Hong Kong protesters used innovative skills in their battle with the authorities. Protesters used shields, hand signals, umbrellas in the battle with the authorities. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong protests: Protesters used their innovative skills

China told UK to keep its hands off Hong Kong on July 3, this comes after Britain's foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong protests: China tells UK not to interfere

UK court allows Mallya to appeal against extradition. To know more watch the video

Mandy Clark on Mallya Granted permission to appeal against extradition

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigate-criminal-responsibility-of-violent-offenders-china-to-hong-kong-authorities-232227">Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong </a>was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-condemns-extremely-violent-protests-232173">British colony</a>.

China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest.

"The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said.

"There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. 
 
Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-police-evacuate-protesters-from-chamber-232300/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them.

Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns.

"We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said.

"But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony.

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony. China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest. "The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said. "There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them. Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns. "We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said. "But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

UK warns China of serious consequences if Hong Kong rights not honoured

India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-money-in-swiss-banks-falls-hits-second-lowest-level-in-two-decades-230943">money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks</a>, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation.

India was ranked 73rd last year, after jumping 15 places from its 88th position a year ago.

An analysis of the latest annual banking statistics released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB) shows that India remains ranked very low when it comes to money parked by Indian individuals and enterprises in Swiss banks, including through their India-based branches, while accounting for just about 0.07 per cent of the aggregate funds parked by all foreign clients of Switzerland-based banks.

In comparison, the top-ranked UK accounted for more than 26 per cent of the total foreign funds parked with Swiss banks at the end of 2018.

Among the top-ranked jurisdictions, the UK is followed by the US, West Indies, France and Hong Kong in the top five.

The top-five countries alone account for more than 50 per cent of the aggregate foreign funds parked with the Swiss banks, while the top-10 account for nearly two-thirds. The top-15 countries account for nearly 75 per cent of all foreign money in Swiss banks, while the contribution of the top-30 is almost 90 per cent.

The top-10 countries also include Bahamas, Germany, Luxembourg, Cayman Islands and Singapore.

Among the five-nation BRICS bloc of emerging economies, India is ranked the lowest while Russia is ranked the highest at 20th place, followed by China at 22nd, South Africa at 60th and Brazil at 65th place in terms of the amount of money parked by their residents and enterprises at the end of 2018.

The countries ranked higher than India also include Mauritius (71st), New Zealand (59th), the Philippines (54th), Venezuela (53rd), Seychelles (52nd), Thailand (39th), Canada (36th), Turkey (30th), Israel (28th), Saudi Arabia (21st), Panama (18th), Japan (16th), Italy (15th), Australia (13th), UAE (12th) and Guernsey (11th).

However, several of India's neighbouring nations are ranked lower, with Pakistan ranking 82nd, Bangladesh 89th, Nepal 109th, Sri Lanka 141st, Myanmar 187th and Bhutan 193rd.

This is the first time in the last four years that the funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks have slipped below that of Indians.

A number of other major countries also saw their funds falling in Swiss banks amid a global clampdown against the erstwhile banking secrecy walls in the Alpine nation. The funds, described by SNB as 'liabilities' of Swiss banks or 'amounts due to' their clients, are official figures disclosed by Swiss authorities and do not indicate the exact quantum of the much-debated alleged black money held in famed safe havens of Switzerland. The official figures, disclosed annually by Switzerland's central bank, also do not include the money that Indians, NRIs or others might have in Swiss banks in the names of entities from different countries. It has been often alleged that Indians and other nationals seeking to stash their illicit wealth abroad use multiple layers of various jurisdictions, including tax havens, to shift the money to Swiss banks.

Also, with Switzerland putting in place an automatic information exchange framework with India and various other countries, the famed secrecy walls of Swiss banks are said to have crumbled. India will start getting this automatic data from this year, while it has already been getting information on accounts where proof of illicit funds can be furnished.

The funds officially held by Indians with banks in Switzerland now accounts for only 0.07 per cent of the total funds kept by all foreign clients in the Swiss banking system, almost same as the level seen at 2017-end after a modest increase from 0.04 per cent a year before that, as per an analysis of the latest figures compiled by the SNB (Swiss National Bank) as on 2018-end.

India was placed at 75th position in 2015 and 61st in the year before, though it used to be among the top-50 countries in terms of holdings in Swiss banks till 2007. The country was ranked highest at 37th place in the year 2004.

The total money held in Swiss banks by foreign clients from across the world fell by about 4 per cent to CHF 1.4 trillion (about Rs. 99 lakh crore) in 2018. In terms of individual countries, the UK continues to account for the largest chunk at about CHF 372 billion (down from CHF 403 billion a year ago), which remains more than 26 per cent of the total foreign money with Swiss banks.

The US remains on the second position despite a dip to about CHF 144 billion (from CHF 166 billion a year ago), accounting for nearly 10.3 per cent of all foreign funds. The share is more than 1 per cent only for 21 jurisdictions.

India was ranked in the top-50 continuously between 1996 and 2007, but its rank started declining after that -&nbsp;55th in 2008, 59th in 2009 and 2010 each, 55th again in 2011, 71st in 2012 and then to 58th in 2013.

&nbsp;

India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation.

India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation. India was ranked 73rd last year, after jumping 15 places from its 88th position a year ago. An analysis of the latest annual banking statistics released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB) shows that India remains ranked very low when it comes to money parked by Indian individuals and enterprises in Swiss banks, including through their India-based branches, while accounting for just about 0.07 per cent of the aggregate funds parked by all foreign clients of Switzerland-based banks. In comparison, the top-ranked UK accounted for more than 26 per cent of the total foreign funds parked with Swiss banks at the end of 2018. Among the top-ranked jurisdictions, the UK is followed by the US, West Indies, France and Hong Kong in the top five. The top-five countries alone account for more than 50 per cent of the aggregate foreign funds parked with the Swiss banks, while the top-10 account for nearly two-thirds. The top-15 countries account for nearly 75 per cent of all foreign money in Swiss banks, while the contribution of the top-30 is almost 90 per cent. The top-10 countries also include Bahamas, Germany, Luxembourg, Cayman Islands and Singapore. Among the five-nation BRICS bloc of emerging economies, India is ranked the lowest while Russia is ranked the highest at 20th place, followed by China at 22nd, South Africa at 60th and Brazil at 65th place in terms of the amount of money parked by their residents and enterprises at the end of 2018. The countries ranked higher than India also include Mauritius (71st), New Zealand (59th), the Philippines (54th), Venezuela (53rd), Seychelles (52nd), Thailand (39th), Canada (36th), Turkey (30th), Israel (28th), Saudi Arabia (21st), Panama (18th), Japan (16th), Italy (15th), Australia (13th), UAE (12th) and Guernsey (11th). However, several of India's neighbouring nations are ranked lower, with Pakistan ranking 82nd, Bangladesh 89th, Nepal 109th, Sri Lanka 141st, Myanmar 187th and Bhutan 193rd. This is the first time in the last four years that the funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks have slipped below that of Indians. A number of other major countries also saw their funds falling in Swiss banks amid a global clampdown against the erstwhile banking secrecy walls in the Alpine nation. The funds, described by SNB as 'liabilities' of Swiss banks or 'amounts due to' their clients, are official figures disclosed by Swiss authorities and do not indicate the exact quantum of the much-debated alleged black money held in famed safe havens of Switzerland. The official figures, disclosed annually by Switzerland's central bank, also do not include the money that Indians, NRIs or others might have in Swiss banks in the names of entities from different countries. It has been often alleged that Indians and other nationals seeking to stash their illicit wealth abroad use multiple layers of various jurisdictions, including tax havens, to shift the money to Swiss banks. Also, with Switzerland putting in place an automatic information exchange framework with India and various other countries, the famed secrecy walls of Swiss banks are said to have crumbled. India will start getting this automatic data from this year, while it has already been getting information on accounts where proof of illicit funds can be furnished. The funds officially held by Indians with banks in Switzerland now accounts for only 0.07 per cent of the total funds kept by all foreign clients in the Swiss banking system, almost same as the level seen at 2017-end after a modest increase from 0.04 per cent a year before that, as per an analysis of the latest figures compiled by the SNB (Swiss National Bank) as on 2018-end. India was placed at 75th position in 2015 and 61st in the year before, though it used to be among the top-50 countries in terms of holdings in Swiss banks till 2007. The country was ranked highest at 37th place in the year 2004. The total money held in Swiss banks by foreign clients from across the world fell by about 4 per cent to CHF 1.4 trillion (about Rs. 99 lakh crore) in 2018. In terms of individual countries, the UK continues to account for the largest chunk at about CHF 372 billion (down from CHF 403 billion a year ago), which remains more than 26 per cent of the total foreign money with Swiss banks. The US remains on the second position despite a dip to about CHF 144 billion (from CHF 166 billion a year ago), accounting for nearly 10.3 per cent of all foreign funds. The share is more than 1 per cent only for 21 jurisdictions. India was ranked in the top-50 continuously between 1996 and 2007, but its rank started declining after that - 55th in 2008, 59th in 2009 and 2010 each, 55th again in 2011, 71st in 2012 and then to 58th in 2013.

Money in Swiss banks: India slips to 74th place, UK remains on top 

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Theresa May Warns Russia Over Skripal Poisoning

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship.

Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma.

"I owe a great debt to India and I have been rewarded way beyond my expectations," said 83-year-old Tully, who has been previously knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and conferred with the Padma Bhushan in India.

The annual UK-India Awards, which celebrate special talents and organisations who use their worldwide influence to strengthen UK-India ties, included wins for British Telecom (BT) in the Social Impact category and Indian hospitality start-up Oyo in the Market Entrant of the Year category.

While British Indian actor Kunal Nayyar best known for his role as Rajesh Koothrappali on the US sitcom 'The Big Bang Theory' was named Global Indian Icon of the Year, Indian-origin peer and Cobra Beer founder Lord Karan Bilimoria was presented with a special Significant Contribution to UK-India Relations Award.

"The UK is a wonderful global power and if there is a special relationship, it is with India," said Bilimoria.

The start-up of the Year Award, sponsored by Indian software services major Infosys, was won by Maanch, a new platform that matches up funders and receivers to accelerate global sustainable development.

"Maanch is an impact technology and it is designed to really bring the world together for sustainability so that we can invest and give money in a way that has the highest impact.

An award like this is an important validation because technologies like these are new," said Founder &amp; CEO Darshita Gillies.&nbsp;

The awards marked the conclusion of the annual UK-India Week, which kicked off on Monday with the first-ever India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London. Some of the other winners of the night included Fund of the Year for SoftBank Investment Advisers, Law Firm of the Year for the UK's Baker McKenzie, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of the Year for Manchester India Partnership, Deal of the Year for EverSource Capital/ Lightsource BP and Finance Organisation of the Year for AXIS Bank Limited.

The UK-India Awards, now in their third year, were selected by an all-women judging panel for the first time, including Director and Chief Counsel of Rolls-Royce plc Deborah D'Aubney and prominent Indian-origin anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller.

"All the winners and nominees are inspirational figures at the cutting edge of technology, innovation, business, international relations and culture, who are doing amazing work in making that UK-India partnership a truly winning one," said Manoj Ladwa, Founder &amp; CEO of India Inc. the organisation behind the awards.&nbsp;

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship. Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma.

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship. Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma. "I owe a great debt to India and I have been rewarded way beyond my expectations," said 83-year-old Tully, who has been previously knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and conferred with the Padma Bhushan in India. The annual UK-India Awards, which celebrate special talents and organisations who use their worldwide influence to strengthen UK-India ties, included wins for British Telecom (BT) in the Social Impact category and Indian hospitality start-up Oyo in the Market Entrant of the Year category. While British Indian actor Kunal Nayyar best known for his role as Rajesh Koothrappali on the US sitcom 'The Big Bang Theory' was named Global Indian Icon of the Year, Indian-origin peer and Cobra Beer founder Lord Karan Bilimoria was presented with a special Significant Contribution to UK-India Relations Award. "The UK is a wonderful global power and if there is a special relationship, it is with India," said Bilimoria. The start-up of the Year Award, sponsored by Indian software services major Infosys, was won by Maanch, a new platform that matches up funders and receivers to accelerate global sustainable development. "Maanch is an impact technology and it is designed to really bring the world together for sustainability so that we can invest and give money in a way that has the highest impact. An award like this is an important validation because technologies like these are new," said Founder & CEO Darshita Gillies. The awards marked the conclusion of the annual UK-India Week, which kicked off on Monday with the first-ever India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London. Some of the other winners of the night included Fund of the Year for SoftBank Investment Advisers, Law Firm of the Year for the UK's Baker McKenzie, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of the Year for Manchester India Partnership, Deal of the Year for EverSource Capital/ Lightsource BP and Finance Organisation of the Year for AXIS Bank Limited. The UK-India Awards, now in their third year, were selected by an all-women judging panel for the first time, including Director and Chief Counsel of Rolls-Royce plc Deborah D'Aubney and prominent Indian-origin anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller. "All the winners and nominees are inspirational figures at the cutting edge of technology, innovation, business, international relations and culture, who are doing amazing work in making that UK-India partnership a truly winning one," said Manoj Ladwa, Founder & CEO of India Inc. the organisation behind the awards.

Mark Tully gets lifetime achievement award for role in UK-India ties

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-urges-uk-to-stop-interfering-in-hong-kong-affairs-230624">UK should stop interfering in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs: Foreign ministry</a>

China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to&nbsp;Hong Kong&nbsp;and called for an independent probe into the recent violence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/countries-who-are-part-of-chinas-bri-have-seen-not-strings-attached-but-shackles-pompeo-230609">Countries who are part of China's BRI have seen not 'strings attached but shackles': Pompeo during meeting with Jaishankar</a>

Laying the foundation for&nbsp;PM Modi's meeting with US President&nbsp;Donald Trump in Osaka, Japan, on the sidelines of the 14th G20 Summit, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo met PM Modi and external affairs&nbsp;minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-cant-accept-defeats-not-a-healthy-sign-in-democracy-pm-narendra-modi-in-rajya-sabha-230582">Congress can't accept defeats, not a healthy sign in democracy: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha</a>

In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deliver-first-s-400-missile-to-turkey-in-july-reports-230635">Russia to deliver first S-400 missile to Turkey in July: Reports</a>

Russia will make first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July, Russian news agencies cited the head of Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying on Wednesday, in accordance with the earlier-stated plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-middle-east-economic-plan-in-face-of-palestinian-protest-230608">US pushes Middle East economic plan in face of Palestinian protest</a>

The Trump administration sought on Wednesday to win support for an&nbsp;economic plan&nbsp;it says will be a foundation for Israeli-Palestinian peace but which Palestinians and many other Arabs dismiss as pointless without a political solution to the decades-old conflict.

UK should stop interfering in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs: Foreign ministry China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence.

UK should stop interfering in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs: Foreign ministry China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence. Countries who are part of China's BRI have seen not 'strings attached but shackles': Pompeo during meeting with Jaishankar Laying the foundation for PM Modi's meeting with US President Donald Trump in Osaka, Japan, on the sidelines of the 14th G20 Summit, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo met PM Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday in Delhi. Congress can't accept defeats, not a healthy sign in democracy: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat. Russia to deliver first S-400 missile to Turkey in July: Reports Russia will make first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July, Russian news agencies cited the head of Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying on Wednesday, in accordance with the earlier-stated plans. US pushes Middle East economic plan in face of Palestinian protest The Trump administration sought on Wednesday to win support for an economic plan it says will be a foundation for Israeli-Palestinian peace but which Palestinians and many other Arabs dismiss as pointless without a political solution to the decades-old conflict.

News brief: Big stories of the day

China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-converge-on-hong-kong-police-headquarters-in-anti-govt-demonstration-229127">Hong Kong</a> and called for an independent probe into the recent violence.

Speaking at a&nbsp;news conference in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China demands "the UK immediately stop interference of any kind in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs."

When asked about protests earlier on Wednesday outside major foreign consulates in Hong Kong calling on leaders at the upcoming G20 summit to support the scrapping of a controversial extradition bill, Geng said "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activists-call-on-g20-leaders-to-help-liberate-city-230498">G20 </a>will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-will-not-allow-hong-kong-issue-to-be-discussed-at-g20-summit-229878">not discuss Hong Kong issues</a>. China will certainly not agree to G20 discussing Hong Kong affairs. This is entirely China's internal affair."

Responding to China, Britain's foreign ministry said on Wednesday it would continue to defend its position over Hong Kong.

The foreign ministry said, "The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago."

"As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position.”

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, which laid out how Britain would end its rule over Hong Kong before it was handed back to China in 1997, still applied.

The declaration guaranteed Hong Kong's rights and freedoms

Millions of people in Hong Kong have protested in recent weeks against the&nbsp;extradition bill that would have allowed individuals, including foreigners, to be extradited to mainland China to face trial.

Hong Kong's Beijing-appointed leader Carrie Lam, eventually caved in after some of the worst violence seen in decades on the city's streets, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets.

But Lam stopped short of protesters' demands to scrap the bill altogether, saying it would be suspended indefinitely.

 
&nbsp;

China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence.

China's Foreign Ministry denounced the UK for its "interference" in Hong Kong affairs on Wednesday after the British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told parliament that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence. Speaking at a news conference in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China demands "the UK immediately stop interference of any kind in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs." When asked about protests earlier on Wednesday outside major foreign consulates in Hong Kong calling on leaders at the upcoming G20 summit to support the scrapping of a controversial extradition bill, Geng said "G20 will not discuss Hong Kong issues. China will certainly not agree to G20 discussing Hong Kong affairs. This is entirely China's internal affair." Responding to China, Britain's foreign ministry said on Wednesday it would continue to defend its position over Hong Kong. The foreign ministry said, "The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago." "As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position.” A Foreign Office spokeswoman said the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, which laid out how Britain would end its rule over Hong Kong before it was handed back to China in 1997, still applied. The declaration guaranteed Hong Kong's rights and freedoms Millions of people in Hong Kong have protested in recent weeks against the extradition bill that would have allowed individuals, including foreigners, to be extradited to mainland China to face trial. Hong Kong's Beijing-appointed leader Carrie Lam, eventually caved in after some of the worst violence seen in decades on the city's streets, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets. But Lam stopped short of protesters' demands to scrap the bill altogether, saying it would be suspended indefinitely.

UK should stop interfering in Hong Kong and China's internal affairs: Foreign ministry

The UK is falling behind in the global race to engage with India as it has failed to adjust its strategy to fit India's enhanced influence and power on the world stage, a new British parliamentary inquiry report concluded on Monday.

India Watch: Report on India's importance to the UK

Boris Johnson is under pressure to explain an incident with police at his London home. Watch this video to know more.

Boris Johnson under pressure to explain alleged domestic row

Boris Johnson, the strong favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, came under pressure from figures in his own party on Sunday to explain reports of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-called-to-pm-hopeful-boris-johnsons-home-after-row-uk-media-229409">domestic 'row' that led to a police visit</a>.

Although still heavily backed to beat Jeremy Hunt to become Conservative Party leader, and therefore prime minister, a snap poll published in the Mail on Sunday suggested that the incident had cut his support.

The Guardian reported that police were alerted early on Friday after a neighbour heard a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-candidate-boris-johnson-avoids-questions-about-police-visit-229629"> loud altercation involving screams, shouts and bangs </a>at the south London property, shortly after Johnson had secured his place in the final run-off to become prime minister.

The paper said Johnson's partner Carrie Symonds could be heard telling the former London mayor to "get off me" and "get out of my flat".

The former foreign secretary refused to answer questions about the incident on the first day of the month-long contest to win over Conservative grassroot members, saying "I don't think people want to hear about that kind of thing."

He instead tried to focus on his policies, saying "we need to get Brexit done" and promising to prepare Britain for a no deal exit from the EU, if a deal cannot be reached.&nbsp;

- 'Lack of discipline' - 
Tory grandee Malcolm Rifkind criticised the response, saying "the fact is there was a police visit. You don't just say 'no comment'.

"That implies you may have something you don't want to disclose," he told BBC Radio 5.

Former Tory foreign office minister Alan Duncan told the Guardian his former boss now had a "big question mark over his head", adding Johnson had shown a "lack of discipline" throughout his career.

Among all voters, Hunt is now the preferred candidate to become prime minister, according to the Survation poll in the Mail on Sunday, as Johnson saw a seven percent decline in support.

He also saw his lead over Hunt with Tory voters slashed from 27 percent to nine percent since Friday.

But it is the party's 160,000 members who will have the final say, and their support appeared undimmed during the first day of "hustings" -- internal party debates to decide the new leader -- in Birmingham, central England, on Saturday.

The crowd gave Johnson a standing ovation, and loudly heckled interviewer Iain Dale as he quizzed the former London mayor over Friday's domestic incident.

- Bannon claims - 
"Stuff happens at home all the time... someone spills the wine, we can't really be making headlines out of that," supporter Hasnain Ahmed, 23, told AFP.&nbsp;

"What's important is what's this guy going to be delivering for you in Brexit."

With Sunday marking the three-year anniversary of the vote to leave the EU, the issue still dominates British politics.

Hunt also received a warm reception, promising that if he couldn't strike a Brexit deal with the EU, "then I will leave without a deal".

"I was probably leaning towards Boris but I was very impressed with what Jeremy Hunt said today," Tory councillor Karen Shakespeare, told AFP.

"He surprised me with his directness and honesty so I have to say I am now leaning very heavily towards Jeremy Hunt."

Johnson also came under scrutiny on Sunday for his relationship with Steve Bannon, the controversial former adviser to US President Donald Trump.

Footage published by the Observer showed Bannon claiming that he had helped craft Johnson's resignation speech as foreign minister last year.

The pair got to know each other professionally when both were in office, and were reported to have met again in an unofficial capacity last summer.

Johnson said at the time that "the so-called relationship" with Bannon was a "lefty delusion" and his office dismissed the latest claims of a working relationship as "totally preposterous to the point of a conspiracy".

Boris Johnson, the strong favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, came under pressure from figures in his own party on Sunday to explain reports of a domestic 'row' that led to a police visit.

Boris Johnson, the strong favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, came under pressure from figures in his own party on Sunday to explain reports of a domestic 'row' that led to a police visit. Although still heavily backed to beat Jeremy Hunt to become Conservative Party leader, and therefore prime minister, a snap poll published in the Mail on Sunday suggested that the incident had cut his support. The Guardian reported that police were alerted early on Friday after a neighbour heard a loud altercation involving screams, shouts and bangs at the south London property, shortly after Johnson had secured his place in the final run-off to become prime minister. The paper said Johnson's partner Carrie Symonds could be heard telling the former London mayor to "get off me" and "get out of my flat". The former foreign secretary refused to answer questions about the incident on the first day of the month-long contest to win over Conservative grassroot members, saying "I don't think people want to hear about that kind of thing." He instead tried to focus on his policies, saying "we need to get Brexit done" and promising to prepare Britain for a no deal exit from the EU, if a deal cannot be reached. - 'Lack of discipline' - Tory grandee Malcolm Rifkind criticised the response, saying "the fact is there was a police visit. You don't just say 'no comment'. "That implies you may have something you don't want to disclose," he told BBC Radio 5. Former Tory foreign office minister Alan Duncan told the Guardian his former boss now had a "big question mark over his head", adding Johnson had shown a "lack of discipline" throughout his career. Among all voters, Hunt is now the preferred candidate to become prime minister, according to the Survation poll in the Mail on Sunday, as Johnson saw a seven percent decline in support. He also saw his lead over Hunt with Tory voters slashed from 27 percent to nine percent since Friday. But it is the party's 160,000 members who will have the final say, and their support appeared undimmed during the first day of "hustings" -- internal party debates to decide the new leader -- in Birmingham, central England, on Saturday. The crowd gave Johnson a standing ovation, and loudly heckled interviewer Iain Dale as he quizzed the former London mayor over Friday's domestic incident. - Bannon claims - "Stuff happens at home all the time... someone spills the wine, we can't really be making headlines out of that," supporter Hasnain Ahmed, 23, told AFP. "What's important is what's this guy going to be delivering for you in Brexit." With Sunday marking the three-year anniversary of the vote to leave the EU, the issue still dominates British politics. Hunt also received a warm reception, promising that if he couldn't strike a Brexit deal with the EU, "then I will leave without a deal". "I was probably leaning towards Boris but I was very impressed with what Jeremy Hunt said today," Tory councillor Karen Shakespeare, told AFP. "He surprised me with his directness and honesty so I have to say I am now leaning very heavily towards Jeremy Hunt." Johnson also came under scrutiny on Sunday for his relationship with Steve Bannon, the controversial former adviser to US President Donald Trump. Footage published by the Observer showed Bannon claiming that he had helped craft Johnson's resignation speech as foreign minister last year. The pair got to know each other professionally when both were in office, and were reported to have met again in an unofficial capacity last summer. Johnson said at the time that "the so-called relationship" with Bannon was a "lefty delusion" and his office dismissed the latest claims of a working relationship as "totally preposterous to the point of a conspiracy".

UK's Boris Johnson under pressure to explain domestic 'row'

Boris Johnson, the favourite to be the next British Prime Minister, said on Saturday&nbsp;that party members were not interested in why police were called to investigate concerns for the welfare of a woman in his home.

Early on Friday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-called-to-pm-hopeful-boris-johnsons-home-after-row-uk-media-229409">British police were called to Johnson's home</a> after neighbours heard a loud altercation between him and his girlfriend.&nbsp;

Johnson to declined to answer questions about the incident at a hustings event in Birmingham, in central England, saying that party members would rather hear about his plans for Britain than about the incident.

"I don't think (audience members) want to hear about that kind of thing, unless I'm wrong," Johnson said when asked about the incident, to applause from the audience.

"I think what they want to hear is what my plans are for the country and for my party."

Police had been called to an address in south London where Johnson is living with his girlfriend, Carrie Symonds. Johnson is currently divorcing his second wife.

"The caller was concerned for the welfare of a female neighbour," the police said in a statement on Friday evening. "Police attended and spoke to all occupants of the address, who were all safe and well."

"There were no offences or concerns apparent to the officers and there was no cause for police action," the statement said.

Symonds could not be reached for comment.

Despite a series of scandals in the past and criticism about his attention to detail, Brexit supporter Johnson has dominated the race to replace Prime Minister Theresa May.

After a series of ballots to whittle down the race to two candidates, 160,000 Conservative Party members will now chose either Johnson and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt as their next leader - and thus the next prime minister.

At the event in Birmingham, Johnson said that people had a right to ask questions about his character, said that his record in office showed he had the right character to be prime minister.

Johnson, 55, who served as London mayor for eight years, has cast himself as the only candidate who can deliver Brexit on Oct. 31 while fighting off the electoral threats of Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and Jeremy Corbyn's Labour.

 
&nbsp;

Boris Johnson, the favourite to be the next British Prime Minister, said on Saturday that party members were not interested in why police were called to investigate concerns for the welfare of a woman in his home.

Boris Johnson, the favourite to be the next British Prime Minister, said on Saturday that party members were not interested in why police were called to investigate concerns for the welfare of a woman in his home. Early on Friday, British police were called to Johnson's home after neighbours heard a loud altercation between him and his girlfriend. Johnson to declined to answer questions about the incident at a hustings event in Birmingham, in central England, saying that party members would rather hear about his plans for Britain than about the incident. "I don't think (audience members) want to hear about that kind of thing, unless I'm wrong," Johnson said when asked about the incident, to applause from the audience. "I think what they want to hear is what my plans are for the country and for my party." Police had been called to an address in south London where Johnson is living with his girlfriend, Carrie Symonds. Johnson is currently divorcing his second wife. "The caller was concerned for the welfare of a female neighbour," the police said in a statement on Friday evening. "Police attended and spoke to all occupants of the address, who were all safe and well." "There were no offences or concerns apparent to the officers and there was no cause for police action," the statement said. Symonds could not be reached for comment. Despite a series of scandals in the past and criticism about his attention to detail, Brexit supporter Johnson has dominated the race to replace Prime Minister Theresa May. After a series of ballots to whittle down the race to two candidates, 160,000 Conservative Party members will now chose either Johnson and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt as their next leader - and thus the next prime minister. At the event in Birmingham, Johnson said that people had a right to ask questions about his character, said that his record in office showed he had the right character to be prime minister. Johnson, 55, who served as London mayor for eight years, has cast himself as the only candidate who can deliver Brexit on Oct. 31 while fighting off the electoral threats of Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and Jeremy Corbyn's Labour.

UK PM candidate Boris Johnson avoids questions about police visit

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

"The only candidate who will now do this is Boris Johnson and so I`ll be supporting him to become our next Prime Minister," he told the paper.

Raab, a strongly pro-Brexit candidate, had said parliament could be suspended if necessary if lawmakers blocked a no-deal departure from the European Union.

He won only 30 votes from fellow Conservative Party lawmakers in the second round on Tuesday, short of the 33-vote threshold, resulting in his elimination.

Five candidates proceed to Wednesday`s third round led by Johnson, who received 126 votes. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes.

The candidate with the fewest votes on Wednesday will be eliminated, leaving four still in the race.&nbsp;

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31. "The only candidate who will now do this is Boris Johnson and so I`ll be supporting him to become our next Prime Minister," he told the paper. Raab, a strongly pro-Brexit candidate, had said parliament could be suspended if necessary if lawmakers blocked a no-deal departure from the European Union. He won only 30 votes from fellow Conservative Party lawmakers in the second round on Tuesday, short of the 33-vote threshold, resulting in his elimination. Five candidates proceed to Wednesday`s third round led by Johnson, who received 126 votes. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes. The candidate with the fewest votes on Wednesday will be eliminated, leaving four still in the race.

Eliminated UK PM candidate Raab backs Johnson

Health minister Matt Hancock pulled out of the contest to be the next British prime minister on Friday, leaving six candidates remaining in the fight to replace Theresa May. "The party clearly is looking for a candidate to deal with the here and now. I very much put myself forward as the candidate focused on the future and so I've decided to withdraw from the race," he said in an interview with the BBC on Friday.

UK health minister Hancock pulls out of contest to be next prime minister

Britain's government is committed to doing whatever it can to keep its financial sector globally competitive after Brexit, financial services minister John Glen said on Tuesday.

Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 but it has yet to secure a divorce settlement with the bloc, the UK financial sector`s single biggest customer.

Uncertainty for finance has increased as a new British prime minister is being selected.

Glen said there must be a "clear plan" to maintain the UK financial sector`s global success as it cannot be taken for granted. 
 
"It would be a tragedy if we lost our competitive advantage by accident," Glen told a TheCityUK conference.

He knew the financial sector, known in Britain as the City, wanted an end to the 'Brexit impasse'.

Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Dublin have been vying to attract new hubs being opened by UK-based financial companies needing an EU base after Brexit.

Bankers see the shift of some jobs and activities from the City to the EU as inevitable and one-way, whatever the future UK trading deal with Brussels.

But Glen said none of those rival financial centres in the EU can match all that London has to offer.

TheCityUK`s new chair, Mark Tucker, said the financial sector was Britain`s most successful economic sector bar none and has a comparative advantage over other countries in that it is difficult, if not impossible, to replicate.

"It's the envy of other nations," said Tucker, who also chairs HSBC bank.

Finance needed to recover the public`s trust and have a "coherent and united front" so that it becomes more than the sum of its parts to demonstrate the benefits that finance brings to the economy and communities, Tucker said.&nbsp;

Britain's government is committed to doing whatever it can to keep its financial sector globally competitive after Brexit, financial services minister John Glen said on Tuesday.

Britain's government is committed to doing whatever it can to keep its financial sector globally competitive after Brexit, financial services minister John Glen said on Tuesday. Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 but it has yet to secure a divorce settlement with the bloc, the UK financial sector`s single biggest customer. Uncertainty for finance has increased as a new British prime minister is being selected. Glen said there must be a "clear plan" to maintain the UK financial sector`s global success as it cannot be taken for granted. "It would be a tragedy if we lost our competitive advantage by accident," Glen told a TheCityUK conference. He knew the financial sector, known in Britain as the City, wanted an end to the 'Brexit impasse'. Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Dublin have been vying to attract new hubs being opened by UK-based financial companies needing an EU base after Brexit. Bankers see the shift of some jobs and activities from the City to the EU as inevitable and one-way, whatever the future UK trading deal with Brussels. But Glen said none of those rival financial centres in the EU can match all that London has to offer. TheCityUK`s new chair, Mark Tucker, said the financial sector was Britain`s most successful economic sector bar none and has a comparative advantage over other countries in that it is difficult, if not impossible, to replicate. "It's the envy of other nations," said Tucker, who also chairs HSBC bank. Finance needed to recover the public`s trust and have a "coherent and united front" so that it becomes more than the sum of its parts to demonstrate the benefits that finance brings to the economy and communities, Tucker said.

Britain says it will do everything to keep finance competitive after Brexit

Iran on Saturday summoned the British ambassador to Tehran after London<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-blames-iran-for-tanker-attacks-says-wont-hesitate-on-threats-227478"> blamed it for attacks on oil tankers</a> in the Gulf of Oman, the semi-official Students News Agency ISNA reported, a claim denied by the British government.

"During the meeting with Iran`s foreign ministry official, Iran strongly condemned the unfounded allegations and criticised Britain`s unacceptable stance regarding the attacks in the Gulf of Oman," it said.

The ambassador was asked for an explanation and correction after Britain was the only nation to echo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-of-oman-tanker-attacks-un-chief-pushes-for-an-independent-probe-as-iran-rejects-us-blame-227226">US accusations</a>, ISNA reported.

A British foreign ministry official said the report was wrong and the ambassador has not been summoned.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt issued a statement on Friday blaming Iran and its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for the attacks, saying no other state or non-state actor could have been responsible.&nbsp;

Iran has denied any involvement.

The attacks have raised fears of a confrontation in the vital oil shipping route of the Strait of Hormuz at a time of increased tension between Iran and the United States.&nbsp;

Iran on Saturday summoned the British ambassador to Tehran after London blamed it for attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, the semi-official Students News Agency ISNA reported, a claim denied by the British government.

Iran on Saturday summoned the British ambassador to Tehran after London blamed it for attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, the semi-official Students News Agency ISNA reported, a claim denied by the British government. "During the meeting with Iran`s foreign ministry official, Iran strongly condemned the unfounded allegations and criticised Britain`s unacceptable stance regarding the attacks in the Gulf of Oman," it said. The ambassador was asked for an explanation and correction after Britain was the only nation to echo US accusations, ISNA reported. A British foreign ministry official said the report was wrong and the ambassador has not been summoned. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt issued a statement on Friday blaming Iran and its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for the attacks, saying no other state or non-state actor could have been responsible. Iran has denied any involvement. The attacks have raised fears of a confrontation in the vital oil shipping route of the Strait of Hormuz at a time of increased tension between Iran and the United States.

Iran summons UK envoy over 'unfounded' tanker accusations

President Donald Trump on Friday claimed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-queen-elizabeth-a-great-great-woman-at-state-banquet-224027">Britain's Queen Elizabeth II </a>had more fun during his state visit to the UK than in the last 25 years.

"I have such a great relationship, and we were laughing and having fun. And her people said she hasn`t had so much fun in 25 years. Then I got criticised for it because they said we were having too much fun," the Hill quoted Trump as saying.

Trump`s comments come two weeks after his first state visit to London to meet the 93-year-old monarch.

During his three-day visit, the president dined with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-to-be-evacuated-in-case-of-brexit-unrest-report-194679">Queen</a>, members of the British royal family and other British politicians at Buckingham Palace.

Trump and the queen reaffirmed the importance of the Washington-London relationship during an elaborate state banquet.

"On behalf of all Americans I offer a toast to the eternal friendship of our people, the vitality of our nations and to the long cherished and truly remarkable reign of her majesty, the queen," Trump said in his toast during the event.&nbsp;

He also met Prime Minister Theresa May.

Opposing Trump`s visit, thousands of people hit the streets.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-baby-blimp-to-fly-in-london-for-us-presidents-visit-223719">`Trump Baby` blimp </a>was flown by the demonstrators outside the Houses of Parliament, according to CNN, alongside a 16-foot robot version of Trump sitting on the toilet and tweeting.

Other activists came dressed as gorillas, with signs reading that they "only eat chlorinated chicken" -- a nod to concerns in Britain that a post-Brexit trade deal with the US would mean a decline in food standards for imported produce.

President Donald Trump on Friday claimed that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II had more fun during his state visit to the UK than in the last 25 years. "I have such a great relationship, and we were laughing and having fun.

President Donald Trump on Friday claimed that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II had more fun during his state visit to the UK than in the last 25 years. "I have such a great relationship, and we were laughing and having fun. And her people said she hasn`t had so much fun in 25 years. Then I got criticised for it because they said we were having too much fun," the Hill quoted Trump as saying. Trump`s comments come two weeks after his first state visit to London to meet the 93-year-old monarch. During his three-day visit, the president dined with the Queen, members of the British royal family and other British politicians at Buckingham Palace. Trump and the queen reaffirmed the importance of the Washington-London relationship during an elaborate state banquet. "On behalf of all Americans I offer a toast to the eternal friendship of our people, the vitality of our nations and to the long cherished and truly remarkable reign of her majesty, the queen," Trump said in his toast during the event. He also met Prime Minister Theresa May. Opposing Trump`s visit, thousands of people hit the streets. The `Trump Baby` blimp was flown by the demonstrators outside the Houses of Parliament, according to CNN, alongside a 16-foot robot version of Trump sitting on the toilet and tweeting. Other activists came dressed as gorillas, with signs reading that they "only eat chlorinated chicken" -- a nod to concerns in Britain that a post-Brexit trade deal with the US would mean a decline in food standards for imported produce.

Donald Trump claims Queen Elizabeth II had fun with him during his UK visit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-brexit-case-hounding-his-leadership-bid-225320">Boris Johnson</a>, the leading candidate to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-quits-as-party-leader-starting-succession-race-225177">Theresa May</a> as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms.

The EU has repeatedly said it will not reopen discussion of the Brexit transition deal it reached with May last year, which British lawmakers have rejected three times, prompting May to announce her resignation earlier this month.

May stepped down as leader of the governing Conservatives on Friday.

Johnson, a former foreign secretary in May's cabinet, is popular with ordinary Conservative Party members, who will decide between the two candidates who come top in a series of votes by Conservative lawmakers over the coming weeks.

"I always thought it was extraordinary that we should agree to write that entire cheque before having a final deal. In getting a good deal, money is a great solvent and a great lubricant," Johnson told the Sunday Times.

Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 if Parliament does not approve a deal - and the government does not ask the EU for another delay - there risks being major economic disruption from a disorderly departure.

Watch: Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next?

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The 39 billion pounds represents outstanding British liabilities to the EU, which would be paid over a number of years according to the withdrawal agreement negotiated by May.

Johnson also said border arrangements with Ireland should be settled only as part of a long-term agreement, rejecting a "backstop" which would avoid checks on Northern Ireland's border but which Conservative lawmakers fear is a backdoor way of requiring Britain to continue to follow EU rules after Brexit.

The EU has said guarantees to keep the border open between Ireland and Northern Ireland are an essential part of the transition agreement.

Separately, one of Johnson's rivals, environment minister Michael Gove, said he would scrap the value-added tax (VAT) levied on most goods and services and replace it with a lower US-style sales tax.

Gove told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted to use "the opportunity of life outside the EU to look to replace VAT with a lower, simpler sales tax, ensuring our business tax structure is the most competitive in the G20 and reducing marginal tax rates for the poorest families to reward work."

VAT is one of Britain's main taxes, which the government expects to raise 137 billion pounds this year.

Another leadership contender, Sajid Javid, said he was willing to pay Ireland hundreds of millions of pounds towards the cost of new border arrangements to facilitate a Brexit deal.

Boris Johnson, the leading candidate to succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms.

Boris Johnson, the leading candidate to succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms. The EU has repeatedly said it will not reopen discussion of the Brexit transition deal it reached with May last year, which British lawmakers have rejected three times, prompting May to announce her resignation earlier this month. May stepped down as leader of the governing Conservatives on Friday. Johnson, a former foreign secretary in May's cabinet, is popular with ordinary Conservative Party members, who will decide between the two candidates who come top in a series of votes by Conservative lawmakers over the coming weeks. "I always thought it was extraordinary that we should agree to write that entire cheque before having a final deal. In getting a good deal, money is a great solvent and a great lubricant," Johnson told the Sunday Times. Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 if Parliament does not approve a deal - and the government does not ask the EU for another delay - there risks being major economic disruption from a disorderly departure. Watch: Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next? × The 39 billion pounds represents outstanding British liabilities to the EU, which would be paid over a number of years according to the withdrawal agreement negotiated by May. Johnson also said border arrangements with Ireland should be settled only as part of a long-term agreement, rejecting a "backstop" which would avoid checks on Northern Ireland's border but which Conservative lawmakers fear is a backdoor way of requiring Britain to continue to follow EU rules after Brexit. The EU has said guarantees to keep the border open between Ireland and Northern Ireland are an essential part of the transition agreement. Separately, one of Johnson's rivals, environment minister Michael Gove, said he would scrap the value-added tax (VAT) levied on most goods and services and replace it with a lower US-style sales tax. Gove told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted to use "the opportunity of life outside the EU to look to replace VAT with a lower, simpler sales tax, ensuring our business tax structure is the most competitive in the G20 and reducing marginal tax rates for the poorest families to reward work." VAT is one of Britain's main taxes, which the government expects to raise 137 billion pounds this year. Another leadership contender, Sajid Javid, said he was willing to pay Ireland hundreds of millions of pounds towards the cost of new border arrangements to facilitate a Brexit deal.

UK’s Boris Johnson threatens to withhold $50 billion Brexit payment

It's Not Just The UK, Many Major Global Powers Have Ignored India'S Contribution.

Gravitas:  Why Is India's Contribution To WW2 Ignored

UK PM Theresa May to officially resign as PM of UK today. But Who'll be the next PM of UK, Who'll lead the Conservative Party. Watch this video to know more.

Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next?

UK PM Theresa May to officially resign today. But May will remain in office until another new PM is elected.

UK PM May to officially resign today

U.S. President Pats Queen On Her Back During His Visit To United Kingdom. Traditional Brits Accuse Him Of Breaking Tradition

Gravitas: Royal protocol - is it relevant?

Automaker Ford is planning to close Bridgend engine plant in UK. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: Ford to close Bridgend engine plant

The Normandy landings took place on 6 June 1944 and it was one of the biggest seaborne invasions in history. The operation against Nazi Germany was a combined effort, and included support from the UK, US and Canada, and it is considered to be a key component to securing victory during the Second World War.

World War II D-Day: What is 'Operation Neptune'?

World leaders, royalty and hundreds of veterans have gathered in Portsmouth to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Some 60,000 members of the public are expected to attend the Portsmouth Naval Memorial on Southsea Common for the event which marks the 75th anniversary of the biggest amphibious invasion in military history.

Theresa May pays tribute on 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings

The United Kingdom's Queen Elizabeth will be joined for the commemorative events in Portsmouth by veterans and by US President Donald Trump, who is on the final day of a state visit to Britain.

World leaders gather in UK for start of 75th D-Day commemorations

US President Donald Trump Is On His Second State Visit To The UK. But On The First Day Itself, The Visit Has Been Hit By Controversies. Watch This Report From Gravitas.

Gravitas: Trump Kicks Off State Visit To The UK

Thousands of people took to the streets of London to protest Donald Trump's visit. Watch full video to know more. #DonaldTrumpVisit #ProtestsInLondon #TrumpInUK

Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit

On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal.&nbsp;

Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and&nbsp;added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States".&nbsp;Trump said everything is on the table in UK trade talks.

Earlier in the day, Trump touted a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-promises-uk-pm-theresa-may-very-substantial-trade-deal-after-brexit-224218">very, very substantial trade deal</a>" between the United States and Britain after Brexit.&nbsp;He met May at her Downing Street residence, earlier in the day, as part of his state visit to Britain.

"I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding, "We're going to get it done."

Watch:&nbsp;Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit

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Both the leaders also expressed similar views on Iran. "We have similar goals on Iran," said May, adding that the UK and the US will "work together to strengthen our alliance".

The US President also slipped out his intentions with respect to neighbouring Mexico stating that the "US will most likely impose tariffs on Mexico".&nbsp;

On Brexit, Trump said that he thinks that it will happen and "it probably should happen".&nbsp;

"I would think it will happen and it probably should happen. This is a great, great country and it wants its own identity, it wants to have its own borders, it wants to run its own affairs. This is a very, very special place," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-turns-to-brexit-and-huawei-as-protesters-mock-with-a-blimp-224195">On Huawei</a>, Trump said that there is going to be an agreement on the same.

"We are going to have absolutely an agreement on Huawei and everything else. We have an incredible intelligence relationship and we are going to be able to work out any differences. We did discuss it. I see absolutely no limitations, we have never (had) limitations, this is a truly great ally and partner and we will have no problem with that," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Trump's UK visit is marred by protests.&nbsp;Protesters shouted, banged drums and waved placards at what organisers called a "Carnival of Resistance" at Trafalgar Square.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal. Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States".

On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal. Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States". Trump said everything is on the table in UK trade talks. Earlier in the day, Trump touted a "very, very substantial trade deal" between the United States and Britain after Brexit. He met May at her Downing Street residence, earlier in the day, as part of his state visit to Britain. "I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding, "We're going to get it done." Watch: Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit Both the leaders also expressed similar views on Iran. "We have similar goals on Iran," said May, adding that the UK and the US will "work together to strengthen our alliance". The US President also slipped out his intentions with respect to neighbouring Mexico stating that the "US will most likely impose tariffs on Mexico". On Brexit, Trump said that he thinks that it will happen and "it probably should happen". "I would think it will happen and it probably should happen. This is a great, great country and it wants its own identity, it wants to have its own borders, it wants to run its own affairs. This is a very, very special place," he said. On Huawei, Trump said that there is going to be an agreement on the same. "We are going to have absolutely an agreement on Huawei and everything else. We have an incredible intelligence relationship and we are going to be able to work out any differences. We did discuss it. I see absolutely no limitations, we have never (had) limitations, this is a truly great ally and partner and we will have no problem with that," news agency Reuters reported. Trump's UK visit is marred by protests. Protesters shouted, banged drums and waved placards at what organisers called a "Carnival of Resistance" at Trafalgar Square. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump, Theresa May reiterate commitment for US-UK trade deal

Anti-Trump protesters have inflated a balloon of a baby 'Donald Trump' on the second day of the US President visit to the UK.

'Donald Trump' baby balloon flies over protesters in central London

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