After getting an angry response from LGBT groups and some lawmakers, the UK government seems to have decided to ban conversion therapy for gay or bisexual people in England and Wales, ITV reported on Thursday. &nbsp;

But the government has not dropped the plan for transgender people. It is also looking to review how existing laws could be utilised to prevent it effectively. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sanctions-russian-propagandists-and-state-media-467189" hreflang="en">UK sanctions Russian 'propagandists and state media'</a>

"The Prime Minister has changed his mind off the back of the reaction to our report and he WILL now ban conversion therapy after all," ITV political reporter Paul Brand tweeted. &nbsp;

"Senior Govt source absolutely assures me it’ll be in Queen's Speech (of planned legislation). But only gay conversion therapy, not trans," he said. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Increased road travel escalated Greenhouse emissions in UK by 4.7%

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On the issue, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government has come under huge pressure. In 2018, former leader Theresa May had vowed to eradicate a procedure, which looks to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. &nbsp;

In May 2021, the government had set out its post-pandemic parliamentary agenda. It said measures would be brought forward to prevent such "abhorrent practices which can cause mental and physical harm". It had looked to start with a consultation on how it would be best to protect people and how to eliminate such coercive practices. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After getting an angry response from LGBT groups and some lawmakers, the UK government seems to have decided to ban conversion therapy for gay or bisexual people in England and Wales, ITV reported on Thursday.

After getting an angry response from LGBT groups and some lawmakers, the UK government seems to have decided to ban conversion therapy for gay or bisexual people in England and Wales, ITV reported on Thursday. But the government has not dropped the plan for transgender people. It is also looking to review how existing laws could be utilised to prevent it effectively. Also Read: UK sanctions Russian 'propagandists and state media' "The Prime Minister has changed his mind off the back of the reaction to our report and he WILL now ban conversion therapy after all," ITV political reporter Paul Brand tweeted. "Senior Govt source absolutely assures me it’ll be in Queen's Speech (of planned legislation). But only gay conversion therapy, not trans," he said. Watch: Increased road travel escalated Greenhouse emissions in UK by 4.7% × On the issue, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government has come under huge pressure. In 2018, former leader Theresa May had vowed to eradicate a procedure, which looks to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. In May 2021, the government had set out its post-pandemic parliamentary agenda. It said measures would be brought forward to prevent such "abhorrent practices which can cause mental and physical harm". It had looked to start with a consultation on how it would be best to protect people and how to eliminate such coercive practices. (With inputs from agencies)

Changing earlier plan, UK to ban gay conversion therapy now, says report

Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer of the United Kingdom, compared himself to Will Smith over criticism of his wife’s financial links to Russia. Sunak said that he understood what it felt like to have your wife 'attacked'.

UK: Rishi Sunak compares himself to Will Smith over wife criticism

British foreign minister is in India to rally support against Russia. The foreign secretary is holding a meeting with India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: UK aims to rally India to support West against Kremlin

The World health organization has released an updated plan to deal with covid-19. The global health body has laid out three possible scenarios for how the pandemic is likely to evolve this year.

WHO lists 3 scenarios on how pandemic may evolve

UK foreign secretary Liz Truss is in India to rally support against Russia. The foreign secretary is holding a meeting with India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: UK & Russian foreign ministers in India seek support

Soaring energy prices in Britain have adversely impacted the lives of the people. Vast glass houses stand empty as owners cannot heat them to grow vegetables, experts have warned that UK is now walking into a huge food security crisis, energy crisis triggered by Russian invasion of Ukraine.

UK experts forecast food security crisis, British govt likely to raise food prices

Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a&nbsp;US court was told during a hearing.

Between 2012 and 2015, a group of three British men known as “the Beatles”, took more than 20 westerners hostage under IS’s reign of terror. Prosecutors allege that El Shafee Elshiekh, who currently is on trial in Virginia, US, was the member nicknamed as Ringo by the hostages.

Federico Motka, an Italian-born aid worker, who grew up in UK, told the federal courthouse that he and David Haines, a British fellow aid worker, were forced to fight John Cantlie, an American journalist James Foley and a British war correspondent and photographer, in a “royal rumble” organised by the militant group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-bashar-al-assad-visits-uae-in-first-trip-to-arab-state-since-2011-463729">Syria's Bashar al-Assad visits UAE in first trip to Arab state since 2011</a>

“They were super excited about it,” Motka, describing 14 months of brutality at the hands of his IS kidnappers, told the court on Thursday. “We were so weak and shattered we could barely lift our arms.”

He further added that the trio humiliated them even more by mocking their forced fight, the Daily Telegraph reported. According to the Associated Press, during the summer of 2013, the hostages were told that the losers of the fight were being held captive at a facility known as “the box” that would be waterboarded.

Motka, in 2013, was surveying the needs of refugee camps, when he and Haines were captured.

He is the first surveying captive to testify at Elsheikh’s trial.

“They said I was a posh wanker because I went to boarding school,” Motka testified. “They said I was arrogant, and they were going to take me down a peg.”

When the judge stepped in to ask what the phrase “posh wanker” meant, there was a moment of uncomfortable laughter, forcing Motka to explain the term’s meaning.

He further told all the things that happened with them, from playing games with them, to giving them dog names to which they were supposed to respond immediately, made them wear orange jumpsuits to replicate the “conditions to the detainees at Guantánamo Bay”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-promises-to-pay-syrian-army-fighters-1100-to-fight-in-ukraine-watchdog-462529">Russia promises to pay Syrian army fighters $1,100 to fight in Ukraine: Watchdog</a>

The United States and United Kingdom did not pay for the release of hostages, which further led to the execution of Haines, British aid worker Alan Henning and four other Americans named in Elsheikh’s indictment – Foley, Steven Sotloff, Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig. He is accused of being involved in their murders.

In opening statements, the prosecutors mentioned three British citizens - Elsheikh, his long-term friend Alenxanda Kotey and Mohammed Emwazi, who is also known as “Jihadi John,” who frequently carried out the job of executioner.

Mohammed Emwazi was killed in a drone strike, while Kotey and Elsheikh were transferred to Virginia to face trials.

Lat year, Kotey pleaded guilty in a plea bargain.

The trials still continue as Elshiekh’s defence lawyer Edward MacMahon said there was “no dispute” about the horror the hostages’ fate.

MacMahon&nbsp;further said, there was no doubt that Elsheikh has gone to Syria to fight the IS, and there is no evidence to support that he was one of the members of “Beatles.”

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post: Syria's Assad returns to the world stage

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Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a US court was told during a hearing.

Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a US court was told during a hearing. Between 2012 and 2015, a group of three British men known as “the Beatles”, took more than 20 westerners hostage under IS’s reign of terror. Prosecutors allege that El Shafee Elshiekh, who currently is on trial in Virginia, US, was the member nicknamed as Ringo by the hostages. Federico Motka, an Italian-born aid worker, who grew up in UK, told the federal courthouse that he and David Haines, a British fellow aid worker, were forced to fight John Cantlie, an American journalist James Foley and a British war correspondent and photographer, in a “royal rumble” organised by the militant group. Also read | Syria's Bashar al-Assad visits UAE in first trip to Arab state since 2011 “They were super excited about it,” Motka, describing 14 months of brutality at the hands of his IS kidnappers, told the court on Thursday. “We were so weak and shattered we could barely lift our arms.” He further added that the trio humiliated them even more by mocking their forced fight, the Daily Telegraph reported. According to the Associated Press, during the summer of 2013, the hostages were told that the losers of the fight were being held captive at a facility known as “the box” that would be waterboarded. Motka, in 2013, was surveying the needs of refugee camps, when he and Haines were captured. He is the first surveying captive to testify at Elsheikh’s trial. “They said I was a posh wanker because I went to boarding school,” Motka testified. “They said I was arrogant, and they were going to take me down a peg.” When the judge stepped in to ask what the phrase “posh wanker” meant, there was a moment of uncomfortable laughter, forcing Motka to explain the term’s meaning. He further told all the things that happened with them, from playing games with them, to giving them dog names to which they were supposed to respond immediately, made them wear orange jumpsuits to replicate the “conditions to the detainees at Guantánamo Bay”. Also read | Russia promises to pay Syrian army fighters $1,100 to fight in Ukraine: Watchdog The United States and United Kingdom did not pay for the release of hostages, which further led to the execution of Haines, British aid worker Alan Henning and four other Americans named in Elsheikh’s indictment – Foley, Steven Sotloff, Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig. He is accused of being involved in their murders. In opening statements, the prosecutors mentioned three British citizens - Elsheikh, his long-term friend Alenxanda Kotey and Mohammed Emwazi, who is also known as “Jihadi John,” who frequently carried out the job of executioner. Mohammed Emwazi was killed in a drone strike, while Kotey and Elsheikh were transferred to Virginia to face trials. Lat year, Kotey pleaded guilty in a plea bargain. The trials still continue as Elshiekh’s defence lawyer Edward MacMahon said there was “no dispute” about the horror the hostages’ fate. MacMahon further said, there was no doubt that Elsheikh has gone to Syria to fight the IS, and there is no evidence to support that he was one of the members of “Beatles.” Watch | The West Asia Post: Syria's Assad returns to the world stage

Islamic States captives were forced to fight each other until they passed out, trial told

Britain’s greenhouse gas emissions rose by 4.7% in 2021 compared with 2020 levels, as the economy recovered following the coronavirus pandemic and road travel increased.

Increased road travel escalated Greenhouse emissions in UK by 4.7%

The&nbsp;UK&nbsp;on Thursday announced new&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;"propagandists", including a well-known television presenter, and two Kremlin-funded&nbsp;media&nbsp;operations accused of spreading "lies and deceit" about the invasion of Ukraine.

The 14 latest&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;follow several previous rounds of penalties against more than 1,000&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;and Belarusian individuals and entities in response to Moscow's war in its western neighbour.

"Britain has helped lead the world in exposing Kremlin disinformation, and this latest batch of&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;hits the shameless&nbsp;propagandists&nbsp;who push out (Vladimir) Putin's fake news and narratives," Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-trying-to-reinforce-offensive-in-donbas-maintains-pressure-on-kyiv-nato-467184">Russia trying to reinforce offensive in Donbas; maintains pressure on Kyiv: NATO</a>

"We will keep on going with more&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;to ramp up the pressure on Russia and ensure Putin loses in Ukraine. Nothing and no one is off the table."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's official spokesman told reporters separately: "Countries can adapt to&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;over time so it's right that we continue to move forward on this.&nbsp;

"It is equally right to impose&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on those who are seeking to disinform people at a mass scale."

London targeted&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;Colonel-General Mikhail Mizintsev, head of the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;National Defence Control Centre, who the&nbsp;UK&nbsp;foreign ministry said had become known as "the butcher of Mariupol" over Russia's actions in the besieged Ukrainian city.

Johnson's spokesman said "on the face of it there does appear to be evidence of war crimes" in Mariupol.

TV-Novosti, which owns the global television channel RT -- formerly Russia Today -- was also sanctioned, as was Rossiya Segodnya, which controls the news agency Sputnik.

The&nbsp;UK&nbsp;broadcasting regulator Ofcom earlier this month revoked RT's licence with immediate effect, saying it was not "fit and proper" to broadcast in the country.

In reaction, Margarita Simonyan, editor-in-chief of RT told RIA Novosti&nbsp;state&nbsp;news agency, said: "We'll add this insult to the total count."

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-delhi-german-nsa-hopes-no-back-filing-of-sanctions-will-take-place-467101">&nbsp;In Delhi, German NSA hopes no 'back filing' of sanctions will take place</a>

Propagandist

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;UK&nbsp;also included Sergey Brilyov -- a famous TV anchor in Russia on&nbsp;state-owned&nbsp;media&nbsp;outlet Rossiya, known for his interviews with high profile political figures -- to its&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;list, describing him as a "propagandist for Putin".&nbsp;

"Having previously lived in the&nbsp;UK, (he) will no longer be able to access any of his&nbsp;UK&nbsp;assets or continue business dealings," the ministry said.

Alexander Zharov, chief executive officer of Gazprom-Media, Alexei Nikolov, the managing director of RT, and Anton Anisimov, head of Sputnik International Broadcasting, were also targeted.

"These&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;will ensure RT will not be able to find its way back on&nbsp;UK&nbsp;televisions, and will prevent companies and individuals operating in the&nbsp;UK&nbsp;from doing business with&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;state&nbsp;propaganda vehicles," the foreign ministry added.

London said it had also fast-tracked&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against another seven individuals connected to "the Strategic Culture Foundation," which it described as an online journal registered in Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-russia-ukraine-exclusive-putin-should-be-behind-bars-ex-ukraine-president-tells-wion-466807">Watch | Russia-Ukraine | Exclusive: Putin should be behind bars, ex-Ukraine president tells WION</a>

The ministry noted they were recently sanctioned by Australia for their role in spreading disinformation.&nbsp;

"The&nbsp;UK&nbsp;is operating closely with allies to target Russia's oligarchs, banks and businesses," it added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The UK on Thursday announced new sanctions against Russian "propagandists", including a well-known television presenter, and two Kremlin-funded media operations accused of spreading "lies and deceit" about the invasion of Ukraine.

The UK on Thursday announced new sanctions against Russian "propagandists", including a well-known television presenter, and two Kremlin-funded media operations accused of spreading "lies and deceit" about the invasion of Ukraine. The 14 latest sanctions follow several previous rounds of penalties against more than 1,000 Russian and Belarusian individuals and entities in response to Moscow's war in its western neighbour. "Britain has helped lead the world in exposing Kremlin disinformation, and this latest batch of sanctions hits the shameless propagandists who push out (Vladimir) Putin's fake news and narratives," Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said in a statement. Also read | Russia trying to reinforce offensive in Donbas; maintains pressure on Kyiv: NATO "We will keep on going with more sanctions to ramp up the pressure on Russia and ensure Putin loses in Ukraine. Nothing and no one is off the table." Prime Minister Boris Johnson's official spokesman told reporters separately: "Countries can adapt to sanctions over time so it's right that we continue to move forward on this. "It is equally right to impose sanctions on those who are seeking to disinform people at a mass scale." London targeted Russian Colonel-General Mikhail Mizintsev, head of the Russian National Defence Control Centre, who the UK foreign ministry said had become known as "the butcher of Mariupol" over Russia's actions in the besieged Ukrainian city. Johnson's spokesman said "on the face of it there does appear to be evidence of war crimes" in Mariupol. TV-Novosti, which owns the global television channel RT -- formerly Russia Today -- was also sanctioned, as was Rossiya Segodnya, which controls the news agency Sputnik. The UK broadcasting regulator Ofcom earlier this month revoked RT's licence with immediate effect, saying it was not "fit and proper" to broadcast in the country. In reaction, Margarita Simonyan, editor-in-chief of RT told RIA Novosti state news agency, said: "We'll add this insult to the total count." Also read | In Delhi, German NSA hopes no 'back filing' of sanctions will take place Propagandist Meanwhile, the UK also included Sergey Brilyov -- a famous TV anchor in Russia on state-owned media outlet Rossiya, known for his interviews with high profile political figures -- to its sanctions list, describing him as a "propagandist for Putin". "Having previously lived in the UK, (he) will no longer be able to access any of his UK assets or continue business dealings," the ministry said. Alexander Zharov, chief executive officer of Gazprom-Media, Alexei Nikolov, the managing director of RT, and Anton Anisimov, head of Sputnik International Broadcasting, were also targeted. "These sanctions will ensure RT will not be able to find its way back on UK televisions, and will prevent companies and individuals operating in the UK from doing business with Russian state propaganda vehicles," the foreign ministry added. London said it had also fast-tracked sanctions against another seven individuals connected to "the Strategic Culture Foundation," which it described as an online journal registered in Russia. Also read | Watch | Russia-Ukraine | Exclusive: Putin should be behind bars, ex-Ukraine president tells WION The ministry noted they were recently sanctioned by Australia for their role in spreading disinformation. "The UK is operating closely with allies to target Russia's oligarchs, banks and businesses," it added.

UK sanctions Russian 'propagandists and state media'

In the first confirmation of the Partygate controversy involving UK PM Boris Johnson, Police obtain over 300 photographs & 500 documents. London Police will also issue fines.

1st official confirmation of Partygate: Police obtain over 300 photographs & 500 documents

A group of 50 volunteers from the United Kingdom have taken it upon themselves to clean the Golden Temple situated in Amritsar city by using their own money.

50 volunteers from UK reach India for cleaning the Golden Temple

While the fight to save London's gas lamps is going on, fewer than 300 gas lamps left in Westminster area. Gas lamps are integral part of London's heritage.

Modernisation Vs Preserving heritage: The fight to save London's gas lamps

Ahead of the launch of Chandrayaan-3, a team of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) offered prayers at the Tirupati temple. The Chandrayaan-3 will be launched on Friday, July 14, with its Lander and Rover from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. &nbsp;

The ISRO has already undertaken a 24-hour ‘launch rehearsal’ simulating the entire launch preparation and process for the mission. The mission is slated to be launched at 2:35 pm onboard a Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3) from the spaceport of Sriharikota.&nbsp;

The scientists visiting the Tirupati temple also carried with them a miniature model of Chandrayaan-3.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Andhra Pradesh | A team of ISRO scientists team arrive at Tirupati Venkatachalapathy Temple, with a miniature model of Chandrayaan-3 to offer prayers. 
 
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A team of around eight scientists was seen going inside the Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh. While speaking to reporters outside the temple, they said, “This is Chandrayaan-3 — our mission to the moon...We have a launch tomorrow.”

Among the team members was Shantanu Bhatwadekar, the Scientific Secretary of ISRO.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/france-likely-to-subscribe-to-indias-upi-during-pm-modis-visit-614956">France likely to subscribe to India’s UPI during PM Modi’s visit</a>

Earlier on July 10, speaking on the sidelines of India Space Congress 2023, ISRO Chairman S Somanath said that the space agency has designed the Chandrayaan-3 after learning from the failure of Chandrayaan-2.

"We were trying to target a landing in a particular spot, closer to the South Pole that is 70 degrees to the South Pole and in doing so, we faced certain challenges," Somnath said on Chandrayaan-2.

<h2>ISRO Chief S Somnath offers&nbsp;prayers at temple</h2>

ISRO Chairman S Somanath also offered prayers at Sri Chengalamma Parameswarini temple at Sullurpeta on Thursday, as they gear up for the launch of the Chandrayaan-3 Mission. Wearing a black T-shirt, Somnath worshipped at the temple located in Tirupati district, 22 km west of Sriharikota, where the spaceport is located.

"I need the blessings of Chengalamma Devi...I came here to pray and seek the blessings for the success of this mission," Somnath told reporters.

"Chandrayaan-3 will start its journey tomorrow. We are hoping that everything goes right and it lands on the moon on August 23," he added.

According to Somnath, the next launch by ISRO will be a commercial satellite by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) likely at the end of July.&nbsp;

<h2>Chandrayaan-3: Countdown begins</h2>

According to scientists, after the lift-off at 2:35 pm on Friday, around 16 minutes after the lift-off, the propulsion module is expected to get separated from the rocket. It would orbit the earth about 5-6 times in an elliptical cycle, with&nbsp;170 km at its&nbsp;closest point and 36,500 km farthest from the earth moving towards the lunar orbit.

Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Wednesday said that the launch of Chandrayaan -3 will raise the level of India's international collaborations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-drowning-flooding-near-arvind-kejriwals-house-among-affected-areas-details-614942">Delhi drowning: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's house among flood-affected areas | Details</a>

He said, "I have the confidence to say that the launch of Chandrayaan-3 is going to raise the level of India's international collaborations including that between India and the US."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ahead of the launch of Chandrayaan-3, a team of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) offered prayers at the Tirupati temple. The Chandrayaan-3 will be launched on Friday, July 14, with its Lander and Rover from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Ahead of the launch of Chandrayaan-3, a team of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) offered prayers at the Tirupati temple. The Chandrayaan-3 will be launched on Friday, July 14, with its Lander and Rover from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The ISRO has already undertaken a 24-hour ‘launch rehearsal’ simulating the entire launch preparation and process for the mission. The mission is slated to be launched at 2:35 pm onboard a Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3) from the spaceport of Sriharikota. The scientists visiting the Tirupati temple also carried with them a miniature model of Chandrayaan-3. #WATCH | Andhra Pradesh | A team of ISRO scientists team arrive at Tirupati Venkatachalapathy Temple, with a miniature model of Chandrayaan-3 to offer prayers. Chandrayaan-3 will be launched on July 14, at 2:35 pm IST from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, ISRO had… pic.twitter.com/2ZRefjrzA5 — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2023 × A team of around eight scientists was seen going inside the Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh. While speaking to reporters outside the temple, they said, “This is Chandrayaan-3 — our mission to the moon...We have a launch tomorrow.” Among the team members was Shantanu Bhatwadekar, the Scientific Secretary of ISRO. Also Read | France likely to subscribe to India’s UPI during PM Modi’s visit Earlier on July 10, speaking on the sidelines of India Space Congress 2023, ISRO Chairman S Somanath said that the space agency has designed the Chandrayaan-3 after learning from the failure of Chandrayaan-2. "We were trying to target a landing in a particular spot, closer to the South Pole that is 70 degrees to the South Pole and in doing so, we faced certain challenges," Somnath said on Chandrayaan-2. ISRO Chief S Somnath offers prayers at temple ISRO Chairman S Somanath also offered prayers at Sri Chengalamma Parameswarini temple at Sullurpeta on Thursday, as they gear up for the launch of the Chandrayaan-3 Mission. Wearing a black T-shirt, Somnath worshipped at the temple located in Tirupati district, 22 km west of Sriharikota, where the spaceport is located. "I need the blessings of Chengalamma Devi...I came here to pray and seek the blessings for the success of this mission," Somnath told reporters. "Chandrayaan-3 will start its journey tomorrow. We are hoping that everything goes right and it lands on the moon on August 23," he added. According to Somnath, the next launch by ISRO will be a commercial satellite by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) likely at the end of July. Chandrayaan-3: Countdown begins According to scientists, after the lift-off at 2:35 pm on Friday, around 16 minutes after the lift-off, the propulsion module is expected to get separated from the rocket. It would orbit the earth about 5-6 times in an elliptical cycle, with 170 km at its closest point and 36,500 km farthest from the earth moving towards the lunar orbit. Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Wednesday said that the launch of Chandrayaan -3 will raise the level of India's international collaborations. Also Read | Delhi drowning: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's house among flood-affected areas | Details He said, "I have the confidence to say that the launch of Chandrayaan-3 is going to raise the level of India's international collaborations including that between India and the US." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In just underwear, socks, 32-year-old prisoner escapes custody in UK  

Amid Ukraine-Russia crisis, people in UK and Czech Republic came out in support of Ukrainians and held a rally at Prague's historic centre.

Ukraine under attack: Russians come out in support of Ukraine

If a report is to be believed, around 300 babies have either died or were left brain-damaged because of inadequate care at an NHS trust in Shropshire. &nbsp;

A five-year investigation, which will conclude next week, seems to have found that mothers were denied caesarean sections and forced to suffer traumatic births. This was done due to an alleged preoccupation for hitting “normal” birth targets, reported The Sunday Times. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-caribbean-visit-prince-william-admits-he-may-never-succeed-queen-as-commonwealth-head-465883">Prince William admits he may never succeed Queen as Commonwealth head&nbsp;</a>

Between 2000 and 2019, the probe has analysed the experiences of 1,500 families at Shrewsbury and Telford hospital trust. It found that at least 12 mothers had died while giving birth. Some families lost more than one child in separate incidents, the paper reported. &nbsp;

Donna Ockenden, who is an expert midwife and had also led the inquiry with the input of over 90 midwives and doctors, said her team had been “shocked and saddened” by witnessing the scale of the tragedy. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount

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The report of Ockenden looks to reveal that hundreds of babies were stillborn, died shortly after birth or were left permanently brain-damaged. Many babies also had fractured skulls or broken bones, or were left with life-changing disabilities. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“There were numerous opportunities for the system to wake up and realise that there was a problem at this trust. There have been a number of occasions where families tried to be heard over many years and were silenced or ignored,” Ockenden told the Sunday Times. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a report is to be believed, around 300 babies have either died or were left brain-damaged because of inadequate care at an NHS trust in Shropshire. A five-year investigation, which will conclude next week, seems to have found that mothers were denied caesarean sections and forced to suffer traumatic births.

If a report is to be believed, around 300 babies have either died or were left brain-damaged because of inadequate care at an NHS trust in Shropshire. A five-year investigation, which will conclude next week, seems to have found that mothers were denied caesarean sections and forced to suffer traumatic births. This was done due to an alleged preoccupation for hitting “normal” birth targets, reported The Sunday Times. Also Read: Prince William admits he may never succeed Queen as Commonwealth head Between 2000 and 2019, the probe has analysed the experiences of 1,500 families at Shrewsbury and Telford hospital trust. It found that at least 12 mothers had died while giving birth. Some families lost more than one child in separate incidents, the paper reported. Donna Ockenden, who is an expert midwife and had also led the inquiry with the input of over 90 midwives and doctors, said her team had been “shocked and saddened” by witnessing the scale of the tragedy. Watch: UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount × The report of Ockenden looks to reveal that hundreds of babies were stillborn, died shortly after birth or were left permanently brain-damaged. Many babies also had fractured skulls or broken bones, or were left with life-changing disabilities. “There were numerous opportunities for the system to wake up and realise that there was a problem at this trust. There have been a number of occasions where families tried to be heard over many years and were silenced or ignored,” Ockenden told the Sunday Times. (With inputs from agencies)

In UK, inadequate care left 300 babies dead or brain-damaged, says report  

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. &nbsp;

The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows. &nbsp;

The PM’s scientific advisers have also started to call for tighter restrictions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-fund-2-million-pounds-of-food-supplies-for-encircled-ukrainian-cities-465602" hreflang="en">UK to fund 2 million pounds of food supplies for encircled Ukrainian cities</a>

Around 3.48 million people were carrying the virus at any given time in the week beginning from March 19, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said as per an estimate. It is a 31 per cent rise compared to the previous week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a week, Covid levels rose by around one million. It is now approaching the peak of the Omicron wave. A record 3.74 million people in England had virus in the first week of January. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In every corner of the UK, the infections are rising. In Scotland, they have already surpassed the previous peak. Now, one in 11 Scots seems to have been infected in the recent week, the ONS said. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-uk-pm-boris-johnson-snubbed-ahead-of-nato-group-photo-465569" hreflang="en">Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson ‘snubbed’ ahead of NATO group photo</a>

Hospitalisations are also high in Scotland and are currently rising in England. &nbsp;&nbsp;

SAGE member Professor Matt Keeling said, "With the withdrawal of free testing from April 1, this ability of the public to assess and respond to the risk of infection has been removed. Lateral flow tests are relatively inexpensive, and could even be cost saving if they help prevent sufficiently many hospital admissions." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount

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Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser, UK Health Security Agency, asked citizens to wear masks in enclosed spaces. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows.

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows. The PM’s scientific advisers have also started to call for tighter restrictions. Also Read: UK to fund 2 million pounds of food supplies for encircled Ukrainian cities Around 3.48 million people were carrying the virus at any given time in the week beginning from March 19, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said as per an estimate. It is a 31 per cent rise compared to the previous week. In a week, Covid levels rose by around one million. It is now approaching the peak of the Omicron wave. A record 3.74 million people in England had virus in the first week of January. In every corner of the UK, the infections are rising. In Scotland, they have already surpassed the previous peak. Now, one in 11 Scots seems to have been infected in the recent week, the ONS said. Also Read | Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson ‘snubbed’ ahead of NATO group photo Hospitalisations are also high in Scotland and are currently rising in England. SAGE member Professor Matt Keeling said, "With the withdrawal of free testing from April 1, this ability of the public to assess and respond to the risk of infection has been removed. Lateral flow tests are relatively inexpensive, and could even be cost saving if they help prevent sufficiently many hospital admissions." Watch: UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount × Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser, UK Health Security Agency, asked citizens to wear masks in enclosed spaces. (With inputs from agencies)

As 3.5 million people had Covid in England last week, experts call for tighter restrictions

Britain said on Saturday it would&nbsp;fund&nbsp;2&nbsp;million&nbsp;pounds&nbsp;($2.6&nbsp;million) worth of vital&nbsp;food&nbsp;supplies&nbsp;for areas of&nbsp;Ukraine which are&nbsp;encircled&nbsp;by Russian forces following a direct request from the&nbsp;Ukrainian government.

Just over a month after Moscow invaded&nbsp;Ukraine in what it describes as a "special military operation", Russian troops have failed to capture any major&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;cities&nbsp;and have resorted to pounding them with artillery and air strikes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-heavy-casualties-distraught-russian-troops-turn-on-own-commander-run-him-over-says-report-465590">After heavy casualties, distraught Russian troops turn on own commander, run him over, says report &nbsp;</a>

Worst hit has been the eastern port of Mariupol, a city of 400,000 under siege since the war's early days. Tens of thousands of people are still believed to be trapped inside with no access to&nbsp;food, power or heating.

Britain said around 25 truckloads of dried&nbsp;food, tinned goods and water will be transported by road and rail from warehouses in Poland and Slovakia to the most at-risk&nbsp;Ukrainian towns and&nbsp;cities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-main-goal-is-the-liberation-of-donbass-says-russian-general-465577">Ukraine war: Main goal is the liberation of Donbass, says Russian general</a>

"The need on the ground in&nbsp;Ukraine is clear, with so many people in&nbsp;encircled&nbsp;areas trapped in basements without access to&nbsp;food&nbsp;or water," Alice Hooper, the British Foreign Office's Humanitarian Adviser, said in a statement.

"We are working with partners at the borders to ensure these vital&nbsp;UK&nbsp;supplies&nbsp;reach the places they are needed most as quickly as possible."

Watch |&nbsp;UK FM Rishi Sunak challenged over wife Akshata Murthy's Russia link

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-fm-rishi-sunak-challenged-over-wife-akshata-murthys-russia-link-465483/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Britain said on Saturday it would fund 2 million pounds ($2.6 million) worth of vital food supplies for areas of Ukraine which are encircled by Russian forces following a direct request from the Ukrainian government.

Britain said on Saturday it would fund 2 million pounds ($2.6 million) worth of vital food supplies for areas of Ukraine which are encircled by Russian forces following a direct request from the Ukrainian government. Just over a month after Moscow invaded Ukraine in what it describes as a "special military operation", Russian troops have failed to capture any major Ukrainian cities and have resorted to pounding them with artillery and air strikes. Also read | After heavy casualties, distraught Russian troops turn on own commander, run him over, says report Worst hit has been the eastern port of Mariupol, a city of 400,000 under siege since the war's early days. Tens of thousands of people are still believed to be trapped inside with no access to food, power or heating. Britain said around 25 truckloads of dried food, tinned goods and water will be transported by road and rail from warehouses in Poland and Slovakia to the most at-risk Ukrainian towns and cities. Also read | Ukraine war: Main goal is the liberation of Donbass, says Russian general "The need on the ground in Ukraine is clear, with so many people in encircled areas trapped in basements without access to food or water," Alice Hooper, the British Foreign Office's Humanitarian Adviser, said in a statement. "We are working with partners at the borders to ensure these vital UK supplies reach the places they are needed most as quickly as possible." Watch | UK FM Rishi Sunak challenged over wife Akshata Murthy's Russia link

UK to fund 2 million pounds of food supplies for encircled Ukrainian cities

UK is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. With over 4.3 Million COVID cases recorded in early 2022, covid cases jump in United Kingdom again.

Covid cases jump in UK, infections peak in Scotland and Wales

Rishi Sunak is being grilled over his wife's links to Indian IT firm Infosys which still operates in Russia. How much money does Infosys make from Russia? Does Rishi Sunak benefit from this business? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Rishi Sunak grilled over alleged Russia link

UK is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. With over 4.2 Million new COVID cases, the UK sets to break its past record of infections.

Over 4.2 Million new COVID cases recorded across the UK last week

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and a steep rise in inflation worldwide, UK consumer confidence slides.

UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount

UK Finance Minister Rishi Sunak has been challenged over the Russian presence of Infosys, the Indian software services company in which his wife Akshata Murthy has a share.

UK FM Rishi Sunak challenged over wife Akshata Murthy's Russia link

British finance minister Rishi&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy.

In a budget update, Chancellor of the Exchequer&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;unveiled measures to help household finances, including a cut on fuel duty and easing the tax burden for the lowest earners.

He also pledged to cut income tax in 2024, which is the last year when the next general election can be called by Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Britain's economy will grow far slower than expected this year owing to the Ukraine war and soaring global inflation,&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;told parliament.

The UK economy was set to grow 3.8 per cent in 2022, down from an official estimate of six per cent made in October.

'Prepare for worse'

Sunak&nbsp;said that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) -- the government's official economic forecaster -- "has not accounted for the full impacts of the war in Ukraine and we should be prepared for the economy and public finances to worsen, potentially significantly".

"Their initial view, combined with high global inflation and continuing supply chain pressures means" the UK economy is forecast to grow significantly slower than thought.

Gross domestic product was estimated to expand a further 1.8 per cent next year, down from an official prediction of 2.1 per cent.

The OBR warned that should "wholesale energy prices remain as high as markets expect, energy bills are set to rise... pushing inflation to a 40-year high of 8.7 per cent in the fourth quarter".

UK annual inflation accelerated to a 30-year high at 6.2 per cent in February, official data showed Wednesday.

Countries across the world are battling surging inflation fuelled by rocketing commodity prices over the Ukraine war and after nations exited pandemic lockdowns.

Sunak&nbsp;last month unveiled a package worth £9 billion ($11.9 billion, 11 billion euros) to help millions of low and middle-income households with energy bills in particular.

Many household incomes are set to shrink further in April owing to a planned tax hike on UK workers and businesses to fund care for the elderly.

The same month, a cap on domestic gas and electricity bills will be increased because of a spike in wholesale energy costs.

Wage erosion&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;has been comforted by news that UK unemployment has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, rising wages are being eroded at the fastest pace in eight years as inflation soars.

"Higher inflation will erode real incomes and consumption," the OBR said Wednesday.

It said that "with inflation outpacing growth in nominal earnings and net taxes due to rise in April", real living standards are set to fall by a record amount this year.

The main opposition Labour party attacked&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;for failing to help all financially-struggling families.

"For all his words it is clear that the chancellor does not understand the scale of the challenge," Rachel Reeves, finance spokesperson for the main opposition Labour party, said in response to the budget update.

"He talks about providing security for hard-working families but his choices are making the cost of living crisis worse."

Spiking global inflation has forced central banks around the world to lift interest rates, including the Bank of England.

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It's 6pm - the biggest cut to all fuel duty rates ever has just come into effect. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpringStatement2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpringStatement2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/zd16vQ7wRH">pic.twitter.com/zd16vQ7wRH</a>
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Read more: <a href="https://t.co/GjjhPU7Is3">https://t.co/GjjhPU7Is3</a> <a href="https://t.co/hLTheBZ9At">pic.twitter.com/hLTheBZ9At</a>
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&nbsp;

British finance minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy. In a budget update, Chancellor of the Exchequer Sunak unveiled measures to help household finances, including a cut on fuel duty and easing the tax burden for the lowest earners. He also pledged to cut income tax in 2024, which is the last year when the next general election can be called by Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Britain's economy will grow far slower than expected this year owing to the Ukraine war and soaring global inflation, Sunak told parliament. The UK economy was set to grow 3.8 per cent in 2022, down from an official estimate of six per cent made in October. 'Prepare for worse' Sunak said that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) -- the government's official economic forecaster -- "has not accounted for the full impacts of the war in Ukraine and we should be prepared for the economy and public finances to worsen, potentially significantly". "Their initial view, combined with high global inflation and continuing supply chain pressures means" the UK economy is forecast to grow significantly slower than thought. Gross domestic product was estimated to expand a further 1.8 per cent next year, down from an official prediction of 2.1 per cent. The OBR warned that should "wholesale energy prices remain as high as markets expect, energy bills are set to rise... pushing inflation to a 40-year high of 8.7 per cent in the fourth quarter". UK annual inflation accelerated to a 30-year high at 6.2 per cent in February, official data showed Wednesday. Countries across the world are battling surging inflation fuelled by rocketing commodity prices over the Ukraine war and after nations exited pandemic lockdowns. Sunak last month unveiled a package worth £9 billion ($11.9 billion, 11 billion euros) to help millions of low and middle-income households with energy bills in particular. Many household incomes are set to shrink further in April owing to a planned tax hike on UK workers and businesses to fund care for the elderly. The same month, a cap on domestic gas and electricity bills will be increased because of a spike in wholesale energy costs. Wage erosion While Sunak has been comforted by news that UK unemployment has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, rising wages are being eroded at the fastest pace in eight years as inflation soars. "Higher inflation will erode real incomes and consumption," the OBR said Wednesday. It said that "with inflation outpacing growth in nominal earnings and net taxes due to rise in April", real living standards are set to fall by a record amount this year. The main opposition Labour party attacked Sunak for failing to help all financially-struggling families. "For all his words it is clear that the chancellor does not understand the scale of the challenge," Rachel Reeves, finance spokesperson for the main opposition Labour party, said in response to the budget update. "He talks about providing security for hard-working families but his choices are making the cost of living crisis worse." Spiking global inflation has forced central banks around the world to lift interest rates, including the Bank of England. It's 6pm - the biggest cut to all fuel duty rates ever has just come into effect. #SpringStatement2022 pic.twitter.com/zd16vQ7wRH — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 23, 2022 × We’re supporting and investing in small and medium sized businesses across the country. #SpringStatement2022 Read more: https://t.co/GjjhPU7Is3 pic.twitter.com/hLTheBZ9At — HM Treasury (@hmtreasury) March 23, 2022 ×

Spring Statement 2022: UK confronts cost of living crisis with inflation-fighting budget

Today is day 29 of the Ukraine-Russia war, and Russia is continuously attacking Ukraine. Recently, Boris Johnson urged the west to step up to help Ukraine.

UK to send 6,000 missiles and $33 million financial aid to Ukraine

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