British Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Friday to defend UK interests in a worsening dispute with France over fishing rights, while emphasising the historical strength of cross-Channel ties.

"We will do whatever is necessary to ensure UK interests," he told reporters on board his plane to Rome for a G20 leaders@ summit, adding that Britain was ready to take "appropriate action".

He arrived as the UK was locked in a row over rights for French fishing boats after Brexit, which saw Britain summon the French ambassador.

Johnson is due to hold brief face-to-face talks with French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;in Rome, and he emphasised Friday his good relations with his counterpart.

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"France is one of our best, oldest, closest allies, friends, partners," he said.

"The ties that unite us, that bind us together are far stronger than the turbulence that currently exists in the relationship. And that is what I will say to Emmanuel, who's a friend I've known for many years."

The two sides are at loggerheads over licensing rules for EU boats wanting to operate in waters around Britain and the Channel Islands.

France has been incensed by the rejection of some of its vessels by Britain and the self-governing islands of Jersey and Guernsey, which depend on London for defence and foreign affairs.

France has warned that continued denial of licences would lead to retaliatory measures as soon as next week, including time-consuming checks on all incoming goods and a ban on UK vessels landing seafood.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/spirit-of-cooperation-deeply-rooted-between-rome-and-new-delhi-says-indias-envoy-to-italy-424974">Spirit of cooperation deeply rooted between Rome and New Delhi, says India's envoy to Italy</a>

"Obviously we will stand by to take the appropriate action," Johnson said.

The British leader did not elaborate on how London might respond. Reports said it could start blocking French fishing vessels, but Downing Street declined to comment

The G7 summit in England in June was also marred by a row between Britain and Europe over trade in chilled meat.

"It's about fish rather than sausages this time. I don’t know if that's an improvement," Johnson said.&nbsp;

"But actually, there are bigger fish to fry. Everybody knows that. Emmanuel and everybody knows that."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Friday to defend UK interests in a worsening dispute with France over fishing rights, while emphasising the historical strength of cross-Channel ties.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed Friday to defend UK interests in a worsening dispute with France over fishing rights, while emphasising the historical strength of cross-Channel ties. "We will do whatever is necessary to ensure UK interests," he told reporters on board his plane to Rome for a G20 leaders@ summit, adding that Britain was ready to take "appropriate action". He arrived as the UK was locked in a row over rights for French fishing boats after Brexit, which saw Britain summon the French ambassador. Johnson is due to hold brief face-to-face talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Rome, and he emphasised Friday his good relations with his counterpart. ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi meets Italian counterpart Mario Draghi, holds extensive talks on diversifying bilateral ties "France is one of our best, oldest, closest allies, friends, partners," he said. "The ties that unite us, that bind us together are far stronger than the turbulence that currently exists in the relationship. And that is what I will say to Emmanuel, who's a friend I've known for many years." The two sides are at loggerheads over licensing rules for EU boats wanting to operate in waters around Britain and the Channel Islands. France has been incensed by the rejection of some of its vessels by Britain and the self-governing islands of Jersey and Guernsey, which depend on London for defence and foreign affairs. France has warned that continued denial of licences would lead to retaliatory measures as soon as next week, including time-consuming checks on all incoming goods and a ban on UK vessels landing seafood. ALSO READ | Spirit of cooperation deeply rooted between Rome and New Delhi, says India's envoy to Italy "Obviously we will stand by to take the appropriate action," Johnson said. The British leader did not elaborate on how London might respond. Reports said it could start blocking French fishing vessels, but Downing Street declined to comment The G7 summit in England in June was also marred by a row between Britain and Europe over trade in chilled meat. "It's about fish rather than sausages this time. I don’t know if that's an improvement," Johnson said. "But actually, there are bigger fish to fry. Everybody knows that. Emmanuel and everybody knows that."

Boris Johnson vows to defend UK interests in French fishing row

Ties between UK and France happen to be at an all-time low as the two nations are fighting over fishing rights in a post-Brexit world.

Fishing Row: France threatens UK with Sanctions

Britain's environment minister pledged on Friday to retaliate if France carries through on threats to block UK ships from French ports, warning that two can play at that game'' in the worsening dispute rooted in Britain's departure from the European Union.

Britain summoned the French ambassador for a dressing-down after French authorities fined two British fishing vessels and kept one in port overnight Thursday.

Since the UK left the economic orbit of the EU in January, relations between London and Paris have become increasingly frayed as the nations on either side of the English Channel sort out a post-Brexit path.

France has threatened to block British boats and tighten checks on UK vessels unless French vessels get more permits to fish in UK waters.

Watch |&nbsp;Row between UK and France over fishing rights intensifies

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France also suggested it might restrict energy supplies to the Channel Islands, British Crown dependencies that lie off the coast of France.

We will see what they do,&nbsp;Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky News. But if they do bring these into place, well, two can play at that game and we reserve the ability to respond in a proportionate way.

The UK government said France's ambassador, Catherine Colonna, would be summoned to the Foreign Office on Friday, in an official sign of displeasure.

We regret the confrontational language that has been consistently used by the French government on this issue, which makes this situation no easier to resolve,&nbsp;the British government said in a statement.

France vehemently protested the decision last month by the UK and the Channel Island of Jersey to refuse dozens of French fishing boats licenses to operate in their territorial waters.

Dozens of other licenses were granted. France says the restrictions are contrary to the post-Brexit agreement that Britain signed when it left the EU.

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Meanwhile, the European Union's executive said UK authorities withdrew the impounded vessel's license to fish off France on March 1.

But Macduff Shellfish, which operates the impounded scallop vessel Cornelis, hit back in a statement, saying it had access to French waters under the Brexit deal and that its activities were entirely legal,'' and that it would defend itself against all claims. Its statement did not offer specifics on licenses.

It appears our vessel has been caught up in the ongoing dispute between the UK and France on the implementation of the Brexit Fishing Agreement,'' the company statement said.

We are looking to the UK government to defend the rights of the UK fishing fleet and ensure that the fishing rights provided under the Brexit Fishing agreement are fully respected by the EU.''

Britain's environment minister pledged on Friday to retaliate if France carries through on threats to block UK ships from French ports, warning that two can play at that game'' in the worsening dispute rooted in Britain's departure from the European Union.

Britain's environment minister pledged on Friday to retaliate if France carries through on threats to block UK ships from French ports, warning that two can play at that game'' in the worsening dispute rooted in Britain's departure from the European Union. Britain summoned the French ambassador for a dressing-down after French authorities fined two British fishing vessels and kept one in port overnight Thursday. Since the UK left the economic orbit of the EU in January, relations between London and Paris have become increasingly frayed as the nations on either side of the English Channel sort out a post-Brexit path. France has threatened to block British boats and tighten checks on UK vessels unless French vessels get more permits to fish in UK waters. Watch | Row between UK and France over fishing rights intensifies France also suggested it might restrict energy supplies to the Channel Islands, British Crown dependencies that lie off the coast of France. We will see what they do, Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky News. But if they do bring these into place, well, two can play at that game and we reserve the ability to respond in a proportionate way. The UK government said France's ambassador, Catherine Colonna, would be summoned to the Foreign Office on Friday, in an official sign of displeasure. We regret the confrontational language that has been consistently used by the French government on this issue, which makes this situation no easier to resolve, the British government said in a statement. France vehemently protested the decision last month by the UK and the Channel Island of Jersey to refuse dozens of French fishing boats licenses to operate in their territorial waters. Dozens of other licenses were granted. France says the restrictions are contrary to the post-Brexit agreement that Britain signed when it left the EU. Also Read | 'Girls night in': UK women boycott clubs amid surge in spiking of drinks Meanwhile, the European Union's executive said UK authorities withdrew the impounded vessel's license to fish off France on March 1. But Macduff Shellfish, which operates the impounded scallop vessel Cornelis, hit back in a statement, saying it had access to French waters under the Brexit deal and that its activities were entirely legal,'' and that it would defend itself against all claims. Its statement did not offer specifics on licenses. It appears our vessel has been caught up in the ongoing dispute between the UK and France on the implementation of the Brexit Fishing Agreement,'' the company statement said. We are looking to the UK government to defend the rights of the UK fishing fleet and ensure that the fishing rights provided under the Brexit Fishing agreement are fully respected by the EU.''

UK pledges retaliation to French fishing threats

Row between UK and France over fishing rights intensifies

While revealing the UK budget for financial year 2021, Finance minister Rishi Sunak said that this year is now estimated to be 6.5 per cent, meaning the economy could return to its pre-pandemic level by the end of the year.

FM Sunak tables UK budget 2021, announces host of projects

France has warned of possible sanctions against Britain including a ban on seafood imports and disrupting trade amid an escalating row over post-Brexit fishing licences.

France threatens sanctions against UK over fishing licences row

Another prominent figure, UK's Queen Elizabeth has confirmed that she will not be attending the COP26 climate summit, here's why!

UK's Queen Elizabeth to skip COP26 summit following advice to rest

Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen appeared before the UK Parliamentary committee looking at online safety legislation. Speaking to the British parliament, she said that Facebook will fuel more violent unrest around the world because of the way its algorithms are designed to promote divisive content.

Facebook will fuel further unrest: Whistleblower Haugen testifies before UK parliament

British finance minister Rishi Sunak will unfreeze public sector pay when he presents his budget in two days' time, the finance ministry said on Monday.

The fact he would do this was first reported by the Sun newspaper on Sunday.

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The size of the pay rise will depend on recommendations from pay review bodies that set wages for frontline workers, the finance ministry said in the 17th budget announcement to be released in advance of Sunak's statement on Wednesday.

The finance ministry also confirmed that the national minimum wage for people aged 23 and above will be lifted in April to 9.50 pounds ($13.06) an hour from 8.91 pounds.

Sunak is expected to set fairly tight limits for most areas of day-to-day public spending in his budget on Wednesday, which will seek to lower public debt after a record surge in borrowing during the pandemic.

The measures announced in advance of the budget include funding for the health service, education and regional transport.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak will unfreeze public sector pay when he presents his budget in two days' time, the finance ministry said on Monday. The fact he would do this was first reported by the Sun newspaper on Sunday.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak will unfreeze public sector pay when he presents his budget in two days' time, the finance ministry said on Monday. The fact he would do this was first reported by the Sun newspaper on Sunday. Also Read | Rishi Sunak refuses to wear a mask in crowded House of Commons The size of the pay rise will depend on recommendations from pay review bodies that set wages for frontline workers, the finance ministry said in the 17th budget announcement to be released in advance of Sunak's statement on Wednesday. The finance ministry also confirmed that the national minimum wage for people aged 23 and above will be lifted in April to 9.50 pounds ($13.06) an hour from 8.91 pounds. Sunak is expected to set fairly tight limits for most areas of day-to-day public spending in his budget on Wednesday, which will seek to lower public debt after a record surge in borrowing during the pandemic. The measures announced in advance of the budget include funding for the health service, education and regional transport.

UK's Sunak to unfreeze public sector wages, Treasury says

Climate change is real and if not arrested, will wreak havoc worldwide. If polar ice caps melt, the sea levels will rise and coastal cities and even many of those situated inland risk permanent flooding.

Data gathered by a location intelligence provider Gamma has revealed that around three million homes in the UK risk flooding by 2050. Gamma has released a map and a few images that are sure to scare those who live in the area.

The data has come to light just a week before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow where world leaders will gather to decide on measures to take to arrest global warming.

Three million houses in the country equals 1 in every 10 houses that will be flooded, as per data presented by Gamma. For some cities and districts the ratio is worse.

A third of all buildings in Great Yarmouth risk getting flooded in next 29 years.

In case of Portsmouth one in five buildings risk getting flooded over the same time period.

Flooding isn't the only cause of worry for the Brits. Climate change may cause hotter, drier summers that may lead to uneven cracking of building material that may prove problematic to structures.

Climate change is real and if not arrested, will wreak havoc worldwide. If polar ice caps melt, the sea levels will rise and coastal cities and even many of those situated inland risk permanent flooding.

Climate change is real and if not arrested, will wreak havoc worldwide. If polar ice caps melt, the sea levels will rise and coastal cities and even many of those situated inland risk permanent flooding. Data gathered by a location intelligence provider Gamma has revealed that around three million homes in the UK risk flooding by 2050. Gamma has released a map and a few images that are sure to scare those who live in the area. The data has come to light just a week before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow where world leaders will gather to decide on measures to take to arrest global warming. Three million houses in the country equals 1 in every 10 houses that will be flooded, as per data presented by Gamma. For some cities and districts the ratio is worse. A third of all buildings in Great Yarmouth risk getting flooded in next 29 years. In case of Portsmouth one in five buildings risk getting flooded over the same time period. Flooding isn't the only cause of worry for the Brits. Climate change may cause hotter, drier summers that may lead to uneven cracking of building material that may prove problematic to structures.

UK: Three million homes at risk of flooding due to climate change

Dozens of climate activists demanding the UK government immediately insulate homes nationwide halted morning rush-hour traffic in London on Monday, ending a 10-day pause in their civil disobedience protests.

Insulate Britain, a new group whose campaigners have repeatedly blocked roads and motorways in and around the capital, targeted three locations including the Canary Wharf and City of London financial districts.

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The activists, who want the government to insulate all British homes starting with social housing, began their disruptive demonstrations last month but temporarily suspended them in mid-October to give themselves and the public "a break".

The restart of their protests, which have infuriated drivers and led to some confrontations, comes as the UK prepares to host the UN COP26 climate summit in the Scottish city Glasgow later this week.

"3 locations across the city of London are currently blocked by #InsulateBritain," the group said on Twitter.

"We demand a meaningful statement that the government shall insulate the UK housing stock," it added.&nbsp;

"Why should we wait until millions have lost their homes, are fighting for water or starving to death?"

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-climate-poses-emerging-threat-to-financial-system-422957">US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system</a>

Police, which responded to Monday's renewed protests, have arrested hundreds of Insulate Britain activists -- with some people detained several times -- since they began the demonstrations on September 13.

The government has meanwhile secured court injunctions leaving activists facing court summons and possible imprisonment or an unlimited fine if they block some motorways.

But the group, which has demanded ministers produce within four months a legally-binding and funded national plan to retrofit all homes by 2030, has vowed to continue its campaign.

The government last week outlined more detailed plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, but was accused by climate campaigners of lacking the necessary ambition in many areas -- including home insulation.

Dozens of climate activists demanding the UK government immediately insulate homes nationwide halted morning rush-hour traffic in London on Monday, ending a 10-day pause in their civil disobedience protests.

Dozens of climate activists demanding the UK government immediately insulate homes nationwide halted morning rush-hour traffic in London on Monday, ending a 10-day pause in their civil disobedience protests. Insulate Britain, a new group whose campaigners have repeatedly blocked roads and motorways in and around the capital, targeted three locations including the Canary Wharf and City of London financial districts. Also Read | In pics: Youths take to streets in Fridays for Future climate protests The activists, who want the government to insulate all British homes starting with social housing, began their disruptive demonstrations last month but temporarily suspended them in mid-October to give themselves and the public "a break". The restart of their protests, which have infuriated drivers and led to some confrontations, comes as the UK prepares to host the UN COP26 climate summit in the Scottish city Glasgow later this week. "3 locations across the city of London are currently blocked by #InsulateBritain," the group said on Twitter. "We demand a meaningful statement that the government shall insulate the UK housing stock," it added. "Why should we wait until millions have lost their homes, are fighting for water or starving to death?" Also Read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system Police, which responded to Monday's renewed protests, have arrested hundreds of Insulate Britain activists -- with some people detained several times -- since they began the demonstrations on September 13. The government has meanwhile secured court injunctions leaving activists facing court summons and possible imprisonment or an unlimited fine if they block some motorways. But the group, which has demanded ministers produce within four months a legally-binding and funded national plan to retrofit all homes by 2030, has vowed to continue its campaign. The government last week outlined more detailed plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, but was accused by climate campaigners of lacking the necessary ambition in many areas -- including home insulation.

UK climate protesters restart traffic-blocking tactics

UK's National Police Chiefs’ Council said on Friday that almost 200 cases of drink spiking were reported to police forces across UK over past two months.&nbsp;

The council said that there were 198 confirmed cases of drink spiking. The cases included men and women but most of them involved young women.

Earlier, a figure of 140 was reported but it was revised after receiving more data.

NPCC said that the figure of 198 was arrived at on the basis of the data received from 40 police forces.

“We are working at pace with forces, law enforcement agencies such as the NCA [National Crime Agency] and other partners including the Home Office and universities to understand the scale of offending, establish any links between the allegations and ultimately bring any identified offenders to justice.” deputy chief constable Jason Harwin was quoted by The Guardian as saying.

Longstanding fears about the safety of women in public places have also come under renewed focus after the high-profile murder of a London woman by a rogue police officer earlier this year.

Students in dozens of university towns and cities have responded with plans to boycott nightlife venues&nbsp;

More than 163,000 have signed a petition urging the government to make it compulsory for nightclubs to thoroughly search guests on entry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

UK's National Police Chiefs’ Council said on Friday that almost 200 cases of drink spiking were reported to police forces across UK over past two months. The council said that there were 198 confirmed cases of drink spiking.

UK's National Police Chiefs’ Council said on Friday that almost 200 cases of drink spiking were reported to police forces across UK over past two months. The council said that there were 198 confirmed cases of drink spiking. The cases included men and women but most of them involved young women. Earlier, a figure of 140 was reported but it was revised after receiving more data. NPCC said that the figure of 198 was arrived at on the basis of the data received from 40 police forces. “We are working at pace with forces, law enforcement agencies such as the NCA [National Crime Agency] and other partners including the Home Office and universities to understand the scale of offending, establish any links between the allegations and ultimately bring any identified offenders to justice.” deputy chief constable Jason Harwin was quoted by The Guardian as saying. Longstanding fears about the safety of women in public places have also come under renewed focus after the high-profile murder of a London woman by a rogue police officer earlier this year. Students in dozens of university towns and cities have responded with plans to boycott nightlife venues More than 163,000 have signed a petition urging the government to make it compulsory for nightclubs to thoroughly search guests on entry. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Nearly 200 cases of drink spiking reported in last two months

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous.

She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met.

 
Countries like the UK and India believe in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous.

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That is the mission of UK and India too," she said, adding that the two countries were working on a new trade deal in the areas of economy, defence, trade and climate.

India is the second largest investor in the UK and I want to see more UK investment in India. The UK has the third highest number of unicorns while India has the third highest number of start ups. If we bring our resources and assets together, we can do much more. I met the Indian finance minister and foreign minister and talked about how to deepen our partnership in areas like technology,&nbsp;she said.

The UK-India economic relationship is already strong with bilateral trade of over 18bn in 2020, supporting nearly half a million jobs in each other's economies, an official from the media department of the British High Commissioner said.

The official said the prime ministers of the two nations have set a target to double the value of UK-India trade by 2030, and have also declared their shared intent to begin negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year.

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met.

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met. Countries like the UK and India believe in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. Also Read | Need to ensure Afghan territory is not used to attack any country, say Jaishankar, UK counterpart That is the mission of UK and India too," she said, adding that the two countries were working on a new trade deal in the areas of economy, defence, trade and climate. India is the second largest investor in the UK and I want to see more UK investment in India. The UK has the third highest number of unicorns while India has the third highest number of start ups. If we bring our resources and assets together, we can do much more. I met the Indian finance minister and foreign minister and talked about how to deepen our partnership in areas like technology, she said. The UK-India economic relationship is already strong with bilateral trade of over 18bn in 2020, supporting nearly half a million jobs in each other's economies, an official from the media department of the British High Commissioner said. The official said the prime ministers of the two nations have set a target to double the value of UK-India trade by 2030, and have also declared their shared intent to begin negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year.

India, UK democracies can make world safer, prosperous: British foreign minister

Rishi Sunak has refused to wear a mask inside a crowded House of Commons. The chancellor further reiterated that ministers did not yet believe it was necessary to move to the government’s “plan B” for COVID-19.&nbsp;The plan B would mandate mask-wearing at public places. Vaccine passports and more home working will also be a part of the plan.

Sunak told BBC1’s Andrew Marr Show, "At the moment, the data does not suggest that we should be immediately moving to plan B."

“But of course we will keep an eye on that. The plans are ready, we outlined them way beforehand to make sure people knew what the possible options would be for the winter, which we said would be challenging.”

Sunak dodged questions about whether this was the right thing to do in a crowded setting.

Meanwhile, Britain has recorded the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 since July over the past week, revealing government figures. A total of 333,465 people in Britain tested positive for the deadly coronavirus over the past seven days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-highest-weekly-covid-19-cases-reported-since-july-johnson-rules-out-the-possibility-of-lockdown-423536">Also read |&nbsp;UK: Highest weekly COVID-19 cases reported since July; Johnson rules out the possibility of lockdown</a>

Deaths have surged by 12 per cent over the past week, and the total since the start of the pandemic now stands at 139,461, which is the second-highest in Europe after Russia.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ruled out the possibility of a lockdown. This comes in as the advisers warned that acting early with lighter measures to cut the rise in cases would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later.

Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), in minutes from an October 14 meeting, said, "In the event of increasing case rates, earlier intervention would reduce the need for more stringent, disruptive, and longer-lasting measures."

“SAGE advises that policy work on the potential reintroduction of measures should be undertaken now so that it can be ready for rapid deployment if required.”

Rishi Sunak has refused to wear a mask inside a crowded House of Commons. The chancellor further reiterated that ministers did not yet believe it was necessary to move to the government’s “plan B” for COVID-19.

Rishi Sunak has refused to wear a mask inside a crowded House of Commons. The chancellor further reiterated that ministers did not yet believe it was necessary to move to the government’s “plan B” for COVID-19. The plan B would mandate mask-wearing at public places. Vaccine passports and more home working will also be a part of the plan. Sunak told BBC1’s Andrew Marr Show, "At the moment, the data does not suggest that we should be immediately moving to plan B." “But of course we will keep an eye on that. The plans are ready, we outlined them way beforehand to make sure people knew what the possible options would be for the winter, which we said would be challenging.” Sunak dodged questions about whether this was the right thing to do in a crowded setting. Meanwhile, Britain has recorded the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 since July over the past week, revealing government figures. A total of 333,465 people in Britain tested positive for the deadly coronavirus over the past seven days. Also read | UK: Highest weekly COVID-19 cases reported since July; Johnson rules out the possibility of lockdown Deaths have surged by 12 per cent over the past week, and the total since the start of the pandemic now stands at 139,461, which is the second-highest in Europe after Russia. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ruled out the possibility of a lockdown. This comes in as the advisers warned that acting early with lighter measures to cut the rise in cases would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later. Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), in minutes from an October 14 meeting, said, "In the event of increasing case rates, earlier intervention would reduce the need for more stringent, disruptive, and longer-lasting measures." “SAGE advises that policy work on the potential reintroduction of measures should be undertaken now so that it can be ready for rapid deployment if required.”

Rishi Sunak refuses to wear a mask in crowded House of Commons

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". &nbsp;

At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". &nbsp;

Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. &nbsp;

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In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. &nbsp;

The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-plus-variant-may-be-more-easily-transmissible-uk-health-experts-423357" hreflang="en">Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts</a>&nbsp;

Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. &nbsp;

So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions".

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. Also Read: NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland. Also Read: Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". (With inputs from agencies)

Northern Ireland Brexit issues: As talks resume, UK warns of 'gaps' with EU

Britain has recorded the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 since July over the past week, reveal government figures. A total of 333,465 people in Britain tested positive for the deadly coronavirus over the past seven days.&nbsp;

As per daily figures, there were 44,985 new cases on Saturday, down from 49,298 on Friday. Daily death figures were only available for England and showed that there were 135 fatalities within 28 days of a positive test.&nbsp;

Deaths have surged by 12 per cent over the past week, and the total since the start of the pandemic now stands at 139,461, which is the second-highest in Europe after Russia.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ruled out the possibility of a lockdown. This comes in as the advisers warned that acting early with lighter measures to cut the rise in cases would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northern-ireland-brexit-issues-as-talks-resume-uk-warns-of-gaps-with-eu-423398">Also read |&nbsp;Northern Ireland Brexit issues: As talks resume, UK warns of 'gaps' with EU</a>

Johnson’s government said that there is no need yet to introduce a “Plan B”. Johnson said, “I’ve got to tell you at the moment that we see absolutely nothing to indicate that, that is on the cards at all.”

Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), in minutes from an October 14 meeting, said, "In the event of increasing case rates, earlier intervention would reduce the need for more stringent, disruptive, and longer-lasting measures."

“SAGE advises that policy work on the potential reintroduction of measures should be undertaken now so that it can be ready for rapid deployment if required.”

Britain has recorded the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 since July over the past week, reveal government figures. A total of 333,465 people in Britain tested positive for the deadly coronavirus over the past seven days.

Britain has recorded the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 since July over the past week, reveal government figures. A total of 333,465 people in Britain tested positive for the deadly coronavirus over the past seven days. As per daily figures, there were 44,985 new cases on Saturday, down from 49,298 on Friday. Daily death figures were only available for England and showed that there were 135 fatalities within 28 days of a positive test. Deaths have surged by 12 per cent over the past week, and the total since the start of the pandemic now stands at 139,461, which is the second-highest in Europe after Russia. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ruled out the possibility of a lockdown. This comes in as the advisers warned that acting early with lighter measures to cut the rise in cases would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later. Also read | Northern Ireland Brexit issues: As talks resume, UK warns of 'gaps' with EU Johnson’s government said that there is no need yet to introduce a “Plan B”. Johnson said, “I’ve got to tell you at the moment that we see absolutely nothing to indicate that, that is on the cards at all.” Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), in minutes from an October 14 meeting, said, "In the event of increasing case rates, earlier intervention would reduce the need for more stringent, disruptive, and longer-lasting measures." “SAGE advises that policy work on the potential reintroduction of measures should be undertaken now so that it can be ready for rapid deployment if required.”

UK: Highest weekly COVID-19 cases reported since July; Johnson rules out the possibility of lockdown

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying.

"I think we're just in a very different place to where we were a year ago because of the vaccine," he said in an interview. "There's this enormous wave of protection, and that changes things. That`s our first line of defence." Adding that&nbsp;the economy was the priority.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-uk-starting-next-week-vaccination-centres-in-england-will-accept-bookings-for-children-422487">Coronavirus in UK: Starting next week, vaccination centres in England will accept bookings for children</a>

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a new COVID-19 lockdown was not on the cards after advisers warned that early action through lighter measures would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-cases-witness-stubborn-high-in-uk-daily-cases-above-40000-for-a-week-now-422362/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

COVID-19 cases in Britain are the highest in Europe and hit their most elevated levels in three months earlier this week. However, the rollout of vaccines has meant that deaths from the disease remain far below their levels at the start of this year.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying. "I think we're just in a very different place to where we were a year ago because of the vaccine," he said in an interview. "There's this enormous wave of protection, and that changes things. That`s our first line of defence." Adding that the economy was the priority. Also Read | Coronavirus in UK: Starting next week, vaccination centres in England will accept bookings for children Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a new COVID-19 lockdown was not on the cards after advisers warned that early action through lighter measures would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later. Watch COVID-19 cases in Britain are the highest in Europe and hit their most elevated levels in three months earlier this week. However, the rollout of vaccines has meant that deaths from the disease remain far below their levels at the start of this year.

British finance minister rules out return to major Covid restrictions

India and UK on Friday agreed on the need to ensure that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists.

This statement was issued after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held bilateral talks with the visiting UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss and discussed several issues including strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and countering terrorism and radical extremism.

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A statement issued by External Affairs Ministry said that Mr Jaishankar and Ms Truss discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest while sharing their commitment to a multi-polar world and multilateralism.

"They agreed to strengthen cooperation in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific, on countering terrorism and radical extremism, and addressing emerging challenges in the cyber and space domains," the statement said.

"On Afghanistan, the need for full, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance was discussed, as also the need for Afghan territory not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists, or to plan or to finance terrorist attacks," it added.

Both Ministers undertook a detailed review of the Roadmap 2030 launched during the India-UK Virtual Summit held on May 4, 2021.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-discusses-expanding-academic-research-between-india-israel-422481">Jaishankar discusses expanding academic research between India, Israel</a>

India and UK Roadmap 2030 aimed to elevate the India-UK relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and this will also guide cooperation for the next 10 years covering all aspects of our multi-faceted relations.

During her stay in New Delhi, Ms Truss also met the Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman and the Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav.

On October 23, she will be visiting Mumbai where she will participate in business and defence engagements held in connection with the visit of Carrier Strike Group 21 (CSG21) to India. She would also pay her respects at the memorial to honour the victims of the terrorist attack in Mumbai on &nbsp;November 26, 2008.

India and UK on Friday agreed on the need to ensure that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists.

India and UK on Friday agreed on the need to ensure that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists. This statement was issued after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held bilateral talks with the visiting UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss and discussed several issues including strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and countering terrorism and radical extremism. Also Read | Jaishankar calls on Israeli Prez, PM; discusses bilateral relations A statement issued by External Affairs Ministry said that Mr Jaishankar and Ms Truss discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest while sharing their commitment to a multi-polar world and multilateralism. "They agreed to strengthen cooperation in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific, on countering terrorism and radical extremism, and addressing emerging challenges in the cyber and space domains," the statement said. "On Afghanistan, the need for full, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance was discussed, as also the need for Afghan territory not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists, or to plan or to finance terrorist attacks," it added. Both Ministers undertook a detailed review of the Roadmap 2030 launched during the India-UK Virtual Summit held on May 4, 2021. Also Read | Jaishankar discusses expanding academic research between India, Israel India and UK Roadmap 2030 aimed to elevate the India-UK relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and this will also guide cooperation for the next 10 years covering all aspects of our multi-faceted relations. During her stay in New Delhi, Ms Truss also met the Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman and the Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav. On October 23, she will be visiting Mumbai where she will participate in business and defence engagements held in connection with the visit of Carrier Strike Group 21 (CSG21) to India. She would also pay her respects at the memorial to honour the victims of the terrorist attack in Mumbai on November 26, 2008.

Need to ensure Afghan territory is not used to attack any country, say Jaishankar, UK counterpart

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant. It has been moved up to the "variant under investigation" category, to reflect this possible risk.

The scientists are confident that the existing vaccines should still work well and should be able to protect people.

As of now, the delta variant still accounts for most COVID-19 infections in the UK. However, the cases of 'Delta Plus' or AY.4.2 have been increasing. As per the official data, &nbsp;6 per cent of the COVID-19 cases are of this type.

The experts have said that it is unlikely to take off in a big way or escape current vaccines. However, the officials say that there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta.

UKHSA said, "This sub-lineage has become increasingly common in the UK in recent months, and there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/delta-variant-will-not-increase-risk-of-developing-severe-childhood-covid-study-410720">Also read |&nbsp;Delta variant will not increase risk of developing severe childhood Covid: Study</a>

AY.4.2 is an offshoot of Delta that includes some new mutations affecting the spike protein. Other mutations, including, Y145H and A222V, have been found in various other coronavirus lineages since the beginning of the pandemic.

A few cases have been identified in the US. Also, there had been some cases in Denmark, but new infections with AY.4.2 have since gone down there.

The UK is already offering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to higher risk people ahead of winter.

Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UKHSA, was quoted by The BBC as saying, "The public health advice is the same for all current variants. Get vaccinated and, for those eligible, come forward for your third or booster dose as appropriate as soon as you are called.

"Continue to exercise caution. Wear a mask in crowded spaces and, when meeting people indoors, open windows and doors to ventilate the room. If you have symptoms take a PCR test and isolate at home until you receive a negative result."

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant. It has been moved up to the "variant under investigation" category, to reflect this possible risk. The scientists are confident that the existing vaccines should still work well and should be able to protect people. As of now, the delta variant still accounts for most COVID-19 infections in the UK. However, the cases of 'Delta Plus' or AY.4.2 have been increasing. As per the official data, 6 per cent of the COVID-19 cases are of this type. The experts have said that it is unlikely to take off in a big way or escape current vaccines. However, the officials say that there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta. UKHSA said, "This sub-lineage has become increasingly common in the UK in recent months, and there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta." Also read | Delta variant will not increase risk of developing severe childhood Covid: Study AY.4.2 is an offshoot of Delta that includes some new mutations affecting the spike protein. Other mutations, including, Y145H and A222V, have been found in various other coronavirus lineages since the beginning of the pandemic. A few cases have been identified in the US. Also, there had been some cases in Denmark, but new infections with AY.4.2 have since gone down there. The UK is already offering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to higher risk people ahead of winter. Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UKHSA, was quoted by The BBC as saying, "The public health advice is the same for all current variants. Get vaccinated and, for those eligible, come forward for your third or booster dose as appropriate as soon as you are called. "Continue to exercise caution. Wear a mask in crowded spaces and, when meeting people indoors, open windows and doors to ventilate the room. If you have symptoms take a PCR test and isolate at home until you receive a negative result."

Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts

Russia is imposing a week-long shutdown. The UK is witnessing a record spike in cases. Latvia has entered a 4-week lockdown. China is reporting cases in 10 provinces. Palki Sharma tells you how the Wuhan Virus has resurfaced.

Gravitas:  22 Months On, The Pandemic is far from over

From defence to economy, from climate to technology, India and the United Kingdom are aiming to strengthen bilateral relations on all fronts.Britain foreign secretary Liz Truss is on a two day visit to India.UK's truss has announced a series of tech and infrastructure deals.

India, United Kingdom aim to strengthen bilateral relations

Britain would phase out its Digital Services Tax on US tech giants such as Google and Facebook once a global reform to corporate taxation takes effect in 2023.

UK agrees to end digital services tax by 2023

&nbsp;With coronavirus and flu putting pressure on the NHS, as the UK prepares for what PM Boris Johnson, described as a "difficult winter", Downing Street has confirmed that starting next week, Covid vaccination appointments for children will be made available. &nbsp;

Following the latest death toll, which has risen to 223, a record high since early March, echoing the NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard's concern, the prime minister’s spokesperson said that in order to drive up vaccination rates, people need to be reminded the virus is still there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bring-back-covid-regulations-urge-health-experts-as-cases-in-uk-rise-again-422313">'Bring back Covid regulations', urge health experts as cases in UK rise again</a>

It is important that we get that message out, the spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Defending the vaccination programme for 12- to 15-year-olds, which has been criticized for being too slow, he said it would be extended beyond the schools. Parents and guardians of eligible children will receive a text or letter inviting them to make an appointment through the national booking service or call 119.

Johnson's spokesperson explained that children will soon be able to get vaccinated at existing vaccine centres, including general practices, pharmacies, and other local sites.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unvaccinated-people-can-get-infected-by-coronavirus-every-16-months-experts-422374">Unvaccinated people can get infected by coronavirus every 16 months: Experts</a>

As for offering vaccinations in schools, he called this approach a "tested and proven" approach. He maintained, however, that the government wants to do everything possible to provide these vaccinations as effectively and safely as possible.

The fortnightly Department for Education attendance statistics shows that the number of English pupils missing school due to Covid has risen again. There were 209,000 Covid-related absences on 14 October, up from 204,000 when the data was last released; 111,000 of these were confirmed cases, an increase of 9,000.

Watch |&nbsp;Covid cases witness stubborn high in UK; daily cases above 40,000 for a week now

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-cases-witness-stubborn-high-in-uk-daily-cases-above-40000-for-a-week-now-422362/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There was a marginal increase in attendance over the past fortnight, from 89.5% on 30 September to 90%, but Covid-related absence in state schools also increased from 2.5% to 2.6%.

According to James Bowen, director of policy for the school leaders’ union NAHT, covid-related absence in schools has hit record levels, and the government cannot simply ignore the escalating numbers of cases among school-age children.

With coronavirus and flu putting pressure on the NHS, as the UK prepares for what PM Boris Johnson, described as a "difficult winter", Downing Street has confirmed that starting next week, Covid vaccination appointments for children will be made available.

With coronavirus and flu putting pressure on the NHS, as the UK prepares for what PM Boris Johnson, described as a "difficult winter", Downing Street has confirmed that starting next week, Covid vaccination appointments for children will be made available. Following the latest death toll, which has risen to 223, a record high since early March, echoing the NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard's concern, the prime minister’s spokesperson said that in order to drive up vaccination rates, people need to be reminded the virus is still there. Also read | 'Bring back Covid regulations', urge health experts as cases in UK rise again It is important that we get that message out, the spokesperson said on Tuesday. Defending the vaccination programme for 12- to 15-year-olds, which has been criticized for being too slow, he said it would be extended beyond the schools. Parents and guardians of eligible children will receive a text or letter inviting them to make an appointment through the national booking service or call 119. Johnson's spokesperson explained that children will soon be able to get vaccinated at existing vaccine centres, including general practices, pharmacies, and other local sites. Also read | Unvaccinated people can get infected by coronavirus every 16 months: Experts As for offering vaccinations in schools, he called this approach a "tested and proven" approach. He maintained, however, that the government wants to do everything possible to provide these vaccinations as effectively and safely as possible. The fortnightly Department for Education attendance statistics shows that the number of English pupils missing school due to Covid has risen again. There were 209,000 Covid-related absences on 14 October, up from 204,000 when the data was last released; 111,000 of these were confirmed cases, an increase of 9,000. Watch | Covid cases witness stubborn high in UK; daily cases above 40,000 for a week now There was a marginal increase in attendance over the past fortnight, from 89.5% on 30 September to 90%, but Covid-related absence in state schools also increased from 2.5% to 2.6%. According to James Bowen, director of policy for the school leaders’ union NAHT, covid-related absence in schools has hit record levels, and the government cannot simply ignore the escalating numbers of cases among school-age children.

Coronavirus in UK: Starting next week, vaccination centres in England will accept bookings for children

For all those who use the words like 'Feminazi' or think that women's rights movements have outlived their 'social utility', a look at reflection of patriarchal mindset in aspects of our lives is essential. The social mindset influences life, art and even ways we remember people.

A study in United Kingdon is perhaps symbolic of a global need to still stand for gender equality. The study has found that London has more than double the number of monuments dedicated to animals than that of those dedicated to named women.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-school-adds-white-privilege-course-will-discuss-meghan-markle-james-bond-422079">London school adds 'white privilege' course, will discuss Meghan Markle, James Bond</a>

Findings in this study show that out of about 1500 monuments in the British capital, more than a fifth (20.5 per cent) are dedicated to named men and only 4 per cent are dedicated to women. Number of monuments featuring animals is 100 or in other words, double than that of named women.

Just 1 per cent of the total sculptures are dedicated to named people of colour.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-london-music-venue-koko-to-re-open-next-spring-after-96-million-revamp-422533">London music venue Koko to re-open next spring after $96 million revamp</a>

The study is part of a national research project by Art UK and is funded in part by City Hall. It is the first comprehensive audit of sculptures and monuments in London

London Mayor Sadiq Khan's office is announcing a 1 million Pound fund for diversity in British capital's public spaces. The fund will seek to ensure that London's landmarks like monuments better reflect the city's diversity.

For all those who use the words like 'Feminazi' or think that women's rights movements have outlived their 'social utility', a look at reflection of patriarchal mindset in aspects of our lives is essential.

For all those who use the words like 'Feminazi' or think that women's rights movements have outlived their 'social utility', a look at reflection of patriarchal mindset in aspects of our lives is essential. The social mindset influences life, art and even ways we remember people. A study in United Kingdon is perhaps symbolic of a global need to still stand for gender equality. The study has found that London has more than double the number of monuments dedicated to animals than that of those dedicated to named women. Also Read | London school adds 'white privilege' course, will discuss Meghan Markle, James Bond Findings in this study show that out of about 1500 monuments in the British capital, more than a fifth (20.5 per cent) are dedicated to named men and only 4 per cent are dedicated to women. Number of monuments featuring animals is 100 or in other words, double than that of named women. Just 1 per cent of the total sculptures are dedicated to named people of colour. Also Read | London music venue Koko to re-open next spring after $96 million revamp The study is part of a national research project by Art UK and is funded in part by City Hall. It is the first comprehensive audit of sculptures and monuments in London London Mayor Sadiq Khan's office is announcing a 1 million Pound fund for diversity in British capital's public spaces. The fund will seek to ensure that London's landmarks like monuments better reflect the city's diversity.

London has more monuments for animals than for named women: Study

UK prime minister Boris Johnson has urged firms to invest in Green-tech. Addressing investors, Johnson said that pandemic showed that both public and private sectors must work together to tackle global problems.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson urges firms to invest in green tech

Coronavirus cases in the United Kingdom have been rising sharply, daily covid cases have been above 40,000 for a week in a row; the UK govt says that they have no plan for further measures.

Covid cases witness stubborn high in UK; daily cases above 40,000 for a week now

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

The discussions under the second India-UK Multilateral Dialogue were held on Monday in London.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-russia-recognise-common-threats-coming-from-afghanistan-indian-envoy-to-russia-422098">&nbsp;India, Russia recognise common threats coming from Afghanistan: Indian envoy to Russia</a>

The Indian delegation was led by Prakash Gupta, Joint Secretary (UN Political), Ministry of External Affairs, while the UK side was led by Harriet Mathews, Deputy Political Director for UN, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The UK side congratulated India on its successful presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2021, the MEA said.

Discussions covered issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, it said.

Both sides also exchanged views on the Commonwealth Strategic Plan and priorities.

The delegations agreed to continue to work closely to further deepen their cooperation on multilateral issues, the statement said.

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday. The discussions under the second India-UK Multilateral Dialogue were held on Monday in London. Also Read | India, Russia recognise common threats coming from Afghanistan: Indian envoy to Russia The Indian delegation was led by Prakash Gupta, Joint Secretary (UN Political), Ministry of External Affairs, while the UK side was led by Harriet Mathews, Deputy Political Director for UN, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The UK side congratulated India on its successful presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2021, the MEA said. Discussions covered issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, it said. Both sides also exchanged views on the Commonwealth Strategic Plan and priorities. The delegations agreed to continue to work closely to further deepen their cooperation on multilateral issues, the statement said.

India, UK discuss UN reforms, counterterrorism, climate action

Difficulties are coming of all sorts for the United Kingdom, first came Brexit then the pandemic. The chicken farmers in the UK are also being heavily affected. There's been a major cutting output and substantial increase in wages. The increase in food prices will surely follow.

United Kingdom: Businesses urge govt to temporarily ease visa rules

The world’s activists and delegates soon on their way to Glasgow have reason to be anxious. After all, they are gathering for a climate summit with exceptionally high stakes. Known as COP26 and running from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12, the conference is perhaps one of the world’s last chances to keep the average global temperature from rising less than 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, above preindustrial levels — and to avert planetary heating on a terrifying scale.

This apprehensive mood seems not to affect Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain, the leader of the host nation. With bombastic optimism, Mr. Johnson appears confident that countries will step up climate action: The conference, he said in September, will be “a turning point for humanity.” And he has positioned Britain as boldly leading the way.

To make the case, Mr. Johnson points to how Britain has decarbonized more than any other developed country, 1.8 times the average among European Union nations, and was the first major economy to enshrine in law a net-zero target for carbon emissions.

Yet Britain is far from a climate hero. The country is committed to fossil fuels and private corporations, opposed to stringent regulation and unwilling to recognize its historical responsibility to the Global South. Even the lauded net zero by 2050 target relies on unreliable carbon offsets and is too distant to bring about decarbonization soon enough. Mr. Johnson may claim the country leads the world on climate action, but we shouldn’t fall for the trick.

A glance behind the rhetoric reveals hypocrisy everywhere. For COP26, formally the 26th U.N. Climate Change Conference of the Parties, the government has set out four top goals — global net zero by 2050, protection of communities and natural habitats, increased climate finance and strengthened international collaboration. But in practice, it is pursuing policies at home and abroad that violate every single goal.

In order to seal a free-trade agreement with Australia, which recently ranked last in the world for tackling greenhouse gas emissions, Mr. Johnson dropped from the text references to temperature goals established by the 2015 Paris Agreement. As well as a bad example, it’s an insult to nations especially vulnerable to climate change, which argue a 1.5-degree Celsius limit is critical to their survival. For Mr. Johnson, international collaboration is good — until it gets in the way of national self-interest.

In September, Mr. Johnson was energetically cajoling countries to cough up more cash at the U.N. General Assembly in New York — part of an attempt to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate breakdown. It was an audacious gambit, not least because Britain is far behind in its contribution to climate finance. Its efforts have been rated “highly insufficient” by the Climate Action Tracker, which provides independent scientific analysis of climate policy.

But the most blatant double standards are closer to home. Against the warnings of the Scottish government, the national government in Westminster is poised to approve 18 new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. One of the most significant oil fields, known as Cambo, would drill for a total of 150 to 170 million barrels of oil up to 2050.

New drilling is in line with the “maximizing economic recovery” strategy of the Oil and Gas Authority, the body responsible for regulating Britain’s oil and gas resources. Adopted by Parliament in 2015, it states that companies should aim to extract any oil or gas that is profitable. The government has the ultimate power to change this strategy — and to stop Cambo if it wants to. But besides requiring the regulator to help meet distant net-zero targets by reducing production emissions, the government has so far failed to intervene.

Cambo is the most egregious example of a political and economic approach that knocks Britain off its moral high ground. The list of sins is long. It includes airport expansions, missed biodiversity targets, a botched attempt to insulate homes, not ruling out a new coal mine in Cumbria and, of course, failing to regulate the world’s biggest financiers of fossil fuels in the City of London. At every juncture the government has made clear where its priorities really lie.

Most maddeningly of all, these actions lie beneath a smoke screen of good words. The government may be world leading in setting targets (there are 78 commitments in a new plan to decarbonize transport alone), but it can’t promise its way out of escalating heat waves, fires and floods. One of the government’s own climate advisers rated the government nine out of 10 on targets but said it was “somewhere below” four out of 10 in efforts to meet them. The government’s long-awaited strategy to reach net-zero emissions, expected to be published on Tuesday, is unlikely to alter the picture. Warm words won’t stop a warming world.

You could charitably call this cognitive dissonance, the result of an inability to reconcile climate targets with an economy forged by fossil fuels. But the bald truth is harsher. Countries across the world, Britain foremost among them, are willfully pursuing an economic strategy that is heating up the planet, to the devastation of communities everywhere. They prefer private profit to a livable planet.

The time frame in which we can avert the worst shrinks with every passing day. The two weeks of COP26, when governments have a chance to close the gap between rhetoric and reality, will prove pivotal for the planet. Either we continue along the path of a rapidly heating world or we alter the course of human civilization.

But whatever happens in Glasgow, the storm is no longer gathering. It is overhead.

The world’s activists and delegates soon on their way to Glasgow have reason to be anxious. After all, they are gathering for a climate summit with exceptionally high stakes.

The world’s activists and delegates soon on their way to Glasgow have reason to be anxious. After all, they are gathering for a climate summit with exceptionally high stakes. Known as COP26 and running from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12, the conference is perhaps one of the world’s last chances to keep the average global temperature from rising less than 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, above preindustrial levels — and to avert planetary heating on a terrifying scale. This apprehensive mood seems not to affect Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain, the leader of the host nation. With bombastic optimism, Mr. Johnson appears confident that countries will step up climate action: The conference, he said in September, will be “a turning point for humanity.” And he has positioned Britain as boldly leading the way. To make the case, Mr. Johnson points to how Britain has decarbonized more than any other developed country, 1.8 times the average among European Union nations, and was the first major economy to enshrine in law a net-zero target for carbon emissions. Yet Britain is far from a climate hero. The country is committed to fossil fuels and private corporations, opposed to stringent regulation and unwilling to recognize its historical responsibility to the Global South. Even the lauded net zero by 2050 target relies on unreliable carbon offsets and is too distant to bring about decarbonization soon enough. Mr. Johnson may claim the country leads the world on climate action, but we shouldn’t fall for the trick. A glance behind the rhetoric reveals hypocrisy everywhere. For COP26, formally the 26th U.N. Climate Change Conference of the Parties, the government has set out four top goals — global net zero by 2050, protection of communities and natural habitats, increased climate finance and strengthened international collaboration. But in practice, it is pursuing policies at home and abroad that violate every single goal. In order to seal a free-trade agreement with Australia, which recently ranked last in the world for tackling greenhouse gas emissions, Mr. Johnson dropped from the text references to temperature goals established by the 2015 Paris Agreement. As well as a bad example, it’s an insult to nations especially vulnerable to climate change, which argue a 1.5-degree Celsius limit is critical to their survival. For Mr. Johnson, international collaboration is good — until it gets in the way of national self-interest. In September, Mr. Johnson was energetically cajoling countries to cough up more cash at the U.N. General Assembly in New York — part of an attempt to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate breakdown. It was an audacious gambit, not least because Britain is far behind in its contribution to climate finance. Its efforts have been rated “highly insufficient” by the Climate Action Tracker, which provides independent scientific analysis of climate policy. But the most blatant double standards are closer to home. Against the warnings of the Scottish government, the national government in Westminster is poised to approve 18 new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. One of the most significant oil fields, known as Cambo, would drill for a total of 150 to 170 million barrels of oil up to 2050. New drilling is in line with the “maximizing economic recovery” strategy of the Oil and Gas Authority, the body responsible for regulating Britain’s oil and gas resources. Adopted by Parliament in 2015, it states that companies should aim to extract any oil or gas that is profitable. The government has the ultimate power to change this strategy — and to stop Cambo if it wants to. But besides requiring the regulator to help meet distant net-zero targets by reducing production emissions, the government has so far failed to intervene. Cambo is the most egregious example of a political and economic approach that knocks Britain off its moral high ground. The list of sins is long. It includes airport expansions, missed biodiversity targets, a botched attempt to insulate homes, not ruling out a new coal mine in Cumbria and, of course, failing to regulate the world’s biggest financiers of fossil fuels in the City of London. At every juncture the government has made clear where its priorities really lie. Most maddeningly of all, these actions lie beneath a smoke screen of good words. The government may be world leading in setting targets (there are 78 commitments in a new plan to decarbonize transport alone), but it can’t promise its way out of escalating heat waves, fires and floods. One of the government’s own climate advisers rated the government nine out of 10 on targets but said it was “somewhere below” four out of 10 in efforts to meet them. The government’s long-awaited strategy to reach net-zero emissions, expected to be published on Tuesday, is unlikely to alter the picture. Warm words won’t stop a warming world. You could charitably call this cognitive dissonance, the result of an inability to reconcile climate targets with an economy forged by fossil fuels. But the bald truth is harsher. Countries across the world, Britain foremost among them, are willfully pursuing an economic strategy that is heating up the planet, to the devastation of communities everywhere. They prefer private profit to a livable planet. The time frame in which we can avert the worst shrinks with every passing day. The two weeks of COP26, when governments have a chance to close the gap between rhetoric and reality, will prove pivotal for the planet. Either we continue along the path of a rapidly heating world or we alter the course of human civilization. But whatever happens in Glasgow, the storm is no longer gathering. It is overhead.

Boris Johnson is playing another trick

Despite mass vaccination program against covid 19, the infection rate remains stubbornly high. Contrasting sharply with its European neighbors.

United Kingdom: Covid infection rates remain stubbornly high

Facial recognition technology have been rolled out by a group of nine schools in the UK to verify children's payments for school meals, acording to media reports.

 
Instead of conventional payment methods like cards or fingerprint scanners, the technology is faster and more hygienic than claimed the schools in North Ayrshire in Scotland, the Verge reported.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reports-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-as-govt-keeps-close-watch-421903">UK reports surge in coronavirus cases as govt keeps 'close watch</a>

However, privacy advocates warned that the move is normalising biometric surveillance.

"With Facial Recognition, pupils simply select their meal, look at the camera and go, making for a faster lunch service whilst removing any contact at the point of sale," read a flyer distributed to parents by the schools.

As per an FAQ sheet by the schools children's biometric data is stored in an encrypted form and deleted when a child leaves the school. Parents have to opt-in for children to use the technology, and can alternatively use PIN to verify payments, the report said.

Facial recognition cut payment time per pupil to five seconds on average, David Swanston, managing director of CRB Cunninghams, was quoted as saying to The Financial Times. Swanston`s firm was responsible for installing the technology

He noted that the system underwent a pilot run in 2020, and that 65 more schools were signed up to introduce the technology.

According to the North Ayrshire council, 97 per cent of children or parents consented to be enrolled, the FT report said. But some parents said they were not sure if children fully understood what they were signing up for, and were influenced by peer pressure.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-records-more-than-40000-covid-cases-for-fourth-day-in-a-row-421421">&nbsp;UK records more than 40,000 Covid cases for fourth day in a row</a>

Facial recognition systems of various types are becoming more common throughout the world. Schools in the US have been installing such systems for years, though usually as a security measure. However, it is banned in various states and cities, arguing that the technology is frequently biased across racial or gender lines.

Last week, Russia introduced facial recognition payments in its metro system, with activists warning that the technology could be used to track and identify protestors.

In the European Union, politicians and advocacy groups are calling for a ban on the technology, arguing that the downsides of its introduction outweigh potential benefits.

The Ayrshire school scheme was unnecessary, Silkie Carlo of the UK campaign group Big Brother Watch was quoted as saying to the FT.

"It's normalising biometric identity checks for something that is mundane. You don't need to resort to airport style [technology] for children getting their lunch," Carlo said.

Facial recognition technology have been rolled out by a group of nine schools in the UK to verify children's payments for school meals, acording to media reports.

Facial recognition technology have been rolled out by a group of nine schools in the UK to verify children's payments for school meals, acording to media reports. Instead of conventional payment methods like cards or fingerprint scanners, the technology is faster and more hygienic than claimed the schools in North Ayrshire in Scotland, the Verge reported. Also Read | UK reports surge in coronavirus cases as govt keeps 'close watch However, privacy advocates warned that the move is normalising biometric surveillance. "With Facial Recognition, pupils simply select their meal, look at the camera and go, making for a faster lunch service whilst removing any contact at the point of sale," read a flyer distributed to parents by the schools. As per an FAQ sheet by the schools children's biometric data is stored in an encrypted form and deleted when a child leaves the school. Parents have to opt-in for children to use the technology, and can alternatively use PIN to verify payments, the report said. Facial recognition cut payment time per pupil to five seconds on average, David Swanston, managing director of CRB Cunninghams, was quoted as saying to The Financial Times. Swanston`s firm was responsible for installing the technology He noted that the system underwent a pilot run in 2020, and that 65 more schools were signed up to introduce the technology. According to the North Ayrshire council, 97 per cent of children or parents consented to be enrolled, the FT report said. But some parents said they were not sure if children fully understood what they were signing up for, and were influenced by peer pressure. Also Read | UK records more than 40,000 Covid cases for fourth day in a row Facial recognition systems of various types are becoming more common throughout the world. Schools in the US have been installing such systems for years, though usually as a security measure. However, it is banned in various states and cities, arguing that the technology is frequently biased across racial or gender lines. Last week, Russia introduced facial recognition payments in its metro system, with activists warning that the technology could be used to track and identify protestors. In the European Union, politicians and advocacy groups are calling for a ban on the technology, arguing that the downsides of its introduction outweigh potential benefits. The Ayrshire school scheme was unnecessary, Silkie Carlo of the UK campaign group Big Brother Watch was quoted as saying to the FT. "It's normalising biometric identity checks for something that is mundane. You don't need to resort to airport style [technology] for children getting their lunch," Carlo said.

Facial recognition system to speed up lunch payments in UK schools

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