UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has got embroiled in yet another controversy. This time, a letter, which has been leaked, shows the UK’s foreign office and Johnson may have swept under the carpet the PM’s role in airlifting over 150 cats and dogs from Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Labour MP Chris Bryant said that there had been an attempt to “cover up” personal intervention by the PM. &nbsp;

In the letter, which was tweeted by LBC’s Theo Usherwood on Tuesday, it was said that charity worker Pen Farthing, his staff and the animals could be airlifted from Kabul in August during the evacuations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The letter, which was sent to Farthing, was signed by Trudy Harrison, MP for Copeland and parliamentary private secretary to the prime minister. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-evacuation-whistleblowers-devastating-account-slams-uks-foreign-office-434779" hreflang="en">Afghan evacuation: Whistleblower’s devastating account slams UK’s foreign office</a>

The letter said, “I have received confirmation … that you, your staff and their dependents are permitted to travel.” All 68 people can be given space on a RAF plane, while the animals could be “evacuated on a separate, chartered flight”. &nbsp;

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At lunchtime Number 10 said a whistleblower’s claim the PM and his wife were involved in the evacuation of Nowzad staff was “untrue”. 
 
Just been passed a letter from the PM’s PPS Trudy Harrison to Pen Farthing to confirm Nowzad staff could travel to the airport to be evacuated. <a href="https://t.co/zYLLU0L4aG">pic.twitter.com/zYLLU0L4aG</a>
— Theo Usherwood (@theousherwood) <a href="https://twitter.com/theousherwood/status/1468275546031280128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On claims made by whistleblower over chaotic evacuation due to sorry state of affairs at UK Foreign Office, Johnson’s spokesperson had denied any intervention by the PM. &nbsp;

There were also claims that pets were getting prioritised over people during the evacuation. &nbsp;

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Johnson’s spokesperson said, “At no point, did the prime minister intervene. We have always prioritised people over animals, as we said both during and subsequently.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Responding to the letter, No 10 said, “This was an operational decision … This letter was nothing to do with Harrison’s role as the PM’s PPS, she was acting in her capacity as a constituency MP.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has got embroiled in yet another controversy. This time, a letter, which has been leaked, shows the UK’s foreign office and Johnson may have swept under the carpet the PM’s role in airlifting over 150 cats and dogs from Afghanistan.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has got embroiled in yet another controversy. This time, a letter, which has been leaked, shows the UK’s foreign office and Johnson may have swept under the carpet the PM’s role in airlifting over 150 cats and dogs from Afghanistan. Labour MP Chris Bryant said that there had been an attempt to “cover up” personal intervention by the PM. In the letter, which was tweeted by LBC’s Theo Usherwood on Tuesday, it was said that charity worker Pen Farthing, his staff and the animals could be airlifted from Kabul in August during the evacuations. The letter, which was sent to Farthing, was signed by Trudy Harrison, MP for Copeland and parliamentary private secretary to the prime minister. Also Read | Afghan evacuation: Whistleblower’s devastating account slams UK’s foreign office The letter said, “I have received confirmation … that you, your staff and their dependents are permitted to travel.” All 68 people can be given space on a RAF plane, while the animals could be “evacuated on a separate, chartered flight”. At lunchtime Number 10 said a whistleblower’s claim the PM and his wife were involved in the evacuation of Nowzad staff was “untrue”. Just been passed a letter from the PM’s PPS Trudy Harrison to Pen Farthing to confirm Nowzad staff could travel to the airport to be evacuated. pic.twitter.com/zYLLU0L4aG — Theo Usherwood (@theousherwood) December 7, 2021 × On claims made by whistleblower over chaotic evacuation due to sorry state of affairs at UK Foreign Office, Johnson’s spokesperson had denied any intervention by the PM. There were also claims that pets were getting prioritised over people during the evacuation. Also Read | Early indications Omicron variant more transmissible than Delta: UK PM Johnson Johnson’s spokesperson said, “At no point, did the prime minister intervene. We have always prioritised people over animals, as we said both during and subsequently.” Responding to the letter, No 10 said, “This was an operational decision … This letter was nothing to do with Harrison’s role as the PM’s PPS, she was acting in her capacity as a constituency MP.” (With inputs from agencies)

Letter showing UK PM’s role in animals’ evacuation from Kabul surfaces

If a whistleblower is to be believed, numerous Afghans were unable to get the UK’s help after Taliban took over Kabul due to sorry state of affairs at the foreign office. &nbsp;

As per the whistleblower's account, there was immense turmoil and confusion in the foreign office. &nbsp;

Raphael Marshall, a former diplomat, has said that lack of planning, ministerial intervention, bureaucratic chaos and a short-hours culture in the department resulted in “people being left to die at the hands of the Taliban”. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-airways-to-become-first-airline-to-use-sustainable-fuel-produced-in-uk-434743" hreflang="en">British Airways to become first airline to use sustainable fuel produced in UK</a>

After Marshall presented his account to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) permanent secretary Sir Phillip Barton at August end, an internal inquiry was launched into allegations. &nbsp;

Whistleblower’s evidence and the launch of internal inquiry may have led to the then foreign secretary Dominic Raab to get shifted to a new cabinet role. &nbsp;

Oxford graduate with three years in diplomatic service, Marshall volunteered to work on the FCDO’s special cases team during Afghan crisis in August. Marshall has now quit the department. &nbsp;

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In testimony to the foreign affairs select committee published on Tuesday, Marshall disclosed the chaos he saw at the department. &nbsp;

Raab showed a misunderstanding of the situation at Kabul airport by delaying many emergency evacuation referrals, Marshall claimed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a whistleblower is to be believed, numerous Afghans were unable to get the UK’s help after Taliban took over Kabul due to sorry state of affairs at the foreign office.

If a whistleblower is to be believed, numerous Afghans were unable to get the UK’s help after Taliban took over Kabul due to sorry state of affairs at the foreign office. As per the whistleblower's account, there was immense turmoil and confusion in the foreign office. Raphael Marshall, a former diplomat, has said that lack of planning, ministerial intervention, bureaucratic chaos and a short-hours culture in the department resulted in “people being left to die at the hands of the Taliban”. Also Read: British Airways to become first airline to use sustainable fuel produced in UK After Marshall presented his account to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) permanent secretary Sir Phillip Barton at August end, an internal inquiry was launched into allegations. Whistleblower’s evidence and the launch of internal inquiry may have led to the then foreign secretary Dominic Raab to get shifted to a new cabinet role. Oxford graduate with three years in diplomatic service, Marshall volunteered to work on the FCDO’s special cases team during Afghan crisis in August. Marshall has now quit the department. Also Read: SMS, crime scorecards, passport seizure - UK takes strong stand against drug use In testimony to the foreign affairs select committee published on Tuesday, Marshall disclosed the chaos he saw at the department. Raab showed a misunderstanding of the situation at Kabul airport by delaying many emergency evacuation referrals, Marshall claimed. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan evacuation: Whistleblower’s devastating account slams UK’s foreign office

United Kingdom: Boris Johnson govt has launched a $398 million 10-year plan to tackle the menace of drugs in the country. The initiative will not only target smuggling gangs but will also try to boost the rehabilitation of users.

UK drugs crackdown: Boris Johnson's $398 million plan to tackle drug menace

British Airways will become the first airline to use sustainable aviation fuel produced on a commercial scale in the UK after signing a multi-year agreement with Phillips 66 Limited.

"Thousands of tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will be produced for the first time in the UK at the Phillips 66 Humber Refinery near Immingham and will be supplied to British Airways to power a number of its flights from early 2022," British Airways said in a statement.

SAF is a lower carbon-intensity fuel that can be produced from renewable feedstocks such as waste vegetable oils, fats and greases.

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According to the statement, the supply agreement between British Airways and Phillips 66 Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of diversified energy manufacturing and logistics company Phillips 66, advances both companies' commitments to a lower-carbon future.

The airline, which is driving to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, will purchase enough sustainable fuel to reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions by almost 100,000 tonnes, the equivalent of powering 700 net zero CO2 emissions flights between London and New York on its fuel-efficient Boeing 787 aircraft, read the statement.

The SAF will be produced from sustainable waste feedstock at the Humber Refinery, which will deliver its SAF supply to British Airways via existing pipeline infrastructure that feeds directly into UK airports.

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&nbsp;

Sean Doyle, British Airways' Chairman and Chief Executive, said, "This agreement marks another important step on our journey to net zero carbon emissions and forms part of our commitment, as part of International Airlines Group, to power 10% of flights with SAF by 2030.

"The UK has the resources and capabilities to be a global leader in the development of SAF and scaling up the production of SAF requires a truly collaborative approach between industry and government," Doyle said.

"We are excited to develop our relationship with Phillips 66 Limited further with a view to growing production capacity and using a wider range of sustainable waste feedstocks to supply our future flights. The development of sustainable aviation fuel is a major focus for us and forms part of our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through a series of short-, medium- and long-term initiatives," Doyle added.

The airline's parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), is investing USD 400 million over the next 20 years into the development of SAF and British Airways has existing partnerships with a number of technology and fuel companies to develop SAF plants and purchase the fuel. SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by over 80 per cent compared to the traditional jet fuel it replaces.

Humber Refinery General Manager Darren Cunningham, the Lead Executive for Phillips 66 in the UK, said the announcement reflects the importance the aviation and energy industries are placing on sustainability and the continued development, adoption and scaling up of sustainable aviation fuel.

"The Humber Refinery was the first in the UK to co-process waste oils to produce renewable fuels and now we will be the first to produce SAF at scale, and we are delighted British Airways is our first UK customer," Cunningham said.

"We're currently refining almost half a million litres of sustainable waste feedstocks a day, and this is just a start. Markets for lower-carbon products are growing, and this agreement demonstrates our ability to supply them," Cunningham added.

Last year Phillips 66 Limited invested significantly to expand its production of fuels from waste feedstocks.

The investment is part of a broader energy transition plan to reduce the carbon intensity of its refinery operations and products that support 1,000 Humber Refinery jobs, the statement added.

British Airways will become the first airline to use sustainable aviation fuel produced on a commercial scale in the UK after signing a multi-year agreement with Phillips 66 Limited.

British Airways will become the first airline to use sustainable aviation fuel produced on a commercial scale in the UK after signing a multi-year agreement with Phillips 66 Limited. "Thousands of tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will be produced for the first time in the UK at the Phillips 66 Humber Refinery near Immingham and will be supplied to British Airways to power a number of its flights from early 2022," British Airways said in a statement. SAF is a lower carbon-intensity fuel that can be produced from renewable feedstocks such as waste vegetable oils, fats and greases. ALSO READ | Mountaineer gets jewels he found from debris of Air India's crashed plane According to the statement, the supply agreement between British Airways and Phillips 66 Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of diversified energy manufacturing and logistics company Phillips 66, advances both companies' commitments to a lower-carbon future. The airline, which is driving to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, will purchase enough sustainable fuel to reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions by almost 100,000 tonnes, the equivalent of powering 700 net zero CO2 emissions flights between London and New York on its fuel-efficient Boeing 787 aircraft, read the statement. The SAF will be produced from sustainable waste feedstock at the Humber Refinery, which will deliver its SAF supply to British Airways via existing pipeline infrastructure that feeds directly into UK airports. IN PICS | Stunning images of hot air balloons taking over the sky in Antequera, Spain, during King's cup Sean Doyle, British Airways' Chairman and Chief Executive, said, "This agreement marks another important step on our journey to net zero carbon emissions and forms part of our commitment, as part of International Airlines Group, to power 10% of flights with SAF by 2030. "The UK has the resources and capabilities to be a global leader in the development of SAF and scaling up the production of SAF requires a truly collaborative approach between industry and government," Doyle said. "We are excited to develop our relationship with Phillips 66 Limited further with a view to growing production capacity and using a wider range of sustainable waste feedstocks to supply our future flights. The development of sustainable aviation fuel is a major focus for us and forms part of our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through a series of short-, medium- and long-term initiatives," Doyle added. The airline's parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), is investing USD 400 million over the next 20 years into the development of SAF and British Airways has existing partnerships with a number of technology and fuel companies to develop SAF plants and purchase the fuel. SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by over 80 per cent compared to the traditional jet fuel it replaces. Humber Refinery General Manager Darren Cunningham, the Lead Executive for Phillips 66 in the UK, said the announcement reflects the importance the aviation and energy industries are placing on sustainability and the continued development, adoption and scaling up of sustainable aviation fuel. "The Humber Refinery was the first in the UK to co-process waste oils to produce renewable fuels and now we will be the first to produce SAF at scale, and we are delighted British Airways is our first UK customer," Cunningham said. "We're currently refining almost half a million litres of sustainable waste feedstocks a day, and this is just a start. Markets for lower-carbon products are growing, and this agreement demonstrates our ability to supply them," Cunningham added. Last year Phillips 66 Limited invested significantly to expand its production of fuels from waste feedstocks. The investment is part of a broader energy transition plan to reduce the carbon intensity of its refinery operations and products that support 1,000 Humber Refinery jobs, the statement added.

British Airways to become first airline to use sustainable fuel produced in UK

In what comes as a "dire warning" to the UK MPs, two former detainees in Australia’s immigration detention centres have urged the parliamentarians to not support the nationality and borders bill, which contains a proposal to grant the UK permissions to send migrants to a third country in order to have their asylum claims processed.

The two former detainees who have issued the warning by signing a letter include Thanush Selvarasa and Elahe Zivardar.

Thanush is a Tamil refugee who was held in Manus Island detention centre for nearly 7 years before. He now works as a campaigner for asylum seekers’ rights. Elahe, who happens to be an Iranian artist and refugee was held in the Nauru detention centre for 6 years.

It is said that if this bill is passed, it will lower down protection for refugees.&nbsp;

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These two former refugees have been supported by two other signatories who worked in the detention camps - Dr Nick Martin and Carly Hawkins. Organisations including Amnesty International (UK and Australia), Lancet Migration, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Refugee Council, Human Rights Watch and Doctors of the World have also shown their support for the letter.&nbsp;

UNHCR has denounced the plans and warned that if the bill becomes law it will undermine the 1951 refugee convention. In a statement, the organisation said, "UNHCR calls upon the UK to guarantee the right to seek and enjoy asylum for all persons under its jurisdiction, including those who enter, or seek to enter, irregularly, and not merely those who have already been recognised as refugees outside of the UK and who arrive through resettlement or other legal pathways".

It further said that the attempts to relieve pressure on the UK asylum system are "neither effective nor sustainable" ways to address the system’s current weaknesses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-boats-crossing-the-english-channel-could-be-turned-back-by-britain-411926">Also read |&nbsp;Migrant boats crossing the English Channel could be turned back by Britain</a>

The letter states, "As people who were detained indefinitely in Australia’s offshore camps on Nauru and Manus Island, Papua New Guinea, and as professionals who were employed there, we are deeply concerned to learn that the UK government seeks to grant itself the same power to transfer people seeking asylum to offshore detention centres."

It further mentioned how these people are writing with a dire warning. It further goes on to state that the people cannot imagine why the country wants to go ahead with "such a cruel, costly and ultimately futile system.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a "dire warning" to the UK MPs, two former detainees in Australia’s immigration detention centres have urged the parliamentarians to not support the nationality and borders bill, which contains a proposal to grant the UK permissions to send migrants to a third country in order to have their asylum claims processed.

In what comes as a "dire warning" to the UK MPs, two former detainees in Australia’s immigration detention centres have urged the parliamentarians to not support the nationality and borders bill, which contains a proposal to grant the UK permissions to send migrants to a third country in order to have their asylum claims processed. The two former detainees who have issued the warning by signing a letter include Thanush Selvarasa and Elahe Zivardar. Thanush is a Tamil refugee who was held in Manus Island detention centre for nearly 7 years before. He now works as a campaigner for asylum seekers’ rights. Elahe, who happens to be an Iranian artist and refugee was held in the Nauru detention centre for 6 years. It is said that if this bill is passed, it will lower down protection for refugees. Also read | Macron tells UK to 'get serious' over English Channel migrant issue These two former refugees have been supported by two other signatories who worked in the detention camps - Dr Nick Martin and Carly Hawkins. Organisations including Amnesty International (UK and Australia), Lancet Migration, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Refugee Council, Human Rights Watch and Doctors of the World have also shown their support for the letter. UNHCR has denounced the plans and warned that if the bill becomes law it will undermine the 1951 refugee convention. In a statement, the organisation said, "UNHCR calls upon the UK to guarantee the right to seek and enjoy asylum for all persons under its jurisdiction, including those who enter, or seek to enter, irregularly, and not merely those who have already been recognised as refugees outside of the UK and who arrive through resettlement or other legal pathways". It further said that the attempts to relieve pressure on the UK asylum system are "neither effective nor sustainable" ways to address the system’s current weaknesses. Also read | Migrant boats crossing the English Channel could be turned back by Britain The letter states, "As people who were detained indefinitely in Australia’s offshore camps on Nauru and Manus Island, Papua New Guinea, and as professionals who were employed there, we are deeply concerned to learn that the UK government seeks to grant itself the same power to transfer people seeking asylum to offshore detention centres." It further mentioned how these people are writing with a dire warning. It further goes on to state that the people cannot imagine why the country wants to go ahead with "such a cruel, costly and ultimately futile system.” (With inputs from agencies)

'Dire warning': Former detainees urge UK MPs to not support 'cruel' nationality and borders bill

Alarmed over reports of rampant drug usage on Parliament grounds in the UK, the Speaker of House of Commons is considering calling police sniffer dogs after traces of cocaine and other drugs were detected in Westminster.

The suggestion is currently being reviewed by senior MPs after an investigation by British daily The Times found traces of cocaine at 11 out of 12 test sites.

Among the sites where traces of drugs were discovered include a bathroom close to the private offices of Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel.

Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has vowed to launch an investigation.

“The accounts of drug misuse in Parliament given to the&nbsp;Sunday Times&nbsp;are deeply concerning – and I will be raising them as a priority with the Metropolitan Police next week. I expect to see full and effective enforcement of the law,” he said.

“It may be that we now need to broaden the range of sniffer dogs … to include those which can detect drugs,” The Times cited Conservative MP Charles Walker as saying.

Sniffer dogs have previously been deployed in the House of Commons to detect explosives.

The places tested with drug use in the sweep are only accessible to those with a parliamentary pass, or visitors allowed in who have to be accompanied around the building by the person they are meeting.

Recently, Boris Johnson discussed his new plans to crack down on drug use and distribution across the UK, set to ‘make an example' out of middle-class offenders.

(With inputs from agencies)

Alarmed over reports of rampant drug usage on Parliament grounds in the UK, the Speaker of House of Commons is considering calling police sniffer dogs after traces of cocaine and other drugs were detected in Westminster.

Alarmed over reports of rampant drug usage on Parliament grounds in the UK, the Speaker of House of Commons is considering calling police sniffer dogs after traces of cocaine and other drugs were detected in Westminster. The suggestion is currently being reviewed by senior MPs after an investigation by British daily The Times found traces of cocaine at 11 out of 12 test sites. Among the sites where traces of drugs were discovered include a bathroom close to the private offices of Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel. Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has vowed to launch an investigation. “The accounts of drug misuse in Parliament given to the Sunday Times are deeply concerning – and I will be raising them as a priority with the Metropolitan Police next week. I expect to see full and effective enforcement of the law,” he said. “It may be that we now need to broaden the range of sniffer dogs … to include those which can detect drugs,” The Times cited Conservative MP Charles Walker as saying. Sniffer dogs have previously been deployed in the House of Commons to detect explosives. The places tested with drug use in the sweep are only accessible to those with a parliamentary pass, or visitors allowed in who have to be accompanied around the building by the person they are meeting. Recently, Boris Johnson discussed his new plans to crack down on drug use and distribution across the UK, set to ‘make an example' out of middle-class offenders. (With inputs from agencies)

Westminster high on drugs? Speaker wants sniffer dogs in Parliament amid reports of cocaine use

The economy in Britain is set to grow more slowly now than previously thought this year. Economic growth is expected to grow at 6.9% in 2021 and 5.1% in 2022.

United Kingdom: Supply chain disruptions hit economy

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians.&nbsp;The deity was among yogini, female religious figures, which went missing between 1979 and 1982.

According to a report by the Guardian, the sculpture, which has been found in an English country garden, will be given to the High Commission of India in London.

An expert in the field of recovering stolen and missing art Christopher Marinello is to be thanked for the recovery. “This piece is considered a god, not just a sculpture," he said.

It has been reported that one of the world's largest auctioneers, Sotheby's offered the statue for sale in 1988. Also, in 1997, the statue was one among the looted antiquities which were&nbsp;featured in the former journalist Peter Watson’s book, titled "Sotheby’s: Inside Story."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-is-in-the-bin-british-artist-banksys-half-shredded-picture-sells-for-record-25-million-420854">Also read |&nbsp;'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million</a>

He secretly filmed Indian dealers who claimed that they had supplied a lot of objects which were sold at Sotheby’s in London.

The auctioneer received a lot of criticism from experts. Earlier as well, the auctioneer had faced serious allegations for encouraging the looting of ancient Indian religious sites.

Another expert, Vijay Kumar said, "It’s such a unique sculpture. It’s been a dream to find her. I was actually beginning to lose hope.”

Elaborating on the same, Kumar further said, "Sotheby’s, as I understand, pulled this from their auction, though that is still unclear. What was shocking was that they did not reveal the consignor or turn over the details to the Metropolitan police, even during the investigations in 1998, when Watson broke the story."

He said what shocked him the most is that it could remain in the UK for over 20 years after being listed as stolen.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians.

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians. The deity was among yogini, female religious figures, which went missing between 1979 and 1982. According to a report by the Guardian, the sculpture, which has been found in an English country garden, will be given to the High Commission of India in London. An expert in the field of recovering stolen and missing art Christopher Marinello is to be thanked for the recovery. “This piece is considered a god, not just a sculpture," he said. It has been reported that one of the world's largest auctioneers, Sotheby's offered the statue for sale in 1988. Also, in 1997, the statue was one among the looted antiquities which were featured in the former journalist Peter Watson’s book, titled "Sotheby’s: Inside Story." Also read | 'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million He secretly filmed Indian dealers who claimed that they had supplied a lot of objects which were sold at Sotheby’s in London. The auctioneer received a lot of criticism from experts. Earlier as well, the auctioneer had faced serious allegations for encouraging the looting of ancient Indian religious sites. Another expert, Vijay Kumar said, "It’s such a unique sculpture. It’s been a dream to find her. I was actually beginning to lose hope.” Elaborating on the same, Kumar further said, "Sotheby’s, as I understand, pulled this from their auction, though that is still unclear. What was shocking was that they did not reveal the consignor or turn over the details to the Metropolitan police, even during the investigations in 1998, when Watson broke the story." He said what shocked him the most is that it could remain in the UK for over 20 years after being listed as stolen. (With inputs from agencies)

Stolen 8th-century Indian goat-headed deity found in England; soon to be returned to India

After British Prime Minister Boris Johnson denied breaking the coronavirus norms at a party held in 10, Downing Street, a few Labour Party MPs have reported him to the police.

After British Prime Minister Boris Johnson denied breaking the coronavirus norms at a party held in 10, Downing Street, a few Labour Party MPs have reported him to the police. They claim that there were at least two parties in Downing Street last year while the entire UK was placed under a strict lockdown. As per British media reports, alcohol flowed heavily at the ''cheek by jowl'' and was attended by 40 to 50 people. Labour MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, Neil Coyle urged Met police commissioner, Cressida Dick to investigate a leaving do which happened in November last year and a staff Christmas party which was held in December. Coyle was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "I believe they broke the law. Most of my constituents followed the rules; those that didn’t faced penalties. Johnson is not above the law, despite his bloated self-entitlement.” Also read | British PM Boris Johnson denies flouting coronavirus restrictions at boozy party held in Downing Street Former shadow international trade secretary, Barry Gardiner, also urged Met to investigate. Upon being questioned about the incident by Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, Johnson said ''all guidance was followed.'' Also, Johnson did not deny that the gatherings took place during a tier 3 lockdown in London. As per legal experts, if found guilty, he will be required to pay a hefty fine of up to £10,000. The UK is now experiencing a surge in Covid cases. Also, cases of the new variant, Omicron, have been reported in the region. It is one of the worst-hit countries with over 10 million COVID-19 cases and more than 145,000 fatalities. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Boris Johnson reported to police over Christmas parties held during 2020 lockdown

International flights arriving in Tamil Nadu from Singapore and the UK have been put under close watch after two passengers tested positive for COVID-19. The two passengers have been isolated and admitted to the hospital.&nbsp;

According to the Tamil Nadu government, samples for genome sequencing and identifying the COVID-19 variant are also being tested. This comes a day after two cases of the new variant of concern Omicron were detected in the neighbouring state Karnataka.&nbsp;

Elaborating on this, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Subramanian said that the Singapore returnee had tested positive at the Trichy airport and the 10-year old boy, returning from the UK had&nbsp;tested positive at Chennai. He also added that the passengers who sat in adjoining rows, air attendants, other close contacts, and families of the two travellers were being tested and monitored.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a>

Currently, passengers from 21 high-risk countries including the UK, South Africa, Hong Kong, Botswana, Israel, Singapore etc, are undergoing mass fever screening, after landing in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Following the fever screening, the passengers undergo RTPCR tests. Those who test positive are admitted and isolated in government hospitals, while those testing negative would have to undergo 7-day home quarantine and monitoring.&nbsp;

Requesting the public to not panic, the Minister assured that the Tamil Nadu government would immediately announce if an Omicron case is detected.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-free-covid-treatment-if-not-vaccinated-in-this-southern-indian-state-433657">Also read |&nbsp;No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this southern Indian state</a>

He also urged the public to follow standard COVID-19 protocols and ensure that all eligible people had taken both jabs of the COVID-19 vaccines.&nbsp;

In terms of daily RTPCR testing, he said that Tamil Nadu was performing over one lakh tests, of which only around 700 persons were testing positive.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

International flights arriving in Tamil Nadu from Singapore and the UK have been put under close watch after two passengers tested positive for COVID-19. The two passengers have been isolated and admitted to the hospital.

International flights arriving in Tamil Nadu from Singapore and the UK have been put under close watch after two passengers tested positive for COVID-19. The two passengers have been isolated and admitted to the hospital. According to the Tamil Nadu government, samples for genome sequencing and identifying the COVID-19 variant are also being tested. This comes a day after two cases of the new variant of concern Omicron were detected in the neighbouring state Karnataka. Elaborating on this, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Subramanian said that the Singapore returnee had tested positive at the Trichy airport and the 10-year old boy, returning from the UK had tested positive at Chennai. He also added that the passengers who sat in adjoining rows, air attendants, other close contacts, and families of the two travellers were being tested and monitored. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated Currently, passengers from 21 high-risk countries including the UK, South Africa, Hong Kong, Botswana, Israel, Singapore etc, are undergoing mass fever screening, after landing in Tamil Nadu. Following the fever screening, the passengers undergo RTPCR tests. Those who test positive are admitted and isolated in government hospitals, while those testing negative would have to undergo 7-day home quarantine and monitoring. Requesting the public to not panic, the Minister assured that the Tamil Nadu government would immediately announce if an Omicron case is detected. Also read | No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this southern Indian state He also urged the public to follow standard COVID-19 protocols and ensure that all eligible people had taken both jabs of the COVID-19 vaccines. In terms of daily RTPCR testing, he said that Tamil Nadu was performing over one lakh tests, of which only around 700 persons were testing positive.

Two people from UK and Singapore test positive for Covid in South India; further tests underway

Reports say Downing street was busy throwing parties amid strict lockdowns in London. Dozens of people were treated to food, booze and games despite a ban on indoor social gatherings. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Was Boris partying when Britain locked down?

The United States will delay its deal to remove tariffs on UK steel and aluminium because of concerns about post-Brexit trade rules that affect Northern Ireland.

US to delay UK trade deal over post-Brexit concern

World leaders are mulling or introducing strict measures and partial lockdowns as the World Health Organisation (WHO) produces a stern warning over the new Omicron variant. But, the United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson is insisting that full lockdowns should not be necessary.

Boris Johnson rules out lockdown as UK citizens are confused over Christmas celebrations

British defence ministry said that it is planning to allow HIV positive people to join British armed forces if they no longer carry detectable amount of the virus. Military persons who become infected after they get enlisted can already remain in the armed forces. However, they are categorised as being not fully fit. The ministry said that this categorisation has been planned to be changed.

"Drug treatment has revolutionised the lives and outcomes of people diagnosed with HIV. As a modern and inclusive employer, it is only right that we recognise and act on the latest scientific evidence," junior defence minister Leo Docherty said.

The United States also currently bans people with HIV from joining its armed forces, and has faced legal challenge over its policy not to allow enlisted personnel who are HIV positive to commission as officers.

With the right treatment, the amount of virus in the blood of people infected with HIV can be reduced to undetectable levels, which in turn effectively eliminates the chances of them passing the virus which causes AIDS on to others.

From early next year, serving British military personnel who have tested positive for HIV, but no longer carry a detectable viral load, will be classed as fully fit, meaning they can be deployed on military operations.

People taking drugs that reduce the risk of contracting HIV will also be able to join the armed forces. Historically anyone taking regular medication has been unable to join Britain's armed forces, with limited exceptions such as contraceptives.

The planned changes were welcomed by Britain's National AIDS Trust. "A career in the armed forces was the only career not open to people living with HIV in the UK, and with this much-needed change the military will be more able to meet its obligation to promote inclusivity within its ranks," said Deborah Gold, the trust's chief executive.

(With inputs from agencies)

British defence ministry said that it is planning to allow HIV positive people to join British armed forces if they no longer carry detectable amount of the virus.

British defence ministry said that it is planning to allow HIV positive people to join British armed forces if they no longer carry detectable amount of the virus. Military persons who become infected after they get enlisted can already remain in the armed forces. However, they are categorised as being not fully fit. The ministry said that this categorisation has been planned to be changed. "Drug treatment has revolutionised the lives and outcomes of people diagnosed with HIV. As a modern and inclusive employer, it is only right that we recognise and act on the latest scientific evidence," junior defence minister Leo Docherty said. The United States also currently bans people with HIV from joining its armed forces, and has faced legal challenge over its policy not to allow enlisted personnel who are HIV positive to commission as officers. With the right treatment, the amount of virus in the blood of people infected with HIV can be reduced to undetectable levels, which in turn effectively eliminates the chances of them passing the virus which causes AIDS on to others. From early next year, serving British military personnel who have tested positive for HIV, but no longer carry a detectable viral load, will be classed as fully fit, meaning they can be deployed on military operations. People taking drugs that reduce the risk of contracting HIV will also be able to join the armed forces. Historically anyone taking regular medication has been unable to join Britain's armed forces, with limited exceptions such as contraceptives. The planned changes were welcomed by Britain's National AIDS Trust. "A career in the armed forces was the only career not open to people living with HIV in the UK, and with this much-needed change the military will be more able to meet its obligation to promote inclusivity within its ranks," said Deborah Gold, the trust's chief executive. (With inputs from agencies)

British armed forces plan to allow people with HIV to join

United Kingdom: Costs are rising at the fastest rate in over two decades for firms and the services sector. According to a business survey, the Bank of England may soon raise interest rates available.

UK inflation surges to a 10-year high of 4.2% in October: Report

Parts of the United Kingdom experienced one of the ‘coldest night of the season’ with temperatures dropping to as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius as storm Arwen has wreaked havoc across much of the UK, bringing strong winds, sleet and snow.

Storm Arwen: ‘Coldest night of the season’ hits parts of United Kingdom

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric.

But outside, the winds were howling and the snow was swirling. The pubgoers knew the forecast was dire, but not so much that piles of snow as high as 3 feet would block the pub’s exits, said Nicola Townsend, the inn’s general manager.

After the tribute band, Noasis, finished its set, local authorities said it was not safe to drive home, Townsend said Sunday night.

So the patrons, the band members and seven inn employees stayed the night.

And then another.

And Sunday night, they were preparing to stay another.

Though the roads were not safe to travel, a group of off-roaders took a couple of parents home to their young children, Townsend said. A local mountain rescue group also helped evacuate a man who needed medical treatment for an “ongoing condition.”

That has left 61 people, mostly strangers, stranded at the pub. To pass the time, they took pub quizzes, watched movies like “Grease” and “Mamma Mia!” and sang karaoke, Townsend said.

“Lots of Oasis at the moment,” she said, adding that the pubgoers have started calling the tribute band “Snowasis.”

Band members had to cancel a performance Saturday night because they were snowed in. “We have no way of making it to our gig,” the band said on Facebook.

Those at the pub have enjoyed a few beers but no one is “getting loud and drunk,” Townsend said, because they want to be “respectful of each other.”

Some of those who were stranded already had rooms at the inn, while others had parked their motor homes outside. The rest crammed into the lounge, where they slept on sofas or on the floor. Employees supplied them with mattresses, blankets and pillows and kept the fireplaces roaring.

They hope they can leave on Monday afternoon, but the problem, Townsend said, is that a downed power line has blocked the road leading out of the remote pub. The pub is in Richmond, a town in North Yorkshire, which is more than 200 miles northwest of London.

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Outside the pub, the United Kingdom has been reeling from the storm, which has been blamed for the deaths of at least three people who died in separate episodes Friday.

A man died in Cumbria, England, after a tree hit him, police there said, while the other two — a man in Northern Ireland and a man in Aberdeenshire, Scotland — were struck by falling trees in their cars, authorities said.

The storm has paralyzed swaths of Britain’s power grid and left thousands without power. The Met Office, Britain’s national weather service, has issued several warnings since Friday about high winds and snow from the storm, which it has named Storm Arwen.

The weather has shown no signs of letting up for the pub patrons. A video on social media showed snow blanketing the doorway and the cars parked outside, though emergency workers looked to be clearing a path out of the pub.

The episode has drawn attention from around the world, and the inn has kept people updated on Facebook. In a post on Sunday night, it jokingly called the pubgoers “inmates” and said that “some are at breaking point.”

But Townsend said that, for the most part, “everybody seems to be really quite happy.”

“The best way I can describe it is it’s like being at a party with all your friends,” she said, adding that the inn would not run out of food because it stocks up for the winter.

Those gathered have shared roast dinners, a couple of beers and even a buffet (on the house) with “lots of different picky bits,” she said. Patrons have helped wash dishes and taken up a collection for the staff.

“We will ALWAYS remember this group of amazing people who came together, and hopefully, in challenging circumstances, enjoyed what we all think was a life-changing experience,” another Facebook post said.

This is not the first time people have been snowed in at the inn. Townsend said this also happened on New Year’s Day in 2010. Waitrose &amp;amp; Partners, a U.K. grocery chain, filmed a commercial at the inn in 2017 featuring snowbound pubgoers enjoying a meal together.

The group stuck in the pub may have started Friday as strangers, but they will leave as friends, Townsend said, adding, “We’ve even talked about having a reunion next year.”

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric.

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric. But outside, the winds were howling and the snow was swirling. The pubgoers knew the forecast was dire, but not so much that piles of snow as high as 3 feet would block the pub’s exits, said Nicola Townsend, the inn’s general manager. After the tribute band, Noasis, finished its set, local authorities said it was not safe to drive home, Townsend said Sunday night. So the patrons, the band members and seven inn employees stayed the night. And then another. And Sunday night, they were preparing to stay another. Though the roads were not safe to travel, a group of off-roaders took a couple of parents home to their young children, Townsend said. A local mountain rescue group also helped evacuate a man who needed medical treatment for an “ongoing condition.” That has left 61 people, mostly strangers, stranded at the pub. To pass the time, they took pub quizzes, watched movies like “Grease” and “Mamma Mia!” and sang karaoke, Townsend said. “Lots of Oasis at the moment,” she said, adding that the pubgoers have started calling the tribute band “Snowasis.” Band members had to cancel a performance Saturday night because they were snowed in. “We have no way of making it to our gig,” the band said on Facebook. Those at the pub have enjoyed a few beers but no one is “getting loud and drunk,” Townsend said, because they want to be “respectful of each other.” Some of those who were stranded already had rooms at the inn, while others had parked their motor homes outside. The rest crammed into the lounge, where they slept on sofas or on the floor. Employees supplied them with mattresses, blankets and pillows and kept the fireplaces roaring. They hope they can leave on Monday afternoon, but the problem, Townsend said, is that a downed power line has blocked the road leading out of the remote pub. The pub is in Richmond, a town in North Yorkshire, which is more than 200 miles northwest of London. Outside the pub, the United Kingdom has been reeling from the storm, which has been blamed for the deaths of at least three people who died in separate episodes Friday. A man died in Cumbria, England, after a tree hit him, police there said, while the other two — a man in Northern Ireland and a man in Aberdeenshire, Scotland — were struck by falling trees in their cars, authorities said. The storm has paralyzed swaths of Britain’s power grid and left thousands without power. The Met Office, Britain’s national weather service, has issued several warnings since Friday about high winds and snow from the storm, which it has named Storm Arwen. The weather has shown no signs of letting up for the pub patrons. A video on social media showed snow blanketing the doorway and the cars parked outside, though emergency workers looked to be clearing a path out of the pub. The episode has drawn attention from around the world, and the inn has kept people updated on Facebook. In a post on Sunday night, it jokingly called the pubgoers “inmates” and said that “some are at breaking point.” But Townsend said that, for the most part, “everybody seems to be really quite happy.” “The best way I can describe it is it’s like being at a party with all your friends,” she said, adding that the inn would not run out of food because it stocks up for the winter. Those gathered have shared roast dinners, a couple of beers and even a buffet (on the house) with “lots of different picky bits,” she said. Patrons have helped wash dishes and taken up a collection for the staff. “We will ALWAYS remember this group of amazing people who came together, and hopefully, in challenging circumstances, enjoyed what we all think was a life-changing experience,” another Facebook post said. This is not the first time people have been snowed in at the inn. Townsend said this also happened on New Year’s Day in 2010. Waitrose &amp; Partners, a U.K. grocery chain, filmed a commercial at the inn in 2017 featuring snowbound pubgoers enjoying a meal together. The group stuck in the pub may have started Friday as strangers, but they will leave as friends, Townsend said, adding, “We’ve even talked about having a reunion next year.”

Snowstorm leaves 61 stranded in remote UK pub

Asian stocks suffered their sharpest drop in two months on Friday after the detection of a new and possibly vaccine-resistant coronavirus variant sent investors scurrying toward the safety of bonds, the yen and the dollar.

Stocks markets under pressure after news of new COVID variant emerges

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons.

“More of the Army will be deployed across the globe, more of the time. Greater forward deployment will improve our ability to anticipate crises and be ready to compete beneath the threshold of open conflict. It will prevent conflict by reassuring allies and partners and deterring adversaries,” the Future Soldier modernisation plan, which was released on Thursday, read.

The defence ministry also announced an additional investment in the military equipment&nbsp;worth 8.6 billion pounds ($11.46 billion), during the next decade. This will raise the total investment to 41.3 billion pounds for the same period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-spy-agencies-sign-deal-with-amazon-to-host-top-secret-data-for-espionage-report-424123">British spy agencies sign deal with Amazon to host ‘top secret data’ for espionage: Report</a>

The total of over 100,000 soldiers will serve in the British Army by 2025, according to estimates of the ministry, as the UK regular army is expected to include 73,000 soldiers, and the number of reservists will stand at 30,000.

&nbsp;“Future Soldier is reinforced by the ambition outlined in the Defence Command Paper to transform the Army into a more agile, integrated, lethal, expeditionary force,” UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-uk-new-bill-empowers-british-govt-to-remove-citizenship-without-notice-430698">&nbsp;In UK, new bill empowers British govt to remove citizenship without notice</a>

“We have underpinned this generational work with an extra £8.6bn for Army equipment, bringing the total investment to £41.3bn,” he added.

A new Ranger Regiment, which will go into operation on December 1, 2021, is one of the most significant improvements. The regiment will regularly deploy alongside partner troops throughout the world to counter extremist organisations and hostile state threats&nbsp;as part of the Army Special Operations Brigade.

&nbsp;Wallace also said that their&nbsp;Army will operate around the world and will be&nbsp;able to tackle a variety of threats ranging from cyber warfare to battlefield conflict.

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons.

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons. “More of the Army will be deployed across the globe, more of the time. Greater forward deployment will improve our ability to anticipate crises and be ready to compete beneath the threshold of open conflict. It will prevent conflict by reassuring allies and partners and deterring adversaries,” the Future Soldier modernisation plan, which was released on Thursday, read. The defence ministry also announced an additional investment in the military equipment worth 8.6 billion pounds ($11.46 billion), during the next decade. This will raise the total investment to 41.3 billion pounds for the same period. Also read | British spy agencies sign deal with Amazon to host ‘top secret data’ for espionage: Report The total of over 100,000 soldiers will serve in the British Army by 2025, according to estimates of the ministry, as the UK regular army is expected to include 73,000 soldiers, and the number of reservists will stand at 30,000. “Future Soldier is reinforced by the ambition outlined in the Defence Command Paper to transform the Army into a more agile, integrated, lethal, expeditionary force,” UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said. Also read | In UK, new bill empowers British govt to remove citizenship without notice “We have underpinned this generational work with an extra £8.6bn for Army equipment, bringing the total investment to £41.3bn,” he added. A new Ranger Regiment, which will go into operation on December 1, 2021, is one of the most significant improvements. The regiment will regularly deploy alongside partner troops throughout the world to counter extremist organisations and hostile state threats as part of the Army Special Operations Brigade. Wallace also said that their Army will operate around the world and will be able to tackle a variety of threats ranging from cyber warfare to battlefield conflict.

UK unveils ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan to expand military footprint across globe

31 people have died in the deadliest English Channel disaster. Emmanuel Macron & Boris Johnson are sparring over who should bear the blame. Will a blame game solve the migrant crisis? Here's what Palki Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: 31 people drown in English Channel | Macron & Boris Johnson trade blame.

France President Emmanuel Macron told Britain to 'get serious' about the migrant issue or be ready to remain out of the talks over curbing flow of migrants escaping war and poverty across the Channel.

France has cancelled invitation to UK Home Secretary Priti Patel to attend meeting on the issue in Calais. This has underlined how fraught ties between France and Britain have become. The two countries are already sparring over post-Brexit trading rules and fishing rights.

Boris Johnson's spokesman said the British prime minister was taking the issue "extremely seriously" and said he hoped France would reconsider its decision to cancel Patel's invite.

The row has erupted after the death of 27 migrants trying to cross the narrow seaway between the two countries, the worst tragedy on record in one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-britain-agree-to-step-up-efforts-to-limit-channel-crossings-431979">France, Britain agree to step up efforts to limit channel crossings</a>

"I'm surprised when things are not done seriously. We don't communicate between leaders via tweets or published letters, we are not whistle-blowers. Come on. Come on," Macron told a news conference in Rome.

Macron was responding to a letter from Johnson in which the British leader told "Dear Emmanuel" what he reckoned should be done to stop migrants from making the perilous journey.

Johnson urged France in his letter to agree on joint patrols on its shores and consent to taking back the migrants who make it to Britain.

Infuriated by the letter, and not least by the fact that Johnson published it on Twitter, the French government cancelled an invitation to Patel to attend a meeting on Sunday to discuss with EU ministers how to tackle immigration.

France President Emmanuel Macron told Britain to 'get serious' about the migrant issue or be ready to remain out of the talks over curbing flow of migrants escaping war and poverty across the Channel.

France President Emmanuel Macron told Britain to 'get serious' about the migrant issue or be ready to remain out of the talks over curbing flow of migrants escaping war and poverty across the Channel. France has cancelled invitation to UK Home Secretary Priti Patel to attend meeting on the issue in Calais. This has underlined how fraught ties between France and Britain have become. The two countries are already sparring over post-Brexit trading rules and fishing rights. Boris Johnson's spokesman said the British prime minister was taking the issue "extremely seriously" and said he hoped France would reconsider its decision to cancel Patel's invite. The row has erupted after the death of 27 migrants trying to cross the narrow seaway between the two countries, the worst tragedy on record in one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. Also Read | France, Britain agree to step up efforts to limit channel crossings "I'm surprised when things are not done seriously. We don't communicate between leaders via tweets or published letters, we are not whistle-blowers. Come on. Come on," Macron told a news conference in Rome. Macron was responding to a letter from Johnson in which the British leader told "Dear Emmanuel" what he reckoned should be done to stop migrants from making the perilous journey. Johnson urged France in his letter to agree on joint patrols on its shores and consent to taking back the migrants who make it to Britain. Infuriated by the letter, and not least by the fact that Johnson published it on Twitter, the French government cancelled an invitation to Patel to attend a meeting on Sunday to discuss with EU ministers how to tackle immigration.

Macron tells UK to 'get serious' over English Channel migrant issue

The UK has banned cosmetic surgery ads that target teens. The ban also includes social media ads and comes at a time when online filters have added to teenagers' body image issues. Should India too follow suit? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: UK bans cosmetic surgery ads targeting teenagers

France has withdrawn an invitation to UK home secretary Priti Patel to join talks on the migrant crisis following a public letter from Prime Minister Boris Johnson to President Emmanuel Macron.

France cancels UK invitation to migrant crisis talks after Boris Johnson's letter

A man has become the first person in the world to get a 3D-printed prosthetic eye, according to a British hospital. &nbsp;

Steve Verze, who is from Hackney, east London, received the prosthetic eye at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London on Thursday. &nbsp;

The eye is reported to be 'more realistic' than the traditional acrylic prosthetic eye. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-practitioner-gets-sued-by-her-clients-daughter-for-millions-for-allowing-her-birth-431889" hreflang="en">General practitioner gets sued by her client's daughter for millions for allowing her birth</a>

Verze, who is in his 40s, said, "I've needed a prosthetic since I was 20, and I've always felt self-conscious about it. When I leave my home, I often take a second glance in the mirror, and I've not liked what I've seen. This new eye looks fantastic and being based on 3D digital printing technology, it's only going to be better and better." &nbsp;

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We're proud to support a world-first in ocular prosthetics: the trial of a digitally created 3D printed eye that will make it quicker &amp; easier for up to 60,000 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NHS</a> patients to receive a new eye, reducing waiting times👉<a href="https://t.co/alP8nETMl9">https://t.co/alP8nETMl9</a><a href="https://twitter.com/NIHRresearch?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NIHRresearch</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Moorfields?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Moorfields</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLeye?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UCLeye</a> <a href="https://t.co/n5dVU8pM9i">pic.twitter.com/n5dVU8pM9i</a>
— NIHR Moorfields BRC (@MoorfieldsBRC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoorfieldsBRC/status/1463822647167438861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to the hospital, the 3D-printed prosthetic should reduce the process of manufacturing to two to three weeks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unesco-member-states-adopt-the-first-global-agreement-on-artificial-intelligence-ethics-431996" hreflang="en">UNESCO member states adopt the first global agreement on artificial intelligence ethics</a>

Professor Mandeep Sagoo, consultant ophthalmologist, Moorfields Eye Hospital, said the staff is "excited" with the potential of this eye. &nbsp;

"We hope the forthcoming clinical trial will provide us with robust evidence about the value of this new technology, showing what difference it makes for patients. It clearly has the potential to reduce waiting lists," added Sagoo. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A man has become the first person in the world to get a 3D-printed prosthetic eye, according to a British hospital. Steve Verze, who is from Hackney, east London, received the prosthetic eye at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London on Thursday.

A man has become the first person in the world to get a 3D-printed prosthetic eye, according to a British hospital. Steve Verze, who is from Hackney, east London, received the prosthetic eye at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London on Thursday. The eye is reported to be 'more realistic' than the traditional acrylic prosthetic eye. Also Read: General practitioner gets sued by her client's daughter for millions for allowing her birth Verze, who is in his 40s, said, "I've needed a prosthetic since I was 20, and I've always felt self-conscious about it. When I leave my home, I often take a second glance in the mirror, and I've not liked what I've seen. This new eye looks fantastic and being based on 3D digital printing technology, it's only going to be better and better." We're proud to support a world-first in ocular prosthetics: the trial of a digitally created 3D printed eye that will make it quicker & easier for up to 60,000 #NHS patients to receive a new eye, reducing waiting times👉https://t.co/alP8nETMl9@NIHRresearch @Moorfields @UCLeye pic.twitter.com/n5dVU8pM9i — NIHR Moorfields BRC (@MoorfieldsBRC) November 25, 2021 × According to the hospital, the 3D-printed prosthetic should reduce the process of manufacturing to two to three weeks. Also Read: UNESCO member states adopt the first global agreement on artificial intelligence ethics Professor Mandeep Sagoo, consultant ophthalmologist, Moorfields Eye Hospital, said the staff is "excited" with the potential of this eye. "We hope the forthcoming clinical trial will provide us with robust evidence about the value of this new technology, showing what difference it makes for patients. It clearly has the potential to reduce waiting lists," added Sagoo. (With inputs from agencies)

UK man becomes first to get 3D-printed prosthetic eye

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