The UK is trying out a distinct way to honour its Black population in view of Black History Month - it is repainting a few of its signature red postboxes!

The red pillar post boxes are considered symbolic of Britain and can be seen on an array of items including postcards.

Earlier, the Royal Mail had decided to choose a postbox each in all constituent territories of the United Kingdom - England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e034de18-d92e-4d3a-b868-4eeaec015df9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_109.jpg" />A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

As visible in the pictures, the top of all postboxes are painted black with a gold rim. These shall remain this way for all of October which is marked as Black History Month.

The postbox in Britain which has been repainted is stationed nearby the Black Cultural Archives heritage centre in South London, which is a hub for the Caribbean community and other Black groups.

In Britain, the postbox features an image of “Queuing at the RA”, a painting by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare, who is known for art grappling with cultural identity and the remnants of colonialism.

<h6><img alt="A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="323b16e2-3440-4ddf-8111-34d42cbcadd7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_77.jpg" />A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020 | Reuters</h6>

&nbsp;

Scotland’s black postbox in Glasgow carries the image of Walter Tull, the first Black player to be signed in the city’s soccer team - the Rangers. He was later killed during the First World War.

Cardiff in Wales spots the image of Jamaican nurse Mary Seattle, who cared for soldiers during the Crimean War between 1853-1856.

The postbox in Northern Ireland features the picture of comedian Lenny Henry. The Royal Mail claimed that he was “instrumental in helping a multi-cultural society to embrace multi-cultural comedy".

The UK is trying out a distinct way to honour its Black population in view of Black History Month - it is repainting a few of its signature red postboxes! The red pillar post boxes are considered symbolic of Britain and can be seen on an array of items including postcards.

The UK is trying out a distinct way to honour its Black population in view of Black History Month - it is repainting a few of its signature red postboxes! The red pillar post boxes are considered symbolic of Britain and can be seen on an array of items including postcards. Earlier, the Royal Mail had decided to choose a postbox each in all constituent territories of the United Kingdom - England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020 | Reuters As visible in the pictures, the top of all postboxes are painted black with a gold rim. These shall remain this way for all of October which is marked as Black History Month. The postbox in Britain which has been repainted is stationed nearby the Black Cultural Archives heritage centre in South London, which is a hub for the Caribbean community and other Black groups. In Britain, the postbox features an image of “Queuing at the RA”, a painting by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare, who is known for art grappling with cultural identity and the remnants of colonialism. A pedestrian films a Royal Mail postbox, painted black instead of traditional red, to honour Black Britons, as part of the forthcoming Black History Month, in Brixton, London, Britain, September 30, 2020 | Reuters Scotland’s black postbox in Glasgow carries the image of Walter Tull, the first Black player to be signed in the city’s soccer team - the Rangers. He was later killed during the First World War. Cardiff in Wales spots the image of Jamaican nurse Mary Seattle, who cared for soldiers during the Crimean War between 1853-1856. The postbox in Northern Ireland features the picture of comedian Lenny Henry. The Royal Mail claimed that he was “instrumental in helping a multi-cultural society to embrace multi-cultural comedy".

UK paints its signature postboxes black in honour of Black History Month

UK's first beef exports to the United States in more than 20 years left Northern Ireland on Wednesday.

This happened six months after Washington lifted a ban.

Washington imposed restrictions on all EU beef exports in 1998 due to concerns about mad cow disease but has gradually eased them as it tries to negotiate a free trade deal with Brussels. It has permitted Irish beef imports since 2015 and granted the Netherlands approval to renew its exports the following year.

Britain, which left the European Union on January 31 after the 2016 Brexit vote, received permission to restart its transatlantic beef shipments in March.&nbsp;

British herds were badly hit by mad cow disease -- officially known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) -- in the late 1980s and 1990s.

More than four million cows were slaughtered, then burned on huge pyres across the countryside, in an effort to contain the spread.

Eating infected beef can cause the degenerative brain condition variant Creutzfeld-Jakob Disease (vCJD) in humans. In 2000, 24 people died in Britain from vCJD.

Also, Britain is aiming to strike a free trade deal with the United States as the country tries to take advantage of life outside the EU from 2021.

UK's first beef exports to the United States in more than 20 years left Northern Ireland on Wednesday. This happened six months after Washington lifted a ban. Washington imposed restrictions on all EU beef exports in 1998 due to concerns about mad cow disease but has gradually eased them as it tries to negotiate a free trade deal with Brussels.

UK's first beef exports to the United States in more than 20 years left Northern Ireland on Wednesday. This happened six months after Washington lifted a ban. Washington imposed restrictions on all EU beef exports in 1998 due to concerns about mad cow disease but has gradually eased them as it tries to negotiate a free trade deal with Brussels. It has permitted Irish beef imports since 2015 and granted the Netherlands approval to renew its exports the following year. Britain, which left the European Union on January 31 after the 2016 Brexit vote, received permission to restart its transatlantic beef shipments in March. British herds were badly hit by mad cow disease -- officially known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) -- in the late 1980s and 1990s. More than four million cows were slaughtered, then burned on huge pyres across the countryside, in an effort to contain the spread. Eating infected beef can cause the degenerative brain condition variant Creutzfeld-Jakob Disease (vCJD) in humans. In 2000, 24 people died in Britain from vCJD. Also, Britain is aiming to strike a free trade deal with the United States as the country tries to take advantage of life outside the EU from 2021.

UK resumes US beef exports after two-decade ban lifted

The United Kingdom could soon give its spies and secret service agents 'The Licence to Kill'. Reportedly, the MI5 will be given the power to sanction its agents to carry out 'necessary and proportionate' crimes in the line of duty. What does this mean? WION's Palki Sarma has a report.

Gravitas: Licence to kill for British spies?

UK and Canada have slapped sanctions on Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son and senior figures in the regime for a string of human rights violations.

Lukashenko and seven other individuals will be subject to an immediate travel ban and asset freeze, in response to the disputed recent elections and crackdown on protesters.

"The travel ban and asset freeze on a total of eight individuals sent a clear message to Lukashenko's violent and fraudulent regime that we don't accept the results of this rigged election," UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday.

He added, "We will hold those responsible for the thuggery deployed against the Belarussian people to account and we will stand up for our values of democracy and human rights."

Raab, who is currently on a visit to South Korea, has previously threatened sanctions against the Belarussian strongman as a result of the August 9 vote.

He has denounced what he said was the "grisly repression" of unprecedented protests over the result, and demanded an independent international investigation.

The 27-member European Union has also threatened Lukashenko's regime with sanctions, but efforts to impose them have been vetoed by Cyprus.&nbsp;

The restrictions against Lukashenko are the first against a country's leader under the new sanctions regime, and stops him from travel to the UK and Canada, or channelling money through banks.

They come as French President Emmanuel Macron promised to help with mediation in the political crisis, earning a strong rebuke from Russia's Vladimir Putin at "external pressure".

Belarus, a former Soviet republic closely allied with Russia, has been rocked by street protests since authorities said Lukashenko won an August&nbsp;9 election by a landslide.

More than 12,000 protesters have been arrested since the election that the opposition denounced as rigged.

The European Union had earlier&nbsp;said Lukashenko was not the president of Belarus.

But Russia, Belarus’s closest ally, said the EU decision not to recognise Lukashenko amounted to indirect meddling in the country.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron became on Tuesday the highest-profile Western leader to visit the exiled opposition leader of Belarus, pledging European support for the country’s people.

Opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhounskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuania after the election. She has met the prime ministers of Lithuania, Norway and Poland, but Macron is the first leader of a major Western power to meet her.

“We had a very good discussion but now we need to be pragmatic and to support the Belarusian people and we will do our best, believe me”, Macron said after the 45-minute meeting at his hotel in Vilnius.

Tsikhanouskaya said Macron had promised “to do everything to help with negotiations, (during) this political crisis in our country ... and he will do everything to help to release all the political prisoners.”

Moscow has made clear it continues to back Lukashenko as leader of Russia’s closest ally. The West has had to balance its sympathy for the pro-democracy movement with its reluctance to provoke Moscow.

On Monday, Macron urged Belarus authorities to stop unlawful arrests, release protesters detained arbitrarily and respect election results.

(with inputs from agencies)

UK and Canada have slapped sanctions on Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son and senior figures in the regime for a string of human rights violations.

UK and Canada have slapped sanctions on Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son and senior figures in the regime for a string of human rights violations. Lukashenko and seven other individuals will be subject to an immediate travel ban and asset freeze, in response to the disputed recent elections and crackdown on protesters. "The travel ban and asset freeze on a total of eight individuals sent a clear message to Lukashenko's violent and fraudulent regime that we don't accept the results of this rigged election," UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday. He added, "We will hold those responsible for the thuggery deployed against the Belarussian people to account and we will stand up for our values of democracy and human rights." Raab, who is currently on a visit to South Korea, has previously threatened sanctions against the Belarussian strongman as a result of the August 9 vote. He has denounced what he said was the "grisly repression" of unprecedented protests over the result, and demanded an independent international investigation. The 27-member European Union has also threatened Lukashenko's regime with sanctions, but efforts to impose them have been vetoed by Cyprus. The restrictions against Lukashenko are the first against a country's leader under the new sanctions regime, and stops him from travel to the UK and Canada, or channelling money through banks. They come as French President Emmanuel Macron promised to help with mediation in the political crisis, earning a strong rebuke from Russia's Vladimir Putin at "external pressure". Belarus, a former Soviet republic closely allied with Russia, has been rocked by street protests since authorities said Lukashenko won an August 9 election by a landslide. More than 12,000 protesters have been arrested since the election that the opposition denounced as rigged. The European Union had earlier said Lukashenko was not the president of Belarus. But Russia, Belarus’s closest ally, said the EU decision not to recognise Lukashenko amounted to indirect meddling in the country. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron became on Tuesday the highest-profile Western leader to visit the exiled opposition leader of Belarus, pledging European support for the country’s people. Opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhounskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuania after the election. She has met the prime ministers of Lithuania, Norway and Poland, but Macron is the first leader of a major Western power to meet her. “We had a very good discussion but now we need to be pragmatic and to support the Belarusian people and we will do our best, believe me”, Macron said after the 45-minute meeting at his hotel in Vilnius. Tsikhanouskaya said Macron had promised “to do everything to help with negotiations, (during) this political crisis in our country ... and he will do everything to help to release all the political prisoners.” Moscow has made clear it continues to back Lukashenko as leader of Russia’s closest ally. The West has had to balance its sympathy for the pro-democracy movement with its reluctance to provoke Moscow. On Monday, Macron urged Belarus authorities to stop unlawful arrests, release protesters detained arbitrarily and respect election results. (with inputs from agencies)

UK, Canada impose sanctions on Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko

The British government tightened restrictions on socialising in parts of northeast England in response to high and increasing COVID-19 infection rates in the region.

WION Ground Report: UK imposes new COVID-19 restrictions

James Bond has the licence to kill, and he has never been shy to use it. In just 24 movies, 007 has killed 597 people. Real life British agents are not Bond. And they do not have the licence to kill.

A former boss of MI-5 once said, “assassination is not part of the policy of Her Majesty's government”.

But this may soon be history. The United Kingdom is mulling a new law which could arm British spies with the licence to kill, and commit necessary crimes.

What crimes?

The covert Human Intelligence Sources Bill does not explain. Reports say the idea is to take on spies, saboteurs, and hackers from countries like Russia, North Korea and Iran.

In 2019, a British court ruled that MI5 spies can kill in the line of duty, and they will not be prosecuted unless they fail to justify the killing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-provisions-to-stay-in-internal-market-bill-as-uk-shows-no-indication-of-withdrawal-330985" hreflang="en">Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal</a>

Human rights groups said that the move could authorise killing on British soil.

Killings by spies are brushed under the carpet, and most countries do not have laws justifying these killings.

In 2018, Australia was mulling arming its spies with the licence to kill. The CIA was given the licence to kill after 9/11 attacks.

The poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Sripal in Salisbury in 2018 was a case of Russian spies exercising their licence to kill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/british-artist-is-painting-worlds-largest-canvas-to-raise-money-for-childrens-charities-330982" hreflang="en">British artist is painting world's largest canvas to raise money for children's charities</a>

A DailyMail report says that Israel's Mossad has killed more people than the agents of any other country since the second World War - more than 800, at least.

Are these cases of assassination or self defence? Or are the spies killing people to safeguard their country?

The licence to kill is often justified with one question - Who will guard the guardians?

James Bond has the licence to kill, and he has never been shy to use it. In just 24 movies, 007 has killed 597 people. Real life British agents are not Bond. And they do not have the licence to kill.

James Bond has the licence to kill, and he has never been shy to use it. In just 24 movies, 007 has killed 597 people. Real life British agents are not Bond. And they do not have the licence to kill. A former boss of MI-5 once said, “assassination is not part of the policy of Her Majesty's government”. But this may soon be history. The United Kingdom is mulling a new law which could arm British spies with the licence to kill, and commit necessary crimes. What crimes? The covert Human Intelligence Sources Bill does not explain. Reports say the idea is to take on spies, saboteurs, and hackers from countries like Russia, North Korea and Iran. In 2019, a British court ruled that MI5 spies can kill in the line of duty, and they will not be prosecuted unless they fail to justify the killing. Also read: Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal Human rights groups said that the move could authorise killing on British soil. Killings by spies are brushed under the carpet, and most countries do not have laws justifying these killings. In 2018, Australia was mulling arming its spies with the licence to kill. The CIA was given the licence to kill after 9/11 attacks. The poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Sripal in Salisbury in 2018 was a case of Russian spies exercising their licence to kill. Also read: British artist is painting world's largest canvas to raise money for children's charities A DailyMail report says that Israel's Mossad has killed more people than the agents of any other country since the second World War - more than 800, at least. Are these cases of assassination or self defence? Or are the spies killing people to safeguard their country? The licence to kill is often justified with one question - Who will guard the guardians?

United Kingdom mulling a new law to give its spies licence to kill

Sri Lanka has shipped back to Britain container-loads of waste that the government said was brought into the island in violation of international laws governing the shipping of hazardous material.

Sri Lanka returns 21 containers of illegal waste to Britain

Sri Lanka has shipped back to Britain container-loads of waste that the government said was brought into the island in violation of international laws governing the shipping of hazardous material.

The 21 containers -- holding up to 260 tonnes of rubbish -- first arrived by ship in the capital Colombo's main port between September 2017 and March 2018, customs told AFP, adding that they departed Sri Lanka on Saturday.

They were meant to carry used mattresses, carpets and rugs, but had also contained hospital waste, officials said.

"The shipper had agreed to take back these 21 containers," customs spokesman Sunil Jayaratne told AFP on Sunday.

Another 242 containers from Britain, which the government said was carrying illegal garbage in violation of international law, remains abandoned at the same port and at a free trade zone outside the capital.

They arrived in 2017 and 2018.

The government is currently engaged in legal action against the shipper to have the 242 containers removed from the country.

A Sri Lankan investigation last year into nearly 3,000 tonnes of illegally imported hazardous waste found the importer had reshipped about 180 tonnes to India and Dubai in 2017 and 2018.

Several Asian countries, sick of being the wealthy world's rubbish dump, have in the past two years turned back container-loads of waste from foreign shores.

(with inputs)

Sri Lanka has shipped back to Britain container-loads of waste that the government said was brought into the island in violation of international laws governing the shipping of hazardous material. The 21 containers -- holding up to 260 tonnes of rubbish -- first arrived by ship in the capital Colombo's main port between September 2017 and March 2018, customs told AFP, adding that they departed Sri Lanka on Saturday. They were meant to carry used mattresses, carpets and rugs, but had also contained hospital waste, officials said. "The shipper had agreed to take back these 21 containers," customs spokesman Sunil Jayaratne told AFP on Sunday. Another 242 containers from Britain, which the government said was carrying illegal garbage in violation of international law, remains abandoned at the same port and at a free trade zone outside the capital. They arrived in 2017 and 2018. The government is currently engaged in legal action against the shipper to have the 242 containers removed from the country. A Sri Lankan investigation last year into nearly 3,000 tonnes of illegally imported hazardous waste found the importer had reshipped about 180 tonnes to India and Dubai in 2017 and 2018. Several Asian countries, sick of being the wealthy world's rubbish dump, have in the past two years turned back container-loads of waste from foreign shores. (with inputs)

Sri Lanka returns containers of illegal waste to Britain

An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday.

The app's official account had said on Saturday it could not link to test results taken in Public Health England laboratories, via the National Health Service or as part of a survey run by the Office for National Statistics.

"Everyone who receives a positive test result can log their result on the app," a health ministry spokesman said.

"A minority of people, such as hospital patients, who were unable to log their positive result can now request a code when contacted by NHS Test and Trace to input on their app."

An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday.

An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday. The app's official account had said on Saturday it could not link to test results taken in Public Health England laboratories, via the National Health Service or as part of a survey run by the Office for National Statistics. "Everyone who receives a positive test result can log their result on the app," a health ministry spokesman said. "A minority of people, such as hospital patients, who were unable to log their positive result can now request a code when contacted by NHS Test and Trace to input on their app."

UK says test result issue on England's COVID-19 app resolved

The United States, United Kingdom and Canada plan to impose sanctions on Belarusian individuals following what they view as a rigged election and violence against peaceful protesters.

UK, US, Canada to impose sanctions on Belarusians

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that as he set out a raft of new coronavirus restrictions for England which could last for up to six months. Watch report.

Boris Johnson announces new COVID-19 restrictions for UK

Misogyny should be made a hate crime in England and Wales, the independent body that recommends legal change said on Wednesday, as it launched a consultation on updating hate crime laws.

The Law Commission said the proposal would give women specific protection from crimes such as assault and harassment where they were targeted on the basis of their sex.

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Women's rights activists have long called for such protections, which already exist for race, religion, sexual orientation, disability and transgender identity and can lead to harsher penalties for those convicted.

"Misogyny is the soil which violence against women and girls grows in and this is our chance to tackle it," said opposition lawmaker Stella Creasy, who has campaigned for the change.

"This review is a landmark opportunity for us to develop a hate crime law which is intersectional and reflects women and girls experiences of harassment and crime," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

In a statement, she said seven police forces in Britain already treated misogyny as a hate crime, which had yielded results in tackling violence against women.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/take-action-against-modern-slavery-uk-orders-its-public-sector-329445" hreflang="en">Take action against modern slavery, UK orders its public sector</a>

The consultation, which is open to experts as well as those who have experienced hate crime, is open until December 24 and will inform final recommendations to the government to be published next year.

It will also look at expanding hate crime protections on the basis of age, and expanding the offence of racist chanting at football matches to cover homophobic chanting.

"Hate crime has no place in our society and we have seen the terrible impact that it can have on victims," said Criminal Law Commissioner Penney Lewis.

"Our proposals will ensure all protected characteristics are treated in the same way, and that women enjoy hate crime protection for the first time."

Misogyny should be made a hate crime in England and Wales, the independent body that recommends legal change said on Wednesday, as it launched a consultation on updating hate crime laws.

Misogyny should be made a hate crime in England and Wales, the independent body that recommends legal change said on Wednesday, as it launched a consultation on updating hate crime laws. The Law Commission said the proposal would give women specific protection from crimes such as assault and harassment where they were targeted on the basis of their sex. Also read: UK's Prince Harry and wife Meghan encourage Americans to vote in 'most important' election Women's rights activists have long called for such protections, which already exist for race, religion, sexual orientation, disability and transgender identity and can lead to harsher penalties for those convicted. "Misogyny is the soil which violence against women and girls grows in and this is our chance to tackle it," said opposition lawmaker Stella Creasy, who has campaigned for the change. "This review is a landmark opportunity for us to develop a hate crime law which is intersectional and reflects women and girls experiences of harassment and crime," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. In a statement, she said seven police forces in Britain already treated misogyny as a hate crime, which had yielded results in tackling violence against women. Also read: Take action against modern slavery, UK orders its public sector The consultation, which is open to experts as well as those who have experienced hate crime, is open until December 24 and will inform final recommendations to the government to be published next year. It will also look at expanding hate crime protections on the basis of age, and expanding the offence of racist chanting at football matches to cover homophobic chanting. "Hate crime has no place in our society and we have seen the terrible impact that it can have on victims," said Criminal Law Commissioner Penney Lewis. "Our proposals will ensure all protected characteristics are treated in the same way, and that women enjoy hate crime protection for the first time."

Misogyny should qualify as a hate crime, UK legal regulator says

The British government has asked public bodies to ensure they do not engage in modern slavery, as part of measures announced on Tuesday.

Starting now, all public-sector organisations that have a budget over $46 million (36 million pounds) will be required to file an annual statement highlighting their efforts to counter modern slavery.

More penalties needed

Britain’s Modern Slavery Act, 2015, requires big businesses to present such a statement. However, critics feel more penalties and compliance is needed for effectiveness.

According to Victoria Atkins, minister for safeguarding and vulnerability, no sector was "immune from the risks of modern slavery".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/wildfire-smoke-from-us-crosses-the-atlantic-ocean-seen-in-parts-of-finland-uk-329412" hreflang="en">Wildfire smoke from US crosses the Atlantic Ocean; seen in parts of Finland, UK</a>

"We expect businesses and public bodies to be open about the risks, including where they have found instances of exploitation and to demonstrate how they are taking targeted and sustained action to tackle modern slavery," Atkins claimed in a statement.

In March, the British government had published its own anti-slavery statement. It cited construction, electronics, and service providers of cooks and cleaners as the most risky sectors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-upgrades-virus-alert-level-pm-johnson-set-to-announce-new-measures-329290" hreflang="en">UK upgrades virus alert level; PM Johnson set to announce new measures</a>

The statement claims how owing to complex global supply chains, “effective oversight is difficult to achieve”.

The Home Office of UK’s interior ministry is planning to launch a digital system to counter modern slavery, and to set up a single enforcement body to address employment rights.

Sara Thornton, the UK’s anti-slavery commissioner claimed that laws required to implement anti-slavery steps should be developed quickly.

The British government has asked public bodies to ensure they do not engage in modern slavery, as part of measures announced on Tuesday. Starting now, all public-sector organisations that have a budget over $46 million (36 million pounds) will be required to file an annual statement highlighting their efforts to counter modern slavery.

The British government has asked public bodies to ensure they do not engage in modern slavery, as part of measures announced on Tuesday. Starting now, all public-sector organisations that have a budget over $46 million (36 million pounds) will be required to file an annual statement highlighting their efforts to counter modern slavery. More penalties needed Britain’s Modern Slavery Act, 2015, requires big businesses to present such a statement. However, critics feel more penalties and compliance is needed for effectiveness. According to Victoria Atkins, minister for safeguarding and vulnerability, no sector was "immune from the risks of modern slavery". Also read: Wildfire smoke from US crosses the Atlantic Ocean; seen in parts of Finland, UK "We expect businesses and public bodies to be open about the risks, including where they have found instances of exploitation and to demonstrate how they are taking targeted and sustained action to tackle modern slavery," Atkins claimed in a statement. In March, the British government had published its own anti-slavery statement. It cited construction, electronics, and service providers of cooks and cleaners as the most risky sectors. Also read: UK upgrades virus alert level; PM Johnson set to announce new measures The statement claims how owing to complex global supply chains, “effective oversight is difficult to achieve”. The Home Office of UK’s interior ministry is planning to launch a digital system to counter modern slavery, and to set up a single enforcement body to address employment rights. Sara Thornton, the UK’s anti-slavery commissioner claimed that laws required to implement anti-slavery steps should be developed quickly.

Take action against modern slavery, UK orders its public sector

United Kingdom and Ukraine hold joint military drill, exercises conducted near crimean border. Watch Video

Video: UK and Ukraine hold joint military drill

Residents in these areas should not socialise with people outside their households from midnight on Thursday. This includes meeting people indoors, outdoors, or in social venues such as restaurants, bars and pubs

COVID-19: UK announces lockdown in parts of North-east

Britain’s unemployment rate rose for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown began in March, prompting fresh calls for finance minister Rishi Sunak to extend a job subsidy programme which is due to expire next month.

Dramatic increase in UK's unemployment could worsen

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Thursday that restrictions would be tightened in northeast England from Friday. The step is being taken to stem the rise of new coronavirus cases. Hancock told Parliament that residents would be banned from socialising with others outside their households or support bubbles.

WION Dispatch: UK announces restrictions in parts of northeast

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging.

It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894">Also read:&nbsp;UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown.&nbsp;

"What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said.

"We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor.

"Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474">Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump.

Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June.

But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer.

The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services.

It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days.

"I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand".

"Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic."

Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October.

Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths.

The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile. His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging. It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown. "What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said. "We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor. "Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check." Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump. Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June. But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer. The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services. It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days. "I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand". "Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic." Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October. Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths. The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

UK's PM urges Britons to flatten pandemic's 'second hump'

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January.

Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December.

Johnson has refused.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894" hreflang="en">UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

"With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive.

In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied".

"This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said.

The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation.

Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom.

Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are."

"Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said.

COMPROMISE WITH REBELS

Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing.

However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

"It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement.

It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal.

Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way".

However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions.

His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue.

EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty. The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January. Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December. Johnson has refused. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill "With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive. In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied". "This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said. The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation. Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom. Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are." "Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said. COMPROMISE WITH REBELS Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing. However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday. Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty "It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement. It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal. Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way". However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions. His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue. EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

Chances of Brexit deal fading every day, EU Commission chief says

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the&nbsp;war-torn country.

The news was announced by&nbsp;British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do."

However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-starts-investigating-9-pakistani-terrorists-held-in-syria-323251">Also read:&nbsp;US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria</a>

As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country.

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Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do.
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1306122091461214208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently&nbsp;efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group.

&nbsp;Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do." However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor. Also read: US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country. Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do. — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) September 16, 2020 × The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group. Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

“There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said.

He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/johnson-accuses-eu-of-plotting-food-blockade-on-uk-327029">Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK</a> 
 
He had stern message for those flouting rules.

“We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said.

The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect. “There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said. He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected. Also Read | Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK He had stern message for those flouting rules. “We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said. The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Coronavirus: Avoid considering this a 'party weekend', police union tells public

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times.

The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU.

"What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair.

Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner.

"This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said.

Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future.

Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland.

"We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter.

Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday.

Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday.

"We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made.

European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action.

(With Reuters inputs)

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'. Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times. The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU. "What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair. Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner. "This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said. Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future. Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland. "We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter. Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday. Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday. "We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made. European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action. (With Reuters inputs)

Brexit: Former PMs Tony Blair, John Major slam Boris Johnson for 'shaming' UK

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said.

"Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London. Her Iranian lawyer was told "the case was not happening today", he added.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, 41, has spent more than four years in jail or under house arrest since being arrested in the Iranian capital in April 2016 while on a visit to see relatives with her young daughter.

Iranian state television's website Iribnews said on Tuesday that she and her lawyer had been notified of a new indictment, without giving further details or a trial date.

Ratcliffe had said last week that she was due to appear in court on Sunday, and that it was "increasingly clear" she was being held as a "hostage" against a longstanding UK debt to Iran.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation -- the media organisation's philanthropic arm -- denied sedition but was convicted and jailed for five years.

Her British MP Tulip Siddiq also relayed the news of Sunday's postponement after speaking to Ratcliffe.

"She is relieved, frustrated, stressed and angry. Once again she's being treated like a bargaining chip," Siddiq tweeted. 
&nbsp;

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said. "Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London.

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said. "Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London. Her Iranian lawyer was told "the case was not happening today", he added. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, 41, has spent more than four years in jail or under house arrest since being arrested in the Iranian capital in April 2016 while on a visit to see relatives with her young daughter. Iranian state television's website Iribnews said on Tuesday that she and her lawyer had been notified of a new indictment, without giving further details or a trial date. Ratcliffe had said last week that she was due to appear in court on Sunday, and that it was "increasingly clear" she was being held as a "hostage" against a longstanding UK debt to Iran. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation -- the media organisation's philanthropic arm -- denied sedition but was convicted and jailed for five years. Her British MP Tulip Siddiq also relayed the news of Sunday's postponement after speaking to Ratcliffe. "She is relieved, frustrated, stressed and angry. Once again she's being treated like a bargaining chip," Siddiq tweeted.

Iran postpones new trial of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe: husband

Opposition leader Kier Starmer is becoming a series player. The former human rights lawyer knows how to grill the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, particularly on government's handling of COVID-19 & brexit. Now there is another threat to Boris Johnson that comes from within the tory party, Watch to know more.

Boris Johnson new threat within tory party, Starmer accuses PM of being incompetent

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-trade-deal-brits-do-not-understand-says-french-foreign-minister-325567">Also read|&nbsp;Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister</a>

Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland.

"We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote.

"I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-wont-blink-first-uk-warns-the-eu-on-brexit-trade-negotiations-325513">Also read|&nbsp;'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations</a>

The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe.

Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed.

The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland.

After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1.

'Legal safety net'

"More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement.

Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year.

"But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net".

The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty.

"We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks. Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs. Also read| Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland. "We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote. "I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK." Also read| 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe. Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed. The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland. After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1. 'Legal safety net' "More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement. Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year. "But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net". The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty. "We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK

Finance minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the figures but added that people were rightly worried about the coming months.

UK economy grew 6.6% in July as lockdowns eased

Ahead of a crucial round of talks between London and Brussels over the future trading relationship between the UK and the European Union, the British government made a startling admission: 'That it would be prepared to break the terms of an international treaty'.

UK might break international law on Brexit: Fear of 'no deal' Brexit returns to UK

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday.

Australian-born Assange, 49, is fighting against being sent to the United States, where he is charged with conspiring to hack government computers and violating an espionage law over the release of confidential cables by WikiLeaks in 2010-2011.

Paul Rogers, a professor of peace studies at Britain's Bradford University, told London's Old Bailey court that the timing of the U.S. prosecution was connected to Assange's political views and Trump's hostility towards him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/julian-assange-secretly-fathered-two-children-says-his-partner-292109" hreflang="en">Julian Assange 'secretly fathered two children', says his partner</a>

"The evidence does support very strongly ... this does appear to be a political trial," Rogers said.

Assange and WikiLeaks enraged the U.S. government a decade ago by publishing thousands of secret American documents, but he was not charged with any criminal offence at the time.

His supporters see him as a champion of free speech exposing abuses of power and hypocrisy by Washington and regard his prosecution as threat to journalism. U.S. authorities say he recklessly endangered the lives of sources with his releases.

Rogers said the Trump administration viewed Assange as a "political enemy" because of his opinions. Assange's defence team are arguing the U.S. case is politically-motivated, something which would bar his extradition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/julian-assange-s-partner-files-bail-plea-seeking-release-of-wikileaks-co-founder-292226" hreflang="en">Julian Assange' s partner files bail plea seeking release of Wikileaks co-founder</a>

"The opinions and views of Mr Assange, demonstrated in his words and actions with the organisation WikiLeaks over many years, can be seen as very clearly placing him in the crosshairs of dispute with the philosophy of the Trump administration," Rogers said in his statement to the court.

James Lewis, the lawyer representing the United States, challenged the assertion the case was politically-motivated, saying U.S. federal prosecutors were forbidden to consider political opinion in making their decisions.

"I'm not saying they are acting in bad faith," Rogers said. "I'm saying that at a different level, a political decision was taken to investigate this further after it had lapsed for eight years."

Assange was warned by the judge on Tuesday he would be removed from the courtroom and tried in his absence if he interrupted proceedings after Assange shouting "nonsense" at Lewis.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday. Australian-born Assange, 49, is fighting against being sent to the United States, where he is charged with conspiring to hack government computers and violating an espionage law over the release of confidential cables by WikiLeaks in 2010-2011. Paul Rogers, a professor of peace studies at Britain's Bradford University, told London's Old Bailey court that the timing of the U.S. prosecution was connected to Assange's political views and Trump's hostility towards him. Also read: Julian Assange 'secretly fathered two children', says his partner "The evidence does support very strongly ... this does appear to be a political trial," Rogers said. Assange and WikiLeaks enraged the U.S. government a decade ago by publishing thousands of secret American documents, but he was not charged with any criminal offence at the time. His supporters see him as a champion of free speech exposing abuses of power and hypocrisy by Washington and regard his prosecution as threat to journalism. U.S. authorities say he recklessly endangered the lives of sources with his releases. Rogers said the Trump administration viewed Assange as a "political enemy" because of his opinions. Assange's defence team are arguing the U.S. case is politically-motivated, something which would bar his extradition. Also read: Julian Assange' s partner files bail plea seeking release of Wikileaks co-founder "The opinions and views of Mr Assange, demonstrated in his words and actions with the organisation WikiLeaks over many years, can be seen as very clearly placing him in the crosshairs of dispute with the philosophy of the Trump administration," Rogers said in his statement to the court. James Lewis, the lawyer representing the United States, challenged the assertion the case was politically-motivated, saying U.S. federal prosecutors were forbidden to consider political opinion in making their decisions. "I'm not saying they are acting in bad faith," Rogers said. "I'm saying that at a different level, a political decision was taken to investigate this further after it had lapsed for eight years." Assange was warned by the judge on Tuesday he would be removed from the courtroom and tried in his absence if he interrupted proceedings after Assange shouting "nonsense" at Lewis.

Trump targeting WikiLeaks' Assange as 'political enemy', UK court told

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference.

The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings. Sharif has been residing in London since November last year on the pretext of medical treatment.

Nawaz Sharif is currently in London for treatment. The government has approached the UK for his extradition.

The opposition parties accuse the government of premier Imran Khan of persecution.

The anti-corruption court had given a final chance to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to appear before it on August 17 in a graft case, saying that failing which he may be declared a proclaimed offender.

The 70-year-old three-time premier, who was sentenced in a graft case by an accountability court, informed a court in Lahore that he is unable to return to the country as his doctors have told him not to go out due to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Sharif’s physician, the three-time prime minister is suffering from complex multi-vessel coronary artery disease and substantial ischemic and threatened myocardium for which he is due to undergo surgery.

(With inputs from agencies)

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference. The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings.

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference. The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings. Sharif has been residing in London since November last year on the pretext of medical treatment. Nawaz Sharif is currently in London for treatment. The government has approached the UK for his extradition. The opposition parties accuse the government of premier Imran Khan of persecution. The anti-corruption court had given a final chance to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to appear before it on August 17 in a graft case, saying that failing which he may be declared a proclaimed offender. The 70-year-old three-time premier, who was sentenced in a graft case by an accountability court, informed a court in Lahore that he is unable to return to the country as his doctors have told him not to go out due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to Sharif’s physician, the three-time prime minister is suffering from complex multi-vessel coronary artery disease and substantial ischemic and threatened myocardium for which he is due to undergo surgery. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan declares Nawaz Sharif as an absconder, approaches UK for extradition

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail. Also read: 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations This week, the eighth round of negotiations between the two will resume in London. Both sides talking increasingly tough, amid accusations of intransigence and political brinkmanship. Britain's top Brexit negotiator warned the European Union that the island country will not blink first in trade negotiations with the EU and is not scared of a no-deal exit. His EU opposite number, Michel Barnier, this week said the talks stood or failed on the need to get an accord on EU access to UK fishing waters and state aid rules, but Britain was giving no ground. Also read: Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister According to Brussels, it indicated that mid-October was the latest a deal could be struck, given the need for translation and ratification by the European Parliament. Despite months of refusing to confirm a firm cut-off date, Johnson agreed. "There needs to be an agreement with our European friends by the time of the European Council on October 15 if it's going to be in force by the end of the year," he said in remarks released by his office. "So, there is no sense in thinking beyond that point. If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us." If this happens, the United Kingdom will have an "Australia-style" deal with the EU or one similar to that agreed with Canada and other countries, he said. Australia trades with the EU under World Trade Organization rules and tariffs. But Johnson, whose government had said it wanted a "zero tariff, zero quota" regime, insisted it would still be a "good outcome" for Britain. (Inputs from AFP)

British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU

The United Kingdom has set a deadline of October 15 to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union.

UK-EU Trade Deal: UK's Brexit negotiator calls on EU for interference

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