To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy,&nbsp;British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities.

The prime minister has said he wants to tackle regional inequalities and make sure areas outside of the economic powerhouse, London, have more opportunities.&nbsp;Johnson had&nbsp;won 2019 elections, all thanks to voters in struggling regions of England.

In a speech next week, PM&nbsp;will explain how a new High Streets strategy will help local communities thrive&nbsp;by allowing dining on pavements, helping eateries to serve more customers. Under the plans, local sports facilities will receive a 25 million pound ($35 million) boost. 
 
A statement by his office said on Saturday, temporary permissions given to pubs during the pandemic, allowing them to serve 'takeaway pints' will also be extended for another year. 
 
"The Prime Minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society,&nbsp;one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed," a government spokesperson said in the statement. 
 
As part of his plan, Johnson has announced a series of urban renewal projects worth 830 million pounds in towns and cities away from London, as well as establishing of eight Freeports in England. He also&nbsp;backs green technology jobs. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities.

To fulfill his promise to 'level up' the country's economy, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out next week plans to regenerate the country's high streets by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities. The prime minister has said he wants to tackle regional inequalities and make sure areas outside of the economic powerhouse, London, have more opportunities. Johnson had won 2019 elections, all thanks to voters in struggling regions of England. In a speech next week, PM will explain how a new High Streets strategy will help local communities thrive by allowing dining on pavements, helping eateries to serve more customers. Under the plans, local sports facilities will receive a 25 million pound ($35 million) boost. A statement by his office said on Saturday, temporary permissions given to pubs during the pandemic, allowing them to serve 'takeaway pints' will also be extended for another year. "The Prime Minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society, one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed," a government spokesperson said in the statement. As part of his plan, Johnson has announced a series of urban renewal projects worth 830 million pounds in towns and cities away from London, as well as establishing of eight Freeports in England. He also backs green technology jobs. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM to announce high street regeneration plans next week

The rocky material that fell to Earth in a fireball over the Cotswold town of Winchcombe in February has had its classification formally accepted. As per UK scientists, the object dates back to the very beginning of the Solar System, some 4.

The rocky material that fell to Earth in a fireball over the Cotswold town of Winchcombe in February has had its classification formally accepted. As per UK scientists, the object dates back to the very beginning of the Solar System, some 4.6 billion years ago. It is now being deemed as extremely valuable. As per the formal classification, it was concluded that that the dark grey-to-black material picked up in Gloucestershire earlier this year is now absolutely recognised as being meteoritic in nature. The term "Winchcombe" is used to describe it. It is mostly made up of phyllosilicates, or clays. The H2O is bound up in those minerals. Also read | Astronomers use artificial intelligence to reveal the true shape of universe The theory holds that a bombardment of the parent asteroids of meteorites like Winchcombe could have delivered much of the H20 we now see in our oceans. Researchers, led by London's Natural History Museum (NHM), say the meteorite, which comprises 548g of small stones and powder, is a member of the CM2 carbonaceous chondrites. Also, it is said to be "Mighei-like", which is a reference to a particular type specimen, or standard, of meteorite that was found in Ukraine in the late 19th Century. NHM's Dr Ashley King, was quoted by BBC saying, "Carbonaceous chondrites are probably the oldest and most primitive extra-terrestrial materials we have available to study". He added, "They come from asteroids that formed right back at the start of our Solar System. They're like time capsules. They're telling us about the building blocks of our Solar System. Obviously, we weren't there 4.6 billion years ago, and these meteorites are a way for us to actually see what sort of materials were there, and how those materials started to come together to make the planets".

Winchcombe meteorite gets official classification, here is all you need to know

The European Commission warned on Friday that its calculation of the cost of the Brexit&nbsp;divorce&nbsp;bill&nbsp;is final after London and Brussels gave different estimates of what is owed.

Accounts published last month by the European Union give a figure of 47.5 billion euros (40.8 billion pounds, $56.5 billion) that Brussels says it is owed by the UK government, to be paid over several years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-on-brexit-bedevils-pandemic-hit-uk-393283">Five years on, Brexit bedevils pandemic-hit UK</a>

A UK government spokesperson, however, said its estimate of the&nbsp;bill&nbsp;still stands at between 35 and 39 billion pounds, or between 41 and 45 billion euros.

The discrepancy could become the latest bone of contention between the two sides already at loggerheads over several parts of the UK-EU withdrawal agreement.

But European Commission spokesman Balazs Ujvari said the first instalment of Britain's 6.8 billion euro&nbsp;bill&nbsp;for 2021 had been paid on time and in full.

"The report is final," Ujvari said, referring to the 200-page EU annual accounts published on June 30. "And the calculations were made in line with the withdrawal agreement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-touts-great-win-in-britains-first-post-brexit-trade-deal-391605">Australia touts 'great win' in Britain's first post-Brexit trade deal</a>

He said the&nbsp;bill&nbsp;amounts to "47.5 billion euros, which the United Kingdom is going to have to pay into the European Union budget over the course of the next years."

Separately, a British spokesperson said: "The UK Government's estimate of the value of the net financial settlement remains in the central range of 35 to 39 billion pounds.

The British official said the government does not recognise the higher Brussels figure and dubbed it "an estimate produced by the EU for its own internal accounting purposes.&nbsp;

"It doesn't, for instance, reflect money owed back to the UK, which reduces the amount we pay," the spokesperson told reporters.

Britain left the European Union at the start of the year after long and tortuous negotiations for a follow on trade and cooperation agreement with the 27-nation bloc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatever-it-takes-uk-pm-johnson-warns-eu-over-post-brexit-trade-391152">'Whatever it takes', UK PM Johnson warns EU over post-Brexit trade</a>

But it agreed to ongoing payments, largely to reflect its obligation to support pension funds and sickness insurance for EU officials.

The EU spokesman said Britain would receive two bills this year totalling 6.8 billion euros and that a first instalment covering part of this sum had been paid in June.

"Everything that had to be done was done. Therefore, we have no indication whatsoever that the overall figure would be contested," Ujvari said

British leader Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government is to report full details of its estimate to the UK parliament "shortly".

The European Commission warned on Friday that its calculation of the cost of the Brexit divorce bill is final after London and Brussels gave different estimates of what is owed.

The European Commission warned on Friday that its calculation of the cost of the Brexit divorce bill is final after London and Brussels gave different estimates of what is owed. Accounts published last month by the European Union give a figure of 47.5 billion euros (40.8 billion pounds, $56.5 billion) that Brussels says it is owed by the UK government, to be paid over several years. Also read | Five years on, Brexit bedevils pandemic-hit UK A UK government spokesperson, however, said its estimate of the bill still stands at between 35 and 39 billion pounds, or between 41 and 45 billion euros. The discrepancy could become the latest bone of contention between the two sides already at loggerheads over several parts of the UK-EU withdrawal agreement. But European Commission spokesman Balazs Ujvari said the first instalment of Britain's 6.8 billion euro bill for 2021 had been paid on time and in full. "The report is final," Ujvari said, referring to the 200-page EU annual accounts published on June 30. "And the calculations were made in line with the withdrawal agreement. Also read | Australia touts 'great win' in Britain's first post-Brexit trade deal He said the bill amounts to "47.5 billion euros, which the United Kingdom is going to have to pay into the European Union budget over the course of the next years." Separately, a British spokesperson said: "The UK Government's estimate of the value of the net financial settlement remains in the central range of 35 to 39 billion pounds. The British official said the government does not recognise the higher Brussels figure and dubbed it "an estimate produced by the EU for its own internal accounting purposes. "It doesn't, for instance, reflect money owed back to the UK, which reduces the amount we pay," the spokesperson told reporters. Britain left the European Union at the start of the year after long and tortuous negotiations for a follow on trade and cooperation agreement with the 27-nation bloc. Also read | 'Whatever it takes', UK PM Johnson warns EU over post-Brexit trade But it agreed to ongoing payments, largely to reflect its obligation to support pension funds and sickness insurance for EU officials. The EU spokesman said Britain would receive two bills this year totalling 6.8 billion euros and that a first instalment covering part of this sum had been paid in June. "Everything that had to be done was done. Therefore, we have no indication whatsoever that the overall figure would be contested," Ujvari said British leader Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government is to report full details of its estimate to the UK parliament "shortly".

Brussels warns UK its Brexit bill is final

Britain has sold its biggest chip producer to the Dutch firm owned by a Chinese company. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a review of the takeover by his national security.

UK PM announces a review of country’s biggest chip plant's takeover

A five-month-old baby girl, Lexi Robins,&nbsp;from the UK, is 'turning into stone' due to a rare genetic condition that turns muscles into bones.

Lexi Robins has been diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) which affects only one in two million people.&nbsp;

FOP is a life-limiting disease&nbsp;that results in bone formation outside the skeleton, limiting one's movements. It basically replaces muscles with bones, which in layman terms, changes the body into stone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/immortality-is-my-goal-11-year-old-boy-gets-bachelors-degree-in-physics-396174" hreflang="en">'Immortality is my goal': 11-year-old boy gets bachelor’s degree in physics</a>

The tragedy was revealed by Lexi’s mother, Alexandra Robins, who explained that the couple was concerned when they noticed their daughter’s toes upon her birth, and after talking to the doctors, they realised that Lexi is suffering from FOP.

Due to this disease, Lexi will not be able to survive any minor trauma too, such as falling over. She will also not be able to ever receive injections or take dental care.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wheres-your-mask-small-kid-urges-people-to-follow-covid-protocol-in-india-396275" hreflang="en">'Where's your mask?': Small kid urges people to follow Covid protocol in India</a>

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Alexandra informed through an IGTV video that, as of now, there are 16 clinical trials going on for the treatment of this rare disease, of which two have been "extremely successful". One of the remaining 14 had to be stopped due to COVID-19 but will hopefully be soon resumed. Another clinical trial has been successful but is being tested for side effects at the moment.

The couple has taken to social media to request funding for FOP as the National Health Services (NHS) of the UK does not support any funding because it is a rare disease.

A five-month-old baby girl, Lexi Robins, from the UK, is 'turning into stone' due to a rare genetic condition that turns muscles into bones. Lexi Robins has been diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) which affects only one in two million people.

A five-month-old baby girl, Lexi Robins, from the UK, is 'turning into stone' due to a rare genetic condition that turns muscles into bones. Lexi Robins has been diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) which affects only one in two million people. FOP is a life-limiting disease that results in bone formation outside the skeleton, limiting one's movements. It basically replaces muscles with bones, which in layman terms, changes the body into stone. Also read | 'Immortality is my goal': 11-year-old boy gets bachelor’s degree in physics The tragedy was revealed by Lexi’s mother, Alexandra Robins, who explained that the couple was concerned when they noticed their daughter’s toes upon her birth, and after talking to the doctors, they realised that Lexi is suffering from FOP. Due to this disease, Lexi will not be able to survive any minor trauma too, such as falling over. She will also not be able to ever receive injections or take dental care. Also read | 'Where's your mask?': Small kid urges people to follow Covid protocol in India View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alexandra Robins (@alexrobins_) × Alexandra informed through an IGTV video that, as of now, there are 16 clinical trials going on for the treatment of this rare disease, of which two have been "extremely successful". One of the remaining 14 had to be stopped due to COVID-19 but will hopefully be soon resumed. Another clinical trial has been successful but is being tested for side effects at the moment. The couple has taken to social media to request funding for FOP as the National Health Services (NHS) of the UK does not support any funding because it is a rare disease.

Rare genetic disease is turning 5-month-old UK baby girl into stone

In a bid to further ease its travel curbs, Germany lifted a ban on travellers from India, the UK, and three other countries, where the delta variant of coronavirus has been found in the samples of COVID-19 patients.

Germany eases travel curbs, lifts ban on travellers from India and UK

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has revealed plans to lift some of the major COVID-19 restrictions, including face masks and social distancing from July 19, urging personal responsibility rather than a government edict.

UK to lift up face mask & social distancing rule despite soaring cases

UK ministers will be revealing proposals for a suite of new laws paving the way for offshore centres for asylum seekers and criminal charges for migrants who have 'knowingly' arrived in the UK without permission.

The nationality and borders bill has been described by the Home Office as containing “the most radical changes to the broken asylum system in decades”. This makes it harder for those who enter illegally to stay in the UK.

As per home secretary, Priti Patel, it is a part of her mission to crack down on 'vile criminals' who run smuggling operations across the channel.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-lambda-variant-may-be-more-resistant-to-vaccines-than-other-strains-396116">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: Lambda variant may be more resistant to vaccines than other strains</a>

If the laws are passed, people-smuggling will have to go through tougher sentencing, up to life imprisonment.

Patel further said that she is going to make it easier to remove migrants who have arrived in the country unlawfully. Also, with the passing of these laws, it will be easier to punish countries that refuse to take back their citizens with a new 'power to control visa availability' for legal entrants to the UK.

The plans will also provide the removal of asylum seekers to offshore centres where they can be housed while their claims, or appeals, are being processed.

The Guardian quoted&nbsp;Patel saying, "For too long, our broken asylum system has lined the pockets of the vile criminal gangs who cheat the system. This isn’t fair to the vulnerable people who need protection or the British public who pay for it. It’s time to act".&nbsp;

She added, “This legislation delivers on what the British people have voted for time and time again – for the UK to take full control of its borders. It paves the way for a fair but firm system that will break the business model of the gangs that facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK while speeding up the removal of those with no right to be here".&nbsp;

UK ministers will be revealing proposals for a suite of new laws paving the way for offshore centres for asylum seekers and criminal charges for migrants who have 'knowingly' arrived in the UK without permission.

UK ministers will be revealing proposals for a suite of new laws paving the way for offshore centres for asylum seekers and criminal charges for migrants who have 'knowingly' arrived in the UK without permission. The nationality and borders bill has been described by the Home Office as containing “the most radical changes to the broken asylum system in decades”. This makes it harder for those who enter illegally to stay in the UK. As per home secretary, Priti Patel, it is a part of her mission to crack down on 'vile criminals' who run smuggling operations across the channel. Also read | COVID-19: Lambda variant may be more resistant to vaccines than other strains If the laws are passed, people-smuggling will have to go through tougher sentencing, up to life imprisonment. Patel further said that she is going to make it easier to remove migrants who have arrived in the country unlawfully. Also, with the passing of these laws, it will be easier to punish countries that refuse to take back their citizens with a new 'power to control visa availability' for legal entrants to the UK. The plans will also provide the removal of asylum seekers to offshore centres where they can be housed while their claims, or appeals, are being processed. The Guardian quoted Patel saying, "For too long, our broken asylum system has lined the pockets of the vile criminal gangs who cheat the system. This isn’t fair to the vulnerable people who need protection or the British public who pay for it. It’s time to act". She added, “This legislation delivers on what the British people have voted for time and time again – for the UK to take full control of its borders. It paves the way for a fair but firm system that will break the business model of the gangs that facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK while speeding up the removal of those with no right to be here".

UK ministers to reveal proposals for offshore centres for asylum seekers

Germany's health agency on Monday, July 5, said that it would lift a ban on most travellers from India and the UK amid increased cases of the Delta variant of Covid-19.

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) said India, Nepal, Russia, Portugal and the UK would be reclassified from Wednesday as "high-incidence areas".

Germany introduced its "virus variant country" travel category in a bid to stop new coronavirus variants that have not yet spread widely on home soil. However, Health Minister Jens Spahn said last week that the Delta variant was fast becoming dominant in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/possible-in-future-to-mix-vaccine-doses-says-german-health-minister-395572">Also read |&nbsp;Possible in future to mix vaccine doses, says German health minister&nbsp;</a>

Given the increasing spread of Delta and research suggesting vaccines are effective against it, "we will look at the situation in the next few days", Spahn said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Spahn told reporters that it would be possible in future to mix vaccine doses. This means that, in Spahn's opinion, it would be possible to combine the first shot of the AstraZeneca vaccine with the second shot of mRNA vaccines like those from Pfizer or Moderna.

Spahn said that the addition of an mRNA shot offered more protection against the Delta variant of coronavirus. Delta variant is considered to be more infection.

Germany has enough shots available of all vaccines to be able to do this, as well as to provide booster shots to those who wanted them in the autumn, he added.

Germany's health agency on Monday, July 5, said that it would lift a ban on most travellers from India and the UK amid increased cases of the Delta variant of Covid-19.

Germany's health agency on Monday, July 5, said that it would lift a ban on most travellers from India and the UK amid increased cases of the Delta variant of Covid-19. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) said India, Nepal, Russia, Portugal and the UK would be reclassified from Wednesday as "high-incidence areas". Germany introduced its "virus variant country" travel category in a bid to stop new coronavirus variants that have not yet spread widely on home soil. However, Health Minister Jens Spahn said last week that the Delta variant was fast becoming dominant in the country. Also read | Possible in future to mix vaccine doses, says German health minister Given the increasing spread of Delta and research suggesting vaccines are effective against it, "we will look at the situation in the next few days", Spahn said. Meanwhile, Spahn told reporters that it would be possible in future to mix vaccine doses. This means that, in Spahn's opinion, it would be possible to combine the first shot of the AstraZeneca vaccine with the second shot of mRNA vaccines like those from Pfizer or Moderna. Spahn said that the addition of an mRNA shot offered more protection against the Delta variant of coronavirus. Delta variant is considered to be more infection. Germany has enough shots available of all vaccines to be able to do this, as well as to provide booster shots to those who wanted them in the autumn, he added.

Germany relaxes curbs on travellers from India and UK

Touting a world first for "rewilding", an animal charity said Tuesday it was set to fly a herd of elephants from a British zoo to a new home in Kenya.

The Aspinall Foundation said it would use specially built crates aboard a Boeing 747, dubbed the Dumbo jet, to take the 13 pachyderms from their current home near Canterbury in Kent, southeast England. 
 
The charity said it would work with anti-poaching teams to help ensure the long-term survival of the herd -- which includes three babies -- once it reaches one of two sites under consideration in southern Kenya.

The charity's head of communications is Carrie Johnson, wife of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who said the plan would also support Kenya's economy after the coronavirus pandemic.

"Life in Kent is pretty good for these elephants, all things considered. But Africa is where they belong," she said in an article for The Sun newspaper, co-written with foundation chairman Damian Aspinall.

It is the first time a breeding herd of elephants will have been rewilded, they said, adding that the operation is planned for next year.

"In time, their descendants will number in the hundreds -- and then the thousands -- and form part of the incomparable ecosystem that helps drive the Kenyan tourist economy."

The Aspinall Foundation operates two wildlife parks in Kent. While the attempt to rewild elephants is a first, last year it transported two cheetahs back to their native territory in South Africa.

Touting a world first for "rewilding", an animal charity said Tuesday it was set to fly a herd of elephants from a British zoo to a new home in Kenya. The Aspinall Foundation said it would use specially built crates aboard a Boeing 747, dubbed the Dumbo jet, to take the 13 pachyderms from their current home near Canterbury in Kent, southeast England.

Touting a world first for "rewilding", an animal charity said Tuesday it was set to fly a herd of elephants from a British zoo to a new home in Kenya. The Aspinall Foundation said it would use specially built crates aboard a Boeing 747, dubbed the Dumbo jet, to take the 13 pachyderms from their current home near Canterbury in Kent, southeast England. The charity said it would work with anti-poaching teams to help ensure the long-term survival of the herd -- which includes three babies -- once it reaches one of two sites under consideration in southern Kenya. The charity's head of communications is Carrie Johnson, wife of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who said the plan would also support Kenya's economy after the coronavirus pandemic. "Life in Kent is pretty good for these elephants, all things considered. But Africa is where they belong," she said in an article for The Sun newspaper, co-written with foundation chairman Damian Aspinall. It is the first time a breeding herd of elephants will have been rewilded, they said, adding that the operation is planned for next year. "In time, their descendants will number in the hundreds -- and then the thousands -- and form part of the incomparable ecosystem that helps drive the Kenyan tourist economy." The Aspinall Foundation operates two wildlife parks in Kent. While the attempt to rewild elephants is a first, last year it transported two cheetahs back to their native territory in South Africa.

As part of world's first 'rewilding' efforts, UK elephants head to the wild in Kenya

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said. 
 
The remaining legal restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are due to be lifted on July 19, with the decision whether to go ahead scheduled for July 12. 
 
Data suggests that cases will continue to rise as restrictions are eased, but the link to hospitalisations and deaths has been weakened by the vaccination programme, the government said. 
 
People will learn to live with COVID-19 as they do already with flu, Johnson is expected to say, meaning that hospitalisations, serious illness and deaths will continue but at a much lower level than before widespread vaccination. 
 
"Thanks to the successful rollout of our vaccination programme, we are progressing cautiously through our roadmap," Johnson said in a statement. 
 
"But I must stress that the pandemic is not over and that cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks. 
 
"As we begin to learn to live with this virus, we must all continue to carefully manage the risks from COVID-19 and exercise judgement when going about our lives." 
 
The take-up of vaccines in Britain has been strong, with 86% of adults receiving a first dose and 64% receiving two doses as of Sunday, government data shows. 
 
However, cases of COVID-19 have risen in recent weeks, driven by the now-dominant Delta variant, and the final step of lockdown easing was delayed by four weeks to enable more people to be vaccinated. 
 
Data from Public Health England shows that vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation from this variant, the government said. 
 
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Sunday face masks would no longer be mandatory after the final step in lockdown easing. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out plans for the final step of easing lockdown in England on Monday, including guidance on social distancing, face coverings and working from home, the government said. The remaining legal restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are due to be lifted on July 19, with the decision whether to go ahead scheduled for July 12. Data suggests that cases will continue to rise as restrictions are eased, but the link to hospitalisations and deaths has been weakened by the vaccination programme, the government said. People will learn to live with COVID-19 as they do already with flu, Johnson is expected to say, meaning that hospitalisations, serious illness and deaths will continue but at a much lower level than before widespread vaccination. "Thanks to the successful rollout of our vaccination programme, we are progressing cautiously through our roadmap," Johnson said in a statement. "But I must stress that the pandemic is not over and that cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks. "As we begin to learn to live with this virus, we must all continue to carefully manage the risks from COVID-19 and exercise judgement when going about our lives." The take-up of vaccines in Britain has been strong, with 86% of adults receiving a first dose and 64% receiving two doses as of Sunday, government data shows. However, cases of COVID-19 have risen in recent weeks, driven by the now-dominant Delta variant, and the final step of lockdown easing was delayed by four weeks to enable more people to be vaccinated. Data from Public Health England shows that vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation from this variant, the government said. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Sunday face masks would no longer be mandatory after the final step in lockdown easing. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson to set out plans for final step of easing Covid lockdown

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF)&nbsp;report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050.

It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers. The study outlines a plan for the UK&nbsp;to speed up the uptake of insect protein in animal feed.

Soy&nbsp;is increasingly being used in animal feed, however, deforestation has also been linked to its use.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-mealworms-for-dinner-european-union-approves-first-insect-food-356581">Mealworms for dinner? European Union approves first insect food</a>

According to estimates, in 2019 alone, more than 1 million tonnes of soya consumed by livestock farmers in the UK may have contributed to deforestation.

Mollie Gupta, WWF's forest commodities manager says that among the findings was the first quantification of the benefits of insect protein in the UK. She adds that her team has been exploring insect protein as an alternative to soya for 18 months and that while&nbsp;it was always obvious that it had great potential, the fact that it can cut UK's soya imports by a fifth is unbelievable.

Taking advantage of this potential will require major hurdles to be overcome, particularly legislation. Animal feed regulations affect what animals can be fed, and then what they can be fed to. This double legislative burden is a significant one.

Protein extracted from insects is primarily used for pet food and aquafeed, where it competes with fishmeal, another unsustainable source of protein.

The report recommends that government allow the use of insect proteins in soya-based pig and poultry feed. In addition to increasing production, this will open up markets for insect protein.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaiti-breeder-hopes-superworms-will-become-new-superfood-388562">Kuwaiti breeder hopes superworms will become new superfood</a>&nbsp;

Insects will be approved for use in pig and poultry feed by the EU this summer.

&nbsp;Also discussed in the report is the need for legislation to broaden the range of feedstocks that can be used when farming insects, such as products containing meat and fish as well as leftover food from manufacturing processes.

In addition, Gupta stressed that it was essential for governments to support insect production in a similar manner to what they do for other farming methods or industries, such as anaerobic digestion, which directly competes with plants and food waste for feedstock.&nbsp;

She predicted that this would bring the price of insect protein to the level of fishmeal in the short term and to soy meal in the long term.

Retailers could also contribute to the use of insect protein in animal feed by encouraging its use in their supply chains and educating consumers about its benefits, according to the report.&nbsp;

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050. It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers.

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050. It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers. The study outlines a plan for the UK to speed up the uptake of insect protein in animal feed. Soy is increasingly being used in animal feed, however, deforestation has also been linked to its use. Also read | Mealworms for dinner? European Union approves first insect food According to estimates, in 2019 alone, more than 1 million tonnes of soya consumed by livestock farmers in the UK may have contributed to deforestation. Mollie Gupta, WWF's forest commodities manager says that among the findings was the first quantification of the benefits of insect protein in the UK. She adds that her team has been exploring insect protein as an alternative to soya for 18 months and that while it was always obvious that it had great potential, the fact that it can cut UK's soya imports by a fifth is unbelievable. Taking advantage of this potential will require major hurdles to be overcome, particularly legislation. Animal feed regulations affect what animals can be fed, and then what they can be fed to. This double legislative burden is a significant one. Protein extracted from insects is primarily used for pet food and aquafeed, where it competes with fishmeal, another unsustainable source of protein. The report recommends that government allow the use of insect proteins in soya-based pig and poultry feed. In addition to increasing production, this will open up markets for insect protein. Also read | Kuwaiti breeder hopes superworms will become new superfood Insects will be approved for use in pig and poultry feed by the EU this summer. Also discussed in the report is the need for legislation to broaden the range of feedstocks that can be used when farming insects, such as products containing meat and fish as well as leftover food from manufacturing processes. In addition, Gupta stressed that it was essential for governments to support insect production in a similar manner to what they do for other farming methods or industries, such as anaerobic digestion, which directly competes with plants and food waste for feedstock. She predicted that this would bring the price of insect protein to the level of fishmeal in the short term and to soy meal in the long term. Retailers could also contribute to the use of insect protein in animal feed by encouraging its use in their supply chains and educating consumers about its benefits, according to the report.

Using bugs as animal feed can cut down deforestation: Report

Google is planning to clamp down on financial fraud on its platform in the United Kingdom, saying on Wednesday that all financial services will need to be verified by the regulator before they can advertise.

World Business Watch: Google to clamp down on financial frauds on its platforms in UK

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

"I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds.

Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week.

Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme.

The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant. "I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds. Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week. Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme. The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel concerned about big Euro 2020 crowds

Two men who were accused of racially targeting UK Minister Priti Patel were summonsed to court on May 29 and charged with sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network, which comes with a custodial sentence or fine or both.

2 men held for racially abusing UK minister Priti Patel on social media

UK on Thursday opened post-study work visa for international students. The graduate route visa was announced by UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. The applications are open from this week. Thousands of international students including Indians stand to benefit from the visa.

Under the graduate route visa, students can apply to stay in the UK to look for work for at least two years. In order to avail benefits of this visa the student must have obtained a degree from a recognised UK university.

"Under the UK Government's points-based immigration system, talented students from India and across the globe now have the opportunity to kick start their careers in the UK at the highest levels of business, science, technology and the arts," Home Secretary Priti Patel said in a statement.

"Once they've received their world-leading qualification from one of our fantastic education institutions, this new visa will give them the freedom to fulfil their aspirations and advance their careers," she added.

This is also an important step in UK-India 2030 roadmap. It was launched by Indian PM Narendra Modi and UK PM Boris Johnson in 2021.

UK on Thursday opened post-study work visa for international students. The graduate route visa was announced by UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. The applications are open from this week.

UK on Thursday opened post-study work visa for international students. The graduate route visa was announced by UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. The applications are open from this week. Thousands of international students including Indians stand to benefit from the visa. Under the graduate route visa, students can apply to stay in the UK to look for work for at least two years. In order to avail benefits of this visa the student must have obtained a degree from a recognised UK university. "Under the UK Government's points-based immigration system, talented students from India and across the globe now have the opportunity to kick start their careers in the UK at the highest levels of business, science, technology and the arts," Home Secretary Priti Patel said in a statement. "Once they've received their world-leading qualification from one of our fantastic education institutions, this new visa will give them the freedom to fulfil their aspirations and advance their careers," she added. This is also an important step in UK-India 2030 roadmap. It was launched by Indian PM Narendra Modi and UK PM Boris Johnson in 2021.

UK opens graduate route visa for Indian, other international students

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was grilled by the opposition leaders over former Health Secretary Matt Hancock's COVID conduct as well as Johnson's response to this whole scandal.

Johnson faces tough questions in parliament over Hancock's COVID conduct

Scientists have urged the UK to expand its official list of Covid symptoms to reduce the number of missed cases. This will also help in people knowing if they should self-isolate, they said.&nbsp;

Prof Calum Semple, a member of the government’s Sage committee of experts, argues that the 'narrow' clinical definition of covid in the UK leads to delays in identifying people with the disease.&nbsp;

Semple, of the University of Liverpool, along with Dr Alex Crozier at UCL and others describe how Covid patients do not always experience the official UK symptoms of a high fever, a new continuous cough, or a loss of sense of smell or taste early on, or at any time in the course of the disease.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-jinping-hails-irreversible-rise-of-china-on-communist-party-centenary-395051">Also Read |&nbsp;President Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary</a>

Meanwhile, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control describe a variety of symptoms associated with mild-to-moderate Covid-19. This includes headache, weakness or tiredness, muscle aches, runny nose, appetite loss and sore throat.

The scientists highlighted that many of these “unofficial” symptoms appear sooner and are more common in young, unvaccinated people.

Dr Alexander Edwards, associate professor in biomedical technology at the University of Reading, was quoted by the Guardian saying, "Many of the symptoms are very common and the best way to judge the likelihood of someone having Covid is a combination of symptoms, their risk of exposure, plus testing. Self-reporting symptoms is especially difficult because even the words we use can be interpreted differently".&nbsp;

He added, "Spotting people who are infected is just part of the story, however, because unless you can effectively support infected individuals to isolate from others and thereby break the chain of infection, testing alone doesn’t reduce the burden of this disease".

Scientists have urged the UK to expand its official list of Covid symptoms to reduce the number of missed cases. This will also help in people knowing if they should self-isolate, they said.

Scientists have urged the UK to expand its official list of Covid symptoms to reduce the number of missed cases. This will also help in people knowing if they should self-isolate, they said. Prof Calum Semple, a member of the government’s Sage committee of experts, argues that the 'narrow' clinical definition of covid in the UK leads to delays in identifying people with the disease. Semple, of the University of Liverpool, along with Dr Alex Crozier at UCL and others describe how Covid patients do not always experience the official UK symptoms of a high fever, a new continuous cough, or a loss of sense of smell or taste early on, or at any time in the course of the disease. Also Read | President Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary Meanwhile, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control describe a variety of symptoms associated with mild-to-moderate Covid-19. This includes headache, weakness or tiredness, muscle aches, runny nose, appetite loss and sore throat. The scientists highlighted that many of these “unofficial” symptoms appear sooner and are more common in young, unvaccinated people. Dr Alexander Edwards, associate professor in biomedical technology at the University of Reading, was quoted by the Guardian saying, "Many of the symptoms are very common and the best way to judge the likelihood of someone having Covid is a combination of symptoms, their risk of exposure, plus testing. Self-reporting symptoms is especially difficult because even the words we use can be interpreted differently". He added, "Spotting people who are infected is just part of the story, however, because unless you can effectively support infected individuals to isolate from others and thereby break the chain of infection, testing alone doesn’t reduce the burden of this disease".

Scientists urge UK to expand official list of symptoms for Covid-19

Alphabet Inc's Google on Wednesday announced measures to clamp down on financial fraud on its platform in Britain, saying it will require all financial services to be verified by the regulator before they are allowed to advertise. 
 
Google said in a blog post, it will begin enforcing the new policy, which follows calls from the Financial Conduct Authority for the US&nbsp;tech giant to vet paid promotions, from September&nbsp;6. 
 
The FCA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 
 
The watchdog issued 1,200 consumer warnings last year about scams advertised via social media platforms by fake companies, double the amount in 2019. 
 
FCA Chief Executive Nikhil Rathi said last year, Google should make checks with regulators to see whether potential advertisers had already been shut down in some other guise, before promotions are posted online. 
 
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has also been lobbying the government to introduce a legal requirement for internet giants to take down financial fraud websites, according to a March report in the Sunday Times. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Alphabet Inc's Google on Wednesday announced measures to clamp down on financial fraud on its platform in Britain, saying it will require all financial services to be verified by the regulator before they are allowed to advertise.

Alphabet Inc's Google on Wednesday announced measures to clamp down on financial fraud on its platform in Britain, saying it will require all financial services to be verified by the regulator before they are allowed to advertise. Google said in a blog post, it will begin enforcing the new policy, which follows calls from the Financial Conduct Authority for the US tech giant to vet paid promotions, from September 6. The FCA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The watchdog issued 1,200 consumer warnings last year about scams advertised via social media platforms by fake companies, double the amount in 2019. FCA Chief Executive Nikhil Rathi said last year, Google should make checks with regulators to see whether potential advertisers had already been shut down in some other guise, before promotions are posted online. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has also been lobbying the government to introduce a legal requirement for internet giants to take down financial fraud websites, according to a March report in the Sunday Times. (With inputs from agencies)

Google to introduce measures to curb online financial scams in UK

Any EU citizen who has not applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by 30 June will be classed as an illegal immigrant and could face removal from the UK.

June 30: Deadline for EU citizens to apply for settlement plan

A Labour party pamphlet in West Yorkshire featured PM Modi with Boris Johnson, warning voters against siding with Conservatives. Why is Labour dragging the Indian PM into their divisive campaign? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: PM Modi dragged into Labour's divisive campaign

Two men who were charged with sending a grossly offensive message and accused of inciting "racial hatred" with a social media video targeting UK Home Secretary Priti Patel admitted to the charge in court on Tuesday.

Jake Henderson, 28, posted a video using a racially abusive word to describe Patel after a Covid-19 pandemic in January this year and co-accused Robert Cumming, 26, who was among those who widely shared it online.

Both men admitted sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network and will next appear at Mansfield

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inaugurating-embassy-in-uae-israel-tells-region-were-here-to-stay-394875">Also Read | Inaugurating embassy in UAE, Israel tells region: 'We're here to stay'</a>

Magistrates' Court in Nottinghamshire, East Midlands region of England, on August 12 for sentencing. The duo remains on bail until the sentencing hearing.

The 50-second video was played in court, where Henderson can be heard saying: "As a white man, I won't be listening to people of colour."

Cumming then shared it along with the caption: "Haters gonna be hating" and four laughing emojis.

Prosecutor Daniel Church, appearing on behalf of the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), said the video was "motivated by hostility towards members of racial groups".

The court heard how members of the public were distressed by the comments linked with the video and feared its contents could incite racial hatred.

The duo was summonsed to court on May 29 and charged with sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network, which comes with a custodial sentence or fine or both.

"Following complaints in relation to a video targeted at Home Secretary Priti Patel and posted on social media in January 2021, the CPS has authorised Nottinghamshire Police to charge Jake Henderson and Robert Cumming with sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network,” Janine Smith, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, said earlier this month.

"The function of the CPS is not to decide whether a person is guilty of a criminal offence, but to make fair, independent and objective assessments about whether it is appropriate to present charges to a court to consider,” Smith said.

Two men who were charged with sending a grossly offensive message and accused of inciting "racial hatred" with a social media video targeting UK Home Secretary Priti Patel admitted to the charge in court on Tuesday.

Two men who were charged with sending a grossly offensive message and accused of inciting "racial hatred" with a social media video targeting UK Home Secretary Priti Patel admitted to the charge in court on Tuesday. Jake Henderson, 28, posted a video using a racially abusive word to describe Patel after a Covid-19 pandemic in January this year and co-accused Robert Cumming, 26, who was among those who widely shared it online. Both men admitted sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network and will next appear at Mansfield Also Read | Inaugurating embassy in UAE, Israel tells region: 'We're here to stay' Magistrates' Court in Nottinghamshire, East Midlands region of England, on August 12 for sentencing. The duo remains on bail until the sentencing hearing. The 50-second video was played in court, where Henderson can be heard saying: "As a white man, I won't be listening to people of colour." Cumming then shared it along with the caption: "Haters gonna be hating" and four laughing emojis. Prosecutor Daniel Church, appearing on behalf of the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), said the video was "motivated by hostility towards members of racial groups". The court heard how members of the public were distressed by the comments linked with the video and feared its contents could incite racial hatred. The duo was summonsed to court on May 29 and charged with sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network, which comes with a custodial sentence or fine or both. "Following complaints in relation to a video targeted at Home Secretary Priti Patel and posted on social media in January 2021, the CPS has authorised Nottinghamshire Police to charge Jake Henderson and Robert Cumming with sending a grossly offensive message by a public communication network,” Janine Smith, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, said earlier this month. "The function of the CPS is not to decide whether a person is guilty of a criminal offence, but to make fair, independent and objective assessments about whether it is appropriate to present charges to a court to consider,” Smith said.

Men who racially abused UK minister Priti Patel on social media now held

Britain on Tuesday condemned the 'disgusting' harassment of the government's top medical adviser, Chris Whitty, after footage emerged on social media of two men grabbing him around the head as he walked down the street. 
 
Jeering loudly and grinning at the camera, the men are seen in the film, published on Twitter, manhandling Whitty, 55, who has become one of the nation's most prominent officials because of his regular appearances at coronavirus pandemic briefings. 
 
They hold onto him before he manages to break free and walk away across the road.

"This is disgusting and these thugs must be found and charged. Zero tolerance for harassing a public servant," Nadhim Zahawi, the vaccines minister, said on Twitter.

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This is disgusting and these thugs must be found and charged. Zero tolerance for harassing a public servant. <a href="https://t.co/hrdHbAoBgK">https://t.co/hrdHbAoBgK</a>
— Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) <a href="https://twitter.com/nadhimzahawi/status/1409631647402663936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Health Secretary Sajid Javid said it was 'appalling and totally unacceptable'.

"We will not tolerate this sort of behaviour towards our public servants. The men behaving in this disgraceful way should be ashamed," Javid said.

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I’ve seen the video of the CMO being harassed. It’s appalling and totally unacceptable. The CMO works tirelessly on behalf of the country. We will not tolerate this sort of behaviour towards our public servants. The men behaving in this disgraceful way should be ashamed.
— Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/sajidjavid/status/1409760381208252418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
Police said the matter was being investigated. It was not clear from the footage when the incident took place. 
 
"We are aware of a video being shared online showing an incident in St James’s Park," police said on Twitter. "Officers spoke to all those involved at the time and their details were taken." 
 
It is not the first time that Whitty or other senior officials have faced harassment, having previously been targetted by those who are opposed to the COVID-19 vaccine rollout or lockdown restrictions. 
 
Last week, England’s deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam was verbally abused as he walked into a government building by a protester. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Britain on Tuesday condemned the 'disgusting' harassment of the government's top medical adviser, Chris Whitty, after footage emerged on social media of two men grabbing him around the head as he walked down the street.

Britain on Tuesday condemned the 'disgusting' harassment of the government's top medical adviser, Chris Whitty, after footage emerged on social media of two men grabbing him around the head as he walked down the street. Jeering loudly and grinning at the camera, the men are seen in the film, published on Twitter, manhandling Whitty, 55, who has become one of the nation's most prominent officials because of his regular appearances at coronavirus pandemic briefings. They hold onto him before he manages to break free and walk away across the road. "This is disgusting and these thugs must be found and charged. Zero tolerance for harassing a public servant," Nadhim Zahawi, the vaccines minister, said on Twitter. This is disgusting and these thugs must be found and charged. Zero tolerance for harassing a public servant. https://t.co/hrdHbAoBgK — Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) June 28, 2021 × Health Secretary Sajid Javid said it was 'appalling and totally unacceptable'. "We will not tolerate this sort of behaviour towards our public servants. The men behaving in this disgraceful way should be ashamed," Javid said. I’ve seen the video of the CMO being harassed. It’s appalling and totally unacceptable. The CMO works tirelessly on behalf of the country. We will not tolerate this sort of behaviour towards our public servants. The men behaving in this disgraceful way should be ashamed. — Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) June 29, 2021 × Police said the matter was being investigated. It was not clear from the footage when the incident took place. "We are aware of a video being shared online showing an incident in St James’s Park," police said on Twitter. "Officers spoke to all those involved at the time and their details were taken." It is not the first time that Whitty or other senior officials have faced harassment, having previously been targetted by those who are opposed to the COVID-19 vaccine rollout or lockdown restrictions. Last week, England’s deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam was verbally abused as he walked into a government building by a protester. (With inputs from agencies)

'Disgusting': UK's chief medical adviser harassed

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit. 
 
Since completing its exit from the European Union at the end of last year, Britain has been pressing ahead with new trade deals especially with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, with the most recent agreement signed with Australia. 
 
Digital trade is seen as key by the government to support British tech companies in capitalising on investment opportunities abroad to try to help a post-COVID recovery. 
 
The government said any agreement with Singapore could remove barriers to digital trade and enable British exporters to expand into high-tech markets. The talks will be kicked off in a video call. 
 
"A cutting-edge deal with Singapore will keep us at the forefront of the technological revolution, ensuring we lead the way in digitally delivered trade and industries like fintech and cybersecurity," British trade minister Liz Truss said. 
 
"The UK will be the first European country to ever negotiate a Digital Economy Agreement, which shows what we can do as a sovereign trading nation," she said in a statement. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit.

Britain and Singapore will on Monday start negotiations on a new digital trade agreement that could remove barriers, part of London's push to become what it calls a 'global tech powerhouse' post-Brexit. Since completing its exit from the European Union at the end of last year, Britain has been pressing ahead with new trade deals especially with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, with the most recent agreement signed with Australia. Digital trade is seen as key by the government to support British tech companies in capitalising on investment opportunities abroad to try to help a post-COVID recovery. The government said any agreement with Singapore could remove barriers to digital trade and enable British exporters to expand into high-tech markets. The talks will be kicked off in a video call. "A cutting-edge deal with Singapore will keep us at the forefront of the technological revolution, ensuring we lead the way in digitally delivered trade and industries like fintech and cybersecurity," British trade minister Liz Truss said. "The UK will be the first European country to ever negotiate a Digital Economy Agreement, which shows what we can do as a sovereign trading nation," she said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, Singapore launch talks on digital trade agreement

Britain's financial regulator has said Binance, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, cannot conduct any regulated activity and issued a warning to consumers about the platform, which is coming under growing scrutiny globally.

World Business Watch: Britain bans Binance's UK operations in latest cryptocurrency crackdown

Former British Finance Minister Sajid Javid replaced Matt Hancock as UK Health Secretary. Javid said he has a lot of work to do and controlling the pandemic is his top priority as cases across the country rise the highest level since February.

Ex-FM Sajid Javid appointed new UK health secretary after Matt Hancock resigns

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating&nbsp;coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office.

Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6.

The frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology.

"We owe it to people who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service.

Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers.

Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines.

The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team.&nbsp;

Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6. The frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology. "We owe it to people who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service. Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers. Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines. The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team. Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigns after kissing aide in violation of Covid curbs he advocated

British former finance minister Sajid Javid will replace Matt Hancock as the country's health minister, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigned after revelation that he himself violated coronavirus restrictions during an affair with his aide.&nbsp;Photos apparently showing&nbsp;him hugging and kissing the woman was published in a section of the media.

Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera photo. The image was reportedly obtained from a whistleblower showing him with the aide in his office on May 6.

Javid had resigned as finance minister last year after he refused to fire his political advisers as demanded by Johnson.

Hancock, the frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology.

"We owe it to people, who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote.

Prime Minister Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service.

Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers.

Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines.

The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team.&nbsp;

Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university.

(With inputs from agencies)

British former finance minister Sajid Javid will replace Matt Hancock as the country's health minister, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Saturday. Earlier, UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigned after revelation that he himself violated coronavirus restrictions during an affair with his aide.

British former finance minister Sajid Javid will replace Matt Hancock as the country's health minister, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Saturday. Earlier, UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigned after revelation that he himself violated coronavirus restrictions during an affair with his aide. Photos apparently showing him hugging and kissing the woman was published in a section of the media. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera photo. The image was reportedly obtained from a whistleblower showing him with the aide in his office on May 6. Javid had resigned as finance minister last year after he refused to fire his political advisers as demanded by Johnson. Hancock, the frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology. "We owe it to people, who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote. Prime Minister Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service. Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers. Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines. The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team. Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's former finance minister Javid appointed as health minister after Matt Hancock quits

British government said on Sunday that it was investigating how secret UK defence documents were found at a bus stop in England. The documents outlined the movement of the British warship that had led to Russia firing warning shots from the Crimean coast.&nbsp;

British Ministry of Defence said that an employee told it last week that the documents had been lost.

"It shouldn't be able to happen," Brandon Lewis, minister for Northern Ireland, told Sky News on Sunday.

"It was properly reported at the time... there's an internal investigation into that situation."

Anonymous member of the public told the BBC that they found 50 per cent of classified information behind a bus stop in Kent. The papers discuss the possible Russian reaction to Britain's HMS Defender travelling through Ukrainian waters off the coast of Crimea on Wednesday, the BBC reported.

Russia accused Britain of violating its territorial waters in the Black Sea and said on Wednesday and that it fired warning shots.

Britain however said it was making "an innocent passage through Ukrainian territorial waters in accordance with international law."

According to Moscow, the incident took place off the coast of Cape Fiolent on Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014 in a move that the vast majority of the international community has not recognised.&nbsp;

The documents appear to show that the British officials knew the route could lead to a possible reaction from the Russians, but that taking an alternative passage could be considered by Moscow as "the UK being scared/running away".

The route it did take would instead "provide an opportunity to engage with the Ukrainian government... in what the UK recognises as Ukrainian territorial waters," said another document.

Russia's foreign ministry on Thursday summoned the British ambassador to "strongly protest" the incident. 
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described it as a "deliberate and prepared provocation".

Russia's defence ministry said warning shots were fired and bombs dropped along the path of the HMS Defender.

Among the other documents found at the bus stop were those that laid out plans for possible British military presence in Afghanistan after the end of NATO operations there.

(With inputs from agencies)

British government said on Sunday that it was investigating how secret UK defence documents were found at a bus stop in England. The documents outlined the movement of the British warship that had led to Russia firing warning shots from the Crimean coast.

British government said on Sunday that it was investigating how secret UK defence documents were found at a bus stop in England. The documents outlined the movement of the British warship that had led to Russia firing warning shots from the Crimean coast. British Ministry of Defence said that an employee told it last week that the documents had been lost. "It shouldn't be able to happen," Brandon Lewis, minister for Northern Ireland, told Sky News on Sunday. "It was properly reported at the time... there's an internal investigation into that situation." Anonymous member of the public told the BBC that they found 50 per cent of classified information behind a bus stop in Kent. The papers discuss the possible Russian reaction to Britain's HMS Defender travelling through Ukrainian waters off the coast of Crimea on Wednesday, the BBC reported. Russia accused Britain of violating its territorial waters in the Black Sea and said on Wednesday and that it fired warning shots. Britain however said it was making "an innocent passage through Ukrainian territorial waters in accordance with international law." According to Moscow, the incident took place off the coast of Cape Fiolent on Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014 in a move that the vast majority of the international community has not recognised. The documents appear to show that the British officials knew the route could lead to a possible reaction from the Russians, but that taking an alternative passage could be considered by Moscow as "the UK being scared/running away". The route it did take would instead "provide an opportunity to engage with the Ukrainian government... in what the UK recognises as Ukrainian territorial waters," said another document. Russia's foreign ministry on Thursday summoned the British ambassador to "strongly protest" the incident. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described it as a "deliberate and prepared provocation". Russia's defence ministry said warning shots were fired and bombs dropped along the path of the HMS Defender. Among the other documents found at the bus stop were those that laid out plans for possible British military presence in Afghanistan after the end of NATO operations there. (With inputs from agencies)

Secret UK defence documents found at a bus stop in Kent

Britain's health ministry will investigate how a recording of former minister Matt Hancock kissing and embracing his aide was released to the media and forced his resignation, Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis said on Sunday. 
 
"It is a matter I know the department of health will be looking into to understand exactly how that recording ... got out of the system," he told Sky News, adding that the ministry would be launching an internal investigation. 
 
"What Matt did was wrong, he acknowledged that, it's why he apologised immediately for his behaviour and acknowledged what he did was wrong and it's ultimately why he's taken the decision that his position was untenable and distracting from the wider work we all have to do ... to move out of the pandemic."

Meanwhile, British former finance minister Sajid Javid will replace Matt Hancock as the country's health minister, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Earlier, UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigned after revelation that he himself violated coronavirus restrictions during an affair with his aide. Photos apparently showing him hugging and kissing the woman were published in a section of the media.

Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera photo. The image was reportedly obtained from a whistleblower showing him with the aide in his office on May 6.

Javid had resigned as finance minister last year after he refused to fire his political advisers as demanded by Johnson.

Hancock, the frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology.

"We owe it to people, who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote.

Prime Minister Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service.

Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers.

Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines.

The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team.&nbsp;

Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university.

Britain's health ministry will investigate how a recording of former minister Matt Hancock kissing and embracing his aide was released to the media and forced his resignation, Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis said on Sunday.

Britain's health ministry will investigate how a recording of former minister Matt Hancock kissing and embracing his aide was released to the media and forced his resignation, Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis said on Sunday. "It is a matter I know the department of health will be looking into to understand exactly how that recording ... got out of the system," he told Sky News, adding that the ministry would be launching an internal investigation. "What Matt did was wrong, he acknowledged that, it's why he apologised immediately for his behaviour and acknowledged what he did was wrong and it's ultimately why he's taken the decision that his position was untenable and distracting from the wider work we all have to do ... to move out of the pandemic." Meanwhile, British former finance minister Sajid Javid will replace Matt Hancock as the country's health minister, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Saturday. Earlier, UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigned after revelation that he himself violated coronavirus restrictions during an affair with his aide. Photos apparently showing him hugging and kissing the woman were published in a section of the media. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera photo. The image was reportedly obtained from a whistleblower showing him with the aide in his office on May 6. Javid had resigned as finance minister last year after he refused to fire his political advisers as demanded by Johnson. Hancock, the frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology. "We owe it to people, who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote. Prime Minister Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service. Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers. Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines. The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team. Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university.

UK health department to investigate leak of Hancock footage, says minister

UK will ban junk food advertisements from airing on TV before 9 PM. This is aimed at fighting obesity. Do other countries have similar rules? What about India? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: UK to ban junk food Ads before 9 PM

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