People in the UK were seen gathering in parks to sunbath as temperatures touched 32.6°C. People were grateful to be outdoors and many were not seen wearing masks. Watch report.

UK sizzles as mercury soars to 32.6° C: Hottest day of the year so far

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US&nbsp;administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-second-wave-of-coronavirus-medics-warn-britain-308318" hreflang="en">Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain</a>

"We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee.&nbsp;

"The US&nbsp;talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added.

Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pubs-restaurants-and-hotels-to-reopen-from-july-4-as-england-eases-social-distancing-308116" hreflang="en">Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing</a>

Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US&nbsp;tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US&nbsp;ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism.&nbsp;

"Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access. Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU. Also read: Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain "We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee. "The US talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added. Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which. Also read: Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism. "Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

UK says no deadline for US trade deal, talks tough on terms

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre.

"Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-uk-to-begin-trials-of-no-swab-self-test-kits-307695" hreflang="en">COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits</a>

However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/non-essential-shops-reopen-in-uk-after-3-months-306080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule.

The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278" hreflang="en">UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4.

"Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people. UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre. "Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Also read: COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible. Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule. The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly. Also read: UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4. "Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

UK to denounce two-metre distancing rule starting July; pubs and restaurants to resume service

The man suspected of stabbing three people to death in a Reading park is believed to be Khairi Saadallah.

He is a 25-year-old Libyan refugee who was granted asylum in the UK, British media reported. He was detained by police in Forbury Gardens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reading-stabbing-attack-declared-a-terrorist-incident-investigations-continue-307469">Also read: Reading stabbing attack declared a 'terrorist incident'; investigations continue</a>

British police said Sunday they were treating a stabbing spree&nbsp;in which alone assailant killed three people in a park in the southern English city of Reading as a "terrorism incident".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-three-dead-after-mass-stabbing-in-reading-police-investigate-possible-terrorism-link-307362">Also read|&nbsp;UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link</a>

"Counter Terrorism Policing can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night (20/6), has now been declared a terrorist incident," Thames Valley Police said in a statement.

Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, &nbsp;the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble.&nbsp;

Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The man suspected of stabbing three people to death in a Reading park is believed to be Khairi Saadallah. He is a 25-year-old Libyan refugee who was granted asylum in the UK, British media reported.

The man suspected of stabbing three people to death in a Reading park is believed to be Khairi Saadallah. He is a 25-year-old Libyan refugee who was granted asylum in the UK, British media reported. He was detained by police in Forbury Gardens. Also read: Reading stabbing attack declared a 'terrorist incident'; investigations continue British police said Sunday they were treating a stabbing spree in which alone assailant killed three people in a park in the southern English city of Reading as a "terrorism incident". Also read| UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link "Counter Terrorism Policing can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night (20/6), has now been declared a terrorist incident," Thames Valley Police said in a statement. Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble. Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.” (With inputs from agencies)

Reading stabbings: Libyan refugee Khairi Saadallah named as suspect in UK terror attack

In United Kingdom, 3 killed & 3 seriously injured after an incident of stabbing. Attacker targeted a group of 9-10 people.

United Kingdom: 3 killed, 3 seriously injured after an incident of stabbing

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278">Also read|&nbsp;UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

"We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4."

Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-allow-british-tourists-to-visit-from-sunday-without-need-for-quarantine-spanish-foreign-minister-307363">Also read|&nbsp;Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister</a>

"The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said.

"I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again."

As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces.

The announcement is expected on July 04.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown. A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK. Also read| UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon "We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4." Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can." Also read| Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister "The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said. "I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again." As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces. The announcement is expected on July 04.

UK to start easing lockdown soon; plans to be revealed this week: Health Minister

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police.

According to Thames Valley, officers and emergency services rushed to a park in Forbury Gardens after getting reports of “multiple stabbings”. The assailant is understood to be a Libyan and was arrested after stabbing people in Forbury Gardens, Reading at 7 pm Saturday.

The police have said that several casualties were taken to Royal Berkshire hospital and according to the hospital spokeswoman, two people were in critical condition.&nbsp;

The police called in counter-terrorism investigators to check if terrorism may have been the motive behind stabbing.&nbsp;

Till now, every inquiry conducted by the counter-terrorist investigators is leading to that direction (terrorism). The MI5 will be assisting the counter-terrorism police and the security service.&nbsp;

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and home secretary, Priti Patel are constantly informed of developments.&nbsp;

Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, &nbsp;the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble.&nbsp;

Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.”

Johnson tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.”

Patel said that she was “deeply concerned” by the developments.

The leader of Reading council, Jason Brock, tweeted: “Concerning reports from Reading town centre – please stay clear of the area as Police are dealing with a serious incident.”

“Officers are on the scene and investigating the incident.”

The National Police Chief’s Council tweeted: “Please avoid speculation or sharing of video or images of the serious incident in Reading. An investigation will be ongoing.”

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police.

An assailant went on a stabbing rampage in a park filled with people relaxing in the southern English city of Reading on Saturday, leaving three people dead and two critically injured, according to police. According to Thames Valley, officers and emergency services rushed to a park in Forbury Gardens after getting reports of “multiple stabbings”. The assailant is understood to be a Libyan and was arrested after stabbing people in Forbury Gardens, Reading at 7 pm Saturday. The police have said that several casualties were taken to Royal Berkshire hospital and according to the hospital spokeswoman, two people were in critical condition. The police called in counter-terrorism investigators to check if terrorism may have been the motive behind stabbing. Till now, every inquiry conducted by the counter-terrorist investigators is leading to that direction (terrorism). The MI5 will be assisting the counter-terrorism police and the security service. The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and home secretary, Priti Patel are constantly informed of developments. Earlier, the assailant was suspected to be a part of Black Lives Matter campaign. But according to the organisers, the peaceful protest ended nearly two hours before the incident at 7 pm. Crowds who attended had dispersed without any trouble. Thames Valley Police said: “There is no indication that this incident is linked to the Black Lives Matter protest that took place in Reading today.” Johnson tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.” Patel said that she was “deeply concerned” by the developments. The leader of Reading council, Jason Brock, tweeted: “Concerning reports from Reading town centre – please stay clear of the area as Police are dealing with a serious incident.” “Officers are on the scene and investigating the incident.” The National Police Chief’s Council tweeted: “Please avoid speculation or sharing of video or images of the serious incident in Reading. An investigation will be ongoing.”

UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link

During late evening of Saturday, as people were relaxing in&nbsp;Forbury Gardens, Reading, in the UK, a man went on a&nbsp;a stabbing rampage.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-three-dead-after-mass-stabbing-in-reading-police-investigate-possible-terrorism-link-307362">stabbing attack</a>, that killed three people and left at least three more injured, has now been declared as a terrorist incident by the Thames Valley Police.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨| UPDATE- Murder investigation Reading<a href="https://twitter.com/TerrorismPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TerrorismPolice</a> can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night has now been declared a terrorist incident. 
 
We continue to work together with Counter Terrorism Policing SE. 
 
➡ <a href="https://t.co/CMkzwE6crv">https://t.co/CMkzwE6crv</a> <a href="https://t.co/MQeQr8XLe5">pic.twitter.com/MQeQr8XLe5</a>
— Thames Valley Police (@ThamesVP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThamesVP/status/1274648274100723720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-three-dead-after-mass-stabbing-in-reading-police-investigate-possible-terrorism-link-307362">Also read|&nbsp;UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link</a>

The local police authorities started the investigations without assuming this to be a terrorist incident. However, later investigations opened the possibility of a&nbsp;terrorism link.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, senior national coordinator for the Counter Terrorism Policing network, has declared the attack a terrorist incident, and Counter-Terrorism Policing South East will be taking over the investigation, Thames Valley police told the local media houses.

Local media reports reveal that the suspect arrested by police is a Libyan national in his twenties.

During late evening of Saturday, as people were relaxing in Forbury Gardens, Reading, in the UK, a man went on a a stabbing rampage. The stabbing attack, that killed three people and left at least three more injured, has now been declared as a terrorist incident by the Thames Valley Police.

During late evening of Saturday, as people were relaxing in Forbury Gardens, Reading, in the UK, a man went on a a stabbing rampage. The stabbing attack, that killed three people and left at least three more injured, has now been declared as a terrorist incident by the Thames Valley Police. 🚨| UPDATE- Murder investigation Reading@TerrorismPolice can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night has now been declared a terrorist incident. We continue to work together with Counter Terrorism Policing SE. ➡ https://t.co/CMkzwE6crv pic.twitter.com/MQeQr8XLe5 — Thames Valley Police (@ThamesVP) June 21, 2020 × Also read| UK: Three dead after mass stabbing in Reading, police investigate possible terrorism link The local police authorities started the investigations without assuming this to be a terrorist incident. However, later investigations opened the possibility of a terrorism link. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, senior national coordinator for the Counter Terrorism Policing network, has declared the attack a terrorist incident, and Counter-Terrorism Policing South East will be taking over the investigation, Thames Valley police told the local media houses. Local media reports reveal that the suspect arrested by police is a Libyan national in his twenties.

UK: Reading stabbing attack declared a 'terrorist incident'; investigations continue

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance.

The pending decision will soon be revealed, culture minister Oliver Dowden told in a local media interview on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finance-minister-hints-towards-review-of-distancing-rule-305773">Also read|&nbsp;UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule</a>

"We have committed to reviewing the two-metre to one-metre rule and we will be concluding on that shortly," he said.

"Within the coming days we will get the outcome."

Prime Minister Brois Johnson had announced a review of the two-metre distance last week, after the UK reported a 20 per cent collapse in April. If the required social distance is lowered, it would allow more pubs and shops to open with more capacity, which can revive UK's economy.

Last week, Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had also said "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance.

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance. The pending decision will soon be revealed, culture minister Oliver Dowden told in a local media interview on Saturday. Also read| UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule "We have committed to reviewing the two-metre to one-metre rule and we will be concluding on that shortly," he said. "Within the coming days we will get the outcome." Prime Minister Brois Johnson had announced a review of the two-metre distance last week, after the UK reported a 20 per cent collapse in April. If the required social distance is lowered, it would allow more pubs and shops to open with more capacity, which can revive UK's economy. Last week, Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had also said "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon

As the UK reopened its economy, a lot of businesses, big or small,&nbsp;are trying to make up for the loss that they suffered due to the extended lockdown initiated to contain the spread of novel coronavirus.

Appreciating the businesses for their cooperation, understanding and efforts during and after the lockdown, Queen Elizabeth thanked&nbsp;Britain's Queen Elizabeth thanked the businesses on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawmakers-think-uk-may-suspend-wage-pension-link-to-uplift-economy-government-denies-307081">Also read|&nbsp;Lawmakers think UK may suspend wage-pension link to uplift economy; government denies</a>

"As many organisations around the country are reopening, I send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the world," the Queen said in a message to the British Chambers of Commerce.

"At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities."

The businesses across the globe have been suffering loss due to the lockdown. However, as the retail industry reopened in the UK, the sales did observe a significant jump which has given a hope to the economists and the business owners.

"I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in the weeks and months ahead," she said.

As the UK reopened its economy, a lot of businesses, big or small, are trying to make up for the loss that they suffered due to the extended lockdown initiated to contain the spread of novel coronavirus.

As the UK reopened its economy, a lot of businesses, big or small, are trying to make up for the loss that they suffered due to the extended lockdown initiated to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. Appreciating the businesses for their cooperation, understanding and efforts during and after the lockdown, Queen Elizabeth thanked Britain's Queen Elizabeth thanked the businesses on Friday. Also read| Lawmakers think UK may suspend wage-pension link to uplift economy; government denies "As many organisations around the country are reopening, I send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the world," the Queen said in a message to the British Chambers of Commerce. "At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities." The businesses across the globe have been suffering loss due to the lockdown. However, as the retail industry reopened in the UK, the sales did observe a significant jump which has given a hope to the economists and the business owners. "I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in the weeks and months ahead," she said.

Queen Elizabeth thanks businesses worldwide for being considerate during COVID

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found.

The NAO, Britain's spending watchdog, said the last estimate in 2005 suggested there were around 430,000 people in the UK with no legal right to remain and since then independent estimates indicate that figure could have nearly doubled, but there is no validated assessment available.

"The Home Office does not have an up-to-date estimate of how many people have no right to remain in the UK," notes the NAO report on 'Immigration Enforcement' released on Wednesday.

"Its last estimate was around 430,000 people in 2005. More recent estimates from other organizations suggest the population might have doubled, although the NAO has not validated these estimates," it said.

The highest estimate of the illegal population in the UK is 1.2 million, given by the Pew Research Centre last year, although the NAO stressed it had not attempted to verify that figure.

"Although there would be significant uncertainty around any estimate it [the department] developed, such an estimate could help the department to demonstrate that its activities are effective in deterring attempts to enter or remain in the UK illegally," the NAO said.

The NAO's report into the Home Office's Immigration Enforcement Directorate said the department had estimated demand for immigration enforcement activity, which was set between 240,000 and 320,000 cases a year.

But the report said there was no baseline given against which progress can be measured or to demonstrate whether demand is rising or falling.

"Due to data quality issues, Immigration Enforcement cannot say whether the number of people 'genuinely putting a demand' on its activities is increasing or decreasing," it said.

It suggested the Home Office should look at how other parts of government come up with estimates of "hidden activity", such as serious and organized crime, which it said could help to "improve its understanding of the full scale of the illegal population in the UK".

The watchdog concluded that despite collecting information around its mission and objectives, the Home Office often cannot demonstrate whether its measures are working.

'The Home Office's vision for Immigration Enforcement is to 'reduce the size of the illegal population and the harm it causes'.

It supports this vision through its operational missions of preventing illegal migration through greater compliance with laws, tackling threats associated with immigration offending and maximizing returns of the illegal population and foreign national offenders to their country of origin, the report notes.

"Despite introducing significant changes to its enforcement activity, the Home Office cannot fully demonstrate that the actions of its Immigration Enforcement directorate are helping it to achieve its objectives," it said.

In the past year to October 2019, detected attempts by people to come into the UK by clandestine means increased to 46,900.

However, the NAO said it was not clear if this was because more attempts were being made or if there was better detection.

A Home Office spokesperson said that the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) meant that it had taken back full control of the immigration system.

"As this report acknowledges, the nature of immigration crime and offending is complicated and we are consistently looking at ways to get ahead of the organized gangs behind it," the spokesperson said.

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found.

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found. The NAO, Britain's spending watchdog, said the last estimate in 2005 suggested there were around 430,000 people in the UK with no legal right to remain and since then independent estimates indicate that figure could have nearly doubled, but there is no validated assessment available. "The Home Office does not have an up-to-date estimate of how many people have no right to remain in the UK," notes the NAO report on 'Immigration Enforcement' released on Wednesday. "Its last estimate was around 430,000 people in 2005. More recent estimates from other organizations suggest the population might have doubled, although the NAO has not validated these estimates," it said. The highest estimate of the illegal population in the UK is 1.2 million, given by the Pew Research Centre last year, although the NAO stressed it had not attempted to verify that figure. "Although there would be significant uncertainty around any estimate it [the department] developed, such an estimate could help the department to demonstrate that its activities are effective in deterring attempts to enter or remain in the UK illegally," the NAO said. The NAO's report into the Home Office's Immigration Enforcement Directorate said the department had estimated demand for immigration enforcement activity, which was set between 240,000 and 320,000 cases a year. But the report said there was no baseline given against which progress can be measured or to demonstrate whether demand is rising or falling. "Due to data quality issues, Immigration Enforcement cannot say whether the number of people 'genuinely putting a demand' on its activities is increasing or decreasing," it said. It suggested the Home Office should look at how other parts of government come up with estimates of "hidden activity", such as serious and organized crime, which it said could help to "improve its understanding of the full scale of the illegal population in the UK". The watchdog concluded that despite collecting information around its mission and objectives, the Home Office often cannot demonstrate whether its measures are working. 'The Home Office's vision for Immigration Enforcement is to 'reduce the size of the illegal population and the harm it causes'. It supports this vision through its operational missions of preventing illegal migration through greater compliance with laws, tackling threats associated with immigration offending and maximizing returns of the illegal population and foreign national offenders to their country of origin, the report notes. "Despite introducing significant changes to its enforcement activity, the Home Office cannot fully demonstrate that the actions of its Immigration Enforcement directorate are helping it to achieve its objectives," it said. In the past year to October 2019, detected attempts by people to come into the UK by clandestine means increased to 46,900. However, the NAO said it was not clear if this was because more attempts were being made or if there was better detection. A Home Office spokesperson said that the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) meant that it had taken back full control of the immigration system. "As this report acknowledges, the nature of immigration crime and offending is complicated and we are consistently looking at ways to get ahead of the organized gangs behind it," the spokesperson said.

UK unaware of level of illegal migrants in country, audit report finds

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home.

As they came back to their home country, the students were worried about the status of their current visa, and the post-study work visa.

Putting their concerns to end, the UK Home Office has assured the students that the Graduate Visa route, commonly referred to as a post-study work visa, will apply to the 2020-21 intake.

However, the students will have to be physically present in the UK by&nbsp;April 2021 to complete the final semester.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-changes-stand-to-now-use-google-apple-model-for-coronavirus-tracing-app-306865">Also read:&nbsp;UK changes stand, to now use Google-Apple model for coronavirus tracing app</a>

"Students will normally be expected to undertake their studies in the UK to be eligible for the Graduate route. However, if students are required to either continue their current studies or commence a new course by distance or blended learning due to COVID-19, they will still be eligible to switch into the Graduate route on a concessionary basis if they spent some time studying outside the UK,"&nbsp;notes the Home Office guidance issued this week.

The students will only be avail these benefits&nbsp;if they enter the UK before 6 April 2021 and complete the final semester of their studies in the UK,"&nbsp;the guidance read.

The Graduate visa allows students to remain in the UK for two years after graduation to work, or look for work. The visa was earlier allotted for three months, post completing of the course. However, starting from this year, the time period was increased to two years. Some organisations are lobbying the UK government to further extend the time period to three to four years to match their competitive countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home.

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home. As they came back to their home country, the students were worried about the status of their current visa, and the post-study work visa. Putting their concerns to end, the UK Home Office has assured the students that the Graduate Visa route, commonly referred to as a post-study work visa, will apply to the 2020-21 intake. However, the students will have to be physically present in the UK by April 2021 to complete the final semester. Also read: UK changes stand, to now use Google-Apple model for coronavirus tracing app "Students will normally be expected to undertake their studies in the UK to be eligible for the Graduate route. However, if students are required to either continue their current studies or commence a new course by distance or blended learning due to COVID-19, they will still be eligible to switch into the Graduate route on a concessionary basis if they spent some time studying outside the UK," notes the Home Office guidance issued this week. The students will only be avail these benefits if they enter the UK before 6 April 2021 and complete the final semester of their studies in the UK," the guidance read. The Graduate visa allows students to remain in the UK for two years after graduation to work, or look for work. The visa was earlier allotted for three months, post completing of the course. However, starting from this year, the time period was increased to two years. Some organisations are lobbying the UK government to further extend the time period to three to four years to match their competitive countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

Post-study work visa eligible for Indian students in UK amid COVID-19 crisis

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones.

Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones.

He also feels that the action is&nbsp;a symbol of subjugation and subordination.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/black-lives-matter-english-premier-league-players-take-knee-in-solidarity-306656">Also read|&nbsp;Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity</a>

In Game of Thrones, the phrase "bending the knee" is used when someone pledges their support to a monarch or lord.

The statement came a day after Premier League players, in&nbsp;England, took a knee before kickoff in support of the "Black Lives Matter" movement on Wednesday.

On a radio interview, when he was asked if he would take a knee to show support, he said he understood the restlessness and frustration behind the movement, and&nbsp;then added "I've got to say on this 'taking the knee' thing, which I don't know, maybe it's got a broader history but it seems to be taken from the Game of Thrones. It feels to me like a symbol of subjugation and subordination rather than one of liberation and emancipation. But I understand people feel differently about it so it`s a matter of personal choice."

He further added, "I take the knee for two people, the queen and the missus when I asked her to marry me."

(With inputs from Reuters)

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones. Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones.

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones. Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones. He also feels that the action is a symbol of subjugation and subordination. Also read| Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity In Game of Thrones, the phrase "bending the knee" is used when someone pledges their support to a monarch or lord. The statement came a day after Premier League players, in England, took a knee before kickoff in support of the "Black Lives Matter" movement on Wednesday. On a radio interview, when he was asked if he would take a knee to show support, he said he understood the restlessness and frustration behind the movement, and then added "I've got to say on this 'taking the knee' thing, which I don't know, maybe it's got a broader history but it seems to be taken from the Game of Thrones. It feels to me like a symbol of subjugation and subordination rather than one of liberation and emancipation. But I understand people feel differently about it so it`s a matter of personal choice." He further added, "I take the knee for two people, the queen and the missus when I asked her to marry me." (With inputs from Reuters)

UK foreign minister thinks 'taking the knee' resembles Game of Thrones action

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag.

The aircraft is slated to have its current grey look refurbished, indicating the UK Prime Minister's intention to use the plane for global Britain trade missions as the UK's transition period before a complete exit from the European Union (EU) concludes at the end of this year.

The plane is being repainted at a specialist secure hangar run by Marshall Aerospace near Cambridge.

The aircraft, often likened to the US President's Air Force One, was commissioned at a cost of GBP 10-million by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and was intended to have a dual civilian and military use.

When Johnson was Foreign Secretary in the Theresa May led government in 2018, he had expressed his wish for a "Brexit plane" to help him travel the world and strike new trade agreements.

The twin-engine A330 Voyager jet is earmarked for use by the UK prime minister, Foreign Secretary and senior members of the Royal Family. It was acquired by the RAF as a troop carrier and air tanker before undergoing the Cameron-led makeover in 2016, lending it an initial reference of 'Cam Force One'.

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag.

A military plane used by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior government VIPs -- Royal Air Force (RAF) Voyager aircraft -- is set to undergo a so-called Brexit makeover with the red, white and blue colours of the UK's Union Jack flag. The aircraft is slated to have its current grey look refurbished, indicating the UK Prime Minister's intention to use the plane for global Britain trade missions as the UK's transition period before a complete exit from the European Union (EU) concludes at the end of this year. The plane is being repainted at a specialist secure hangar run by Marshall Aerospace near Cambridge. The aircraft, often likened to the US President's Air Force One, was commissioned at a cost of GBP 10-million by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and was intended to have a dual civilian and military use. When Johnson was Foreign Secretary in the Theresa May led government in 2018, he had expressed his wish for a "Brexit plane" to help him travel the world and strike new trade agreements. The twin-engine A330 Voyager jet is earmarked for use by the UK prime minister, Foreign Secretary and senior members of the Royal Family. It was acquired by the RAF as a troop carrier and air tanker before undergoing the Cameron-led makeover in 2016, lending it an initial reference of 'Cam Force One'.

UK PM Boris Johnson's jet to get 'Union Jack' makeover

Neither of the government’s methods of calculating unemployment provides a really accurate picture of what is happening.

Record unemployment looms in UK, more than 600,000 lose work

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph".

With a status-quo transition deal set to run out at the end of the year, the two are seeking a free trade agreement. But businesses on both sides are being told to prepare for a no-deal outcome that some fear would complicate trade and hurt jobs.

"I don't think we're actually that far apart but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations," Johnson said, adding that he had told the EU's top representatives that there was a need to "put a tiger in the tank" of the talks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-dairy-firms-causing-more-greenhouse-emissions-than-worlds-sixth-largest-economy-306083" hreflang="en">13 dairy firms causing more greenhouse emissions than world's sixth-largest economy</a>

"The faster we can do this the better, and we see no reason why you shouldn't get this done in July."

Earlier, after a video conference between Johnson, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the leaders of the European Council and European Parliament, the two sides said they "agreed ... that new momentum was required".

Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 and its relationship with the bloc is now governed by a transition arrangement that keeps previous rules in place while the two sides negotiate new terms.

Negotiators have made very little progress towards a trade pact, however, and the talks have all but stalled over issues such as fair-competition guarantees and fishing rights.

London confirmed last week that it had no intention of extending the transition period beyond 2020.

Some fear that, with the two sides so far apart and little time left to negotiate, London's decision not to extend may lead to a cliff edge that could compound the economic damage caused by the coronavirus crisis.

One EU diplomat said that, despite plans to speed up talks, major progress was unlikely until after the summer, when London would "scramble to get something done" at the 11th hour, as it did last year to reach a withdrawal agreement.

Jill Rutter, an expert at the UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, told a Brexit panel discussion on Monday that a "very thin and unambitious deal" was likely, but a no-deal scenario couldn't be ruled out.

"I think it would be totally wrong to think that the UK will be so desperate that it will move heaven and earth to avoid no deal," she said.

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph".

Leaders from Britain and the European Union agreed on Monday that talks on their future relationship should be stepped up to clinch a deal, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting an agreement could be reached in July with "a bit of oomph". With a status-quo transition deal set to run out at the end of the year, the two are seeking a free trade agreement. But businesses on both sides are being told to prepare for a no-deal outcome that some fear would complicate trade and hurt jobs. "I don't think we're actually that far apart but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations," Johnson said, adding that he had told the EU's top representatives that there was a need to "put a tiger in the tank" of the talks. Also read: 13 dairy firms causing more greenhouse emissions than world's sixth-largest economy "The faster we can do this the better, and we see no reason why you shouldn't get this done in July." Earlier, after a video conference between Johnson, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the leaders of the European Council and European Parliament, the two sides said they "agreed ... that new momentum was required". Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 and its relationship with the bloc is now governed by a transition arrangement that keeps previous rules in place while the two sides negotiate new terms. Negotiators have made very little progress towards a trade pact, however, and the talks have all but stalled over issues such as fair-competition guarantees and fishing rights. London confirmed last week that it had no intention of extending the transition period beyond 2020. Some fear that, with the two sides so far apart and little time left to negotiate, London's decision not to extend may lead to a cliff edge that could compound the economic damage caused by the coronavirus crisis. One EU diplomat said that, despite plans to speed up talks, major progress was unlikely until after the summer, when London would "scramble to get something done" at the 11th hour, as it did last year to reach a withdrawal agreement. Jill Rutter, an expert at the UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, told a Brexit panel discussion on Monday that a "very thin and unambitious deal" was likely, but a no-deal scenario couldn't be ruled out. "I think it would be totally wrong to think that the UK will be so desperate that it will move heaven and earth to avoid no deal," she said.

With a bit of oomph, Brexit deal feasible in July, says UK's Johnson

Gorillas were treated to a mini celebration at London Zoo on Sunday (June 14) as the tourist attraction prepares to reopen on Monday. Staff at the zoo in the centre of the capital hid special treats for the gorillas and decorated their enclosure with colourful bunting ahead of the reopening.

Gorillas grab the limelight as London Zoo gets set for reopening

All shops in England are allowed to open, although retailers have had to introduce strict safety measures.

Non essential shops reopen in UK after 3 months

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer.

All sites will need to comply with social distancing rules requiring people to keep at least two metres (six feet) apart and advising them to wear face coverings such as masks or scarves when indoors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-to-not-take-action-against-pm-johnsons-advisor-cummings-301610">UK police to not take action against PM Johnson's advisor Cummings</a>

Meanwhile, the coverings will be compulsory on public transport across England from Monday, with operators allowed to bar travel to those not wearing them.&nbsp;

"I know people are anxious," finance minister Rishi Sunak said Sunday as he encouraged shopping to help kickstart an economy seeing unprecedented declines.

"It's a slightly different experience... but it is a safe environment and we should all be able to go out knowing that we should be able to shop in confidence," he told Sky News.

'Adapt'&nbsp;

Non-essential shops in Northern Ireland reopened Friday, but Scotland and Wales have not yet decided when to follow suit, as Britain's devolved governments lift restrictions at different speeds.

The non-essential retail sector employs 1.3 million people and contributes £46.6 billion ($58.4 billion, 52 billion euros) to the British economy annually, according to the finance ministry, and its restart is viewed as economically vital.

Streets have been cleaned, footpaths widened and hand-sanitising stations installed in London's West End commercial district ahead of Monday.

But Jace Tyrrell, CEO of New West End Company, a partnership of 600 British and international operators in the area, predicted it will be "quite some time until we get back to normal".

"Retailers are going to have to adapt," she told AFP.&nbsp;

Britain has been among the worst-hit countries by the pandemic, with the number of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 deaths passing 50,000 last week, according to official statistics.

The government's less comprehensive rolling daily death count of those who have tested positive for the virus stands at nearly 42,000.

Despite the grim tolls, the transmission rate has dropped dramatically since the pandemic's peak in Britain in early April.

But the lockdown that helped turn that tide shrank the economy by one-fifth that month, official data showed Friday, stoking fears of a painful recession.

The OECD last week predicted the British economy was on course to shrink by more than 11 per cent in 2020 because of COVID-19.

'Margin for manoeuvre'&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has faced heavy criticism over his handling of the crisis, has set out a phased lifting of restrictions.

Outdoor markets and car showrooms reopened at the start of the month, when some younger children also returned to schools.

But his government drew ridicule last week after conceding it could not deliver on a plan to have all primary school children back for a month before the summer holidays.

Johnson has delayed reopening pubs and restaurants, the next stage in easing, until July 4 at the earliest.

Relaxing social distancing from the current two-metre requirement is seen as the only way for most of those businesses to operate viably, with proponents of easing the rule noting that other countries are adopting smaller distances.

Johnson confirmed Sunday he will review the measure as he faces growing pressure to ease it.

"You start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we'll be looking at that and we'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan," he said during a visit to a shopping centre in east London.

But he added: "What I don't want to do is sacrifice the huge efforts of the British people in beating this disease." 
&nbsp;

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer.

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer. All sites will need to comply with social distancing rules requiring people to keep at least two metres (six feet) apart and advising them to wear face coverings such as masks or scarves when indoors. Also read | UK police to not take action against PM Johnson's advisor Cummings Meanwhile, the coverings will be compulsory on public transport across England from Monday, with operators allowed to bar travel to those not wearing them. "I know people are anxious," finance minister Rishi Sunak said Sunday as he encouraged shopping to help kickstart an economy seeing unprecedented declines. "It's a slightly different experience... but it is a safe environment and we should all be able to go out knowing that we should be able to shop in confidence," he told Sky News. 'Adapt' Non-essential shops in Northern Ireland reopened Friday, but Scotland and Wales have not yet decided when to follow suit, as Britain's devolved governments lift restrictions at different speeds. The non-essential retail sector employs 1.3 million people and contributes £46.6 billion ($58.4 billion, 52 billion euros) to the British economy annually, according to the finance ministry, and its restart is viewed as economically vital. Streets have been cleaned, footpaths widened and hand-sanitising stations installed in London's West End commercial district ahead of Monday. But Jace Tyrrell, CEO of New West End Company, a partnership of 600 British and international operators in the area, predicted it will be "quite some time until we get back to normal". "Retailers are going to have to adapt," she told AFP. Britain has been among the worst-hit countries by the pandemic, with the number of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 deaths passing 50,000 last week, according to official statistics. The government's less comprehensive rolling daily death count of those who have tested positive for the virus stands at nearly 42,000. Despite the grim tolls, the transmission rate has dropped dramatically since the pandemic's peak in Britain in early April. But the lockdown that helped turn that tide shrank the economy by one-fifth that month, official data showed Friday, stoking fears of a painful recession. The OECD last week predicted the British economy was on course to shrink by more than 11 per cent in 2020 because of COVID-19. 'Margin for manoeuvre' Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has faced heavy criticism over his handling of the crisis, has set out a phased lifting of restrictions. Outdoor markets and car showrooms reopened at the start of the month, when some younger children also returned to schools. But his government drew ridicule last week after conceding it could not deliver on a plan to have all primary school children back for a month before the summer holidays. Johnson has delayed reopening pubs and restaurants, the next stage in easing, until July 4 at the earliest. Relaxing social distancing from the current two-metre requirement is seen as the only way for most of those businesses to operate viably, with proponents of easing the rule noting that other countries are adopting smaller distances. Johnson confirmed Sunday he will review the measure as he faces growing pressure to ease it. "You start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we'll be looking at that and we'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan," he said during a visit to a shopping centre in east London. But he added: "What I don't want to do is sacrifice the huge efforts of the British people in beating this disease."

English shops, attractions to reopen as virus lockdown eased

Patrick Hutchinson has been hailed as a hero after a picture surfaced of him carrying an injured far-right protester during the clashes between the police and rival groups in London on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-of-yet-another-black-man-in-atlanta-reignites-protests-across-us-305927" hreflang="en">Death of yet another black man in Atlanta reignites protests across US</a>

According to the picture, the white man was seen on Hutchinson's shoulders clutching his head while flanked by police in riot gear.

<img alt="c" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ab24e27-2e25-4dd6-a679-3f2511ab8311" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_108.jpg" />

The man had been set upon on the steps leading to the Royal Festival Hall in central London and badly beaten before other protesters stepped in to protect him, Reuters journalists at the scene said.

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Patrick Hutchinson, the black man who carried a suspected far-right protester to safety in a viral photo captured by <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Reuters</a> during protests in London, says he and his friends ‘did what we had to do’ <a href="https://t.co/JWv17pv0d4">https://t.co/JWv17pv0d4</a> <a href="https://t.co/0eStlC1pUF">pic.twitter.com/0eStlC1pUF</a>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-women-get-loud-to-demand-equal-treatment-305869" hreflang="en">Swiss women get loud to demand equal treatment</a>

During an interview with Channel 4, Hutchinson said that the man’s life was "under threat"&nbsp;as the crowds of people became "almost like a stampede"&nbsp;on Saturday.

He continued: "People were trying to protect him, but unsuccessfully. And then the guys went in there, they sort of put a little cordon around him to stop him receiving any more physical harm. He was under physical harm. His life was under threat."&nbsp;

"And whilst they did that I thought, 'well if he stays here he’s not going to make it'. So I just went under, scooped him up and put him on my shoulders and sort of started marching towards the police with him whilst all the guys were sort of surrounding me and protecting me and the guy I had on my shoulder."

"I could actually feel strikes and hits as I was carrying him, so these guys were probably taking some of that themselves on their person."

Protests broke out after George Floyd's death providing&nbsp;momentum to the "Black Lives Matter" movement.&nbsp;

Floyd died in Minneapolis on May 25 after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes by a policeman.&nbsp;

Patrick Hutchinson has been hailed as a hero after a picture surfaced of him carrying an injured far-right protester during the clashes between the police and rival groups in London on Saturday.

Patrick Hutchinson has been hailed as a hero after a picture surfaced of him carrying an injured far-right protester during the clashes between the police and rival groups in London on Saturday. Also read: Death of yet another black man in Atlanta reignites protests across US According to the picture, the white man was seen on Hutchinson's shoulders clutching his head while flanked by police in riot gear. The man had been set upon on the steps leading to the Royal Festival Hall in central London and badly beaten before other protesters stepped in to protect him, Reuters journalists at the scene said. Patrick Hutchinson, the black man who carried a suspected far-right protester to safety in a viral photo captured by @Reuters during protests in London, says he and his friends ‘did what we had to do’ https://t.co/JWv17pv0d4 pic.twitter.com/0eStlC1pUF — Reuters (@Reuters) June 15, 2020 × Also read: Swiss women get loud to demand equal treatment During an interview with Channel 4, Hutchinson said that the man’s life was "under threat" as the crowds of people became "almost like a stampede" on Saturday. He continued: "People were trying to protect him, but unsuccessfully. And then the guys went in there, they sort of put a little cordon around him to stop him receiving any more physical harm. He was under physical harm. His life was under threat." "And whilst they did that I thought, 'well if he stays here he’s not going to make it'. So I just went under, scooped him up and put him on my shoulders and sort of started marching towards the police with him whilst all the guys were sort of surrounding me and protecting me and the guy I had on my shoulder." "I could actually feel strikes and hits as I was carrying him, so these guys were probably taking some of that themselves on their person." Protests broke out after George Floyd's death providing momentum to the "Black Lives Matter" movement. Floyd died in Minneapolis on May 25 after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes by a policeman.

Black protester rescues injured white man during anti-racist protest in UK

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its&nbsp;two-metre social distancing rule.

Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel. The review is being planned after many employers voiced their concerns and said it was hard for them to get their businesses back on track due to the present rules.

"The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

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Talking about the economic slowdown of the country, he said, "We have always known that was going to happen, but now the numbers are starting to show that."

As per the latest reports, UK's economy shrank by a quarter over March and April. However, Sunak believes that the slowdown will prove out to be temporary, and the reopening of retail sector this week will help revive the economy.

If the distance is reduced from two metre, it will allow&nbsp;three quarters of pubs to reopen, rather than about one third.

The country has seen a decline in the number of cases, following which the government has reopened the economy in phases.

He also said the&nbsp; government is looking for options against the two-week quarantine rule for all visitors, and may come up with an alternate to the rule that was met with criticism from the aviation industry.

"We all want to see travel open again, of course we do, and like everything else we want to make sure we have the right measures at the right time informed by the science and everything else that we have to consider," Sunak said in an interview with a news channel.

"We are looking at all options to ensure that that is possible and people have got suggestions about how we might be able to open up some travel corridors over time and so the transport secretary is actively looking at all of those options," he continued.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its two-metre social distancing rule. Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel.

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its two-metre social distancing rule. Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel. The review is being planned after many employers voiced their concerns and said it was hard for them to get their businesses back on track due to the present rules. "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes. Have a look: A scaled-down ceremony at Windsor marks Queen Elizabeth II's 94th birthday Talking about the economic slowdown of the country, he said, "We have always known that was going to happen, but now the numbers are starting to show that." As per the latest reports, UK's economy shrank by a quarter over March and April. However, Sunak believes that the slowdown will prove out to be temporary, and the reopening of retail sector this week will help revive the economy. If the distance is reduced from two metre, it will allow three quarters of pubs to reopen, rather than about one third. The country has seen a decline in the number of cases, following which the government has reopened the economy in phases. He also said the government is looking for options against the two-week quarantine rule for all visitors, and may come up with an alternate to the rule that was met with criticism from the aviation industry. "We all want to see travel open again, of course we do, and like everything else we want to make sure we have the right measures at the right time informed by the science and everything else that we have to consider," Sunak said in an interview with a news channel. "We are looking at all options to ensure that that is possible and people have got suggestions about how we might be able to open up some travel corridors over time and so the transport secretary is actively looking at all of those options," he continued. (With inputs from Reuters)

UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule

India has requested the UK government&nbsp;to not consider fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya's request.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "We have requested the UK side to not consider his asylum if requested by him" because there appears to be "no ground for his persecution&nbsp;in India."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitterati-share-hilarious-memes-following-reports-of-vijay-mallya-being-extradited-soon-303113">Also read:&nbsp;Twitterati share hilarious memes following reports of Vijay Mallya being extradited soon&nbsp;</a>

New Delhi has been in touch with the UK&nbsp;for his "early" extradition.&nbsp;

Vijay Mallya's leave to appeal against extradition in the UK Supreme Court was rejected few weeks ago leaving no further legal remedy in the country. It is now up to the UK home secretary Priti Patel to give a final go-ahead by signing on the extradition papers.

Mallya had committed a fraud of Rs 9,000 crore on a consortium of Indian banks.

He was denied permission to appeal to the UK Supreme Court against an extradition order to India.

Vijay Mallya denies the charges against him and is currently on bail.

India has requested the UK government to not consider fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya's request. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "We have requested the UK side to not consider his asylum if requested by him" because there appears to be "no ground for his persecution in India.

India has requested the UK government to not consider fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya's request. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "We have requested the UK side to not consider his asylum if requested by him" because there appears to be "no ground for his persecution in India." Also read: Twitterati share hilarious memes following reports of Vijay Mallya being extradited soon New Delhi has been in touch with the UK for his "early" extradition. Vijay Mallya's leave to appeal against extradition in the UK Supreme Court was rejected few weeks ago leaving no further legal remedy in the country. It is now up to the UK home secretary Priti Patel to give a final go-ahead by signing on the extradition papers. Mallya had committed a fraud of Rs 9,000 crore on a consortium of Indian banks. He was denied permission to appeal to the UK Supreme Court against an extradition order to India. Vijay Mallya denies the charges against him and is currently on bail.

India asks UK to not give Vijay Mallya asylum

The statue of a slave trader, which was earlier toppled, has now been fished out of the harbour as many monuments in the United Kingdom are set to be reviewed amid the nationwide anger against symbols of racism.

Earlier today, the city council said the statue of Edward Colston was retrieved early on Thursday morning and "is being taken to a secure location before later forming part of our museum collection".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/statue-of-christopher-columbus-in-us-toppled-thrown-in-lake-by-anti-racism-protestors-304863">Statue of Christopher Columbus in US toppled, thrown in lake by anti-racism protestors</a>

The statue of Colston, a slave trader in the late 17th century, was taken down on Sunday by the protesters who later dumped it into the water, as part of protests triggered by the killing of a black man in police custody in the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-demand-removal-of-cecil-rhodes-statue-from-oxford-university-304956">Protesters demand removal of Cecil Rhodes statue from Oxford University</a>

Authorities in the seaside town of Bournemouth will later today remove the statue of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout movement who also backed the Nazis.

Monuments, landmarks to be reviewed 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, the University of Liverpool has said it would rename a building named after former PM William Gladstone because of his connections with the slave trade.

Mayor Marvin Rees, who earlier backed the pull-down of Colston's statue, has announced a new commission to research Bristol's history.&nbsp;

"The only way we can work together on our future is by learning the truth of our beginnings, embracing the facts, and sharing those stories with others," he said.

Also, the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced a review of landmarks and monuments, to see whether they correctly represent the city's diversity.&nbsp;

The statue of a slave trader, which was earlier toppled, has now been fished out of the harbour as many monuments in the United Kingdom are set to be reviewed amid the nationwide anger against symbols of racism.

The statue of a slave trader, which was earlier toppled, has now been fished out of the harbour as many monuments in the United Kingdom are set to be reviewed amid the nationwide anger against symbols of racism. Earlier today, the city council said the statue of Edward Colston was retrieved early on Thursday morning and "is being taken to a secure location before later forming part of our museum collection". Also read | Statue of Christopher Columbus in US toppled, thrown in lake by anti-racism protestors The statue of Colston, a slave trader in the late 17th century, was taken down on Sunday by the protesters who later dumped it into the water, as part of protests triggered by the killing of a black man in police custody in the United States. Also read | Protesters demand removal of Cecil Rhodes statue from Oxford University Authorities in the seaside town of Bournemouth will later today remove the statue of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout movement who also backed the Nazis. Monuments, landmarks to be reviewed Meanwhile, the University of Liverpool has said it would rename a building named after former PM William Gladstone because of his connections with the slave trade. Mayor Marvin Rees, who earlier backed the pull-down of Colston's statue, has announced a new commission to research Bristol's history. "The only way we can work together on our future is by learning the truth of our beginnings, embracing the facts, and sharing those stories with others," he said. Also, the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced a review of landmarks and monuments, to see whether they correctly represent the city's diversity.

UK: Edward Colston statue retrieved as many more monuments set to be reviewed

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.&nbsp;

Initiatives by the British government taken later on have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March.

Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 &nbsp;million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,240,085 people have been infected with the virus, while 411,279 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago, after wreaking havoc in China.

The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,979,850), Brazil (739,503), Russia (484,630), United Kingdom (290,581), followed by India (276,146).

In the US alone, 112,006 deaths have been recorded.

The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it.

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.

The United Kingdom's death toll rose to 41,128 after 245 new deaths were recorded in the country. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country. Initiatives by the British government taken later on have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March. Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,240,085 people have been infected with the virus, while 411,279 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago, after wreaking havoc in China. The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,979,850), Brazil (739,503), Russia (484,630), United Kingdom (290,581), followed by India (276,146). In the US alone, 112,006 deaths have been recorded. The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it.

Coronavirus: UK reports 245 deaths in last 24 hours taking the toll to 41,128

Priti Patel has urged people not to join protests planned across the UK in the wake of the death of George Floyd.

UK's Home Secretary Priti Patel says 'Violent protesters must be held accountable'

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world.&nbsp;

Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion.&nbsp;

However, to the outside world, he was hardly better than Hitler, and the West regarded him as a fierce imperialist. &nbsp;

Churchill's racism is well-documented and he once even wrote, "I hate Indians".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-britain-cannot-run-away-from-flames-of-racism-it-once-sowed-304356">Why Britain cannot run away from flames of racism it once sowed?</a>

"They are a beastly people with a beastly religion," he had said.&nbsp;

Not just his words, his actions too are a testimony of his racial mindset.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-protestors-vandalize-churchills-statue-demonstrations-outside-us-embassy-george-floyd-death-304337/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 1943, Churchill engineered the Bengal famine, where wheat was exported from India for allied troops as Indians went to bed hungry.&nbsp;

He stopped all food supplies to India and was a major reason why four million people starved to death in Bengal in the same year.&nbsp;

"It's (Indians) their own fault...for breeding like rabbits," Churchill had said.&nbsp;

He was also a supporter of gas bombs and during the Arab Uprising in 1920, he lamented the 'squeamishness' of his colleagues who were not in favour of using poisoned gas against the so-called "uncivilised tribes".&nbsp;

In the same year, Churchill sent&nbsp;the blacks and tans into Ireland who were&nbsp;tasked with terrorising the Irish rebellion. &nbsp;

In 1949, Churchill also ordered the British Army to fire on the anti-Nazi protesters in Greece and also facilitated Zionism in Palestine.&nbsp;

"Palestinians were 'barbaric hordes' who are little but rabbit dung," he wrote.&nbsp;

"A stronger race, a high-grade race, a more worldly-wise race has come in and taken their place."

Churchill also planted the seed in South Africa to strip black communities from their voting rights.&nbsp;

Despite all of this, Britain is blinded by its excessive admiration of Churchill, who is also a hero of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

Former PM David Cameron believes that Churchill saved "humanity as a whole".&nbsp;

The truth is Winston Churchill was a racist and his prejudice has caused millions of deaths.&nbsp;

Churchill thought that the British were "winners in a social Darwinian hierarchy". This thought is out-of-date, just like imperialism and like racism, which is another legacy of the British, needs to die. &nbsp;

As does the lionisation of Churchill.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world. Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion.

Winston Churchill is considered as a celebrated statesman and a hero of the free world. Churchill, the UK's wartime prime minister, saved his country and the world from a Nazi invasion. However, to the outside world, he was hardly better than Hitler, and the West regarded him as a fierce imperialist. Churchill's racism is well-documented and he once even wrote, "I hate Indians". Also read | Why Britain cannot run away from flames of racism it once sowed? "They are a beastly people with a beastly religion," he had said. Not just his words, his actions too are a testimony of his racial mindset. In 1943, Churchill engineered the Bengal famine, where wheat was exported from India for allied troops as Indians went to bed hungry. He stopped all food supplies to India and was a major reason why four million people starved to death in Bengal in the same year. "It's (Indians) their own fault...for breeding like rabbits," Churchill had said. He was also a supporter of gas bombs and during the Arab Uprising in 1920, he lamented the 'squeamishness' of his colleagues who were not in favour of using poisoned gas against the so-called "uncivilised tribes". In the same year, Churchill sent the blacks and tans into Ireland who were tasked with terrorising the Irish rebellion. In 1949, Churchill also ordered the British Army to fire on the anti-Nazi protesters in Greece and also facilitated Zionism in Palestine. "Palestinians were 'barbaric hordes' who are little but rabbit dung," he wrote. "A stronger race, a high-grade race, a more worldly-wise race has come in and taken their place." Churchill also planted the seed in South Africa to strip black communities from their voting rights. Despite all of this, Britain is blinded by its excessive admiration of Churchill, who is also a hero of Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Former PM David Cameron believes that Churchill saved "humanity as a whole". The truth is Winston Churchill was a racist and his prejudice has caused millions of deaths. Churchill thought that the British were "winners in a social Darwinian hierarchy". This thought is out-of-date, just like imperialism and like racism, which is another legacy of the British, needs to die. As does the lionisation of Churchill.

Was 'icon of the free world' Winston Churchill a racist?

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources.&nbsp;

According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766. This is the highest in Europe and the second highest globally just behind the United States. More than 400,000 people have been killed worldwide due to the virus.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-increasing-demand-for-puppies-in-the-uk-breeders-fear-many-will-end-up-in-rescue-homes-304522" hreflang="en">Amid increasing demand for puppies in the UK, breeders fear many will end up in rescue homes</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country.&nbsp;

The tally comprises of fatalities where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificates in the United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) up to May 29 and Scotland up to May 31.&nbsp;

The tally compiled by Reuters gives more accurate figures as the government's daily death toll numbers don't include suspected cases.&nbsp;

Initiatives by the British government have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March.

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University.

(Inputs by Reuters)

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources. According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766.

Death toll in the United Kingdom nears 52,000 on Wednesday, as per Reuters tally of official data sources. According to the new data released, the death toll in England and Wales stands at 51,766. This is the highest in Europe and the second highest globally just behind the United States. More than 400,000 people have been killed worldwide due to the virus. Also read: Amid increasing demand for puppies in the UK, breeders fear many will end up in rescue homes Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his administration have been criticised for delaying the lockdown which led to the spread of the virus in the country. The tally comprises of fatalities where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificates in the United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) up to May 29 and Scotland up to May 31. The tally compiled by Reuters gives more accurate figures as the government's daily death toll numbers don't include suspected cases. Initiatives by the British government have resulted in a decline in the daily death toll. The UK death toll for confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose by 55 to 40,597 on Monday, the lowest rise since a lockdown was imposed in March. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. (Inputs by Reuters)

UK nears 52,000 deaths due to coronavirus pandemic: Tally

Churchill, slave trader Edward Colston's statues vandalised amid protests in UK

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/masks-and-gloves-clad-lebanese-join-anti-government-protests-303982" hreflang="en">Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests</a>

Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus. According to them, the government delayed in imposing crucial restrictions that led to an outbreak in the country.&nbsp;

The UK is one of the worst-hit countries in terms of the coronavirus pandemic with more than 50,000 deaths, as per the Reuters tally.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-3593-new-coronavirus-cases-registered-actual-figures-much-higher-303987" hreflang="en">Mexico: 3,593 new coronavirus cases registered; actual figures much higher</a>

During an interview with John Edmund, a member of the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), said: "We should have gone into lockdown earlier."

"The data we were dealing with in the early part of March and our situational awareness was really quite poor so I think it would have been very hard to pull the trigger at that point but I wish we had ... I think that has cost a lot of lives."

British health minister Matt Hancock disagreed with Edmund's statements on the BBC, he said: &nbsp;"No. I think we took the right decisions at the right time and there is a broad range on SAGE of scientific opinion and we were guided by the science."

According to Edmund, the coronavirus pandemic "is not all over, there is an awful long way to go."

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives. Also read: Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus.

One of the British government's scientific advisors has said on Sunday that the country's delay in imposing a nationwide-lockdown has cost many lives. Also read: Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests Many medical professionals, scientists and lawmakers have criticised the government for its slow response to coronavirus. According to them, the government delayed in imposing crucial restrictions that led to an outbreak in the country. The UK is one of the worst-hit countries in terms of the coronavirus pandemic with more than 50,000 deaths, as per the Reuters tally. Also read: Mexico: 3,593 new coronavirus cases registered; actual figures much higher During an interview with John Edmund, a member of the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), said: "We should have gone into lockdown earlier." "The data we were dealing with in the early part of March and our situational awareness was really quite poor so I think it would have been very hard to pull the trigger at that point but I wish we had ... I think that has cost a lot of lives." British health minister Matt Hancock disagreed with Edmund's statements on the BBC, he said: "No. I think we took the right decisions at the right time and there is a broad range on SAGE of scientific opinion and we were guided by the science." According to Edmund, the coronavirus pandemic "is not all over, there is an awful long way to go."

UK's situational awareness was quite poor, it cost many lives: Government scientific advisor

Britain's Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has revealed that he has been secretly volunteering for a mental health charity during the coronavirus pandemic.

The 37-year-old second in line to the British throne is among 2,000 volunteers who completed a training session and has been responding to text messages from those seeking advice and support through the Shout 85258 phone service.

He told fellow volunteers in a video call: "I'm going to share a little secret with you guys, but I'm actually on the platform volunteering."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-offers-to-accept-eu-tariffs-on-some-goods-to-win-trade-deal-303756">Also read:&nbsp;British PM offers to accept EU tariffs on some goods to win trade deal</a>

Kensington Palace announced the royal's involvement to mark the ongoing Volunteers Week, which ends on Sunday. Those using the service would not know if the response is from Prince William, who would be using a pseudonym.

William and wife Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, had helped to launch Shout 85258 last year&nbsp;investing 3 million pounds in the service through their Royal Foundation.

William's younger brother, Prince Harry, and his wife Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, were a part of the effort at the time but have since quit from frontline royalty.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-halts-hydroxychloroquine-trial-for-covid-19-patients-terms-it-useless-303804">Also read:&nbsp;Britain halts hydroxychloroquine trial for COVID-19 patients, terms it 'useless'</a>

The Shout service said that more than 300,000 text conversations have taken place since its launch in May 2019.

Around 65 per cent of those texting are aged under 25, the charity said, with many messengers seeking mental health support.

This week, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges also made video calls to Conscious Youth, which has set up a virtual youth club to support members in West Yorkshire region of England, and Machynlleth Community Corona Response, in Powys, Wales.

"One of the things that would be amazing, I think, is if everyone in their communities is to carry on and still celebrate volunteering in the way that everyone has been during the pandemic. Everyone's got something to give back," Middleton said.

She has also been calling people who are self-isolating or vulnerable, as part of the Royal Voluntary Service's National Health Service (NHS) Volunteer Responders scheme.

The royal couple are reportedly considering how best to return to resuming royal engagements in person as the coronavirus lockdown begins to be gradually ease, while not encouraging crowds, breaking social distancing, or putting pressure on police resources.

Britain's Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has revealed that he has been secretly volunteering for a mental health charity during the coronavirus pandemic.

Britain's Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has revealed that he has been secretly volunteering for a mental health charity during the coronavirus pandemic. The 37-year-old second in line to the British throne is among 2,000 volunteers who completed a training session and has been responding to text messages from those seeking advice and support through the Shout 85258 phone service. He told fellow volunteers in a video call: "I'm going to share a little secret with you guys, but I'm actually on the platform volunteering." Also read: British PM offers to accept EU tariffs on some goods to win trade deal Kensington Palace announced the royal's involvement to mark the ongoing Volunteers Week, which ends on Sunday. Those using the service would not know if the response is from Prince William, who would be using a pseudonym. William and wife Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, had helped to launch Shout 85258 last year investing 3 million pounds in the service through their Royal Foundation. William's younger brother, Prince Harry, and his wife Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, were a part of the effort at the time but have since quit from frontline royalty. Also read: Britain halts hydroxychloroquine trial for COVID-19 patients, terms it 'useless' The Shout service said that more than 300,000 text conversations have taken place since its launch in May 2019. Around 65 per cent of those texting are aged under 25, the charity said, with many messengers seeking mental health support. This week, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges also made video calls to Conscious Youth, which has set up a virtual youth club to support members in West Yorkshire region of England, and Machynlleth Community Corona Response, in Powys, Wales. "One of the things that would be amazing, I think, is if everyone in their communities is to carry on and still celebrate volunteering in the way that everyone has been during the pandemic. Everyone's got something to give back," Middleton said. She has also been calling people who are self-isolating or vulnerable, as part of the Royal Voluntary Service's National Health Service (NHS) Volunteer Responders scheme. The royal couple are reportedly considering how best to return to resuming royal engagements in person as the coronavirus lockdown begins to be gradually ease, while not encouraging crowds, breaking social distancing, or putting pressure on police resources.

Prince William reveals secret volunteering for mental health charity

A zoo in northwest England is in a battle for survival as the COVID-19 crisis threatens to wipeout its summer season. Chester Zoo has been closed to visitors since Britain went into lockdown in March - meaning zero income from admissions or retail.

Tough times ahead for UK zoo forced to stay shut due to COVID-19

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