A prestigious private school in London is under scanner for grading malpractice, reported The Guardian. Investigation into multiple cases was opened after it was found that all A-level examination entries received A* or A in the year 2021. During that year, formal exams were cancelled by the government due to the pandemic. The students were hence assessed by their teachers.

North London Collegiate School (NLCS) is a £22,000-a-year girls' school. Several officials including teachers are now reportedly under investigation for alleged malpractice.

The Guradian quoted sources who said that more than 20 cases have been forwarded for review to malpractice committees convened by A-level examination boards. The committees held confidential hearings this month.

Some of the malpractice allegations have been dismissed but others have been upheld.

“We take allegations of malpractice very seriously and investigate all those put to us. Where malpractice is found we have systems in place to ensure, as far as possible, that appropriate sanctions are taken according to the evidence. We cannot comment on individual cases," said a spokersperson of Pearson, one of the examination boards involved in the investigation. The spokesperson was quoted by The Guardian.

The NLCS reportedly declined to reveal how many cases were being investigated.

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A prestigious private school in London is under scanner for grading malpractice, reported The Guardian. Investigation into multiple cases was opened after it was found that all A-level examination entries received A* or A in the year 2021.

A prestigious private school in London is under scanner for grading malpractice, reported The Guardian. Investigation into multiple cases was opened after it was found that all A-level examination entries received A* or A in the year 2021. During that year, formal exams were cancelled by the government due to the pandemic. The students were hence assessed by their teachers. North London Collegiate School (NLCS) is a £22,000-a-year girls' school. Several officials including teachers are now reportedly under investigation for alleged malpractice. The Guradian quoted sources who said that more than 20 cases have been forwarded for review to malpractice committees convened by A-level examination boards. The committees held confidential hearings this month. Some of the malpractice allegations have been dismissed but others have been upheld. “We take allegations of malpractice very seriously and investigate all those put to us. Where malpractice is found we have systems in place to ensure, as far as possible, that appropriate sanctions are taken according to the evidence. We cannot comment on individual cases," said a spokersperson of Pearson, one of the examination boards involved in the investigation. The spokesperson was quoted by The Guardian. The NLCS reportedly declined to reveal how many cases were being investigated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Prestigious London private school under scanner for 'blanket A' grades

On the eve of Christmas, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak found himself in a tricky situation. The moment happened when he was distributing food at a homeless shelter on Friday. Sunak asked the homeless man at one point if 'he worked in a business' and wanted to get into the finance industry. Watch the video to know more about their awkward exchange.

UK PM Rishi Sunak visits homeless shelter on Christmas eve, asks man if 'he is in business?'

Target date for cleaning up waterways in UK is pushed back by 36 years. The targets is to clean up majority of England's rivers, lakes and coastal waters suffering from a cocktail of agricultural and sewage pollution. Watch further to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Targets to clean UK rivers pushed back from 2027 to 2063

Divorce rates are expected to hit a 50-year high in the UK. Couples are dealing with the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. Squabbling over budgets and holiday gifts has increased between partners. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: It's the season to fight with your spouse?

The ongoing strikes in the United Kingdom in the middle of the holiday season do not appear to be ending anytime soon as the National Health Services have now announced a fresh round of strikes in the month of January.

UK: PM Rishi Sunak says government open to talks but unions disagree

British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service.

Thanking them for their dedication and sacrifice, Sunak paid tribute to the various staff based across the globe, including the crew on a Royal Navy ship sailing in Antarctica and diplomats based in Somalia and Ukraine.

The prime minister's office on Saturday (December 24) released a video in which Sunak was seen calling childcare providers, diplomats as well as military personnel who were working over the festive period.

In one phone call Sunak spoke with Chris Mitchell, who runs Smart Play, a government-funded Holiday Activities and Food programme in Barnet, to discuss the support he and his team offer to vulnerable children throughout the school holidays.

"Just calling to say thank you for all the work you do at smart play. What you do is fantastic. It makes a big difference to people who need that extra bit of help. You know, we're delighted to fund work like yours and in particular at this time of year is that it makes a big difference. I just want to call and say thank you to you for that," Sunak said.

"it means so much to me to get that feedback, it really does. And I hope you have a lovely Christmas, your family too and everyone else. And thank you again. It's just such a shock," responded Mitchell.

His calls come as strikes by unions representing workers in sectors including rail, health and border staff continue to cause disruption across the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service.

British PM Rishi Sunak, in a change in the usual tradition of Christmas message, called public sector workers around the world and thanked them for their service. Thanking them for their dedication and sacrifice, Sunak paid tribute to the various staff based across the globe, including the crew on a Royal Navy ship sailing in Antarctica and diplomats based in Somalia and Ukraine. The prime minister's office on Saturday (December 24) released a video in which Sunak was seen calling childcare providers, diplomats as well as military personnel who were working over the festive period. In one phone call Sunak spoke with Chris Mitchell, who runs Smart Play, a government-funded Holiday Activities and Food programme in Barnet, to discuss the support he and his team offer to vulnerable children throughout the school holidays. "Just calling to say thank you for all the work you do at smart play. What you do is fantastic. It makes a big difference to people who need that extra bit of help. You know, we're delighted to fund work like yours and in particular at this time of year is that it makes a big difference. I just want to call and say thank you to you for that," Sunak said. "it means so much to me to get that feedback, it really does. And I hope you have a lovely Christmas, your family too and everyone else. And thank you again. It's just such a shock," responded Mitchell. His calls come as strikes by unions representing workers in sectors including rail, health and border staff continue to cause disruption across the country. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks

Sharing Netflix passwords with friends and families has become as common as sharing food with your loved ones but coming 2023, sharing Netflix passwords in one particular country will become illegal.

UK Government: Netflix password sharing is illegal, users can face criminal charges

UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government. On 18 and 19 January 2023, nurses will not report to work in 55 NHS trusts, an increase of 11 from the 44 NHS trusts where they staged their initial strikes on 15 and 20 December 2022.

Following a prior threat by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to step up its strike campaign if ministers didn't budge on pay negotiations, further action has been taken.

“The government had the opportunity to end this dispute before Christmas but instead they have chosen to push nursing staff out into the cold again in January,” said Pat Cullen, the RCN’s general secretary and chief executive who spoke to the Guardian.

She added: “I do not wish to prolong this dispute but the prime minister has left us with no choice. The voice of nursing will not be ignored. Staff shortages and low pay make patient care unsafe. The sooner ministers come to the negotiating table, the sooner this can be resolved. I will not dig in if they don’t dig in.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/uk-couple-battling-cancer-in-pregnancy-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-545840">UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby</a>

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN)&nbsp;has repeatedly emphasised that if the health secretary, Steve Barclay, begins negotiations with them, it will lower its demand for a pay increase of five per cent above inflation. He has declined to take into account raising the salary increase of £1,400 for 2022–2023 offered to NHS employees, with the exception of doctors and dentists, which translates to an increase of around four per cent &nbsp;for the majority of frontline staff.

Also watch |&nbsp;January 6 committee releases final report on its investigation of Capitol riot

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After the union&nbsp;stated on Thursday that members in five of England's ten regional ambulance services would stage 24-hour stoppages on January 11 and 23, the union's decision means that the NHS in England would experience disruption for three consecutive weeks in January.

However, the government has toughened its stance on NHS pay this week. Rishi Sunak iterated it was too late to revisit the £1,400 settlement for this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government.

UK nurses plan to strike for two days consecutively in the new year at dozens of hospitals across England in connection with their pay fallout with the government. On 18 and 19 January 2023, nurses will not report to work in 55 NHS trusts, an increase of 11 from the 44 NHS trusts where they staged their initial strikes on 15 and 20 December 2022. Following a prior threat by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to step up its strike campaign if ministers didn't budge on pay negotiations, further action has been taken. “The government had the opportunity to end this dispute before Christmas but instead they have chosen to push nursing staff out into the cold again in January,” said Pat Cullen, the RCN’s general secretary and chief executive who spoke to the Guardian. She added: “I do not wish to prolong this dispute but the prime minister has left us with no choice. The voice of nursing will not be ignored. Staff shortages and low pay make patient care unsafe. The sooner ministers come to the negotiating table, the sooner this can be resolved. I will not dig in if they don’t dig in.” Also read | UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has repeatedly emphasised that if the health secretary, Steve Barclay, begins negotiations with them, it will lower its demand for a pay increase of five per cent above inflation. He has declined to take into account raising the salary increase of £1,400 for 2022–2023 offered to NHS employees, with the exception of doctors and dentists, which translates to an increase of around four per cent for the majority of frontline staff. Also watch | January 6 committee releases final report on its investigation of Capitol riot After the union stated on Thursday that members in five of England's ten regional ambulance services would stage 24-hour stoppages on January 11 and 23, the union's decision means that the NHS in England would experience disruption for three consecutive weeks in January. However, the government has toughened its stance on NHS pay this week. Rishi Sunak iterated it was too late to revisit the £1,400 settlement for this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK nurses announce two-day strike on 18-19 Jan in escalation of pay dispute with the govt

The series of strikes in UK seems nowhere close to an end. Now, its border force workers have announced a walkout starting from today until December 26 and then between December 28 and 31. The walkout comes a day after ambulance workers strike and as the rising cost of living is outpacing employees pay in the UK.

UK witness strikes against less pay and high cost of living

UK: Border force workers begin strike against less pay, high living cost

Scotland has become United Kingdom's first region to approve a self-identification process for changing gender. The Scottish Parliament approved disputed reforms that makes it easier for transgender people to change their legal gender.

Scotland validates self-ID for gender change which is now easier in the country

The US, UK and UN have criticised the Taliban's ban on Afghanistan women from universities. The Taliban have banned female students from private and public universities in Afghanistan. Girls are already banned from secondary school education in the country.

Afghanistan: Taliban fighters enforce university ban; Afghan women deprived of basic human rights

How safe are Christmas toys? In UK'S Wales, a 4-year-old nearly died after swallowing 52 magnets from a toy. Why were they inside the toy? Priyanka Sharma has some questions for Toymakers.

Gravitas: How safe are Christmas toys?

The UK economy contracted by more than first estimated in the third quarter. The value of all the goods and services produced fell by a revised 0.3% against the 0.2% decline. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: UK economy shrinking more than expected

A day after the strikes by ambulance workers crippled services, National Heath Services officials predict tough days ahead in UK claiming that the situation arising will cause a big backlog unlikely to be very challenging.

UK: What next after ambulance strike? Health officials predict tough days ahead

Strikes hit UK healthcare services as paramedics, call handlers, emergency assistance and ambulance workers stop work over a pay rise. Industrial strikes hit medical, transport and postal services.

UK's health system pushed to the brink as ambulance workers went on strike

Earlier this week, Ali Ahmed Aslam, a chef from Glasgow, Scotland, who is credited with inventing perhaps the most famous Indian dish after butter chicken, the chicken tikka masala, passed away at the age of 77. According to reports in the Guardian, his passing away was announced by his Shish Mahal restaurant in Glasgow, which closed for 48 hours as a mark of respect. The eatery announced: “Hey, Shish Snobs … Mr Ali passed away this morning … We are all absolutely devastated and heartbroken.”

Chef Aslam's origins go back to Pakistan though he moved with his family to Glasgow when he was very young and then, later on, opened his now-famous restaurant Shish Mahal in Glasgow’s west end in 1964.

For most of us, it is just a dish that we see on the menu of most restaurants in India or all over the world. But then for die-hard fans, chicken tikka masala&nbsp;is not just a dish or for that matter, any dish! It is a symbol that not only typifies its country of origin, India but also a mark of diversity and multicultural influences that colour the world we live in today.&nbsp;

In most countries and especially the UK, which has a sizable Indian population, chicken tikka masala has a huge fan following with natives outnumbering Indians in their love for this dish that is made with marinated chunks of chicken in a simmering tomato sauce gravy. In fact, in 2001, Robin Cook, the then Foreign Secretary gave his so-called 'çhicken tikka' speech that was hailed as celebrating the UK's multi-ethnicity.

Chicken tikka masala, said Cook in his speech, as reported by the Guardian,"is now a true British national dish not only because it is the most popular, but because it is a perfect illustration of the way Britain absorbs and adapts external influences." A dry Indian dish adapted with sauce "to satisfy the desire of British people to have their meat served in gravy".&nbsp;

Read also | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glasgow-based-chef-who-claimed-to-have-invented-chicken-tikka-masala-dies-at-77-545301">Glasgow-based chef who claimed to have invented chicken tikka masala dies at 77</a>

Where did this dish originate?

The origins of this dish which is now said to be the UK's national dish, and is almost 40 to 50 years old, vary with some sources saying it originated in Punjab during 1971 and others pegging its origins to the Glasgow chef, Ali Ahmed Aslam.&nbsp;

The story started in the 1970s when a grumbling customer told Chef Aslam, that his chicken was too dry and insisted that it be customised with some gravy. The chef then decided to add some tomato sauce, and some extra masala and let it simmer for a while, according to AFP reports. Back at the table, the customer liked this new dish so much that he kept coming back for more and since then the chicken tikka masala has had a cult following, as the story goes!

For those who still haven't tried it yet, chicken tikka masala is made by marinated boneless chicken pieces that are cooked in a tandoor and then served in a creamy tomato sauce. Since it is so popular in the UK, it is a staple menu item in most restaurants there, especially in London in the East End restaurants along Brick Lane, known as “Curry Mile.”

Read also | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-tom-cruise-relishes-chicken-tikka-masala-at-asha-bhosle%E2%80%99s-restaurant-408289">Tom Cruise relishes chicken tikka masala at Asha Bhosle’s restaurant</a> 
 
Controversy abounds

In the year 2009, though the bid was not successful, the then Labour MP Mohammad Sarwar put forth a motion in the House of Commons requesting that Parliament should legally recognize Glasgow as the home of chicken tikka masala. Though officially that never happened, Chicken Tikka surreptitiously dunked itself into the culture and food habits of British people who identified India with this dish and it outsold all other Indian dishes, from then, till now.&nbsp;

Closer home in India, we have the origins attributed to the founder of the Moti Mahal restaurant, headquartered in Delhi, the late Kundan Lal Gujral, who is said to have discovered 'tandoor' cooking or the slow cooking methods by charcoal in a clay oven.&nbsp;

Also, in their book, Flavours of History, food historians and authors Peter and Colleen Grove while discussing the various theories that abound about the origins of the chicken tikka masala suggest that it could have also originated from a famous recipe of another chef, Mrs. Balbir Singh whose book Indian Cookery published in 1961 contains her recipe similar to chicken tikka.

And the story goes on.

 
&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Ali Ahmed Aslam, a chef from Glasgow, Scotland, who is credited with inventing perhaps the most famous Indian dish after butter chicken, the chicken tikka masala, passed away at the age of 77.

Earlier this week, Ali Ahmed Aslam, a chef from Glasgow, Scotland, who is credited with inventing perhaps the most famous Indian dish after butter chicken, the chicken tikka masala, passed away at the age of 77. According to reports in the Guardian, his passing away was announced by his Shish Mahal restaurant in Glasgow, which closed for 48 hours as a mark of respect. The eatery announced: “Hey, Shish Snobs … Mr Ali passed away this morning … We are all absolutely devastated and heartbroken.” Chef Aslam's origins go back to Pakistan though he moved with his family to Glasgow when he was very young and then, later on, opened his now-famous restaurant Shish Mahal in Glasgow’s west end in 1964. For most of us, it is just a dish that we see on the menu of most restaurants in India or all over the world. But then for die-hard fans, chicken tikka masala is not just a dish or for that matter, any dish! It is a symbol that not only typifies its country of origin, India but also a mark of diversity and multicultural influences that colour the world we live in today. In most countries and especially the UK, which has a sizable Indian population, chicken tikka masala has a huge fan following with natives outnumbering Indians in their love for this dish that is made with marinated chunks of chicken in a simmering tomato sauce gravy. In fact, in 2001, Robin Cook, the then Foreign Secretary gave his so-called 'çhicken tikka' speech that was hailed as celebrating the UK's multi-ethnicity. Chicken tikka masala, said Cook in his speech, as reported by the Guardian,"is now a true British national dish not only because it is the most popular, but because it is a perfect illustration of the way Britain absorbs and adapts external influences." A dry Indian dish adapted with sauce "to satisfy the desire of British people to have their meat served in gravy". Read also | Glasgow-based chef who claimed to have invented chicken tikka masala dies at 77 Where did this dish originate? The origins of this dish which is now said to be the UK's national dish, and is almost 40 to 50 years old, vary with some sources saying it originated in Punjab during 1971 and others pegging its origins to the Glasgow chef, Ali Ahmed Aslam. The story started in the 1970s when a grumbling customer told Chef Aslam, that his chicken was too dry and insisted that it be customised with some gravy. The chef then decided to add some tomato sauce, and some extra masala and let it simmer for a while, according to AFP reports. Back at the table, the customer liked this new dish so much that he kept coming back for more and since then the chicken tikka masala has had a cult following, as the story goes! For those who still haven't tried it yet, chicken tikka masala is made by marinated boneless chicken pieces that are cooked in a tandoor and then served in a creamy tomato sauce. Since it is so popular in the UK, it is a staple menu item in most restaurants there, especially in London in the East End restaurants along Brick Lane, known as “Curry Mile.” Read also | Tom Cruise relishes chicken tikka masala at Asha Bhosle’s restaurant Controversy abounds In the year 2009, though the bid was not successful, the then Labour MP Mohammad Sarwar put forth a motion in the House of Commons requesting that Parliament should legally recognize Glasgow as the home of chicken tikka masala. Though officially that never happened, Chicken Tikka surreptitiously dunked itself into the culture and food habits of British people who identified India with this dish and it outsold all other Indian dishes, from then, till now. Closer home in India, we have the origins attributed to the founder of the Moti Mahal restaurant, headquartered in Delhi, the late Kundan Lal Gujral, who is said to have discovered 'tandoor' cooking or the slow cooking methods by charcoal in a clay oven. Also, in their book, Flavours of History, food historians and authors Peter and Colleen Grove while discussing the various theories that abound about the origins of the chicken tikka masala suggest that it could have also originated from a famous recipe of another chef, Mrs. Balbir Singh whose book Indian Cookery published in 1961 contains her recipe similar to chicken tikka. And the story goes on.

Why chicken tikka masala is not just any dish

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: India ramps up Covid preparedness | UK's season of strike continues

Palaeontologists in the United Kingdom after analysing fossil remains from over 100 million years ago, said that they might have found the first known “record of a dinosaur eating a mammal”. The fossil shows a small feathered dinosaur, known as a Microraptor, with the foot of an animal inside its ribcage.&nbsp;

The findings published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, on Tuesday, also suggest that the prey was a mammal the size of a mouse, lived on the ground and was not a good climber. Additionally, previous research also suggests that the three-toed Microraptor which could be the size of a small cat or crow was a carnivorous dinosaur discovered in western China.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/once-thought-to-be-fossil-death-bed-could-be-an-ancient-maternity-ward-says-study-544854">What was once thought to be marine reptile death bed could be an ancient maternity ward: Study</a>

The Microraptor existed between 125 and 113 million years ago and walked on two legs, while experts believe they were capable of guided flight. The fossil which was missing parts of its body but the rib cage was visible inside which was a tiny right foot, less than half an inch in size, was perfectly preserved.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-7-million-year-old-fossil-of-a-crocodile-ancestor-found-in-peru-480049">A 7-million-year-old fossil of a crocodile ancestor found in Peru</a>

“It's so rare to find examples of food inside dinosaurs so every example is really important as it gives direct evidence of what they were eating,” said the first author of the study and palaeontologist at the Queen Mary University of London, Dr David Hone.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-archaeologists-excavate-ancient-jesus-midwife-tomb-544869">Israel: Archaeologists excavate ancient 'Jesus midwife' tomb</a>

The palaeontologist also noted, “While this mammal would absolutely not have been a human ancestor, we can look back at some of our ancient relatives being a meal for hungry dinosaurs.” The specimen in question also belongs to one of the smallest dinosaurs and was first described almost two decades ago, however, it was after a re-analysis that the foot bone was found within the raptor’s rib cage.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Palaeontologists in the United Kingdom after analysing fossil remains from over 100 million years ago, said that they might have found the first known “record of a dinosaur eating a mammal”.

Palaeontologists in the United Kingdom after analysing fossil remains from over 100 million years ago, said that they might have found the first known “record of a dinosaur eating a mammal”. The fossil shows a small feathered dinosaur, known as a Microraptor, with the foot of an animal inside its ribcage. The findings published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, on Tuesday, also suggest that the prey was a mammal the size of a mouse, lived on the ground and was not a good climber. Additionally, previous research also suggests that the three-toed Microraptor which could be the size of a small cat or crow was a carnivorous dinosaur discovered in western China. ALSO READ | What was once thought to be marine reptile death bed could be an ancient maternity ward: Study The Microraptor existed between 125 and 113 million years ago and walked on two legs, while experts believe they were capable of guided flight. The fossil which was missing parts of its body but the rib cage was visible inside which was a tiny right foot, less than half an inch in size, was perfectly preserved. ALSO WATCH | A 7-million-year-old fossil of a crocodile ancestor found in Peru “It's so rare to find examples of food inside dinosaurs so every example is really important as it gives direct evidence of what they were eating,” said the first author of the study and palaeontologist at the Queen Mary University of London, Dr David Hone. ALSO READ | Israel: Archaeologists excavate ancient 'Jesus midwife' tomb The palaeontologist also noted, “While this mammal would absolutely not have been a human ancestor, we can look back at some of our ancient relatives being a meal for hungry dinosaurs.” The specimen in question also belongs to one of the smallest dinosaurs and was first described almost two decades ago, however, it was after a re-analysis that the foot bone was found within the raptor’s rib cage. (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.

Scientists might have found ‘first record of a dinosaur eating a mammal’

Thousands of ambulance workers in England and Wales will strike over pay on Wednesday, increasing the strain on a state-funded health service a day after nurses walked out.

WION Dispatch: UK ambulance workers on strike; industrial strikes hit medical, transport services

The UK has conducted a one-of-its-kind surgery using stem cells from a placenta bank. The operation was conducted on a baby who was born with a congenital heart defect. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: World-first stem cell surgery saves baby's life

Wuhan Virus cases in the UK are soaring. This comes amid unprecedented chaos at British airports. Health experts are suggesting the return of masks & testing. Is Britain heading towards a 'Covid Christmas'? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Is the UK headed for a 'Covid Christmas'?

Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government.&nbsp;

The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Writing in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, Health Secretary Steve Barclay accused&nbsp;unions of making a "conscious decision" to "inflict harm" on patients.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nurses-begin-second-day-of-strikes-as-health-secretary-readies-to-meet-unions-544746">Also read |&nbsp;UK nurses begin second day of strikes as Sunak warns of months of industrial action</a>

Replying to Barclay's comments, the unions called it "insulting" for the ambulance workers who according to the organsiation were "forced" to strike as the government failed to address their issues.&nbsp;

If the government refuses to discuss pay, unions for medical staff have threatened further stoppage of facilities during the new year.&nbsp;

Similarly, five days after their first strike, thousands of Royal College of Nursing (RCN) on Tuesday (Dec 20) in the UK took to picket lines.

Watch |&nbsp;UK: After nurses, ambulance workers strike over pay rise

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-after-nurses-ambulance-workers-strike-over-pay-rise-545089/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The government has been insisting on modest pay increases for workers suggested by independent review bodies.&nbsp;

Despite the government's insistence that it will not negotiate, polls in the UK showed that citizens support workers. According to a poll published by YouGov on Tuesday, it showed that two-thirds of Britishers support nurses, and almost 65 per cent support other workers.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Employees across&nbsp;the UK&nbsp;have been demanding a pay rise amid rising inflation in the country. 
&nbsp; 
With the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak focused on reducing inflation quickly, will it be possible for workers to reach a settlement or will these strikes continue?&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

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Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government. The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported.

Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government. The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported. Writing in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, Health Secretary Steve Barclay accused unions of making a "conscious decision" to "inflict harm" on patients. Also read | UK nurses begin second day of strikes as Sunak warns of months of industrial action Replying to Barclay's comments, the unions called it "insulting" for the ambulance workers who according to the organsiation were "forced" to strike as the government failed to address their issues. If the government refuses to discuss pay, unions for medical staff have threatened further stoppage of facilities during the new year. Similarly, five days after their first strike, thousands of Royal College of Nursing (RCN) on Tuesday (Dec 20) in the UK took to picket lines. Watch | UK: After nurses, ambulance workers strike over pay rise The government has been insisting on modest pay increases for workers suggested by independent review bodies. Despite the government's insistence that it will not negotiate, polls in the UK showed that citizens support workers. According to a poll published by YouGov on Tuesday, it showed that two-thirds of Britishers support nurses, and almost 65 per cent support other workers. Employees across the UK have been demanding a pay rise amid rising inflation in the country. With the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak focused on reducing inflation quickly, will it be possible for workers to reach a settlement or will these strikes continue? (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Thousands of workers in England and Wales have joined nurses in striking against the government over wages, spelling doom for the ambulance services in the country. GMB Union national secretary Rachel Harrison says the government can resolve the dispute anytime it wants, but it’s not ready to listen and talk! The nurses are protesting to force the government into meeting their wage hike demands. Nurses want their salaries increased by 5 per cent above inflation, which was 14 per cent in November. But the government is adamant about not caving into the pressure and claims that the current wage rate is “fair and reasonable”. The government has offered a 4 per cent hike to nurses, based on recommendations by an independent NHS Pay Review Body.

<h2>Ambulance strike areas: What are the affected areas?</h2>

All three unions, representing around 25,000 ambulance workers, are staging a walkout on December 21. The action will involve paramedics, call handlers and emergency care assistants at 10 of the 11 trusts in England and Wales. Following Ambulance services will remain shut on December 21:

<ol>
	<li>South West Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>South East Coast Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>North West Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>South Central Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>North East Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>East Midlands Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>West Midlands Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>Welsh Ambulance Service</li>
	<li>Yorkshire Ambulance Service</li>
</ol>

On December 21, ambulance crews from five services in England represented by Unison will also go on strike. These are some instances:

<ol>
	<li>London</li>
	<li>Yorkshire</li>
	<li>The North West</li>
	<li>The North East</li>
	<li>The South West</li>
</ol>

<h2>What should you do in an emergency time? Where to call if an emergency arises?</h2>

Ambulance service strikes in UK: The department of health of UK has advised people to call 999 to avail of emergency services. A spokesperson for the department said, "Health leaders are also concerned that the prospect of strike action may affect how people decide to engage with the NHS, but the advice remains that if it is an emergency, it is vital they should still call 999." In life-threatening conditions, people should call 999 only. NHS England says it will increase the number of people answering 999 calls and is assisting individual trusts in expediting the process of handing over emergency patients and discharging those who are well enough to go home. The NHS advises people to contact NHS 111 online or via the NHS 111 helpline for all other healthcare needs or to contact their local GP or pharmacy.

<h2>What should people avoid during the nurse strikes in UK?</h2>

Health Secretary Stephen Barclay has advised people to use “common sense” and avoid “risky activities” during the strike period. As ambulance services descended into chaos hours before the strikes, Britons are warned not to take any risks, including drinking and driving, or participating in certain sports.

<h2>How long will UK nurse strikes continue?</h2>

Unison general secretary Christina McAnea stated that strikes are "entirely likely" to continue in the New Year. Ms McAnea stated that the NHS is "crumbling" under this government and that she is "genuinely shocked" by health secretary Steve Barclay's claims that little to no contingency plans for emergencies have been made. She said on LBC Radio that it was "utter nonsense" and a "complete and utter lie" to claim that unions had made it nearly impossible for the government to plan.

Thousands of workers in England and Wales have joined nurses in striking against the government over wages, spelling doom for the ambulance services in the country.

Thousands of workers in England and Wales have joined nurses in striking against the government over wages, spelling doom for the ambulance services in the country. GMB Union national secretary Rachel Harrison says the government can resolve the dispute anytime it wants, but it’s not ready to listen and talk! The nurses are protesting to force the government into meeting their wage hike demands. Nurses want their salaries increased by 5 per cent above inflation, which was 14 per cent in November. But the government is adamant about not caving into the pressure and claims that the current wage rate is “fair and reasonable”. The government has offered a 4 per cent hike to nurses, based on recommendations by an independent NHS Pay Review Body. Ambulance strike areas: What are the affected areas? All three unions, representing around 25,000 ambulance workers, are staging a walkout on December 21. The action will involve paramedics, call handlers and emergency care assistants at 10 of the 11 trusts in England and Wales. Following Ambulance services will remain shut on December 21: South West Ambulance Service South East Coast Ambulance Service North West Ambulance Service South Central Ambulance Service North East Ambulance Service East Midlands Ambulance Service West Midlands Ambulance Service Welsh Ambulance Service Yorkshire Ambulance Service On December 21, ambulance crews from five services in England represented by Unison will also go on strike. These are some instances: London Yorkshire The North West The North East The South West What should you do in an emergency time? Where to call if an emergency arises? Ambulance service strikes in UK: The department of health of UK has advised people to call 999 to avail of emergency services. A spokesperson for the department said, "Health leaders are also concerned that the prospect of strike action may affect how people decide to engage with the NHS, but the advice remains that if it is an emergency, it is vital they should still call 999." In life-threatening conditions, people should call 999 only. NHS England says it will increase the number of people answering 999 calls and is assisting individual trusts in expediting the process of handing over emergency patients and discharging those who are well enough to go home. The NHS advises people to contact NHS 111 online or via the NHS 111 helpline for all other healthcare needs or to contact their local GP or pharmacy. What should people avoid during the nurse strikes in UK? Health Secretary Stephen Barclay has advised people to use “common sense” and avoid “risky activities” during the strike period. As ambulance services descended into chaos hours before the strikes, Britons are warned not to take any risks, including drinking and driving, or participating in certain sports. How long will UK nurse strikes continue? Unison general secretary Christina McAnea stated that strikes are "entirely likely" to continue in the New Year. Ms McAnea stated that the NHS is "crumbling" under this government and that she is "genuinely shocked" by health secretary Steve Barclay's claims that little to no contingency plans for emergencies have been made. She said on LBC Radio that it was "utter nonsense" and a "complete and utter lie" to claim that unions had made it nearly impossible for the government to plan.

Ambulance service strikes in UK: Know what areas are impacted and where to call during emergency

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No end to UK's strike woes in Christmas and New Year season. Up to 100,000 members of the Royal College of Nursing hold the strike. Nurses strike for the second time to demand a pay rise.

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