officers: “I can't believe this. He just kept hitting me.”&nbsp;

Further probe by police officers revealed more shocking details about Casseeram. The police said that the convicted attacker had punched another of his neighbours in the face the day before.&nbsp;

In court, he tried to claim that someone else had attacked the victim in a grave assault. He further tried to assert that he was acting in self-defence during the other incident. However, a jury found Casseeram guilty of foisting distressing bodily harm (GBH) on purpose and attack in December last year.

At Luton Crown Court on July 21, Casseeram was sentenced to eight years in prison for the GBH and a further year in jail for the assault.

The judge called Casseeram a "dangerous" offender, who must serve a further four years on licence or monitoring.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An Indian-origin man has been sentenced to nine years in prison by a United Kingdom court after he was found guilty of attacking one of his neighbours brutally with a wooden pole.

An Indian-origin man has been sentenced to nine years in prison by a United Kingdom court after he was found guilty of attacking one of his neighbours brutally with a wooden pole. As per news agency PTI, Bedfordshire Police, which conducted the probe, said that the convicted, Rishi Casseeram, aged 35, left the victim with multiple serious facial fractures as well as substantial bruising to his back. The incident took place in the month of June this year when Casseeram was arrested at his flat in Luton, eastern England, and sentenced for the crime at Luton Crown Court earlier this month. “This was an extraordinarily violent attack that left behind a truly shocking crime scene,” said Detective Sergeant Bill Haigh from Bedfordshire Police. “The victim, in this case, will have to live with the impact of Casseeram's actions for the rest of his life. Violent thugs like Casseeram have no place on the streets of Bedfordshire. I am glad we have been able to put him behind bars for a considerable period of time,” he said. The court heard that a few days prior to the attack, Casseeram and the victim got into a verbal fight. On June 25, 2022, the victim returned home and saw Casseeram coming towards him in his flat and before he could shut the door, the assailant forcibly got inside his house. Surgeons who treated the victim said his wounds were consistent with being attacked with a blunt instrument like a baseball bat, said the police. Also read: Dismembered remains of missing cryptocurrency influencer Fernando Pérez Algaba found in suitcase The victim told police officers: “I can't believe this. He just kept hitting me.” Further probe by police officers revealed more shocking details about Casseeram. The police said that the convicted attacker had punched another of his neighbours in the face the day before. In court, he tried to claim that someone else had attacked the victim in a grave assault. He further tried to assert that he was acting in self-defence during the other incident. However, a jury found Casseeram guilty of foisting distressing bodily harm (GBH) on purpose and attack in December last year. At Luton Crown Court on July 21, Casseeram was sentenced to eight years in prison for the GBH and a further year in jail for the assault. The judge called Casseeram a "dangerous" offender, who must serve a further four years on licence or monitoring. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK: Indian-origin man sentenced to 9 years in prison for brutal attack on neighbour with wooden pole

Newly released data has revealed that banks in the UK are closing more than 1,000 accounts every working day. This has fuelled a row over so-called "debanking". Former UK Independence Party (Ukip) leader Nigel Farage has called for an investigation by a royal commission. He termed this a scandal.

Farage has now said that he was spearheading a website in order to campaign for people whose accounts had been shut by the banks.

The new information about 'debanking' has been revealed in a Freedom of Information (FoI) request made to the UK's Financial Conduct Authority. Daily Mail reported on this first on Sunday (July 30). &nbsp;

Watch | Wildlife lovers urged to join Uk's annual butterfly count

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The Freedom of Information request has revealed that in 2016-17, over 45,000 accounts were shut by banks.

The total number of accounts shut has reportedly increased every year. The number climbed to 343,000 accounts in 2021-22. This translated to the closure of much more than 1,000 bank accounts for every business day.

<h2>Little or no information</h2>

UK media has reported that when the accounts are closed, the individuals or organisations get little or no explanation for the action. Banks sometimes say that accounts are closed due to concerns over financial crimes.

Farage discovered using a subject access request that his political views had played a part in the closure of his account in Coutts, a subsidiary of NatWest.

Farage's case has already made waves. The chief executive of NatWest Group had to stand down in the wake of the controversy.

Chief executive of Coutts Peter Flavel was shown the door too. Farage has also demanded that NatWest Group's chair Sir Howard Davies stands aside.

Farage interacted with the media on Sunday and demanded an investigation by a royal commission set up, “provided it happened quickly”.

“I’ve just been inundated by small businesses, by folk all around the country. People are in absolute fear, and terror, lives being ruined, thousands of businesses being closed. These are people who have done nothing wrong whatsoever,” Farage told GB News. He works as a president there.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/school-lists-tennyson-as-queer-isle-of-white-historical-figure-draws-ire-620558">UK: School lists English poet Tennyson as ‘queer’ Isle of White historical figure, draws ire</a>

The Guardian reported an estimate that almost 90,000 individuals were categorised as “politically exposed persons”. This has reportedly led to some politicians or their families being turned down by the banks.&nbsp;

Anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller has called on FCA and the government to ensure that new parties and MPs can access services from banks. Her demand has come after digital bank Monzo recently informed her that the account of her True and Fair party would close in September.

Pro-Brexit groups have also reported facing the same problems.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Newly released data has revealed that banks in the UK are closing more than 1,000 accounts every working day. This has fuelled a row over so-called "debanking". Former UK Independence Party (Ukip) leader Nigel Farage has called for an investigation by a royal commission.

Newly released data has revealed that banks in the UK are closing more than 1,000 accounts every working day. This has fuelled a row over so-called "debanking". Former UK Independence Party (Ukip) leader Nigel Farage has called for an investigation by a royal commission. He termed this a scandal. Farage has now said that he was spearheading a website in order to campaign for people whose accounts had been shut by the banks. The new information about 'debanking' has been revealed in a Freedom of Information (FoI) request made to the UK's Financial Conduct Authority. Daily Mail reported on this first on Sunday (July 30). Watch | Wildlife lovers urged to join Uk's annual butterfly count × The Freedom of Information request has revealed that in 2016-17, over 45,000 accounts were shut by banks. The total number of accounts shut has reportedly increased every year. The number climbed to 343,000 accounts in 2021-22. This translated to the closure of much more than 1,000 bank accounts for every business day. Little or no information UK media has reported that when the accounts are closed, the individuals or organisations get little or no explanation for the action. Banks sometimes say that accounts are closed due to concerns over financial crimes. Farage discovered using a subject access request that his political views had played a part in the closure of his account in Coutts, a subsidiary of NatWest. Farage's case has already made waves. The chief executive of NatWest Group had to stand down in the wake of the controversy. Chief executive of Coutts Peter Flavel was shown the door too. Farage has also demanded that NatWest Group's chair Sir Howard Davies stands aside. Farage interacted with the media on Sunday and demanded an investigation by a royal commission set up, “provided it happened quickly”. “I’ve just been inundated by small businesses, by folk all around the country. People are in absolute fear, and terror, lives being ruined, thousands of businesses being closed. These are people who have done nothing wrong whatsoever,” Farage told GB News. He works as a president there. Also Read | UK: School lists English poet Tennyson as ‘queer’ Isle of White historical figure, draws ire The Guardian reported an estimate that almost 90,000 individuals were categorised as “politically exposed persons”. This has reportedly led to some politicians or their families being turned down by the banks. Anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller has called on FCA and the government to ensure that new parties and MPs can access services from banks. Her demand has come after digital bank Monzo recently informed her that the account of her True and Fair party would close in September. Pro-Brexit groups have also reported facing the same problems. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Banks in UK are closing more than 1,000 accounts per day: Report

Wildlife lovers across the UK are being encouraged to take part in a big butterfly count this summer. It’s the world’s largest survey of butterflies and lasts for just over two weeks until August 6th. However, the falling number of butterflies in recent decades is a matter of concern.

Wildlife lovers urged to join Uk's annual butterfly count

UK is about to start new consultation with the United States for security guarantees. The talks are a follow-up on pledge issued by G7 countries at the NATO summit in Lithuania.

Saudi Arabia to host talks on Ukraine, 30 nations to attend summit in Jeddah

In this global news, COVID-19 pandemic is long gone but it looks like the virus is still continuing to haunt the United Kingdom.

UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission

The UK rail workforce has not received a pay increase in four years, and 2300 union members just received layoff warnings. Rail industry membership organisation British Rail stated they had given unions a 13 raise in the lowest pay categories to resolve the conflict but that proposal was rejected without being put to members. The union said that rail operators and the government had not bargained in good faith.

UK rail strike disrupts family holiday travel

The world's largest butterfly survey is taking place this summer, and wildlife enthusiasts are being urged to participate. The count runs from just over two weeks until August 6th, but the recent decline in butterfly populations is cause for concern.

UK: Wildlife lovers urged to join annual butterfly count

Archaeologists unearthed a 4,000-year-old cemetery in the Shetland Islands in northern Scotland, United Kingdom, last week. The remains of what might be a Bronze Age ritual cremation cemetery were found at Shetland, in the midst&nbsp;of the construction of the UK’s first rocket launchpads, or the SaxaVord spaceport.

<h2>What was found?</h2>

The discovery was made during the groundworks for the rocket launch site on the Lamba Ness peninsula in Unst and features pits and cremated human bones and an arc of buried boulders which might date back between 2200 and 1800 BC, as per reports.&nbsp;

The site is being assessed by the AOC Archaeology group. Katie O’Connell, from the group, said that they have found several deposits of burnt bone which are “likely” associated with the remains of cremation deposits, according to BBC.&nbsp;

She also spoke about how given the number and the density of cremations it is speculated that the site was a “cremation cemetery that may have been in continuous use over time in prehistory.”&nbsp;

One of the “standout features” of the discovery is the “remains of a quartz setting,” said the AOC Archaeology member. 
 
“White quartz is often suggested to have had significance in prehistory and is found in association with burial tombs, rock art panels, and deposited carefully at domestic sites,” O’Connell said, as quoted by the BBC.&nbsp;

<h2>From Bronze Age to Space Age</h2>

In an interview, Shetland’s regional archaeologist Val Turner told Live Science, “You couldn’t see anything at all above the surface.”

The alignments of the boulders, pits and the quartz rock setting, also suggest there may have been a ritual complex at the site, said Turner.&nbsp;

She also noted that while the archipelago is home to thousands of archaeological sites, this is the first Bronze Age cremation cemetery and called the discovery “hugely exciting”.&nbsp;

Turner also told Live Science, that the scientists have sought to conduct ancient DNA analysis, if possible, in order to determine the number of people buried there and what else can be found about the site itself.&nbsp;

British media reports, citing officials, said that the discovery is not expected to hamper the ongoing work at the site. The SaxaVord spaceport on the Lamba Ness peninsula is scheduled to witness its first rocket launch in October. If successful, it will become the first vertical rocket launched from anywhere in the UK. &nbsp;

SaxaVord Spaceport plans to build three commercial launch pads and a ground station at the site but is now reportedly considering preserving the ancient cemetery.&nbsp;

“This is a tremendously exciting discovery and we will be supporting further study of the remains to find out the full story,” said SaxaVord spaceport chief executive Frank Strang, last week.&nbsp;

He added, “With Unst’s Viking heritage, we had always thought of the timespan from the longship to the spaceship. Now we know there has been activity on our site for more than 4,000 years it’s the Bronze Age to the Space Age.” 
 
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Archaeologists unearthed a 4,000-year-old cemetery in the Shetland Islands in northern Scotland, United Kingdom, last week. The remains of what might be a Bronze Age ritual cremation cemetery were found at Shetland, in the midst of the construction of the UK’s first rocket launchpads, or the SaxaVord spaceport.

Archaeologists unearthed a 4,000-year-old cemetery in the Shetland Islands in northern Scotland, United Kingdom, last week. The remains of what might be a Bronze Age ritual cremation cemetery were found at Shetland, in the midst of the construction of the UK’s first rocket launchpads, or the SaxaVord spaceport. What was found? The discovery was made during the groundworks for the rocket launch site on the Lamba Ness peninsula in Unst and features pits and cremated human bones and an arc of buried boulders which might date back between 2200 and 1800 BC, as per reports. The site is being assessed by the AOC Archaeology group. Katie O’Connell, from the group, said that they have found several deposits of burnt bone which are “likely” associated with the remains of cremation deposits, according to BBC. She also spoke about how given the number and the density of cremations it is speculated that the site was a “cremation cemetery that may have been in continuous use over time in prehistory.” One of the “standout features” of the discovery is the “remains of a quartz setting,” said the AOC Archaeology member. “White quartz is often suggested to have had significance in prehistory and is found in association with burial tombs, rock art panels, and deposited carefully at domestic sites,” O’Connell said, as quoted by the BBC. From Bronze Age to Space Age In an interview, Shetland’s regional archaeologist Val Turner told Live Science, “You couldn’t see anything at all above the surface.” The alignments of the boulders, pits and the quartz rock setting, also suggest there may have been a ritual complex at the site, said Turner. She also noted that while the archipelago is home to thousands of archaeological sites, this is the first Bronze Age cremation cemetery and called the discovery “hugely exciting”. Turner also told Live Science, that the scientists have sought to conduct ancient DNA analysis, if possible, in order to determine the number of people buried there and what else can be found about the site itself. British media reports, citing officials, said that the discovery is not expected to hamper the ongoing work at the site. The SaxaVord spaceport on the Lamba Ness peninsula is scheduled to witness its first rocket launch in October. If successful, it will become the first vertical rocket launched from anywhere in the UK. SaxaVord Spaceport plans to build three commercial launch pads and a ground station at the site but is now reportedly considering preserving the ancient cemetery. “This is a tremendously exciting discovery and we will be supporting further study of the remains to find out the full story,” said SaxaVord spaceport chief executive Frank Strang, last week. He added, “With Unst’s Viking heritage, we had always thought of the timespan from the longship to the spaceship. Now we know there has been activity on our site for more than 4,000 years it’s the Bronze Age to the Space Age.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Bronze Age to Space Age’: 4,000-year-old cemetery discovered at UK’s Shetland spaceport site

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.

"We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28).

Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end.

India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services.

If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year.

Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union.

It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year.

Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6%

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The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce &amp; Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London.

<h2>Things not final yet</h2>

Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector.

In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said.

Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uk-conclude-11th-round-of-negotiations-for-fta-next-round-of-talks-to-take-place-in-coming-months-619027">India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months</a>

"Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly.

India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal.

Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official. "We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28). Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end. India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services. If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year. Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union. It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year. Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6% × The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London. Things not final yet Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector. In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said. Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities. Also Read | India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months "Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly. India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal. Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Done deal? India-UK free trade agreement may be signed this year: Official

A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the British media report claim?</h2>

The report is said to be based on a sting operation conducted by The Daily Mail and published earlier this week. An undercover reporter posing as an Indian national who arrived in Britain illegally on a small boat looking for work was charged thousands of pounds and advised to claim asylum under false pretences in the UK, said the British media report.&nbsp;

According to the report, illegal migrants from the Indian state of Punjab, are allegedly advised by some lawyers in the UK to fake persecution over their support for Khalistani groups &nbsp;– a discredited separatist movement that calls for the break-up of Punjab – to apply for asylum in the country.&nbsp;

One of the lawyers&nbsp;asked for 10,000 pounds ($12,873) to create a “horrific” backstory for the reporter pretending to be an illegal immigrant for the asylum application. These claims reportedly included “sexual torture, beatings, slave labour, false imprisonment and death threats that left him suicidal and compelled to flee to the UK.”

The lawyer in question also boasted about a “success rate of more than 90 per cent” in such cases, reported The Daily Mail. Another lawyer said he would use what he referred to as “fine ingredients of an asylum case” and make it look like the “reporter feared for his life in India”. This would include “anti-government political allegiances, a love affair with someone from the wrong caste or being gay,” according to the British media report.

A separate lawyer who charged the British reporter, posing as a farmer, 5,500 pounds ($7,076) told him to claim that he participated in the farmers’ agitation and that “someone invited him to join the Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh,” and “now he fears the Indian security agencies are after him.”&nbsp;

According to the British media report, there were 74,751 asylum applications, relating to nearly 90,000 people, in 2022 – more than twice the number of applications in 2019 – with just under half from people who arrived by small boat. However, nearly one in four asylum claimants whose applications were rejected by the UK Home Office were&nbsp;appealed, last year, reported The Daily Mail.

<h2>UK PM reacts to the report</h2>

The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and shared the story by The Daily Mail and criticised the solicitors exposed during the sting operation and said, “This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs – they’re all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it.”&nbsp;

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This is what we’re up against. 
 
The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs - they're all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. 
 
I have a plan to stop it. 
 
Here’s how 🧵<a href="https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ">https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ</a>
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1683782095213035522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>UK watchdog launches investigation&nbsp;</h2>

A member of Sunak’s cabinet in the Ministry of Justice, Alex Chalk in a letter to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) called for “full force of sanctions” against solicitors found to be abusing the country’s immigration system.

In response, an SRA spokesperson said, “We can confirm we are investigating the firms/individuals. As a result of the information provided, we are looking to take urgent action to make sure the public are protected.”&nbsp;

The SRA, which monitors more than 200,000 solicitors in England and Wales, also has the power to close down firms. Reportedly, up to 40 firms are being monitored by the authorities for suspected asylum claim abuses.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims.

A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules. What did the British media report claim? The report is said to be based on a sting operation conducted by The Daily Mail and published earlier this week. An undercover reporter posing as an Indian national who arrived in Britain illegally on a small boat looking for work was charged thousands of pounds and advised to claim asylum under false pretences in the UK, said the British media report. According to the report, illegal migrants from the Indian state of Punjab, are allegedly advised by some lawyers in the UK to fake persecution over their support for Khalistani groups – a discredited separatist movement that calls for the break-up of Punjab – to apply for asylum in the country. One of the lawyers asked for 10,000 pounds ($12,873) to create a “horrific” backstory for the reporter pretending to be an illegal immigrant for the asylum application. These claims reportedly included “sexual torture, beatings, slave labour, false imprisonment and death threats that left him suicidal and compelled to flee to the UK.” The lawyer in question also boasted about a “success rate of more than 90 per cent” in such cases, reported The Daily Mail. Another lawyer said he would use what he referred to as “fine ingredients of an asylum case” and make it look like the “reporter feared for his life in India”. This would include “anti-government political allegiances, a love affair with someone from the wrong caste or being gay,” according to the British media report. A separate lawyer who charged the British reporter, posing as a farmer, 5,500 pounds ($7,076) told him to claim that he participated in the farmers’ agitation and that “someone invited him to join the Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh,” and “now he fears the Indian security agencies are after him.” According to the British media report, there were 74,751 asylum applications, relating to nearly 90,000 people, in 2022 – more than twice the number of applications in 2019 – with just under half from people who arrived by small boat. However, nearly one in four asylum claimants whose applications were rejected by the UK Home Office were appealed, last year, reported The Daily Mail. UK PM reacts to the report The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and shared the story by The Daily Mail and criticised the solicitors exposed during the sting operation and said, “This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs – they’re all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it.” This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs - they're all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it. Here’s how 🧵https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 25, 2023 × UK watchdog launches investigation A member of Sunak’s cabinet in the Ministry of Justice, Alex Chalk in a letter to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) called for “full force of sanctions” against solicitors found to be abusing the country’s immigration system. In response, an SRA spokesperson said, “We can confirm we are investigating the firms/individuals. As a result of the information provided, we are looking to take urgent action to make sure the public are protected.” The SRA, which monitors more than 200,000 solicitors in England and Wales, also has the power to close down firms. Reportedly, up to 40 firms are being monitored by the authorities for suspected asylum claim abuses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK lawyers ask illegal immigrants from India to pose as Khalistanis to claim asylum: Report

The head of Niger's presidential guard, General Abdourahamane Tiani, on Friday, appeared on state television to defend this week's military coup, reiterating that the soldiers in the country had acted to safeguard national security.&nbsp;In other news,&nbsp;As per a British media report, Indian immigrants who entered the UK illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims.

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A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules.&nbsp;

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The Russian military claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles, on Friday (July 28), over the southwestern city of Taganrog near the border with Ukraine and a second one near the city of Azov. Over a dozen people were reported injured in Taganrog, said the regional governor, which Moscow claimed was after it intercepted a missile over the city.&nbsp;

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Hong Kong’s High Court, on Friday (July 28), rejected the government’s bid to ban the protest song, “Glory to Hong Kong”,&nbsp;saying it could undermine freedom of expression and cause potential “chilling effects” on freedom of speech. The song in question was widely sung and played as an anthem by demonstrators during the 2019 pro-democracy protests.&nbsp;

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The head of Niger's presidential guard, General Abdourahamane Tiani, on Friday, appeared on state television to defend this week's military coup, reiterating that the soldiers in the country had acted to safeguard national security.

The head of Niger's presidential guard, General Abdourahamane Tiani, on Friday, appeared on state television to defend this week's military coup, reiterating that the soldiers in the country had acted to safeguard national security. In other news, As per a British media report, Indian immigrants who entered the UK illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. Click on the headlines to read more: Niger general Abdourahamane Tiani declares himself president on state TV The chief of the Presidential Guard has been named "president of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland," a statement said, with elected President Mohamed Bazoum detained by army putschists since Wednesday morning. Tesla factory 'active attacker' situation turns out to be false A "shots fired" call from Tesla factory in Austin, Texas, as per reports, has proven to be a false alarm. On Friday, it was reported that Elon Musk's Tesla Giga Factory was in the grip of an active shooter situation. Pictures circulating on the internet showed workers standing outside the massive factory. UK lawyers ask Indian illegal immigrants to pose as Khalistanis to seek asylum A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules. Won’t stop 2024 presidential campaign even if convicted: Donald Trump Former US president Donald Trump has said that he would continue his 2024 presidential campaign even if he is sentenced and convicted in various charges against him. Done deal? India-UK trade agreement may be signed this year: Official India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official. Broad scripts history to become first bowler to scalp 150 wickets vs Aus England’s Stuart Broad has scripted history against Australia on Day 2 of the final Ashes Test as the hosts gained control of the contest. Playing in his 167th Test match, Broad became the first bowler to scalp 150 wickets against Australia in the Test format on Friday, July 28. He had previously broken the record of Ian Botham to become the highest-wicket taker against Australia. Virgins, vitality and penile implants: Shocking report uncovers Wagner chief's harem of young girls A recent report by a publication run by an exiled Russian journalist has revealed disturbing information about Prigozhin, whose personal life has for long remained an enigma. Moscow claims to have shot down Ukrainian missiles over Russian cities Taganrog, Azov The Russian military claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles, on Friday (July 28), over the southwestern city of Taganrog near the border with Ukraine and a second one near the city of Azov. Over a dozen people were reported injured in Taganrog, said the regional governor, which Moscow claimed was after it intercepted a missile over the city. Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden admitted to a federal judge on Wednesday that he received around $600,000 from a company that was backed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which in a way contradicted claims made by his father earlier that no one in his family had ever “made money from China.” Hong Kong high court dismisses government’s attempt to ban protest song Hong Kong’s High Court, on Friday (July 28), rejected the government’s bid to ban the protest song, “Glory to Hong Kong”, saying it could undermine freedom of expression and cause potential “chilling effects” on freedom of speech. The song in question was widely sung and played as an anthem by demonstrators during the 2019 pro-democracy protests.

Top 10 world news: Niger general declares himself president, 2024 US presidential campaign, and more

The UK government has taken another step towards keeping its promise to stop illegal immigration, and reports suggest that it may use tents to house 200 migrants. However, just recently, the UK home office purchased ten additional tents to house these migrants, as part of the plans introduced by Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

UK government buys tents to house asylum seekers : Reports

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