A recent analysis comparing industry pledges to climate action by the France-based group Reclaim Finance shows banks and financial institutions, a part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) initiative, continue to invest billions in fossil fuels. The initiative launched by the former Bank of England governor, Mark Carney, in 2021 includes 450 organisations across 45 countries with assets of more than $130 trillion who signed up to align their investments with the goal of limiting global temperature rise by 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

The report published, on Tuesday (January 17), by 13 NGOs, including Reclaim Finance claims that 56 of the largest member banks of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), a subgroup under GFANZ have provided $270 billion to 102 major fossil fuel developers through 134 loans and 215 underwriting arrangements. This includes several major banks across Europe, the United Kingdom as well as the United States. &nbsp; 
 
"These 102 companies are currently planning to bring into production an extra 137 billion barrels of oil equivalent, equal to 60 per cent&nbsp;of the new oil and gas the industry intends to bring on-line by 2030," stated the report.&nbsp;

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🚨 NEW REPORT: since joining the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GFANZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GFANZ</a>, financial institutions have provided HUNDREDS OF BILLIONS of $ to fossil fuel expansion 💣 
 
It's the finding of a report published today by 13 NGOs including Reclaim Finance.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GFANZFuelsFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GFANZFuelsFire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wef23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wef23</a> <a href="https://t.co/iYWzgEPEeI">pic.twitter.com/iYWzgEPEeI</a>
— Reclaim Finance (@ReclaimFinance) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReclaimFinance/status/1615264364654649345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“GFANZ members are acting as climate arsonists. They’ve pledged to achieve net zero but are continuing to pour hundreds of billions of dollars into fossil fuel developers,” said Paddy McCully, senior analyst and the author of the report, as per the Guardian. He added, “GFANZ and its member alliances will only be credible once they up their game and insist that their members help bring a rapid end to the era of coal, oil and fossil gas expansion.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-big-central-banks-financing-deforestation-of-brazils-amazon-forest-report-520610">Three big central banks financing Brazil’s Amazon forest deforestation firms: Report</a>

Meanwhile, 58 of the largest members of Net Zero Asset Managers (NZAM), another group under GFANZ hold at least $847 billion in stocks and bonds in 201 major fossil fuel companies, as of September last year, said the report. According to the&nbsp;France-based group,&nbsp;the fossil fuel companies in question&nbsp;develop new coal-related power plants, mines and infrastructure or new oil and gas fields, pipelines and terminals.&nbsp;

The report accounts for 161 GFANZ members who have provided financial support to at least 230 of the world’s largest fossil fuel developers. Some of the major names from Wall Street include Citigroup and Bank of America (BofA) who have reportedly contributed at least $53 billion to oil, gas and coal firms either in underwriting or lending since they became a part of the NZBA in April 2021. In the UK, Legal &amp; General Investment Management Limited (LGIM), which is the biggest company in the country to be a part of the initiative, held at least $13 billion worth of assets in fossil fuel developers, said the report.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-united-states-protests-against-world-bank-investing-in-fossil-fuels-525204">WION Climate Tracker | United States: Protests against World Bank investing in fossil fuels</a>

“The science is very clear: we must stop the development of new coal, oil and gas projects as soon as possible if we are to meet our climate objectives and avoid a doomsday scenario. . Yet it is business as usual for the majority of banks and investors who continue to support booming fossil fuel companies without restriction, despite their high-profile commitments to carbon neutrality,” said Lucie Pinson founder of Reclaim Finance, in a statement. She also went on to accuse banks and investors of “greenwashing” and called it “damaging” as it casts a doubt on all net zero commitments as well as undermines efforts of people who really act for the climate.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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A recent analysis comparing industry pledges to climate action by the France-based group Reclaim Finance shows banks and financial institutions, a part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) initiative, continue to invest billions in fossil fuels.

A recent analysis comparing industry pledges to climate action by the France-based group Reclaim Finance shows banks and financial institutions, a part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) initiative, continue to invest billions in fossil fuels. The initiative launched by the former Bank of England governor, Mark Carney, in 2021 includes 450 organisations across 45 countries with assets of more than $130 trillion who signed up to align their investments with the goal of limiting global temperature rise by 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The report published, on Tuesday (January 17), by 13 NGOs, including Reclaim Finance claims that 56 of the largest member banks of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), a subgroup under GFANZ have provided $270 billion to 102 major fossil fuel developers through 134 loans and 215 underwriting arrangements. This includes several major banks across Europe, the United Kingdom as well as the United States. "These 102 companies are currently planning to bring into production an extra 137 billion barrels of oil equivalent, equal to 60 per cent of the new oil and gas the industry intends to bring on-line by 2030," stated the report. 🚨 NEW REPORT: since joining the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero #GFANZ, financial institutions have provided HUNDREDS OF BILLIONS of $ to fossil fuel expansion 💣 It's the finding of a report published today by 13 NGOs including Reclaim Finance.#GFANZFuelsFire #wef23 pic.twitter.com/iYWzgEPEeI — Reclaim Finance (@ReclaimFinance) January 17, 2023 × “GFANZ members are acting as climate arsonists. They’ve pledged to achieve net zero but are continuing to pour hundreds of billions of dollars into fossil fuel developers,” said Paddy McCully, senior analyst and the author of the report, as per the Guardian. He added, “GFANZ and its member alliances will only be credible once they up their game and insist that their members help bring a rapid end to the era of coal, oil and fossil gas expansion.” ALSO READ | Three big central banks financing Brazil’s Amazon forest deforestation firms: Report Meanwhile, 58 of the largest members of Net Zero Asset Managers (NZAM), another group under GFANZ hold at least $847 billion in stocks and bonds in 201 major fossil fuel companies, as of September last year, said the report. According to the France-based group, the fossil fuel companies in question develop new coal-related power plants, mines and infrastructure or new oil and gas fields, pipelines and terminals. The report accounts for 161 GFANZ members who have provided financial support to at least 230 of the world’s largest fossil fuel developers. Some of the major names from Wall Street include Citigroup and Bank of America (BofA) who have reportedly contributed at least $53 billion to oil, gas and coal firms either in underwriting or lending since they became a part of the NZBA in April 2021. In the UK, Legal & General Investment Management Limited (LGIM), which is the biggest company in the country to be a part of the initiative, held at least $13 billion worth of assets in fossil fuel developers, said the report. ALSO WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | United States: Protests against World Bank investing in fossil fuels “The science is very clear: we must stop the development of new coal, oil and gas projects as soon as possible if we are to meet our climate objectives and avoid a doomsday scenario. . Yet it is business as usual for the majority of banks and investors who continue to support booming fossil fuel companies without restriction, despite their high-profile commitments to carbon neutrality,” said Lucie Pinson founder of Reclaim Finance, in a statement. She also went on to accuse banks and investors of “greenwashing” and called it “damaging” as it casts a doubt on all net zero commitments as well as undermines efforts of people who really act for the climate. 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.

‘Climate arsonists’: Financial actors invest billions into fossil fuels despite net zero pledges, says study

Environmental campaigners have launched legal bids against the UK government's approval of the nation's first new coal mine in decades. Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Environmental groups take legal action against UK coal mine

The weather is getting colder day by day in the United Kingdom and in some parts of the country, the temperatures always drop to such drastic levels that the entire region comes to a standstill. To help residents of such areas across England and Wales, the government of the United Kingdom release cold weather payments each year.&nbsp;

<h2>Which all regions will receive the Cold Weather Payment?</h2>

All the regions having an average temperature of zero degree celsius or below for over seven consecutive days will receive this cold weather payment. An amount of £25 ($30.64) for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March will be given in these regions.&nbsp;

<h2>How to claim Cold Weather Payment?</h2>

You do not need to apply. If you’re eligible to get a Cold Weather Payment, you’ll be paid it automatically.

In case you do not receive your Cold Weather Payment, tell the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus if you think you should’ve received a Cold Weather Payment but you have not.

<h2>Eligibility for Cold Weather Payment</h2>

You may get Cold Weather Payments if you’re getting:

1. Pension Credit

2. Income Support

3. Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

4. Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

5. Universal Credit

6. Support for Mortgage Interest

<h2>Postcodes eligible for one Cold Weather Payment worth £25</h2>

Aberporth: SA35-48, SA64-65

Almondsbury: BS1-11, BS13-16, BS20-24, BS29-32, BS34-37, BS39-41, BS48-49, GL11-13, NP16, NP26

Andrewsfield – CB1-5, CB10-11, CB21-25, CM1-9, CM11-24, CM77, CO9, RM4, SG8-11

Bainbridge: DL8

Boscombe Down: BA12, RG28, SO20-23,SP1-5, SP7, SP9-11

Bramham: HG1–5, LS1-20, LS22-28, YO1, YO8, YO10, YO19, YO23-24, YO26, YO30-32, YO41-43, YO51, YO60-61

Brize Norton: OX1-6, OX8, OX11-14, OX18, OX20, OX25-29, SN7

Capel Curig: LL24-25, LL41

Charlwood: BN5-6, BN44, GU5-6, ME6, ME14-20, RH1-20, TN1-20, TN22, TN27

Charterhall: NE71

Chivenor: EX23, EX31-34, EX39

Coleshill: B1-21, B23-38, B40, B42-50, B60-80, B90-98, CV1-12, CV21-23, CV31-35, CV3 CV47, DY1-14, LE10, WS1-15, WV1-16

Crosby: CH41-49, CH60-66, FY1-8, L1-40, PR1-5, PR8-9, PR25-26

Dunkeswell Aerodrome: DT6-8, EX13-15, TA21

Fylingdales: YO13, YO18, YO21-22, YO62

Hawarden Airport: CH1-8, LL11-14, SY14

Heathrow: BR1-4, CR0, CR2-8, E1-18, E20, E1W, EN1-5, EN7-11, HA0-9, IG1-11, KT1-24, N1-22, NW1-11, SE1-28, SL0, SL3, SM1-7, SW2-20, TW1-20, UB1-11, W2-14

Hereford-Credenhill: GL1-6, GL10, GL14-20, GL50-53, HR1-9, NP7-8, NP15, NP25, SY8, WR1-11, WR13-15

Herstmonceux West End: BN7-8, BN20-24, BN26-27, TN21, TN31-40

Hurn: BH1-25, BH31, DT1-2, DT11, SP6

Keele: CW1-3, CW5, CW12, ST1-8, ST11-12, ST14-21

Lake Vrnwy: LL20-21, LL23, SY10, SY15-17, SY19, SY21-22

Leconfield: DN14, HU1-20, YO11-12, YO14-17, YO25

Leek: DE4, DE45, S32-33, SK13, SK17, SK22-23, ST9-10, ST13

Leeming: DL1-DL3, DL6,DL7, DL9, DL10, TS9, S16 YO7

Liscombe: EX16, EX35-36, TA22, TA24.

Loftus: SR8, TS1-8, TS10-14, TS17-20

Marham: CB6-7, IP24-28, PE12-14, PE30-38

Mona: LL33-34, LL42-49, LL51-78

Morpeth, Cockle Park: NE22, NE24, NE61-70

North Wyke: EX17-22, EX37-38, PL19-21, TQ10-11, TQ13

Nottingham Watnall: CV13, DE1-3, DE5-7, DE11-15, DE21-24, DE55-56, DE65, DE72-75, LE1-9, LE11-14, LE16-19, LE65, LE67, NG1-22, NG25, NG31-34

Odiham: GU1-4, GU7-35, GU46-47, GU51-52, RG1-2, RG4-8, RG10, RG12, RG14, RG18-27, RG29-31, RG40-42, RG45, SL1-2, SL4-6, SO24

Pembury Sands: SA1-8, SA14-18, SA31-34, SA61-63, SA66-73

Rhyl: LL15-19, LL22, LL26-32.

Rothamsted: AL1-10, EN6, HP1-4, LU1-7, SG1-4, SG12-14, WD3-7, WD17-19, WD23-25

Shawbury: SY1-6, SY11-13, TF1-13

Sheffield: DN1–8, DN11-12,HD1-2, HD4-6, S1-14, S17-18, S20-21, S25-26, S35, S40-45, S60-66, S70-75, S80-81, WF1-17.

Shoeburyness: BR5-8, CM0, CT5-6, DA1-18, ME1-5, ME7-13, RM1-3, RM5-20, SS0-9, SS11-17

Stonyhurst: BB1-3, BB5-7, LA2, LA6-7, PR6

St Bees Head: CA13-15, CA18-28

Thorney Island: BN1-3, BN9-18, BN25, BN41-43, BN45, PO1-22, PO30-41, SO14-19, SO30-32, SO40-43, SO45, SO50-53

Tibenham: NR1-35

Waddington: DN9-10, DN13, DN15-22, DN31-41, LN1-13, NG23-24, PE10-11, PE20-25.

Walney Island: LA1, LA3-5, LA11-20

Wattisham – CB8-9, CO1-8, CO10-16, IP1-23, IP29-33

Westonbirt: BA1-3, BA11, BA13-15, GL7-9, RG17, SN1-6, SN8-16, SN25-26

Wittering – LE15, NN14-18, PE1-9, PE15-17, PE26-29

<h2>Postcodes eligible for two Cold Weather Payments worth £50</h2>

Albemarle: DH1-7, DH9, DL4-5, DL14-17, NE1-13, NE15-18, NE20-21, NE23, NE25-46, SR1-7, TS21, TS28-29

Bainbridge: BD23-24, DL11-13

Benson: HP5-23, HP27, OX9, OX10, OX33, OX39, OX44, OX49, RG9, SL7-9

Bingley: BB4, BB8-12, BB18, BD1-22, HD3, HD7-9, HX1-7, LS21, LS29, OL13-14, S36

Carlisle: CA1-8, DG12, DG16

Exeter Airport: EX1-12, EX24, TQ1-6, TQ9, TQ12, TQ14

Libanus: NP4, NP11-13, NP22-24, NP44, SA9

Little Rissington: CV36, GL54-56, OX7, OX15-17, WR12

Llysdinam: LD1-2, LD4-8, SA19-20, SY7, SY9, SY18

Redesdale: CA9, DH8, NE19, NE47-49

Rochdale: BL0-9, M24, M26, OL1-12, OL15-16,SK15

Rostherne: CW4, CW6-11, M1-9, M11-23, M25, M27-35, M38, M40-41, M43-46, M50, M90, PR7, SK1-12, SK14, SK16, WA1-16, WN1-8

Shap: CA10-12, CA16-17, LA8-10, LA21-23

Stowe: NN1-7 NN11-13, MK18

Trawsgoed: LL35-40, SY20, SY23-25

Woburn: MK1-17, MK19, MK40-46, NN8-10, NN29, PE19, SG5-7, SG15-19

Yeovilton: BA4-10, BA16, BA20-22, BS25-28, DT9-10, SP8, TA1-20, TA23

<h2>Postcodes eligible for three Cold Weather Payments worth £75</h2>

Eskdalemuir: DG14, TD9 
&nbsp;

The weather is getting colder day by day in the United Kingdom and in some parts of the country, the temperatures always drop to such drastic levels that the entire region comes to a standstill.

The weather is getting colder day by day in the United Kingdom and in some parts of the country, the temperatures always drop to such drastic levels that the entire region comes to a standstill. To help residents of such areas across England and Wales, the government of the United Kingdom release cold weather payments each year. Which all regions will receive the Cold Weather Payment? All the regions having an average temperature of zero degree celsius or below for over seven consecutive days will receive this cold weather payment. An amount of £25 ($30.64) for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March will be given in these regions. How to claim Cold Weather Payment? You do not need to apply. If you’re eligible to get a Cold Weather Payment, you’ll be paid it automatically. In case you do not receive your Cold Weather Payment, tell the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus if you think you should’ve received a Cold Weather Payment but you have not. Eligibility for Cold Weather Payment You may get Cold Weather Payments if you’re getting: 1. Pension Credit 2. Income Support 3. Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance 4. Income-related Employment and Support Allowance 5. Universal Credit 6. Support for Mortgage Interest Postcodes eligible for one Cold Weather Payment worth £25 Aberporth: SA35-48, SA64-65 Almondsbury: BS1-11, BS13-16, BS20-24, BS29-32, BS34-37, BS39-41, BS48-49, GL11-13, NP16, NP26 Andrewsfield – CB1-5, CB10-11, CB21-25, CM1-9, CM11-24, CM77, CO9, RM4, SG8-11 Bainbridge: DL8 Boscombe Down: BA12, RG28, SO20-23,SP1-5, SP7, SP9-11 Bramham: HG1–5, LS1-20, LS22-28, YO1, YO8, YO10, YO19, YO23-24, YO26, YO30-32, YO41-43, YO51, YO60-61 Brize Norton: OX1-6, OX8, OX11-14, OX18, OX20, OX25-29, SN7 Capel Curig: LL24-25, LL41 Charlwood: BN5-6, BN44, GU5-6, ME6, ME14-20, RH1-20, TN1-20, TN22, TN27 Charterhall: NE71 Chivenor: EX23, EX31-34, EX39 Coleshill: B1-21, B23-38, B40, B42-50, B60-80, B90-98, CV1-12, CV21-23, CV31-35, CV3 CV47, DY1-14, LE10, WS1-15, WV1-16 Crosby: CH41-49, CH60-66, FY1-8, L1-40, PR1-5, PR8-9, PR25-26 Dunkeswell Aerodrome: DT6-8, EX13-15, TA21 Fylingdales: YO13, YO18, YO21-22, YO62 Hawarden Airport: CH1-8, LL11-14, SY14 Heathrow: BR1-4, CR0, CR2-8, E1-18, E20, E1W, EN1-5, EN7-11, HA0-9, IG1-11, KT1-24, N1-22, NW1-11, SE1-28, SL0, SL3, SM1-7, SW2-20, TW1-20, UB1-11, W2-14 Hereford-Credenhill: GL1-6, GL10, GL14-20, GL50-53, HR1-9, NP7-8, NP15, NP25, SY8, WR1-11, WR13-15 Herstmonceux West End: BN7-8, BN20-24, BN26-27, TN21, TN31-40 Hurn: BH1-25, BH31, DT1-2, DT11, SP6 Keele: CW1-3, CW5, CW12, ST1-8, ST11-12, ST14-21 Lake Vrnwy: LL20-21, LL23, SY10, SY15-17, SY19, SY21-22 Leconfield: DN14, HU1-20, YO11-12, YO14-17, YO25 Leek: DE4, DE45, S32-33, SK13, SK17, SK22-23, ST9-10, ST13 Leeming: DL1-DL3, DL6,DL7, DL9, DL10, TS9, S16 YO7 Liscombe: EX16, EX35-36, TA22, TA24. Loftus: SR8, TS1-8, TS10-14, TS17-20 Marham: CB6-7, IP24-28, PE12-14, PE30-38 Mona: LL33-34, LL42-49, LL51-78 Morpeth, Cockle Park: NE22, NE24, NE61-70 North Wyke: EX17-22, EX37-38, PL19-21, TQ10-11, TQ13 Nottingham Watnall: CV13, DE1-3, DE5-7, DE11-15, DE21-24, DE55-56, DE65, DE72-75, LE1-9, LE11-14, LE16-19, LE65, LE67, NG1-22, NG25, NG31-34 Odiham: GU1-4, GU7-35, GU46-47, GU51-52, RG1-2, RG4-8, RG10, RG12, RG14, RG18-27, RG29-31, RG40-42, RG45, SL1-2, SL4-6, SO24 Pembury Sands: SA1-8, SA14-18, SA31-34, SA61-63, SA66-73 Rhyl: LL15-19, LL22, LL26-32. Rothamsted: AL1-10, EN6, HP1-4, LU1-7, SG1-4, SG12-14, WD3-7, WD17-19, WD23-25 Shawbury: SY1-6, SY11-13, TF1-13 Sheffield: DN1–8, DN11-12,HD1-2, HD4-6, S1-14, S17-18, S20-21, S25-26, S35, S40-45, S60-66, S70-75, S80-81, WF1-17. Shoeburyness: BR5-8, CM0, CT5-6, DA1-18, ME1-5, ME7-13, RM1-3, RM5-20, SS0-9, SS11-17 Stonyhurst: BB1-3, BB5-7, LA2, LA6-7, PR6 St Bees Head: CA13-15, CA18-28 Thorney Island: BN1-3, BN9-18, BN25, BN41-43, BN45, PO1-22, PO30-41, SO14-19, SO30-32, SO40-43, SO45, SO50-53 Tibenham: NR1-35 Waddington: DN9-10, DN13, DN15-22, DN31-41, LN1-13, NG23-24, PE10-11, PE20-25. Walney Island: LA1, LA3-5, LA11-20 Wattisham – CB8-9, CO1-8, CO10-16, IP1-23, IP29-33 Westonbirt: BA1-3, BA11, BA13-15, GL7-9, RG17, SN1-6, SN8-16, SN25-26 Wittering – LE15, NN14-18, PE1-9, PE15-17, PE26-29 Postcodes eligible for two Cold Weather Payments worth £50 Albemarle: DH1-7, DH9, DL4-5, DL14-17, NE1-13, NE15-18, NE20-21, NE23, NE25-46, SR1-7, TS21, TS28-29 Bainbridge: BD23-24, DL11-13 Benson: HP5-23, HP27, OX9, OX10, OX33, OX39, OX44, OX49, RG9, SL7-9 Bingley: BB4, BB8-12, BB18, BD1-22, HD3, HD7-9, HX1-7, LS21, LS29, OL13-14, S36 Carlisle: CA1-8, DG12, DG16 Exeter Airport: EX1-12, EX24, TQ1-6, TQ9, TQ12, TQ14 Libanus: NP4, NP11-13, NP22-24, NP44, SA9 Little Rissington: CV36, GL54-56, OX7, OX15-17, WR12 Llysdinam: LD1-2, LD4-8, SA19-20, SY7, SY9, SY18 Redesdale: CA9, DH8, NE19, NE47-49 Rochdale: BL0-9, M24, M26, OL1-12, OL15-16,SK15 Rostherne: CW4, CW6-11, M1-9, M11-23, M25, M27-35, M38, M40-41, M43-46, M50, M90, PR7, SK1-12, SK14, SK16, WA1-16, WN1-8 Shap: CA10-12, CA16-17, LA8-10, LA21-23 Stowe: NN1-7 NN11-13, MK18 Trawsgoed: LL35-40, SY20, SY23-25 Woburn: MK1-17, MK19, MK40-46, NN8-10, NN29, PE19, SG5-7, SG15-19 Yeovilton: BA4-10, BA16, BA20-22, BS25-28, DT9-10, SP8, TA1-20, TA23 Postcodes eligible for three Cold Weather Payments worth £75 Eskdalemuir: DG14, TD9

Cold Weather Payment in UK: Eligibility, how to check places with postcodes and how to claim the amount

Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday&nbsp;Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay.&nbsp;AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Why are they protesting?

The protests are part of a larger action by professionals of&nbsp;various trades over pay raises.

Inflation in the UK has in recent months crossed the 10 per cent mark, and the teacher unions are demanding a pay raise for the nation’s educators.

Watch |&nbsp;Nurses and ambulance workers strike in UK over pay hike

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nurses-and-ambulance-workers-strike-in-uk-over-pay-hike-553049/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How much raise are they asking for?

They are asking for a raise that at least matches the double-digit inflation.

In Scotland, teachers were offered a five per cent raise, which they rejected, instead demanding 10 per cent.

Across England and Wales, in 2022, many state-school teachers received a 5 per cent pay raise, while in Northern Ireland, many of them were offered 3.2 per cent for the school years 2021-22, and 2022-23.

However, teacher’s unions argue that with inflation above ten per cent, these meagre raises are essentially pay cuts.

When will the strikes start?

As per Daily Mail, strikes will happen over the course of two months; February and March.

On February 1 itself, thousands of teachers will walk out. This is expected to affect more than 23,000 schools.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-to-protest-not-absolute-says-rishi-sunak-as-uk-prepares-to-introduce-broader-powers-for-police-552977">Right to protest ‘not absolute’, says Rishi Sunak as UK prepares to introduce broader powers for Police</a>

Further strikes have been announced over six days, spread out between the two months. February 14, March 15 and March 16 will witness larger strikes, while February 28 and March 1 and 2 have been set for regional walkouts.&nbsp;

The NEU said that each school will only be affected for four days each, however, this has caused concern among the parents.

What are the parents saying?

In recent years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, education globally has suffered, with millions of children’s studies getting negatively affected by Covid restrictions and lockdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Writing for Daily Mail Molly Kingsley, mother of a child who’ll be impacted, called the strike an “act of educational sabotage.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-says-ready-for-a-showdown-with-union-leaders-vows-to-introduce-anti-strike-law-543136">Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages</a>

She writes, “even a single day of missed education is unacceptable,” adding “it’s hard to understand how anyone could be comfortable inflicting such terrible damage on children at this critical time. Many go into teaching not for financial gain but to better young lives.”

Calling the union’s action “militancy”, Kingsley said that children of the poorest families will be most badly affected.

What would happen to children’s education in their teacher’s absence?

A Department for Education (DfE) issued guidance for schools and has called on headteachers to “take all reasonable steps to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-teachers-announce-strikes-most-english-and-welsh-schools-to-face-closure-553276">UK teachers announce strike, most English and Welsh schools to face closure</a>

It also suggested that individual schools or groups of schools may want to consider keeping a bank of “cover supervisors” like volunteers who already support the staff in their teaching.

Is this the first time teachers are going on&nbsp;strike?

No, currently many schools across Scotland are closed due to teacher strike action, while in Northern Ireland, administrative tasks are currently getting affected.&nbsp;

As per a new announcement by the Educational Institute of Scotland, the strikes are slated to continue in February, April and March. EIS has announced 16 days of industrial action.

In Ireland, five teacher unions are taking action, which as per Daily Mail falls short of a strike. Because of this, administrative tasks like lesson planning are reportedly being disturbed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month.

Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month. Here’s everything you need to know: Why are they protesting? The protests are part of a larger action by professionals of various trades over pay raises. Inflation in the UK has in recent months crossed the 10 per cent mark, and the teacher unions are demanding a pay raise for the nation’s educators. Watch | Nurses and ambulance workers strike in UK over pay hike How much raise are they asking for? They are asking for a raise that at least matches the double-digit inflation. In Scotland, teachers were offered a five per cent raise, which they rejected, instead demanding 10 per cent. Across England and Wales, in 2022, many state-school teachers received a 5 per cent pay raise, while in Northern Ireland, many of them were offered 3.2 per cent for the school years 2021-22, and 2022-23. However, teacher’s unions argue that with inflation above ten per cent, these meagre raises are essentially pay cuts. When will the strikes start? As per Daily Mail, strikes will happen over the course of two months; February and March. On February 1 itself, thousands of teachers will walk out. This is expected to affect more than 23,000 schools. Also read | Right to protest ‘not absolute’, says Rishi Sunak as UK prepares to introduce broader powers for Police Further strikes have been announced over six days, spread out between the two months. February 14, March 15 and March 16 will witness larger strikes, while February 28 and March 1 and 2 have been set for regional walkouts. The NEU said that each school will only be affected for four days each, however, this has caused concern among the parents. What are the parents saying? In recent years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, education globally has suffered, with millions of children’s studies getting negatively affected by Covid restrictions and lockdowns. Writing for Daily Mail Molly Kingsley, mother of a child who’ll be impacted, called the strike an “act of educational sabotage.” Also read | Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages She writes, “even a single day of missed education is unacceptable,” adding “it’s hard to understand how anyone could be comfortable inflicting such terrible damage on children at this critical time. Many go into teaching not for financial gain but to better young lives.” Calling the union’s action “militancy”, Kingsley said that children of the poorest families will be most badly affected. What would happen to children’s education in their teacher’s absence? A Department for Education (DfE) issued guidance for schools and has called on headteachers to “take all reasonable steps to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible”. Also read | UK teachers announce strike, most English and Welsh schools to face closure It also suggested that individual schools or groups of schools may want to consider keeping a bank of “cover supervisors” like volunteers who already support the staff in their teaching. Is this the first time teachers are going on strike? No, currently many schools across Scotland are closed due to teacher strike action, while in Northern Ireland, administrative tasks are currently getting affected. As per a new announcement by the Educational Institute of Scotland, the strikes are slated to continue in February, April and March. EIS has announced 16 days of industrial action. In Ireland, five teacher unions are taking action, which as per Daily Mail falls short of a strike. Because of this, administrative tasks like lesson planning are reportedly being disturbed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: 23,000 schools across UK to be affected as teachers announce strike. Here's all you need to know

Russia has said that the UK’s Challenger 2 tanks, which are being sent to Ukraine for its battle, "will burn", while issuing a warning to the West that supplying of more advanced weapons to Kyiv would have no effect on the war whatsoever.

On Sunday, the UK said that it will be sending d&nbsp;14 of its Challenger 2 main battle tanks&nbsp;as well as other advanced artillery support in the coming weeks to Ukraine, following requests made to the West by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The move drew a strong response from the Kremlin on Monday, accusing the West of dragging the war.

"They are using this country [Ukraine] as a tool to achieve their anti-Russian goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about the British tanks, reports Reuters news agency.

"These tanks are burning and will burn just like the rest," Peskov said.

The spokesperson further said that the new supplies from countries like Britain and Poland would not change the outcome of the conflict, and added that such a decision would ultimately bring "more troubles" on Ukraine.

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As part of a package of significant combat power to accelerate Ukrainian success, the UK will send a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine. 
 
Here’s a minute of the Challenger 2 doing what it does best. 
 
🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/LOGHZpeDRf">pic.twitter.com/LOGHZpeDRf</a>
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On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin that the military operation in Ukraine had gained positive momentum and that he hoped his soldiers would deliver more wins after Russia claimed control of the eastern Ukrainian salt-mining town of Soledar.

Meanwhile, UK’s defence secretary Ben Wallace announced that their country is sending a squadron of tanks while sharing a tweet video of the Challenge 2 battle tank.

He said that the UK’s move to supply tanks was a “calibrated response to Russia’s growing aggression and indiscriminate bombing”.

He says none of the international support for Ukraine is “an attack on&nbsp;Russia, or Nato-orchestrated aggression, let alone a proxy war”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has said that the UK’s Challenger 2 tanks, which are being sent to Ukraine for its battle, "will burn", while issuing a warning to the West that supplying of more advanced weapons to Kyiv would have no effect on the war whatsoever.

Russia has said that the UK’s Challenger 2 tanks, which are being sent to Ukraine for its battle, "will burn", while issuing a warning to the West that supplying of more advanced weapons to Kyiv would have no effect on the war whatsoever. On Sunday, the UK said that it will be sending d 14 of its Challenger 2 main battle tanks as well as other advanced artillery support in the coming weeks to Ukraine, following requests made to the West by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. The move drew a strong response from the Kremlin on Monday, accusing the West of dragging the war. "They are using this country [Ukraine] as a tool to achieve their anti-Russian goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about the British tanks, reports Reuters news agency. "These tanks are burning and will burn just like the rest," Peskov said. The spokesperson further said that the new supplies from countries like Britain and Poland would not change the outcome of the conflict, and added that such a decision would ultimately bring "more troubles" on Ukraine. As part of a package of significant combat power to accelerate Ukrainian success, the UK will send a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine. Here’s a minute of the Challenger 2 doing what it does best. 🇺🇦 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/LOGHZpeDRf — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) January 16, 2023 × On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin that the military operation in Ukraine had gained positive momentum and that he hoped his soldiers would deliver more wins after Russia claimed control of the eastern Ukrainian salt-mining town of Soledar. Meanwhile, UK’s defence secretary Ben Wallace announced that their country is sending a squadron of tanks while sharing a tweet video of the Challenge 2 battle tank. He said that the UK’s move to supply tanks was a “calibrated response to Russia’s growing aggression and indiscriminate bombing”. He says none of the international support for Ukraine is “an attack on Russia, or Nato-orchestrated aggression, let alone a proxy war”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK’s Challenger 2 tanks ‘will burn’ in Ukraine, warns Russia

England is taking its single-use plastics ban even further by restricting the sale of plastic cutlery, plates, bowls, trays, balloon sticks, as well as certain kinds of polystyrene cups and food containers. The new ban will go into effect in October of this year.

WION Climate Tracker: England to ban single-use plastic plates and cutlery for environmental reasons

Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said. The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April.&nbsp;

Uranium, a harmful material used to make nuclear weapons, was found along with scrap metal at the airport by the Border Force during a routine check on Dec 29.&nbsp;Officials&nbsp;anticipated that the package which reportedly came from Pakistan could have been intended to be used in the making of a harmful bomb. AFP reported that the package arrived from an Oman Air passenger jet from Muscat. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alert-sounded-after-discovery-of-unaddressed-package-containing-uranium-at-londons-heathrow-airport-551447">Also read |&nbsp;Uranium found in cargo at London’s Heathrow airport sparks alert, origin said to be Pakistan</a>

However, the head of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command, Commander Richard Smith said that based on what the officials currently know, the incident "still does not appear to be linked to any direct threat to the public."

Watch |&nbsp;UK police probe uranium package seized at Heathrow Airport

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He added that the investigation is still underway to "ensure this is defintely the case."&nbsp;

The officials further reported that the search for the man's Cheshire property is completed and no material that could possibly possess a threat to the citizens has not been found.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/saudi-arabia-to-use-its-uranium-reserves-for-civilian-nuclear-programme-551718">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia to use its uranium reserves for civilian nuclear programme</a>

Back in&nbsp;2003, the then head of the UK's MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, citing some intelligence reports, warned that it was only a "matter of time" before a bomb or chemical attack was launched in a western city.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said.

Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said. The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April. Uranium, a harmful material used to make nuclear weapons, was found along with scrap metal at the airport by the Border Force during a routine check on Dec 29. Officials anticipated that the package which reportedly came from Pakistan could have been intended to be used in the making of a harmful bomb. AFP reported that the package arrived from an Oman Air passenger jet from Muscat. Also read | Uranium found in cargo at London’s Heathrow airport sparks alert, origin said to be Pakistan However, the head of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command, Commander Richard Smith said that based on what the officials currently know, the incident "still does not appear to be linked to any direct threat to the public." Watch | UK police probe uranium package seized at Heathrow Airport He added that the investigation is still underway to "ensure this is defintely the case." The officials further reported that the search for the man's Cheshire property is completed and no material that could possibly possess a threat to the citizens has not been found. Also read | Saudi Arabia to use its uranium reserves for civilian nuclear programme Back in 2003, the then head of the UK's MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, citing some intelligence reports, warned that it was only a "matter of time" before a bomb or chemical attack was launched in a western city. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK: Man arrested over discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport

Large areas of eastern Ukraine were experiencing electricity cuts, Ukrainian officials said, across regions after attack by Russian troops. UK will supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes. Watch further to know more.

UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wants to expand a bill that would give police even greater powers to clamp down on disruptive public protests. Watch this report to know more.

UK PM Rishi Sunak to announce new proposals to clamp down protests

Protests among industry workers and climate groups have emerged as perhaps the biggest challenge for Rishi Sunak's government. The British government will announce the new proposals today to clamp down on protests.

PM Sunak to announce new proposals to clamp down protests

Thousands of National Health Service nurses and ambulance workers went on strike because of overpay. The UK cabinet seems to be at war internally over the health budget.

WION Fineprint | NHS Crisis: Cabinet split over pay hike to striking workers | UK

A child in the United Kingdom was hospitalised every 20 minutes, last year, after consuming either alcohol or drugs to cause self-harm, an investigation has revealed. In the last five years, hospital admissions for kids who self-harmed with drugs or alcohol soared, with hospitalisations for kids between the ages of 10 and 14 rising by 58%, from 5,520 to 8,749, Daily Mail reported.

Hospitalisations for this type of self-harm among all 0 to 19-year-olds also climbed by about 20%, from 22,313 in 2017–18 to 26,450 in 202–22, to one in every 20 minutes on average, according to the survey.

Lockdowns, social media, and a lack of adequate mental health care, according to experts, are to blame for the issue. Timothy Loughton, a Conservative lawmaker and former minister for children, termed the statistics "shocking" and urged the government to investigate the issue thoroughly.

“Despite the determination of this government to achieve parity of esteem between mental illness and physical illness and the extra investment in young people's mental health services, we still need more and more urgent interventions for our children. The unseen consequences of the Covid lockdown are now coming to the surface as we see the impact of closing schools and depriving children of socialising and learning with their peers on their mental health,” Loughton said, as per Daily Mail.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-kate-middleton-urges-drug-addicts-alcoholics-to-get-help--video-529539" hreflang="en">Kate Middleton urges drug addicts, alcoholics to get help | Video</a>

“Every two months represents 1 per cent of a child's childhood and too much of that growing-up process was taken away from them during lockdown. While we still have lots to do on academic catch-up, this will amount to little if we do not attend to repairing the mental well-being of children at the same time,” he added.

Of the 117,616 children hospitalised since 2017 for intentionally poisoning themselves with drugs or alcohol, 400 were under the age of 10. According to NHS Digital statistics, non-opioid medicines, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, were responsible for 18,594 hospital admissions last year. Alcohol was the cause of 113 hospitalisations, while drugs and hallucinogens led to 1,188 admissions.

Watch |&nbsp;UK drugs crackdown: Boris Johnson's $398 million plan to tackle drug menace

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To curb the rising cases of hospitalisations among children, parents were advised to lock away their alcohol and medications, to prevent their easy accessibility.

“Often young people tell me they used alcohol with their overdose as their friend had tried taking just tablets and it had not worked or they saw on a TV series it didn't work, so they did their research and read that alcohol alongside would be more damaging. My strong advice to all families, whether they think their children are depressed or not, is to dispose of any medications they do not need at a pharmacy and to lock away any they do need,” Consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Priory, Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg, said as per reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

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A child in the United Kingdom was hospitalised every 20 minutes, last year, after consuming either alcohol or drugs to cause self-harm, an investigation has revealed.

A child in the United Kingdom was hospitalised every 20 minutes, last year, after consuming either alcohol or drugs to cause self-harm, an investigation has revealed. In the last five years, hospital admissions for kids who self-harmed with drugs or alcohol soared, with hospitalisations for kids between the ages of 10 and 14 rising by 58%, from 5,520 to 8,749, Daily Mail reported. Hospitalisations for this type of self-harm among all 0 to 19-year-olds also climbed by about 20%, from 22,313 in 2017–18 to 26,450 in 202–22, to one in every 20 minutes on average, according to the survey. Lockdowns, social media, and a lack of adequate mental health care, according to experts, are to blame for the issue. Timothy Loughton, a Conservative lawmaker and former minister for children, termed the statistics "shocking" and urged the government to investigate the issue thoroughly. “Despite the determination of this government to achieve parity of esteem between mental illness and physical illness and the extra investment in young people's mental health services, we still need more and more urgent interventions for our children. The unseen consequences of the Covid lockdown are now coming to the surface as we see the impact of closing schools and depriving children of socialising and learning with their peers on their mental health,” Loughton said, as per Daily Mail. Also Read | Kate Middleton urges drug addicts, alcoholics to get help | Video “Every two months represents 1 per cent of a child's childhood and too much of that growing-up process was taken away from them during lockdown. While we still have lots to do on academic catch-up, this will amount to little if we do not attend to repairing the mental well-being of children at the same time,” he added. Of the 117,616 children hospitalised since 2017 for intentionally poisoning themselves with drugs or alcohol, 400 were under the age of 10. According to NHS Digital statistics, non-opioid medicines, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, were responsible for 18,594 hospital admissions last year. Alcohol was the cause of 113 hospitalisations, while drugs and hallucinogens led to 1,188 admissions. Watch | UK drugs crackdown: Boris Johnson's $398 million plan to tackle drug menace To curb the rising cases of hospitalisations among children, parents were advised to lock away their alcohol and medications, to prevent their easy accessibility. “Often young people tell me they used alcohol with their overdose as their friend had tried taking just tablets and it had not worked or they saw on a TV series it didn't work, so they did their research and read that alcohol alongside would be more damaging. My strong advice to all families, whether they think their children are depressed or not, is to dispose of any medications they do not need at a pharmacy and to lock away any they do need,” Consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Priory, Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg, said as per reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Self-harm: 1 child goes to hospital every 20 minutes in UK for alcohol or drug abuse

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine. This comes after the UK PM and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephonic conversation during which Sunak confirmed that he would send tanks and additional weapons to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Germany for weeks has been considering sending tanks amid growing pressure from France and Poland.&nbsp;

UK to send 14 tanks and weapons to Ukraine

The announcement was made by UK PM Sunak’s office after the two leaders spoke, late Saturday, “As the people of Ukraine approach their second year living under relentless Russian bombardment, the Prime Minister is dedicated to ensuring Ukraine wins this war,” said the British prime minister’s office, in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-special-military-operation-in-ukraine-showing-positive-trend-552863">Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend</a>

In the upcoming weeks, the UK is planning to send a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with 30 self-propelled AS90 guns which would be operated by five gunners. Furthermore, Britain will also train Ukrainian army personnel on how to use the tanks as well as the guns.&nbsp;

This comes after the British PM highlighted the country’s “ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine”, as per a readout of a phone call with Zelensky. According to Sunak’s office, he believes a “long and static war only serves Russia’s interests”. It added, “UK defence and security officials believe a window has opened up where Russia is on the backfoot due to resupply issues and plummeting morale.”

Additionally, the UK PM believes that the British Army’s main battle tank would help Ukrainian forces “push Russian troops back”. Notably, this move now makes Britain the first western country to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks which it has sought for some time now including US main battle tank M1 Abrams and German Leopard 2 tanks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-indicates-uk-to-send-battle-tanks-artillery-to-ukraine-552655/amp">PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine</a>

After the conversation and announcement, Zelensky took to Twitter and thanked the UK PM for his decision to send the tanks and said, “that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners.” He also spoke about how UK’s support was “always strong" and was “now impenetrable”.&nbsp;

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Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a>, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners.
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1614219544335114242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this week, Sunak’s office also spoke about coordinating efforts with allies Germany, France and the United States as they are among the countries who have also indicated that they would be willing to send armoured vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

How has Russia responded to the UK's announcement?&nbsp;

The announcement received a swift response from the Russian Embassy in London which said that sending tanks to Ukraine would be evidence of the “increasingly obvious involvement of London in the conflict” as well as “intensify” the conflict and lead to more casualties including civilians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

According to the Russian news agency TASS, the embassy said, “As for the Challenger 2 tanks, they are unlikely to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine turn the tide on the battlefield, but they will become a legitimate large target for the Russian artillery.” Similarly, in response to the UK's decision to send Challenger tanks, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reiterated her response that “weapons supplies are legitimate targets for Russian strikes.”&nbsp;

What are Challenger 2 tanks?

According to the British Army, Challenger 2 is a battle tank designed to attack other tanks and has been in service since 1994. It was deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq, reported Reuters. While they are over two decades old they will be the most modern tank at Ukraine's disposal amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-alleges-russia-cancelled-prisoner-exchange-at-the-last-minute-552731">Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute</a>

The Challenger 2 is a 64-tonne main battle tank, built by British Aerospace Systems in the 1990s and has a maximum speed ranging from 40 km/hour to 59 km/hour which can cover a distance of 250 km to 450 km. It can also carry a four-member crew with a commander, gunner, loader and driver and is armed with a 120mm rifled tank gun, Boeing 7.62mm chain gun, a 7.62 mm General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), and L37A2 anti-air machine gun, reported Al Jazeera.

Germany under pressure

Earlier this month, Berlin agreed to supply Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles as well as the Patriot air system. However, there has been mounting pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to authorise the re-export of modern battle tanks to Kyiv. However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US.&nbsp;

Furthermore, reports suggest that the German Chancellor has been reluctant to send battle tanks as he does not want to act alone while some western leaders are being cautious about the aid and weapons they send to Ukraine as their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia. So far, Kyiv’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-pushes-for-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-549802">Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks</a>

According to estimates by the European Council on Foreign Relations, there are nearly 2,000 Leopard tanks in Europe. “The Ukrainians really want the Leopards because there are lots in stock across Europe,” said a French official familiar with the discussions to Politico.&nbsp;

Germany’s support is seen as crucial being one of the biggest economies in the EU and also because while 13 European countries are reportedly in possession of Leopard 2 tanks including Poland, France, and Finland they need Berlin’s authorisation to re-export the procured tanks. Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Ukraine would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany.&nbsp;

However, on Thursday, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, said that Berlin should not block any countries from re-exporting Leopard tanks. “Germany should not stand in the way of other countries taking decisions to support Ukraine, independent of which decisions Germany takes,” said Habeck, on the sidelines of the Greens party meeting in Berlin. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-we-know-about-ukraines-deadliest-attack-on-russia-since-the-conflict-began-549499">Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began</a>

Additionally, German deputy government spokeswoman, Christiane Hoffmann, addressing a press conference, said that Berlin has not received a formal request from either Poland or Finland but also said that sending the tanks without their approval would be “illegal”.&nbsp;

Germany is still in the midst of considering the right thing to do and how to best support Ukraine, Hoffmann added. Last week, the Berlin government spokesperson also stressed that one of the key goals for the country is to not become an active part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 25 killed, 43 missing</a> 
 
A report by Bloomberg citing two officials familiar with the German government’s thinking said that they believe that Berlin will likely decide to supply the Leopards to Ukraine. The report, citing a German official familiar with the matter, also claims that the country will make a decision before an upcoming meeting between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and his German counterpart Christine Lambrecht at the American airbase in Ramstein scheduled for later this month.&nbsp;

What about other European nations?

The President of Poland, Andrzej Duda had earlier indicated that while they are ready to send Leopard tanks to Kyiv it would only be possible under a larger international coalition of tank aid to Ukraine. According to the German institute Kiel’s Ukraine Support Tracker, Poland has already sent at least 200 Soviet-style tanks, while countries like UK, France and Poland have also given a total of $12 billion as&nbsp;military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-did-nato-push-ukraine-into-war-459651">Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war?</a>

Earlier this month, France said that it would send its AMX-10 RC armoured combat vehicles which are deemed “light tanks” in Paris to Ukraine. Subsequently, the US agreed to send its Bradley fighting vehicles while Germany announced it would send its Marder armoured personnel carriers for the first time since the conflict began almost a year ago.&nbsp;

What is happening at NATO?

A report by CNN, citing western officials, says that the decision of sending more tanks by some countries but not by others was part of a broader assessment of the on-ground situation in Ukraine while NATO allies in recent weeks have been deciding the best course of action in providing specific types of assistance be it military or money.&nbsp;

There are also growing concerns about Western stocks of such weapons as Ukrainians have understandably been burning through ammunition at an astonishing rate, said NPR’s Frank Langfitt, reporting from Brussels, on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-chief-we-shouldnt-underestimate-russia-551140">NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia'</a>

He also spoke about how every ambassador that he interacted with was worried about this as there was no demand or market for these kinds of heavy weapons and “nobody here saw a major land war coming. So now, NATO allies, they’re meeting with arms makers.”&nbsp;

Therefore, even NATO countries are trying to ramp up manufacturing and weapons supplies amid the unprecedented rise in demand. So far, several reports have suggested that as the conflict is nearing the one-year mark it is entering a new phase and Ukraine could witness major attacks from Russia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-happening-in-the-ukrainian-city-of-soledar-551528">Explained: What is happening in the Ukrainian city of Soledar?</a> 
 
Meanwhile, Germany remains concerned about causing further provocations against Moscow, European officials have argued that they have shared enough weapons and intelligence which has significantly benefited Kyiv. Therefore, sending tanks cannot be that big an escalation, regardless of what Russia might say about the move, reported CNN.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine.

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine. This comes after the UK PM and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephonic conversation during which Sunak confirmed that he would send tanks and additional weapons to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Germany for weeks has been considering sending tanks amid growing pressure from France and Poland. UK to send 14 tanks and weapons to Ukraine The announcement was made by UK PM Sunak’s office after the two leaders spoke, late Saturday, “As the people of Ukraine approach their second year living under relentless Russian bombardment, the Prime Minister is dedicated to ensuring Ukraine wins this war,” said the British prime minister’s office, in a statement. ALSO READ | Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend In the upcoming weeks, the UK is planning to send a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with 30 self-propelled AS90 guns which would be operated by five gunners. Furthermore, Britain will also train Ukrainian army personnel on how to use the tanks as well as the guns. This comes after the British PM highlighted the country’s “ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine”, as per a readout of a phone call with Zelensky. According to Sunak’s office, he believes a “long and static war only serves Russia’s interests”. It added, “UK defence and security officials believe a window has opened up where Russia is on the backfoot due to resupply issues and plummeting morale.” Additionally, the UK PM believes that the British Army’s main battle tank would help Ukrainian forces “push Russian troops back”. Notably, this move now makes Britain the first western country to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks which it has sought for some time now including US main battle tank M1 Abrams and German Leopard 2 tanks. ALSO READ | PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine After the conversation and announcement, Zelensky took to Twitter and thanked the UK PM for his decision to send the tanks and said, “that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners.” He also spoke about how UK’s support was “always strong" and was “now impenetrable”. Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, @RishiSunak, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 14, 2023 × Earlier this week, Sunak’s office also spoke about coordinating efforts with allies Germany, France and the United States as they are among the countries who have also indicated that they would be willing to send armoured vehicles to Ukraine. How has Russia responded to the UK's announcement? The announcement received a swift response from the Russian Embassy in London which said that sending tanks to Ukraine would be evidence of the “increasingly obvious involvement of London in the conflict” as well as “intensify” the conflict and lead to more casualties including civilians. ALSO READ | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' According to the Russian news agency TASS, the embassy said, “As for the Challenger 2 tanks, they are unlikely to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine turn the tide on the battlefield, but they will become a legitimate large target for the Russian artillery.” Similarly, in response to the UK's decision to send Challenger tanks, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reiterated her response that “weapons supplies are legitimate targets for Russian strikes.” What are Challenger 2 tanks? According to the British Army, Challenger 2 is a battle tank designed to attack other tanks and has been in service since 1994. It was deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq, reported Reuters. While they are over two decades old they will be the most modern tank at Ukraine's disposal amid the ongoing conflict. ALSO READ | Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute The Challenger 2 is a 64-tonne main battle tank, built by British Aerospace Systems in the 1990s and has a maximum speed ranging from 40 km/hour to 59 km/hour which can cover a distance of 250 km to 450 km. It can also carry a four-member crew with a commander, gunner, loader and driver and is armed with a 120mm rifled tank gun, Boeing 7.62mm chain gun, a 7.62 mm General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), and L37A2 anti-air machine gun, reported Al Jazeera. Germany under pressure Earlier this month, Berlin agreed to supply Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles as well as the Patriot air system. However, there has been mounting pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to authorise the re-export of modern battle tanks to Kyiv. However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US. Furthermore, reports suggest that the German Chancellor has been reluctant to send battle tanks as he does not want to act alone while some western leaders are being cautious about the aid and weapons they send to Ukraine as their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia. So far, Kyiv’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks. ALSO WATCH | Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks According to estimates by the European Council on Foreign Relations, there are nearly 2,000 Leopard tanks in Europe. “The Ukrainians really want the Leopards because there are lots in stock across Europe,” said a French official familiar with the discussions to Politico. Germany’s support is seen as crucial being one of the biggest economies in the EU and also because while 13 European countries are reportedly in possession of Leopard 2 tanks including Poland, France, and Finland they need Berlin’s authorisation to re-export the procured tanks. Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Ukraine would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany. However, on Thursday, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, said that Berlin should not block any countries from re-exporting Leopard tanks. “Germany should not stand in the way of other countries taking decisions to support Ukraine, independent of which decisions Germany takes,” said Habeck, on the sidelines of the Greens party meeting in Berlin. ALSO READ | Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began Additionally, German deputy government spokeswoman, Christiane Hoffmann, addressing a press conference, said that Berlin has not received a formal request from either Poland or Finland but also said that sending the tanks without their approval would be “illegal”. Germany is still in the midst of considering the right thing to do and how to best support Ukraine, Hoffmann added. Last week, the Berlin government spokesperson also stressed that one of the key goals for the country is to not become an active part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 25 killed, 43 missing A report by Bloomberg citing two officials familiar with the German government’s thinking said that they believe that Berlin will likely decide to supply the Leopards to Ukraine. The report, citing a German official familiar with the matter, also claims that the country will make a decision before an upcoming meeting between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and his German counterpart Christine Lambrecht at the American airbase in Ramstein scheduled for later this month. What about other European nations? The President of Poland, Andrzej Duda had earlier indicated that while they are ready to send Leopard tanks to Kyiv it would only be possible under a larger international coalition of tank aid to Ukraine. According to the German institute Kiel’s Ukraine Support Tracker, Poland has already sent at least 200 Soviet-style tanks, while countries like UK, France and Poland have also given a total of $12 billion as military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war? Earlier this month, France said that it would send its AMX-10 RC armoured combat vehicles which are deemed “light tanks” in Paris to Ukraine. Subsequently, the US agreed to send its Bradley fighting vehicles while Germany announced it would send its Marder armoured personnel carriers for the first time since the conflict began almost a year ago. What is happening at NATO? A report by CNN, citing western officials, says that the decision of sending more tanks by some countries but not by others was part of a broader assessment of the on-ground situation in Ukraine while NATO allies in recent weeks have been deciding the best course of action in providing specific types of assistance be it military or money. There are also growing concerns about Western stocks of such weapons as Ukrainians have understandably been burning through ammunition at an astonishing rate, said NPR’s Frank Langfitt, reporting from Brussels, on Thursday. ALSO WATCH | NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia' He also spoke about how every ambassador that he interacted with was worried about this as there was no demand or market for these kinds of heavy weapons and “nobody here saw a major land war coming. So now, NATO allies, they’re meeting with arms makers.” Therefore, even NATO countries are trying to ramp up manufacturing and weapons supplies amid the unprecedented rise in demand. So far, several reports have suggested that as the conflict is nearing the one-year mark it is entering a new phase and Ukraine could witness major attacks from Russia. ALSO READ | Explained: What is happening in the Ukrainian city of Soledar? Meanwhile, Germany remains concerned about causing further provocations against Moscow, European officials have argued that they have shared enough weapons and intelligence which has significantly benefited Kyiv. Therefore, sending tanks cannot be that big an escalation, regardless of what Russia might say about the move, reported CNN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine?

Alireza Akbari, the British-Iranian dual national and former Iranian deputy defence minister was executed by Tehran on Saturday, reported Iran’s judiciary's Mizan news agency. This comes after he was accused of “spying” for Britain and was hanged after being convicted of “corruption on Earth” and acting against national security, reported Al Jazeera citing the judiciary’s official news outlet. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and action by the United Kingdom against Iran including sanctions and the temporary withdrawal of their ambassador from Tehran, as it considers branding Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation along with the European Union in a reportedly coordinated move.&nbsp;

Who is Alireza Akbari?

Alireza Akbari was a British-Iranian national who also served as deputy defence minister under ex-defence minister Ali Shamkhani in the former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami’s administration, from 1997 to 2005. According to an audio recording purportedly from Akbari which was broadcasted by BBC Persian, earlier this week, Akbari also fought in the eight-year war between Iran and Iraq in the 1980s and was among the ranks of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as well as had a commanding role in developing Tehran’s strategy during the conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-british-iranian-national-for-alleged-spying-says-report-552525">&nbsp;Iran executes British-Iranian national for alleged spying, says report</a>

Since the war, he has reportedly been a close ally of Shamkhani who currently serves as the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. A report by CNN citing Shargh Daily said that Akbari was also a member of the organisation that implemented a ceasefire between Iran-Iraq after the war. Furthermore, he also reportedly led the implementation of a United Nations resolution which ended the war in 1988.&nbsp;

What was Alireza Akbari accused of by Iran?

According to media reports, Akbari stepped down from his position in Iran and eventually moved to the UK where he ran a private think tank and had not been seen in public until his arrest in Iran four years ago. According to a report by BBC Persian, Akbari said he was living abroad before senior Iranian diplomat, Shamkhani, invited him to visit Iran in 2019.

Iran’s judicial news agency, Mizan while confirming Akbari’s death penalty accused him of being, “one of the most important agents of the British spy service who collected important information and provided this for the British spy service in a fully informed and targeted manner”. Additionally, they also claimed that the Iranian-British national had been cultivated by the UK when he was seeking and recruited aboard, as per the Guardian.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-executes-alireza-akbari-for-being-a-british-spy-552561">Iran executes Alireza Akbari for being a British Spy</a>

According to a report by Reuters, Iranian state media, on Thursday, broadcast a video of Akbari which showed that he played a role in the assassination of Iran’s top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh who was allegedly killed in 2020. However, at the time, the authorities in Tehran had blamed the attack on Israel, without providing any evidence.&nbsp;

In that video, while the Iranian-British national did not confess to killing the nuclear scientist he said that a British agent had asked for information about Fakhrizadeh, as per Reuters. According to Iranian media reports, he was also accused of being paid more than $2 million in various currencies and allegedly provided information to foreign officials about 178 Iranian officials including Fakhrizadeh.&nbsp;

Furthermore, when the Iranian judiciary’s official news outlet confirmed the British-Iranian national’s execution it said that Akbari is being hanged for “harming the country’s internal and external security by passing on intelligence”. It added, “The actions of the British spy service in this case have shown the value of the convict, the importance of his access and the enemy’s trust in him.”&nbsp;

Prior to his execution, Akbari had reportedly denied any wrongdoing. He also allegedly said that he was tortured and forced to make false confessions after he was accused of obtaining top-secret intelligence for the British intelligence agency, MI6. Akbari, who was arrested more than three years ago, was reportedly in Evin prison in Tehran where he met other British Iranian dual nationals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sanctions-irans-prosecutor-over-british-iranian-citizens-execution-552692">UK sanctions Iran's prosecutor over British-Iranian citizen’s execution</a> 
 
“With more than 3,500 hours of torture, psychedelic drugs, and physiological and psychological pressure methods, they took away my will,” said Akbari, as per a report by Reuters, citing the BBC Persian’s audio recording.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the former deputy defence minister alleged that Iranian security personnel pressured judges to issue a death penalty against him, “The Supreme Court voted against the death penalty, but the Intelligence Ministry imposed its will by threatening the judge,” reported Reuters citing BBC.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, his wife, Maryam told The Guardian, that a decade or so ago Akbari had “formal consultations” with British officials which were well within the scope of his mission, however, his meetings with a university admissions officer, or an estate agent were misinterpreted by intelligence officials as meeting with an agent.&nbsp;

She also asserted, “There was no evidence that he was a spy except a confession that was extracted after he was drugged and interrogated for 3,500 hours.” Speaking to the Guardian, Maryam said that he left the government since “public service was no longer possible” and found himself “politically ostracised”. It was then he supposedly decided to leave Iran after which he travelled to Austria and Spain before settling in the UK.&nbsp;

How did the UK react to Akbari’s sentence and execution?

According to a report by the Guardian, the UK's Foreign Office was aware of Akbari’s case for some time but was only asked to intervene by his family in the last 24 hours when they had exhausted all legal means and political lobbying in Iran had failed. Subsequently, on January 11 the day Akbari was sentenced, the British foreign secretary, James Cleverly, urged the Iranian government to “halt the execution” and called for his immediate release.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-faces-global-backlash-for-akbaris-execution-552821">Iran faces global backlash for Akbari's execution</a>

“This is a politically motivated act by a barbaric regime that has total disregard for human life,” said Cleverly. After the Iranian judiciary’s official news outlet confirmed Alireza Akbari’s execution, on Saturday morning, the UK Prime Minister took to Twitter and said that he is “appalled” and called it a “callous and cowardly act, carried out by a barbaric regime with no respect for the human rights of their own people. My thoughts are with Alireza’s friends and family.”&nbsp;

Since then, there has been widespread condemnation of Iran. The UK foreign minister, hours after the execution said, “Iran has executed a British national. This barbaric act deserves condemnation in the strongest possible terms. This will not stand unchallenged. My thoughts are with Alireza Akbari’s family.” The&nbsp;61-year-old Akbari leaves behind two daughters and a wife who are currently living in the UK.

The fallout from Alireza Akbari’s execution

In addition to widespread condemnation and criticism, the UK government has since imposed sanctions including a travel ban and asset freeze on Iran’s Prosecutor General, Mohammad Jafar Montazeri and the British foreign minister said he “is at the heart of Iran's use of the death penalty”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-executes-2-more-men-detained-amid-nationwide-protests-550255">Iran executes 2 more men detained amid nationwide protests</a>

So far, in what is expected to be a series of steps against Iran, on Saturday, Cleverly said that Britain would temporarily withdraw its ambassador from Iran and is considering further action against Tehran following Akbari’s execution. “It is important to recognise that our response is not necessarily limited to the actions that I’ve announced today,” said the UK foreign minister.&nbsp;

The UK had also summoned the Iranian chargé d’affaires while the British ambassador to Tehran, Stephen Shercliff, was also summoned by the Iranian authorities for Britain’s “unconventional interventions”. Tehran also reportedly told Shercliff that “decisive action” to protect Iran’s national security will not “depend on the consent of other governments, including England”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-executes-2-more-protesters-khamenei-appoints-new-national-police-chief-550388">Iran executes 2 more protesters; Khamenei appoints new national police chief</a>

Reports suggest that the UK will be planning to coordinate with the European Union to formally declare Iran’s IRGC a terrorist organisation which would make it a criminal offence to belong to or participate in the group’s activities in Britain.

Notably, this is not the first time that the UK is considering this move. In a press conference, last year, the MI5 chief had said that Iran had planned at least 10 plots to, “kidnap or even kill British or UK-based individuals perceived as enemies of the regime,” since the beginning of 2022 alone.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mi5-chief-says-expulsion-of-russian-spies-from-europe-is-a-significant-strategic-blow-to-moscow-534881">UK: MI5 chief says expulsion of Russian spies from Europe is a ‘significant strategic blow’ to Moscow</a> 
 
After Akbari’s execution France also in “full solidarity with the British authorities”, extending their condolences said at the minister’s request summoned the chargé d’affaires of the Iranian Embassy in Paris to “express our outrage”. In a statement, the French government said that they also issued a warning to him and said, “Iran’s repeated violations of international law cannot go unanswered, especially when it comes to the treatment of the foreign nationals the country arbitrarily detains.”&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron called the British-Iranian dual national’s execution an “odious and barbaric act.” He added, “His name adds to too long a list of victims of repression and the death penalty in Iran.” Meanwhile, the US State Department also described the execution as politically motivated and unjust while the US ambassador to the UK called it “appalling and sickening”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Alireza Akbari, the British-Iranian dual national and former Iranian deputy defence minister was executed by Tehran on Saturday, reported Iran’s judiciary's Mizan news agency.

Alireza Akbari, the British-Iranian dual national and former Iranian deputy defence minister was executed by Tehran on Saturday, reported Iran’s judiciary's Mizan news agency. This comes after he was accused of “spying” for Britain and was hanged after being convicted of “corruption on Earth” and acting against national security, reported Al Jazeera citing the judiciary’s official news outlet. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and action by the United Kingdom against Iran including sanctions and the temporary withdrawal of their ambassador from Tehran, as it considers branding Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation along with the European Union in a reportedly coordinated move. Who is Alireza Akbari? Alireza Akbari was a British-Iranian national who also served as deputy defence minister under ex-defence minister Ali Shamkhani in the former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami’s administration, from 1997 to 2005. According to an audio recording purportedly from Akbari which was broadcasted by BBC Persian, earlier this week, Akbari also fought in the eight-year war between Iran and Iraq in the 1980s and was among the ranks of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as well as had a commanding role in developing Tehran’s strategy during the conflict. ALSO READ | Iran executes British-Iranian national for alleged spying, says report Since the war, he has reportedly been a close ally of Shamkhani who currently serves as the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. A report by CNN citing Shargh Daily said that Akbari was also a member of the organisation that implemented a ceasefire between Iran-Iraq after the war. Furthermore, he also reportedly led the implementation of a United Nations resolution which ended the war in 1988. What was Alireza Akbari accused of by Iran? According to media reports, Akbari stepped down from his position in Iran and eventually moved to the UK where he ran a private think tank and had not been seen in public until his arrest in Iran four years ago. According to a report by BBC Persian, Akbari said he was living abroad before senior Iranian diplomat, Shamkhani, invited him to visit Iran in 2019. Iran’s judicial news agency, Mizan while confirming Akbari’s death penalty accused him of being, “one of the most important agents of the British spy service who collected important information and provided this for the British spy service in a fully informed and targeted manner”. Additionally, they also claimed that the Iranian-British national had been cultivated by the UK when he was seeking and recruited aboard, as per the Guardian. ALSO WATCH | Iran executes Alireza Akbari for being a British Spy According to a report by Reuters, Iranian state media, on Thursday, broadcast a video of Akbari which showed that he played a role in the assassination of Iran’s top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh who was allegedly killed in 2020. However, at the time, the authorities in Tehran had blamed the attack on Israel, without providing any evidence. In that video, while the Iranian-British national did not confess to killing the nuclear scientist he said that a British agent had asked for information about Fakhrizadeh, as per Reuters. According to Iranian media reports, he was also accused of being paid more than $2 million in various currencies and allegedly provided information to foreign officials about 178 Iranian officials including Fakhrizadeh. Furthermore, when the Iranian judiciary’s official news outlet confirmed the British-Iranian national’s execution it said that Akbari is being hanged for “harming the country’s internal and external security by passing on intelligence”. It added, “The actions of the British spy service in this case have shown the value of the convict, the importance of his access and the enemy’s trust in him.” Prior to his execution, Akbari had reportedly denied any wrongdoing. He also allegedly said that he was tortured and forced to make false confessions after he was accused of obtaining top-secret intelligence for the British intelligence agency, MI6. Akbari, who was arrested more than three years ago, was reportedly in Evin prison in Tehran where he met other British Iranian dual nationals. ALSO READ | UK sanctions Iran's prosecutor over British-Iranian citizen’s execution “With more than 3,500 hours of torture, psychedelic drugs, and physiological and psychological pressure methods, they took away my will,” said Akbari, as per a report by Reuters, citing the BBC Persian’s audio recording. Furthermore, the former deputy defence minister alleged that Iranian security personnel pressured judges to issue a death penalty against him, “The Supreme Court voted against the death penalty, but the Intelligence Ministry imposed its will by threatening the judge,” reported Reuters citing BBC. Meanwhile, his wife, Maryam told The Guardian, that a decade or so ago Akbari had “formal consultations” with British officials which were well within the scope of his mission, however, his meetings with a university admissions officer, or an estate agent were misinterpreted by intelligence officials as meeting with an agent. She also asserted, “There was no evidence that he was a spy except a confession that was extracted after he was drugged and interrogated for 3,500 hours.” Speaking to the Guardian, Maryam said that he left the government since “public service was no longer possible” and found himself “politically ostracised”. It was then he supposedly decided to leave Iran after which he travelled to Austria and Spain before settling in the UK. How did the UK react to Akbari’s sentence and execution? According to a report by the Guardian, the UK's Foreign Office was aware of Akbari’s case for some time but was only asked to intervene by his family in the last 24 hours when they had exhausted all legal means and political lobbying in Iran had failed. Subsequently, on January 11 the day Akbari was sentenced, the British foreign secretary, James Cleverly, urged the Iranian government to “halt the execution” and called for his immediate release. ALSO WATCH | Iran faces global backlash for Akbari's execution “This is a politically motivated act by a barbaric regime that has total disregard for human life,” said Cleverly. After the Iranian judiciary’s official news outlet confirmed Alireza Akbari’s execution, on Saturday morning, the UK Prime Minister took to Twitter and said that he is “appalled” and called it a “callous and cowardly act, carried out by a barbaric regime with no respect for the human rights of their own people. My thoughts are with Alireza’s friends and family.” Since then, there has been widespread condemnation of Iran. The UK foreign minister, hours after the execution said, “Iran has executed a British national. This barbaric act deserves condemnation in the strongest possible terms. This will not stand unchallenged. My thoughts are with Alireza Akbari’s family.” The 61-year-old Akbari leaves behind two daughters and a wife who are currently living in the UK. The fallout from Alireza Akbari’s execution In addition to widespread condemnation and criticism, the UK government has since imposed sanctions including a travel ban and asset freeze on Iran’s Prosecutor General, Mohammad Jafar Montazeri and the British foreign minister said he “is at the heart of Iran's use of the death penalty”. ALSO WATCH | Iran executes 2 more men detained amid nationwide protests So far, in what is expected to be a series of steps against Iran, on Saturday, Cleverly said that Britain would temporarily withdraw its ambassador from Iran and is considering further action against Tehran following Akbari’s execution. “It is important to recognise that our response is not necessarily limited to the actions that I’ve announced today,” said the UK foreign minister. The UK had also summoned the Iranian chargé d’affaires while the British ambassador to Tehran, Stephen Shercliff, was also summoned by the Iranian authorities for Britain’s “unconventional interventions”. Tehran also reportedly told Shercliff that “decisive action” to protect Iran’s national security will not “depend on the consent of other governments, including England”. ALSO WATCH | Iran executes 2 more protesters; Khamenei appoints new national police chief Reports suggest that the UK will be planning to coordinate with the European Union to formally declare Iran’s IRGC a terrorist organisation which would make it a criminal offence to belong to or participate in the group’s activities in Britain. Notably, this is not the first time that the UK is considering this move. In a press conference, last year, the MI5 chief had said that Iran had planned at least 10 plots to, “kidnap or even kill British or UK-based individuals perceived as enemies of the regime,” since the beginning of 2022 alone. ALSO READ | UK: MI5 chief says expulsion of Russian spies from Europe is a ‘significant strategic blow’ to Moscow After Akbari’s execution France also in “full solidarity with the British authorities”, extending their condolences said at the minister’s request summoned the chargé d’affaires of the Iranian Embassy in Paris to “express our outrage”. In a statement, the French government said that they also issued a warning to him and said, “Iran’s repeated violations of international law cannot go unanswered, especially when it comes to the treatment of the foreign nationals the country arbitrarily detains.” French President Emmanuel Macron called the British-Iranian dual national’s execution an “odious and barbaric act.” He added, “His name adds to too long a list of victims of repression and the death penalty in Iran.” Meanwhile, the US State Department also described the execution as politically motivated and unjust while the US ambassador to the UK called it “appalling and sickening”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Who is Alireza Akbari the British-Iranian dual national executed by Iran for ‘spying’?

A report has revealed that before the current British Monarch King Charles III took over the throne, the government took the-then Prince’s permission to pass its post-Brexit Environment Act. As per the Guardian report, this was because the law which was touted as “world-leading” and requires landowners to enhance conservation could affect the member of the royal family’s business interests.

Reportedly, back in 2019, Environment minister Rebecca Pow wrote to the then Prince of Wales asking if he would be willing to accept section seven of the environment bill.

Section seven of the environment bill, which became law in November 2021, refers to the need “to conserve the setting of land with a natural environment or natural resources or which is a place of archaeological, architectural, artistic, cultural or historic interest.” Those in breach risk getting fined.

In the now&nbsp;public letter, the environment minister writes to Charles “This bill contains measures on conservation covenants which affect the interests of the crown, the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall. Part 7 (conservation covenants) of the bill applies to crown land as it applies to any other land.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harry-reconciliation-with-royal-family-possible-before-coronation-report-552766">Harry reconciliation with royal family 'possible' before coronation: report</a>

Responding to the query, Charles’ private secretary, Clive Alderton, gives the then Prince of Wales’s consent and writes he was “content with the bill”.

The Duchy of Cornwall, which has now passed to the current Prince of Wales, Charles’ son William, brings the duke and his family about $21 million in revenue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-addresses-rumours-of-not-being-king-charles-biological-son-in-new-memoir-551223">Prince Harry addresses rumours of not being King Charles' biological son in new memoir</a>

While there is a procedure known as royal assent, a formality under which the monarch formally agrees to make a bill into law,&nbsp;this was done above and beyond that.&nbsp;

Reportedly, under the procedure, more than 1,000 parliamentary acts were shared with the late queen and her eldest son before they were implemented.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A report has revealed that before the current British Monarch King Charles III took over the throne, the government took the-then Prince’s permission to pass its post-Brexit Environment Act.

A report has revealed that before the current British Monarch King Charles III took over the throne, the government took the-then Prince’s permission to pass its post-Brexit Environment Act. As per the Guardian report, this was because the law which was touted as “world-leading” and requires landowners to enhance conservation could affect the member of the royal family’s business interests. Reportedly, back in 2019, Environment minister Rebecca Pow wrote to the then Prince of Wales asking if he would be willing to accept section seven of the environment bill. Section seven of the environment bill, which became law in November 2021, refers to the need “to conserve the setting of land with a natural environment or natural resources or which is a place of archaeological, architectural, artistic, cultural or historic interest.” Those in breach risk getting fined. In the now public letter, the environment minister writes to Charles “This bill contains measures on conservation covenants which affect the interests of the crown, the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall. Part 7 (conservation covenants) of the bill applies to crown land as it applies to any other land.” Also read | Harry reconciliation with royal family 'possible' before coronation: report Responding to the query, Charles’ private secretary, Clive Alderton, gives the then Prince of Wales’s consent and writes he was “content with the bill”. The Duchy of Cornwall, which has now passed to the current Prince of Wales, Charles’ son William, brings the duke and his family about $21 million in revenue. Also read | Prince Harry addresses rumours of not being King Charles' biological son in new memoir While there is a procedure known as royal assent, a formality under which the monarch formally agrees to make a bill into law, this was done above and beyond that. Reportedly, under the procedure, more than 1,000 parliamentary acts were shared with the late queen and her eldest son before they were implemented. (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.

Report reveals how UK lawmakers sought King Charles’ permission for a law that impacted his property

At least six people injured in the shooting that occurred near a church in London. No life threatening injuries reported so far. Watch further to know more.

Six people injured in a shooting incident outside London Church

At least four people injured in the shooting that occurred near a church in London. No life threatening injuries reported so far. Watch further to know more.

Four people injured in a shooting incident outside London Church

According to Thérèse Coffey, the environment secretary, a number of single-use plastics that are harmful to the environment will be prohibited in England. Single-use plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery, balloon sticks, and specific kinds of polystyrene cups and food containers will all be prohibited. The implementation of this restriction will begin in October 2023, giving businesses time to get ready.

UK: East food vendors worried over ban on single-use plastics

Iranian judiciary's Mizan news agency said on Saturday (January 14) that British-Iranian national Alireza Akbari had been executed. He was handed death sentence on charges of spying for Britain.

Iran: Alireza Akbari executed on charges of being a British spy, UK condemns execution

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,&nbsp;promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities.&nbsp;As per an AP report, Britain and Ukraine discussed delivering the Challenger 2 tanks which will help the latter fight the Russian forces.&nbsp;

The office of Sunak had previously said that Britain and its allies would co-ordinate their support after France, Germany and the United States last week indicated that they would send armoured vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"The prime minister outlined the UK’s ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine, including through the provision of Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems,” said a spokesperson for Sunak.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

"They agreed on the need to seize on this moment with an acceleration of global military and diplomatic support to Ukraine,” he added.&nbsp;

A battle tank, Challenger 2, has been designed to counter other tanks and has remained in the service of the British Army since 1994.&nbsp;

"The prime minister and President Zelenskiy welcomed other international commitments in this vein, including Poland’s offer to provide a company of Leopard tanks," said the spokesperson.

British media has reported that four British Army Challenger 2 main battle tanks will be sent to eastern Europe immediately, with eight more to follow shortly after, but&nbsp;did not cite sources.&nbsp;The announcement came several hours after a series of explosions rocked Kyiv on Saturday morning. 
 
Ukrainian president's staff head Andriy Yermak thanked the UK for providing its new defence package.

"This is an important contribution to the defence of freedom and democracy in Europe. We are grateful to Rishi Sunak and the (British) people for their help," he wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

WATCH | Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

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Nations to provide tanks, military support

French armed forces minister Sebastien Lecornu on Friday had stated that the country plans to send 'AMX 10-RC' light combat tanks to Ukraine in a duration of two months.&nbsp;

Poland had also announced that it will be proving Leopard tanks, as part of an international coalition, to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Polish president Andrzej Duda said, “A company of Leopard tanks will be handed over as part of coalition-building. We want it to be an international coalition."&nbsp;

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also been facing pressure to provide Kyiv with more international military support by permitting Leopard 2 battle tanks' export to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities. As per an AP report, Britain and Ukraine discussed delivering the Challenger 2 tanks which will help the latter fight the Russian forces. The office of Sunak had previously said that Britain and its allies would co-ordinate their support after France, Germany and the United States last week indicated that they would send armoured vehicles to Ukraine. "The prime minister outlined the UK’s ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine, including through the provision of Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems,” said a spokesperson for Sunak. ALSO READ| Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' "They agreed on the need to seize on this moment with an acceleration of global military and diplomatic support to Ukraine,” he added. A battle tank, Challenger 2, has been designed to counter other tanks and has remained in the service of the British Army since 1994. "The prime minister and President Zelenskiy welcomed other international commitments in this vein, including Poland’s offer to provide a company of Leopard tanks," said the spokesperson. British media has reported that four British Army Challenger 2 main battle tanks will be sent to eastern Europe immediately, with eight more to follow shortly after, but did not cite sources. The announcement came several hours after a series of explosions rocked Kyiv on Saturday morning. Ukrainian president's staff head Andriy Yermak thanked the UK for providing its new defence package. "This is an important contribution to the defence of freedom and democracy in Europe. We are grateful to Rishi Sunak and the (British) people for their help," he wrote on Twitter. WATCH | Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again Nations to provide tanks, military support French armed forces minister Sebastien Lecornu on Friday had stated that the country plans to send 'AMX 10-RC' light combat tanks to Ukraine in a duration of two months. Poland had also announced that it will be proving Leopard tanks, as part of an international coalition, to Ukraine. Polish president Andrzej Duda said, “A company of Leopard tanks will be handed over as part of coalition-building. We want it to be an international coalition." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also been facing pressure to provide Kyiv with more international military support by permitting Leopard 2 battle tanks' export to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine

A team of researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom have found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT), used to relieve symptoms of menopause in women, may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The study published in the Alzheimer’s Research &amp; Therapy journal, earlier this week, shows evidence of HRT reducing the risk of the aforementioned disease in women carrying the APOE4 gene. While APOE4 is the strongest risk factor gene for the disease, inheriting it does not necessarily mean that a person will definitely develop the condition.&nbsp;

The recent study found that HRT was most effective when taken before periods stop and the onset of symptoms which then build up for months or years, also known as perimenopause. However, researchers have also said that they cannot say with absolute certainty that HRT will reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women, but the findings were important given the limited treatment and prevention options for dementia.&nbsp;

“In addition to living longer, the reason behind the higher female prevalence is thought to be related to the effects of menopause and the impact of the APOE4 genetic risk factor being greater in women,” said professor Anne-Marie Minihane from UEA’s Norwich Medical School who co-led the study with the University of Edinburgh, professor Craig Ritchie. She added, “We wanted to find out whether HRT could prevent cognitive decline in at-risk APOE4 carriers”.&nbsp;

The findings were based on the data analysed from 1,178 women who are a part of the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Dementia initiative, which was set up to study the participants’ brain health over time. The initiative has reportedly tracked over 1,900 people across 10 countries who were aged over 50 and did not have dementia at the beginning of the study.&nbsp;

Notably, while the study does not look at dementia cases, Minihane said that cognitive performance and lower brain volumes are predictive of future dementia risk. The team of researchers from the UK looked at MRI scans which recorded the results of the cognitive tests and brain volumes and found that APOE4 carriers who used HRT had better cognition and higher brain volumes. This data was then compared to those who did not take the HRT and also were non-APOE4 carriers.&nbsp;

“An effect on both cognition and brain changes on MRI supports the notion that HRT has tangible benefit. These initial findings need replication, however, in other populations,” said Ritchie. Additionally, he also highlighted the need to challenge many assumptions about Alzheimer’s disease and its treatment, particularly in women.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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A team of researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom have found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT), used to relieve symptoms of menopause in women, may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

A team of researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom have found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT), used to relieve symptoms of menopause in women, may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The study published in the Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy journal, earlier this week, shows evidence of HRT reducing the risk of the aforementioned disease in women carrying the APOE4 gene. While APOE4 is the strongest risk factor gene for the disease, inheriting it does not necessarily mean that a person will definitely develop the condition. The recent study found that HRT was most effective when taken before periods stop and the onset of symptoms which then build up for months or years, also known as perimenopause. However, researchers have also said that they cannot say with absolute certainty that HRT will reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women, but the findings were important given the limited treatment and prevention options for dementia. “In addition to living longer, the reason behind the higher female prevalence is thought to be related to the effects of menopause and the impact of the APOE4 genetic risk factor being greater in women,” said professor Anne-Marie Minihane from UEA’s Norwich Medical School who co-led the study with the University of Edinburgh, professor Craig Ritchie. She added, “We wanted to find out whether HRT could prevent cognitive decline in at-risk APOE4 carriers”. The findings were based on the data analysed from 1,178 women who are a part of the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Dementia initiative, which was set up to study the participants’ brain health over time. The initiative has reportedly tracked over 1,900 people across 10 countries who were aged over 50 and did not have dementia at the beginning of the study. Notably, while the study does not look at dementia cases, Minihane said that cognitive performance and lower brain volumes are predictive of future dementia risk. The team of researchers from the UK looked at MRI scans which recorded the results of the cognitive tests and brain volumes and found that APOE4 carriers who used HRT had better cognition and higher brain volumes. This data was then compared to those who did not take the HRT and also were non-APOE4 carriers. “An effect on both cognition and brain changes on MRI supports the notion that HRT has tangible benefit. These initial findings need replication, however, in other populations,” said Ritchie. Additionally, he also highlighted the need to challenge many assumptions about Alzheimer’s disease and its treatment, particularly in women. 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.

Hormone replacement therapy may help reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women: Study

Thousands of ambulance workers were holding a second day of strikes over pay and conditions, during which they will only respond to the most urgent cases.

UK: Ambulance workers' strike continue on second day over better pay

More than 70,000 staff members at 150 universities in the UK will go on strike for 18 days between February and March over several issues, including salary, working conditions and pension. "The clock is now ticking for the sector to produce a deal or be hit with widespread disruption throughout spring," University and College Union (UCU) general secretary Jo Grady said.

The exact dates of the action will be announced next week, according to UCU, The Guardian reported.

The union, which comprises academics, trainers, librarians, and other professionals employed by colleges and universities, stated it was calling for higher pay after employers set a pay raise worth 3% after more than ten years of pay awards that lagged owing to inflation, Reuters reported.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/uk-ambulance-workers-go-on-strike-pm-calls-walkout-terrifying-for-patients-551651" hreflang="en">UK ambulance workers also go on strike, PM Rishi Sunak calls walkout ‘terrifying for patients’</a>

If the issues are not resolved, the union will also re-ballot staffers at all 150 universities to extend its mandate and allow industrial action to be called well into 2023, including a boycott of marking and assessment starting in April.

To address the rising cost of living, the union is calling for both -- measures to stop the use of "insecure" contracts and a pay increase. On Wednesday, the Universities and Colleges Employers Association, which advocates for university employers, presented the UCU with a salary offer worth 4 per cent to 5 per cent, but the union claimed this was insufficient.

Watch | UK strikes over pay to continue

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“Today our union came together to back an unprecedented programme of escalating strike action,” UCU general secretary Jo Grady said. “University staff dedicate their lives to education and they want to get back to work, but that will only happen if university vice-chancellors use the vast wealth of the sector to address over a decade of falling pay, rampant insecure employment practices and devastating pension cuts. The choice is theirs,” he continued.

Amid the pay disputes, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faces pressure to end a wave of industrial activities in Britain that started last year as the nation struggles with double-digit inflation. Numerous critical services, including healthcare and rail transportation, have frequently been disrupted by the strikes, with the participation of hundreds of thousands of people.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 70,000 staff members at 150 universities in the UK will go on strike for 18 days between February and March over several issues, including salary, working conditions and pension.

More than 70,000 staff members at 150 universities in the UK will go on strike for 18 days between February and March over several issues, including salary, working conditions and pension. "The clock is now ticking for the sector to produce a deal or be hit with widespread disruption throughout spring," University and College Union (UCU) general secretary Jo Grady said. The exact dates of the action will be announced next week, according to UCU, The Guardian reported. The union, which comprises academics, trainers, librarians, and other professionals employed by colleges and universities, stated it was calling for higher pay after employers set a pay raise worth 3% after more than ten years of pay awards that lagged owing to inflation, Reuters reported. Also Read | UK ambulance workers also go on strike, PM Rishi Sunak calls walkout ‘terrifying for patients’ If the issues are not resolved, the union will also re-ballot staffers at all 150 universities to extend its mandate and allow industrial action to be called well into 2023, including a boycott of marking and assessment starting in April. To address the rising cost of living, the union is calling for both -- measures to stop the use of "insecure" contracts and a pay increase. On Wednesday, the Universities and Colleges Employers Association, which advocates for university employers, presented the UCU with a salary offer worth 4 per cent to 5 per cent, but the union claimed this was insufficient. Watch | UK strikes over pay to continue “Today our union came together to back an unprecedented programme of escalating strike action,” UCU general secretary Jo Grady said. “University staff dedicate their lives to education and they want to get back to work, but that will only happen if university vice-chancellors use the vast wealth of the sector to address over a decade of falling pay, rampant insecure employment practices and devastating pension cuts. The choice is theirs,” he continued. Amid the pay disputes, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faces pressure to end a wave of industrial activities in Britain that started last year as the nation struggles with double-digit inflation. Numerous critical services, including healthcare and rail transportation, have frequently been disrupted by the strikes, with the participation of hundreds of thousands of people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK pay dispute: More than 70,000 staff members at 150 universities to strike for 18 days

In the United Kingdom, the Royal Mails International Delivery Services suffered a severe disruption on Wednesday and now some reports are suggesting that a ransomware group with links in Russia is behind this attack.

UK: Postal group Royal Mail hit by 'Russia-linked' ransomware attack

The threat of industrial action across key sectors still looms over the UK rail. NHS and border security forces have already played their part in the ongoing strikes and now more than 70,000 staff at 150 universities across the UK are set to go on a strike for 18 days.

UK: Over 70,000 staff at 150 universities to strike for 18 days

UK PM, Rishi Sunak is facing a major backbench rebellion over the government’s plans to prevent harmful material on the internet. Watch this report to know more.

UK PM Rishi Sunak facing major Tory rebellion over internet safety law

Iran has sentenced a former top defence officer&nbsp;Ali Reza Akbari to death, after being found guilty of espionage for the United Kingdom, state-affiliated media reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;As per reports&nbsp;from&nbsp;the semi-official Tasnim news agency, the judiciary declared Ali Reza Akbari, who served as deputy defence minister until 2001, to be a "key spy" for British intelligence. It claimed that Iranian intelligence uncovered&nbsp;the espionage by giving him false information.&nbsp;

Additionally, Tasnim news agency claimed that Akbari had&nbsp;spied on previous nuclear negotiations between Iran and Western governments. Under President Mohammad Khatami, a reformer who advocated for better ties with the West, Akbari held the office&nbsp;of deputy defence minister.

Iran has been engaged in a shadow war with the US and Israel for several years that has been characterised by covert strikes against Iran's contentious nuclear programme. Foreign intelligence services had made significant gains, as evidenced by the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist in 2020, which Iran claimed Israel was responsible for.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-jailed-activist-sepideh-qolian-writes-letter-describing-brutality-in-jail-551523">Iran: Jailed activist Sepideh Qolian writes letter describing brutality in prison&nbsp;</a>

Akbari, who was the head of a private think tank, hasn't been spotted in the streets since 2019, when he was reportedly detained.

His trial's specifics have not been made public by the authorities. Those accused of espionage and other offences involving national security are often prosecuted covertly, where, according to rights organisations, they are not allowed&nbsp;to choose their own attorneys and cannot view the evidence against them.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran's prominent rights activist sentenced to five years in prison

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The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hm-zara-among-brands-accused-of-unfairly-treating-bangladesh-suppliers-paid-them-less-than-production-costs-551622">UK</a> Foreign Office was requested to intercede to stop his impending execution, reported the Guardian following which&nbsp;UK foreign secretary, James Cleverly, urged the Iranian government not to go ahead with its&nbsp;plans to execute Akbari.

“Iran must halt the execution of British-Iranian national Alireza Akbari and immediately release him. This is a politically motivated act by a barbaric regime that has total disregard for human life,”&nbsp;Cleverly said.

Akbari’s wife, Maryam Akbari, told the Guardian that her husband is a patriot and was a victim of Iranian factional power politics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran has sentenced a former top defence officer Ali Reza Akbari to death, after being found guilty of espionage for the United Kingdom, state-affiliated media reported on Wednesday.

Iran has sentenced a former top defence officer Ali Reza Akbari to death, after being found guilty of espionage for the United Kingdom, state-affiliated media reported on Wednesday. As per reports from the semi-official Tasnim news agency, the judiciary declared Ali Reza Akbari, who served as deputy defence minister until 2001, to be a "key spy" for British intelligence. It claimed that Iranian intelligence uncovered the espionage by giving him false information. Additionally, Tasnim news agency claimed that Akbari had spied on previous nuclear negotiations between Iran and Western governments. Under President Mohammad Khatami, a reformer who advocated for better ties with the West, Akbari held the office of deputy defence minister. Iran has been engaged in a shadow war with the US and Israel for several years that has been characterised by covert strikes against Iran's contentious nuclear programme. Foreign intelligence services had made significant gains, as evidenced by the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist in 2020, which Iran claimed Israel was responsible for. Also read | Iran: Jailed activist Sepideh Qolian writes letter describing brutality in prison Akbari, who was the head of a private think tank, hasn't been spotted in the streets since 2019, when he was reportedly detained. His trial's specifics have not been made public by the authorities. Those accused of espionage and other offences involving national security are often prosecuted covertly, where, according to rights organisations, they are not allowed to choose their own attorneys and cannot view the evidence against them. Also watch | Iran's prominent rights activist sentenced to five years in prison The UK Foreign Office was requested to intercede to stop his impending execution, reported the Guardian following which UK foreign secretary, James Cleverly, urged the Iranian government not to go ahead with its plans to execute Akbari. “Iran must halt the execution of British-Iranian national Alireza Akbari and immediately release him. This is a politically motivated act by a barbaric regime that has total disregard for human life,” Cleverly said. Akbari’s wife, Maryam Akbari, told the Guardian that her husband is a patriot and was a victim of Iranian factional power politics. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran sentences ex-deputy defence minister to death over alleged espionage for the UK

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