In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976.

Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.2 seconds. There were, however, 689,708 deaths.&nbsp;

This is the first year since 1976 when deaths have outnumbered births, and it has not happened for any other year since records began in the 1930s. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-infections-rising-exponentially-in-england-doubling-every-11-days-392367">Also read: COVID-19 infections rising exponentially in England, doubling every 11 days</a> 
 
Several births plummeted to record lows last winter while easing restrictions last summer led to a spike this March.

Last year's coronavirus outbreak resulted in a sharp increase in mortality, yet birth rates have been declining for the past decade.&nbsp;

The Centre for Population Change, which is supported by the Economic and Social Research Council, predicts a "drop over the following three years, resulting in significantly fewer births annually compared to pre-pandemic."

Pre-Covid, birthrates had already fallen to "historically low levels," lower than during the Great Depression of the 1930s.&nbsp;

A birthrate of 2.1 infants per woman is required to maintain demographic stability.

In England and Wales, it had already dropped to 1.6 last year, but it is now expected to drop to 1.45 by 2023.&nbsp;

All the reasons for this are depressing, signifying hardship, insecurity and anxiety.&nbsp;

It depicts a world in which raising children is an undue burden on women, with too many barriers to earning while doing so.

In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976. Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.

In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976. Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.2 seconds. There were, however, 689,708 deaths. This is the first year since 1976 when deaths have outnumbered births, and it has not happened for any other year since records began in the 1930s. Also read: COVID-19 infections rising exponentially in England, doubling every 11 days Several births plummeted to record lows last winter while easing restrictions last summer led to a spike this March. Last year's coronavirus outbreak resulted in a sharp increase in mortality, yet birth rates have been declining for the past decade. The Centre for Population Change, which is supported by the Economic and Social Research Council, predicts a "drop over the following three years, resulting in significantly fewer births annually compared to pre-pandemic." Pre-Covid, birthrates had already fallen to "historically low levels," lower than during the Great Depression of the 1930s. A birthrate of 2.1 infants per woman is required to maintain demographic stability. In England and Wales, it had already dropped to 1.6 last year, but it is now expected to drop to 1.45 by 2023. All the reasons for this are depressing, signifying hardship, insecurity and anxiety. It depicts a world in which raising children is an undue burden on women, with too many barriers to earning while doing so.

Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976

Britain will next month&nbsp;publish&nbsp;plans&nbsp;to allow&nbsp;fully&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;people to&nbsp;travel&nbsp;unrestricted to all countries except those with the highest COVID-19 risk, in a boost for a&nbsp;travel&nbsp;industry wrecked by the pandemic.

Airlines welcomed the move and they were further cheered by news late on Thursday that Britain will add Malta, Spain's Balearic Islands and the Portuguese island of Madeira to its "green list" for safe&nbsp;travel&nbsp;spots from June 30.

"Thanks to our successful vaccination programme, our intention is that later in the summer&nbsp;UK&nbsp;residents who are&nbsp;fully&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;will not have to isolate when&nbsp;travelling from amber list countries," Transport Minister Grant Shapps said.

"We'll set out further details next month," he tweeted.

"The Department for Transport declined to say if the easing of restrictions for&nbsp;fully&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;travellers would take place in a matter of weeks or months.

British Airways and Jet2.com welcomed the news.

"We cannot afford another missed summer," said BA chairman and chief executive officer Sean Doyle in a statement.

"There are jobs at stake, Britons separated from family members and we cannot afford to allow the success of our vaccine programme to be wasted."

EasyJet said the reopening fell short of a safe and sustainable easing of restrictions promised by Britain's government.

"The science shows that&nbsp;travel&nbsp;to many European countries would have very little impact on hospitalisation and this is, even more, the case now given that COVID cases in Europe have declined," said EasyJet chief executive officer Johan Lundgren.

The government has come under increasing pressure to ease restrictions as the peak July and August holiday season approaches.

Pilots, cabin crew,&nbsp;travel&nbsp;agents and other workers from the&nbsp;travel&nbsp;industry held protests on Wednesday, calling on the government to open up more routes, while BA, EasyJet and TUI backed a court case questioning the government's&nbsp;travel&nbsp;rules.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-delta-variant-is-infecting-vaccinated-people-says-israel-393811">Also Read |&nbsp;COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel</a>

Britain has one of the fastest vaccination programmes in the world but so far the government has effectively prevented&nbsp;travel&nbsp;to most countries through quarantine and testing rules, prompting the industry to warn of multiple business failures and job losses.

RED LIST

"We celebrate that the government's work has borne fruit and Britain has valued the Balearics' excellent health situation to open it as a safe destination for its citizens," Spanish Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto tweeted.

Eritrea, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Mongolia, Tunisia and Uganda will be added to Britain's red list for the most severe&nbsp;travel&nbsp;restrictions, Shapps said.

Israel will be added to the green watchlist - meaning it could be downgraded to an amber list country that means&nbsp;travellers must isolate on return.

Any wider reopening of&nbsp;travel&nbsp;from the&nbsp;UK&nbsp;faces a new challenge as European destinations could start to restrict entry.

German chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday she would like European countries to require people entering from Britain to go into quarantine, as is the case in Germany, citing the high prevalence of the more infectious Delta variant in the&nbsp;UK.

Britain will next month publish plans to allow fully vaccinated people to travel unrestricted to all countries except those with the highest COVID-19 risk, in a boost for a travel industry wrecked by the pandemic.

Britain will next month publish plans to allow fully vaccinated people to travel unrestricted to all countries except those with the highest COVID-19 risk, in a boost for a travel industry wrecked by the pandemic. Airlines welcomed the move and they were further cheered by news late on Thursday that Britain will add Malta, Spain's Balearic Islands and the Portuguese island of Madeira to its "green list" for safe travel spots from June 30. "Thanks to our successful vaccination programme, our intention is that later in the summer UK residents who are fully vaccinated will not have to isolate when travelling from amber list countries," Transport Minister Grant Shapps said. "We'll set out further details next month," he tweeted. "The Department for Transport declined to say if the easing of restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers would take place in a matter of weeks or months. British Airways and Jet2.com welcomed the news. "We cannot afford another missed summer," said BA chairman and chief executive officer Sean Doyle in a statement. "There are jobs at stake, Britons separated from family members and we cannot afford to allow the success of our vaccine programme to be wasted." EasyJet said the reopening fell short of a safe and sustainable easing of restrictions promised by Britain's government. "The science shows that travel to many European countries would have very little impact on hospitalisation and this is, even more, the case now given that COVID cases in Europe have declined," said EasyJet chief executive officer Johan Lundgren. The government has come under increasing pressure to ease restrictions as the peak July and August holiday season approaches. Pilots, cabin crew, travel agents and other workers from the travel industry held protests on Wednesday, calling on the government to open up more routes, while BA, EasyJet and TUI backed a court case questioning the government's travel rules. Also Read | COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel Britain has one of the fastest vaccination programmes in the world but so far the government has effectively prevented travel to most countries through quarantine and testing rules, prompting the industry to warn of multiple business failures and job losses. RED LIST "We celebrate that the government's work has borne fruit and Britain has valued the Balearics' excellent health situation to open it as a safe destination for its citizens," Spanish Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto tweeted. Eritrea, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Mongolia, Tunisia and Uganda will be added to Britain's red list for the most severe travel restrictions, Shapps said. Israel will be added to the green watchlist - meaning it could be downgraded to an amber list country that means travellers must isolate on return. Any wider reopening of travel from the UK faces a new challenge as European destinations could start to restrict entry. German chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday she would like European countries to require people entering from Britain to go into quarantine, as is the case in Germany, citing the high prevalence of the more infectious Delta variant in the UK.

UK to publish plans to lift travel curbs for fully vaccinated

Russia claimed to have fired warning shots and chased a British warship out of the Black Sea, a version denied by the UK. Why is Britain downplaying the incident? What exactly happened near the Crimean sea? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Russia claims to have repelled British warship

The aviation and tourism industry has been hammered since the start of the pandemic, after governments were forced to close down international leisure travel to try to stop passengers importing the virus.

UK prepares to ease travel curbs for fully vaccinated

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday.

Dave&nbsp;Smith, a retired driving instructor from Bristol in western England, said he tested positive 43 times, was hospitalised seven times and had made plans for his funeral.

"I'd resigned myself, I'd called the family in, made my peace with everybody, said goodbye,", he told BBC television.

His wife, Linda, who quarantined with him at home, said: "There was a lot of times when we didn't think he was going to pull through. It's been a hell of a year".

Ed Moran, a consultant in infectious diseases at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, said&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;"had active virus in his body" throughout.

"We were able to prove that by sending a sample of his virus to university partners who managed to grow it, proving that it was not just left-over products that were triggering a PCR test but actually active, viable virus."

Smith&nbsp;recovered after treatment with a cocktail of synthetic antibodies developed by the US biotech firm Regeneron.&nbsp;

This was allowed on compassionate grounds in his case but the treatment regime is not clinically approved for use in Britain.

Results of a clinical trial published this month showed the treatment reduced deaths among severe Covid patients who are unable to mount a strong immune response.

"It's like you've been given your life back",&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;told the BBC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-delta-variant-is-infecting-vaccinated-people-says-israel-393811">Also Read |&nbsp;COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel</a>

He and his wife cracked open a bottle of champagne when he finally tested negative, 45 days after receiving the Regeneron drug and some 305 days after his first infection.

Smith's treatment was not part of an official medical trial but his case is now being studied by virologist Andrew Davidson at the University of Bristol.

A paper on his case will be presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology &amp; Infectious Diseases in July, saying that his is thought to be "the longest infection recorded in the literature".

"Where does the virus hide away in the body? How can it stay just persistently infecting people? We don't know that," Davidson said.

Smith&nbsp;had a history of lung disease and had recently recovered from leukaemia when he caught the virus in March 2020.&nbsp;

He told The Guardian daily that since his recovery, he still gets breathless but has travelled in Britain and is teaching his granddaughter to drive.

"I've been down to the bottom and everything's brilliant now," he said.

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday.

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday. Dave Smith, a retired driving instructor from Bristol in western England, said he tested positive 43 times, was hospitalised seven times and had made plans for his funeral. "I'd resigned myself, I'd called the family in, made my peace with everybody, said goodbye,", he told BBC television. His wife, Linda, who quarantined with him at home, said: "There was a lot of times when we didn't think he was going to pull through. It's been a hell of a year". Ed Moran, a consultant in infectious diseases at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, said Smith "had active virus in his body" throughout. "We were able to prove that by sending a sample of his virus to university partners who managed to grow it, proving that it was not just left-over products that were triggering a PCR test but actually active, viable virus." Smith recovered after treatment with a cocktail of synthetic antibodies developed by the US biotech firm Regeneron. This was allowed on compassionate grounds in his case but the treatment regime is not clinically approved for use in Britain. Results of a clinical trial published this month showed the treatment reduced deaths among severe Covid patients who are unable to mount a strong immune response. "It's like you've been given your life back", Smith told the BBC. Also Read | COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel He and his wife cracked open a bottle of champagne when he finally tested negative, 45 days after receiving the Regeneron drug and some 305 days after his first infection. Smith's treatment was not part of an official medical trial but his case is now being studied by virologist Andrew Davidson at the University of Bristol. A paper on his case will be presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases in July, saying that his is thought to be "the longest infection recorded in the literature". "Where does the virus hide away in the body? How can it stay just persistently infecting people? We don't know that," Davidson said. Smith had a history of lung disease and had recently recovered from leukaemia when he caught the virus in March 2020. He told The Guardian daily that since his recovery, he still gets breathless but has travelled in Britain and is teaching his granddaughter to drive. "I've been down to the bottom and everything's brilliant now," he said.

UK man tested positive for virus for 10 straight months

As part of its drive to tackle obesity Britain will ban junk food advertisements on TV during the day and on the internet. The new rules will come into force at the end of next year.&nbsp;

The rules have been designed to change current trend where one in three children leave primary school overweight or obese. However, some media groups have given angry reactions against the new rules.&nbsp;

As per the plan adverts for foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar will be banned from appearing on television or UK on-demand programming before 2100 hours. The advertisements will also be banned from paid-for slots online

The restrictions will apply to all businesses with 250 or more employees. This is aimed at protecting smaller companies that can only afford to advertise online

"The content youngsters see can have an impact on the choices they make and habits they form," Public Health Minister Jo Churchill said on Thursday.

"With children spending more time online it is vital we act to protect them from unhealthy advertising."

The government cited an analysis that showed that about half of all TV food ads shown in a month in 2019 were for unhealthy food A sugar tax introduced in 2018 prompted some drink manufacturers to cut their sugar levels.

The News and Media Association said it was very disappointed with the decision because it was not clear a link had been found between advertising exposure and childhood obesity.

"Instead of tackling the problem of childhood obesity, this draconian measure will harm news media publishers who rely on advertising revenue to fund the journalism which keeps us all informed," the NMA's Sayra Tekin said.

Shares in Britain's biggest commercial broadcaster ITV (ITV.L) were down less than 1% while newspaper group Reach fell 1.5% and Daily Mail &amp; General Trust (DMGOa.L) fell 2%

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As part of its drive to tackle obesity Britain will ban junk food advertisements on TV during the day and on the internet. The new rules will come into force at the end of next year.

As part of its drive to tackle obesity Britain will ban junk food advertisements on TV during the day and on the internet. The new rules will come into force at the end of next year. The rules have been designed to change current trend where one in three children leave primary school overweight or obese. However, some media groups have given angry reactions against the new rules. As per the plan adverts for foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar will be banned from appearing on television or UK on-demand programming before 2100 hours. The advertisements will also be banned from paid-for slots online The restrictions will apply to all businesses with 250 or more employees. This is aimed at protecting smaller companies that can only afford to advertise online "The content youngsters see can have an impact on the choices they make and habits they form," Public Health Minister Jo Churchill said on Thursday. "With children spending more time online it is vital we act to protect them from unhealthy advertising." The government cited an analysis that showed that about half of all TV food ads shown in a month in 2019 were for unhealthy food A sugar tax introduced in 2018 prompted some drink manufacturers to cut their sugar levels. The News and Media Association said it was very disappointed with the decision because it was not clear a link had been found between advertising exposure and childhood obesity. "Instead of tackling the problem of childhood obesity, this draconian measure will harm news media publishers who rely on advertising revenue to fund the journalism which keeps us all informed," the NMA's Sayra Tekin said. Shares in Britain's biggest commercial broadcaster ITV (ITV.L) were down less than 1% while newspaper group Reach fell 1.5% and Daily Mail & General Trust (DMGOa.L) fell 2% (With inputs from agencies)

UK to ban junk food ads on TV during the day

Russia says one of its warplanes dropped bombs and a patrol boat fired warning shots to turn back a British destroyer it claims entered into its territorial waters in the Black Sea. The UK Defense Ministry denied Moscow's accusation, saying that the vessel, was making a legal and innocent passage.

Russia says dropped bombs in the path of British destroyer, UK denies claim

UK denies Russia claim warning shots fired at warship out of Crimea waters

Europe's major stock markets rose Thursday as investors marked time&nbsp;before&nbsp;a Bank of England interest&nbsp;rate&nbsp;decision, and after a mixed performance in Asia.

In late morning deals, London&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;gained 0.2 per cent with the British central bank's monetary policy committee (MPC) forecast to hold rates at a record low 0.1 per cent at 1100 GMT.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;climbed 0.8 per cent and Paris won 0.9 per cent, compared with Wednesday's close.

"Stocks&nbsp;seem to be largely marking time until there is more clarity on economic data like inflation&nbsp;with the major&nbsp;European&nbsp;bourses a little higher this morning," noted Markets.com analyst Neil Wilson.

"Sterling trades&nbsp;close to $1.40 ahead of the Bank of England. No change is expected but there are signs that inflation might run hotter than the MPC currently forecasts so we will be watching for any commentary around this."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-2000-venezuelan-refugees-murdered-in-colombia-in-five-years-ngo-says-393564">Also Read |&nbsp;Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says</a>

The BoE is the latest major central bank to weigh fears of spiking inflation against the need to nurture economic recovery from Covid.

Both the US Federal Reserve and&nbsp;European&nbsp;Central Bank kept their own ultra-low rates and economic support measures intact in recent weeks, insisting that high inflation is a temporary side-effect from the global rebound.

Back in Asia on Thursday, equities traded mixed as investors took a breather after the latest rally and attempted to assess when the Fed will begin to wind down its vast monetary easing programme.

After a troubled start to the week, equities across much of Asia have enjoyed healthy gains in the past two days as US central bank chiefs looked to temper fears that record-low interest rates and colossal bond-buying were in their final throes.

Traders have for months worried that the blistering global recovery will fan inflation and force officials to act.

And the Fed -- which has consistently said recent inflation spikes were temporary and it will maintain its policy as long as the economy needs -- last Wednesday suggested for the first time it could lift borrowing costs in 2023, a year earlier than initially targeted.

The past few days have seen a number of top officials try to tame expectations, which provided some solace, but traders remain nervous.

Oil climbs

Oil prices rose again, having dipped slightly after Saudi Arabia's energy minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said OPEC and other major producers had a part in "taming and containing, by making sure that this market doesn't get out of hand".

The sharp&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in commodities this year has also played a key role in the global spike in inflation.

His comments come just ahead of the latest output policy meeting of the group and as crude prices sit around multi-year highs.

Oil has rallied this week to hit October 2018 peaks on Wednesday, propelled by hopes of a global demand recovery.

Key figures at 0930 GMT&nbsp;

London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 7,088.45 points

Frankfurt - DAX 30: UP 0.8 percent at 15,574.03

Paris - CAC 40: UP 0.9 percent at 6,610.39

EURO STOXX 50: UP 0.9 percent at 4,113.86

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: FLAT at 28,875.23 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: UP 0.2 percent at 28,882.46 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: FLAT at 3,566.65 (close)

New York - Dow: DOWN 0.2&nbsp;percent at 33,874.24 (close)

Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1927 from $1.1926 at 2100 GMT

Pound/dollar: UP at $1.3972 from $1.3964

Euro/pound: DOWN at 85.37 pence from 85.41 pence

Dollar/yen: DOWN at 110.86 yen from 110.96 yen

Brent North Sea crude: UP 0.4 percent at $75.45 per barrel

West Texas Intermediate: UP 0.3 percent at $73.27 per barrel

Europe's major stock markets rose Thursday as investors marked time before a Bank of England interest rate decision, and after a mixed performance in Asia. In late morning deals, London stocks gained 0.

Europe's major stock markets rose Thursday as investors marked time before a Bank of England interest rate decision, and after a mixed performance in Asia. In late morning deals, London stocks gained 0.2 per cent with the British central bank's monetary policy committee (MPC) forecast to hold rates at a record low 0.1 per cent at 1100 GMT. In the eurozone, Frankfurt stocks climbed 0.8 per cent and Paris won 0.9 per cent, compared with Wednesday's close. "Stocks seem to be largely marking time until there is more clarity on economic data like inflation with the major European bourses a little higher this morning," noted Markets.com analyst Neil Wilson. "Sterling trades close to $1.40 ahead of the Bank of England. No change is expected but there are signs that inflation might run hotter than the MPC currently forecasts so we will be watching for any commentary around this." Also Read | Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says The BoE is the latest major central bank to weigh fears of spiking inflation against the need to nurture economic recovery from Covid. Both the US Federal Reserve and European Central Bank kept their own ultra-low rates and economic support measures intact in recent weeks, insisting that high inflation is a temporary side-effect from the global rebound. Back in Asia on Thursday, equities traded mixed as investors took a breather after the latest rally and attempted to assess when the Fed will begin to wind down its vast monetary easing programme. After a troubled start to the week, equities across much of Asia have enjoyed healthy gains in the past two days as US central bank chiefs looked to temper fears that record-low interest rates and colossal bond-buying were in their final throes. Traders have for months worried that the blistering global recovery will fan inflation and force officials to act. And the Fed -- which has consistently said recent inflation spikes were temporary and it will maintain its policy as long as the economy needs -- last Wednesday suggested for the first time it could lift borrowing costs in 2023, a year earlier than initially targeted. The past few days have seen a number of top officials try to tame expectations, which provided some solace, but traders remain nervous. Oil climbs Oil prices rose again, having dipped slightly after Saudi Arabia's energy minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said OPEC and other major producers had a part in "taming and containing, by making sure that this market doesn't get out of hand". The sharp rise in commodities this year has also played a key role in the global spike in inflation. His comments come just ahead of the latest output policy meeting of the group and as crude prices sit around multi-year highs. Oil has rallied this week to hit October 2018 peaks on Wednesday, propelled by hopes of a global demand recovery. Key figures at 0930 GMT London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 7,088.45 points Frankfurt - DAX 30: UP 0.8 percent at 15,574.03 Paris - CAC 40: UP 0.9 percent at 6,610.39 EURO STOXX 50: UP 0.9 percent at 4,113.86 Tokyo - Nikkei 225: FLAT at 28,875.23 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: UP 0.2 percent at 28,882.46 (close) Shanghai - Composite: FLAT at 3,566.65 (close) New York - Dow: DOWN 0.2 percent at 33,874.24 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1927 from $1.1926 at 2100 GMT Pound/dollar: UP at $1.3972 from $1.3964 Euro/pound: DOWN at 85.37 pence from 85.41 pence Dollar/yen: DOWN at 110.86 yen from 110.96 yen Brent North Sea crude: UP 0.4 percent at $75.45 per barrel West Texas Intermediate: UP 0.3 percent at $73.27 per barrel

European stocks rise before UK rate decision

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning.

The coronavirus pandemic has masked the economic dislocation caused by the referendum verdict, which backed severing five decades of integration with the European mainland.

British trade with the EU collapsed at the start of the year, when Brexit's full effects came into force, but against a backdrop of much deeper damage wrought by Covid-19.

And the benefits promised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for a newly invigorated "Global Britain" remain a work in progress, while the country's very cohesion is at risk from an emboldened nationalist movement in pro-EU Scotland.

Johnson was upbeat on the effects of Brexit in comments marking the anniversary of the June 23, 2016 referendum.

"Now as we recover from this pandemic, we will seize the true potential of our regained sovereignty to unite and level up our whole United Kingdom," the prime minister said.

"With control over our regulations and subsidies, and with freeports driving new investment, we will spur innovation, jobs and renewal across every part of our country," he added.

"This Government got Brexit done and we've already reclaimed our money, laws, borders and waters."

&nbsp;

'Slow puncture'

Johnson also hailed trade deals negotiated with the EU and 68 other countries as well as the start of negotiations to join the $9 trillion Pacific trade area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-likely-to-soon-face-antitrust-claims-over-play-store-from-us-states-sources-393249">Also Read |&nbsp;Google likely to soon face antitrust claims over Play store from US states: Sources</a>

In the area which recorded Britain's highest pro-Brexit vote -- Boston, in eastern England -- musician Stephen Clark, 60, was also optimistic about the future.&nbsp;

"I think that whatever happens, whether it's going to be good or it's bad, I think it's better to have our future in our own destiny," he said.

For most Britons, the fuller effects remain to be felt with coronavirus restrictions curbing travel to their favourite holiday destinations this summer.&nbsp;

For the first time in generations, Britons no longer have unrestricted entry to Europe.

In Britain, at least 5.3 million long-resident Europeans have applied for settlement status to ensure their pre-Brexit rights are preserved -- well above the government's estimate of 3.4 million.

Any remaining Europeans have until June 30 to apply, raising the threat of new battles with Brussels if some slip through the net, after London was accused of harshly treating EU citizens trying to enter the country legitimately.

The sheer numbers involved amount to a "massive" demographic change, said King's College London economics professor Jonathan Portes.

It "will have very long-running social, cultural, political consequences long, long after Brexit and free movement are over", he said.

Portes said Brexit would give Britain's economy a "slow puncture", with a "significant but not catastrophic, persistent drag on growth of a quarter-to-half percent a year for the foreseeable future".

&nbsp;

The Northern Ireland problem

Johnson has adopted an uncompromising stance towards the EU after Britain left the bloc's single market on January 1, following years of post-referendum political paralysis and a repeatedly extended transition period.

Northern Ireland has borne the brunt of confrontation, where pro-UK unionists feel betrayed by the intricate compromises Brexit necessitated to preserve its fragile peace.

But Anand Menon, director of the think-tank UK in a Changing Europe, said frayed tempers on show between EU leaders and Johnson at the recent G7 summit also made clear "just how many big global issues the UK and the EU are going to need to work together on".

Underlining the inescapable fact of geographical proximity, Britain and the EU will remain bound by a host of committees envisioned under their last-gasp Trade and Cooperation Agreement signed on December 24.

They cover everything from financial services to trade in organic products and motor vehicles/parts, while Cambridge University law professor Catherine Barnard said EU-era laws "will affect our lives for decades and decades to come".

&nbsp;

Culture war

Johnson owes his position in power to Brexit, which put paid to his two predecessors, and is unabashed in wanting to escape the drudgery of committee negotiations to focus on the "sunlit meadows" he sees on the horizon for a post-EU Britain.

Politically, he has translated the cultural fissures revealed by the referendum campaign into an ongoing "war on woke" on behalf of supposedly marginalised working-class communities.

"Though it's happening on a wider terrain, that terrain is still being fought over," polling expert John Curtice said, noting how Brexit had fed directly into Johnson's "levelling up" agenda for forgotten parts of England.

In the final week of campaigning before the June 23, 2016 referendum, an average of polls gave a 52-48 edge to the "Remain" side.

The actual result was the exact opposite in favour of "Leave", prompting wild celebrations among Johnson and his supporters but tearful dismay for many Remainers, and consternation among Britain's allies in Europe and beyond.

Five years on, Curtice said, recent polling shows the Remain/Leave camps are split 50-50.

But Britain appears on balance resigned to its fate, with 46 percent wanting to rejoin the EU and 54 percent in favour of staying out.

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning.

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning. The coronavirus pandemic has masked the economic dislocation caused by the referendum verdict, which backed severing five decades of integration with the European mainland. British trade with the EU collapsed at the start of the year, when Brexit's full effects came into force, but against a backdrop of much deeper damage wrought by Covid-19. And the benefits promised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for a newly invigorated "Global Britain" remain a work in progress, while the country's very cohesion is at risk from an emboldened nationalist movement in pro-EU Scotland. Johnson was upbeat on the effects of Brexit in comments marking the anniversary of the June 23, 2016 referendum. "Now as we recover from this pandemic, we will seize the true potential of our regained sovereignty to unite and level up our whole United Kingdom," the prime minister said. "With control over our regulations and subsidies, and with freeports driving new investment, we will spur innovation, jobs and renewal across every part of our country," he added. "This Government got Brexit done and we've already reclaimed our money, laws, borders and waters." 'Slow puncture' Johnson also hailed trade deals negotiated with the EU and 68 other countries as well as the start of negotiations to join the $9 trillion Pacific trade area. Also Read | Google likely to soon face antitrust claims over Play store from US states: Sources In the area which recorded Britain's highest pro-Brexit vote -- Boston, in eastern England -- musician Stephen Clark, 60, was also optimistic about the future. "I think that whatever happens, whether it's going to be good or it's bad, I think it's better to have our future in our own destiny," he said. For most Britons, the fuller effects remain to be felt with coronavirus restrictions curbing travel to their favourite holiday destinations this summer. For the first time in generations, Britons no longer have unrestricted entry to Europe. In Britain, at least 5.3 million long-resident Europeans have applied for settlement status to ensure their pre-Brexit rights are preserved -- well above the government's estimate of 3.4 million. Any remaining Europeans have until June 30 to apply, raising the threat of new battles with Brussels if some slip through the net, after London was accused of harshly treating EU citizens trying to enter the country legitimately. The sheer numbers involved amount to a "massive" demographic change, said King's College London economics professor Jonathan Portes. It "will have very long-running social, cultural, political consequences long, long after Brexit and free movement are over", he said. Portes said Brexit would give Britain's economy a "slow puncture", with a "significant but not catastrophic, persistent drag on growth of a quarter-to-half percent a year for the foreseeable future". The Northern Ireland problem Johnson has adopted an uncompromising stance towards the EU after Britain left the bloc's single market on January 1, following years of post-referendum political paralysis and a repeatedly extended transition period. Northern Ireland has borne the brunt of confrontation, where pro-UK unionists feel betrayed by the intricate compromises Brexit necessitated to preserve its fragile peace. But Anand Menon, director of the think-tank UK in a Changing Europe, said frayed tempers on show between EU leaders and Johnson at the recent G7 summit also made clear "just how many big global issues the UK and the EU are going to need to work together on". Underlining the inescapable fact of geographical proximity, Britain and the EU will remain bound by a host of committees envisioned under their last-gasp Trade and Cooperation Agreement signed on December 24. They cover everything from financial services to trade in organic products and motor vehicles/parts, while Cambridge University law professor Catherine Barnard said EU-era laws "will affect our lives for decades and decades to come". Culture war Johnson owes his position in power to Brexit, which put paid to his two predecessors, and is unabashed in wanting to escape the drudgery of committee negotiations to focus on the "sunlit meadows" he sees on the horizon for a post-EU Britain. Politically, he has translated the cultural fissures revealed by the referendum campaign into an ongoing "war on woke" on behalf of supposedly marginalised working-class communities. "Though it's happening on a wider terrain, that terrain is still being fought over," polling expert John Curtice said, noting how Brexit had fed directly into Johnson's "levelling up" agenda for forgotten parts of England. In the final week of campaigning before the June 23, 2016 referendum, an average of polls gave a 52-48 edge to the "Remain" side. The actual result was the exact opposite in favour of "Leave", prompting wild celebrations among Johnson and his supporters but tearful dismay for many Remainers, and consternation among Britain's allies in Europe and beyond. Five years on, Curtice said, recent polling shows the Remain/Leave camps are split 50-50. But Britain appears on balance resigned to its fate, with 46 percent wanting to rejoin the EU and 54 percent in favour of staying out.

Five years on, Brexit bedevils pandemic-hit UK

The British government on wedensday, revealed its intention&nbsp;to sell&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;4, a publicly-owned but commercially-funded television broadcaster that draws 90 per cent of its income from advertising.

The UK government said privatisation would enable&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;4&nbsp;to diversify its revenue sources, reach international markets and invest in new content and technology to respond to competition from subscription-based streaming services.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/british-minister-urges-same-rules-for-streaming-services-broadcasters-times-393293">British minister urges same rules for streaming services, broadcasters: Times</a>

It pointed to ITV and&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;5 as examples of successful public service broadcasters operating under private ownership.

Channel&nbsp;4&nbsp;launched in 1982 and its remit involves supporting Britain's independent production sector and producing a unique and diverse range of programmes.

Critics claim the decision&nbsp;is politically motivated as politicians from Britain's ruling Conservative party have accused the broadcaster of bias.

In 2019,&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;4's head of news and current affairs Dorothy Byrne branded Prime Minister Boris Johnson a "liar" and a "coward".

He now rarely gives interviews to the broadcaster, although he relented at the recent G7 summit in Cornwall, where he was grilled -- uncomfortably -- on his Brexit commitments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-media-watchdog-imposes-50-thousand-pound-fine-on-khalsa-tv-363308">UK media watchdog imposes 50 thousand pound fine on Khalsa TV</a>

EU leaders "say you don't keep your word... They think you'll rip up the agreements that you've signed," the&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;4&nbsp;News interviewers suggested to Johnson.

Chief executive Alex Mahon on Tuesday defended&nbsp;Channel&nbsp;4's public ownership model to a committee of MPs, saying it "put public service before profit" through its remit of "speaking up for the unheard and appealing to diverse audiences".

She added the broadcaster, known for its often edgy, alternative content, was "thriving" despite the upheaval caused by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a>.

Its young audience numbers and trust ratings grew after the first lockdown in March 2020, she added.

Johnson's government also has the BBC in its sights, with questions over its compulsory annual licence fee funding model in the face of competition from streaming services.

Media Shake-up

The government also announced plans to subject online streaming platforms to tighter regulation as part of a wider shake-up of the country's media landscape.

Under the proposals, services such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video would face the same level of regulation as traditional broadcasters including the BBC, ITV and Sky.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the review would "level the playing field between broadcasters and video-on-demand services".

Television channels in Britain must follow a broadcasting code set by regulator the Office of Communications (Ofcom) covering areas such as harmful content and requiring impartiality in news programmes.

But online streaming platforms, with the exception of the BBC's on-demand iPlayer service, face lighter regulation, primarily limited to protecting children and preventing content that incites hatred.

Netflix and Apple TV+ are not regulated at all in Britain.

The reforms also aim to increase public service broadcasters' online prominence to ensure their programmes can be found and accessed easily on smart TVs and other devices.

"Technology has transformed broadcasting but the rules protecting viewers and helping our traditional channels compete are from an analogue age," Dowden added.

"The time has come to look at how we can unleash the potential of our public service broadcasters while making sure viewers and listeners consuming content on new formats are served by a fair and well-functioning system."

The British government on wedensday, revealed its intention to sell Channel 4, a publicly-owned but commercially-funded television broadcaster that draws 90 per cent of its income from advertising.

The British government on wedensday, revealed its intention to sell Channel 4, a publicly-owned but commercially-funded television broadcaster that draws 90 per cent of its income from advertising. The UK government said privatisation would enable Channel 4 to diversify its revenue sources, reach international markets and invest in new content and technology to respond to competition from subscription-based streaming services. Also read | British minister urges same rules for streaming services, broadcasters: Times It pointed to ITV and Channel 5 as examples of successful public service broadcasters operating under private ownership. Channel 4 launched in 1982 and its remit involves supporting Britain's independent production sector and producing a unique and diverse range of programmes. Critics claim the decision is politically motivated as politicians from Britain's ruling Conservative party have accused the broadcaster of bias. In 2019, Channel 4's head of news and current affairs Dorothy Byrne branded Prime Minister Boris Johnson a "liar" and a "coward". He now rarely gives interviews to the broadcaster, although he relented at the recent G7 summit in Cornwall, where he was grilled -- uncomfortably -- on his Brexit commitments. Also read | UK media watchdog imposes 50 thousand pound fine on Khalsa TV EU leaders "say you don't keep your word... They think you'll rip up the agreements that you've signed," the Channel 4 News interviewers suggested to Johnson. Chief executive Alex Mahon on Tuesday defended Channel 4's public ownership model to a committee of MPs, saying it "put public service before profit" through its remit of "speaking up for the unheard and appealing to diverse audiences". She added the broadcaster, known for its often edgy, alternative content, was "thriving" despite the upheaval caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Its young audience numbers and trust ratings grew after the first lockdown in March 2020, she added. Johnson's government also has the BBC in its sights, with questions over its compulsory annual licence fee funding model in the face of competition from streaming services. Media Shake-up The government also announced plans to subject online streaming platforms to tighter regulation as part of a wider shake-up of the country's media landscape. Under the proposals, services such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video would face the same level of regulation as traditional broadcasters including the BBC, ITV and Sky. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the review would "level the playing field between broadcasters and video-on-demand services". Television channels in Britain must follow a broadcasting code set by regulator the Office of Communications (Ofcom) covering areas such as harmful content and requiring impartiality in news programmes. But online streaming platforms, with the exception of the BBC's on-demand iPlayer service, face lighter regulation, primarily limited to protecting children and preventing content that incites hatred. Netflix and Apple TV+ are not regulated at all in Britain. The reforms also aim to increase public service broadcasters' online prominence to ensure their programmes can be found and accessed easily on smart TVs and other devices. "Technology has transformed broadcasting but the rules protecting viewers and helping our traditional channels compete are from an analogue age," Dowden added. "The time has come to look at how we can unleash the potential of our public service broadcasters while making sure viewers and listeners consuming content on new formats are served by a fair and well-functioning system."

United Kingdom plans sale of Channel 4 as part of a media shake-up

The EU is planning to cut down on the "disproportionate" amount of British television and film content that is currently being shown across Europe. The decision comes after Brexit.&nbsp; 
 
According to a report in The Guardian, the decision is likely to effect the entertainment industry of the UK and the country's soft power outside of Britain. 
 
UK is reportedly the biggest producer of film and TV content in Europe and its dominance has been described as a threat to the cultural diversity of other European nations.&nbsp; 
 
The Guardian has reportedly got access to an internal &nbsp;EU document. The decision is likely to add to the long list of points of high tensions in the relationship between EU and UK since the country left the single market and customs union. 
 
Several countries in EU have already put a quote on how much British content would be allowed airtime in their country. Under the EU’s audiovisual media services directive, a majority of airtime has to be allotted to terrestrial television. Atleast 30 % of the number of title on video should be available on OTT platforms. 
 
France has set a 60% quota for European works on VOD.&nbsp;

The EU document that reportedly has been tabled with diplomats on June 8, states that inclusion of UK content in such quotas has led to disproportionate amount of British content across Europe.&nbsp; 
 
The European Commission has now been given the task to do launch a study to find out the impact EU's cultural diversity has due to British programming. This, the diplomats feel, would be a first step towards limiting the rights granted to UK programming.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The EU is planning to cut down on the "disproportionate" amount of British television and film content that is currently being shown across Europe. The decision comes after Brexit.

The EU is planning to cut down on the "disproportionate" amount of British television and film content that is currently being shown across Europe. The decision comes after Brexit. According to a report in The Guardian, the decision is likely to effect the entertainment industry of the UK and the country's soft power outside of Britain. UK is reportedly the biggest producer of film and TV content in Europe and its dominance has been described as a threat to the cultural diversity of other European nations. The Guardian has reportedly got access to an internal EU document. The decision is likely to add to the long list of points of high tensions in the relationship between EU and UK since the country left the single market and customs union. Several countries in EU have already put a quote on how much British content would be allowed airtime in their country. Under the EU’s audiovisual media services directive, a majority of airtime has to be allotted to terrestrial television. Atleast 30 % of the number of title on video should be available on OTT platforms. France has set a 60% quota for European works on VOD. The EU document that reportedly has been tabled with diplomats on June 8, states that inclusion of UK content in such quotas has led to disproportionate amount of British content across Europe. The European Commission has now been given the task to do launch a study to find out the impact EU's cultural diversity has due to British programming. This, the diplomats feel, would be a first step towards limiting the rights granted to UK programming.

EU planning to restrict 'disproportionate' amount of British TV and film content post Brexit

The extra time would be used to speed up Britain's vaccination programme - already one of the world's furthest advanced - by shortening the recommended time between doses for those aged over 40 to eight weeks from 12 weeks.

'Set to lift lockdown restrictions by July 19th', says PM Boris Johnson

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would lead a new drive to capitalise on scientific and technological breakthroughs made in Britain with a programme to direct research into areas that will benefit the public good. 
 
Johnson will chair a group set up to "provide strategic direction on the use of science and technology as the tools to tackle great societal challenges, level up across the country and boost prosperity around the world", his office said. 
 
Seeking strategic gains for post-Brexit Britain, the plan looks to build on the success of the country`s coronavirus vaccine programme and identify other areas where the research and development sector can benefit from government funding. 
 
“From discovery to delivery, our vaccination programme has proven what the UK can achieve at scale and at speed," Johnson said in a statement. 
 
“With the right direction, pace and backing, we can breathe life into many more scientific and technological breakthroughs that transform the lives of people across the UK and the world." 
 
The government`s Chief Scientific Adviser, Patrick Vallance, will head a new public body whose role will be to implement the strategy. 
 
Beyond COVID-19 vaccines and treatments, Britain wants to use its research capability to secure some of the economic benefits of a shift toward greener technology, although competition from other nations is intense. 
 
The majority of research and development spending in Britain is funded by the private sector, and overall investment in 2018 was 1.731% of GDP according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development data - below the 2.419% OECD average. 
 
Since leaving the European Union, the government has announced plans to increase its spending on R&amp;D. 
 
It plans to invest 14.9 billion pounds ($20.58 billion) in 2021/22, rising to 22 billion by 2024/25, and has committed to raise total R&amp;D investment to 2.4% of economic output by 2027.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would lead a new drive to capitalise on scientific and technological breakthroughs made in Britain with a programme to direct research into areas that will benefit the public good.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would lead a new drive to capitalise on scientific and technological breakthroughs made in Britain with a programme to direct research into areas that will benefit the public good. Johnson will chair a group set up to "provide strategic direction on the use of science and technology as the tools to tackle great societal challenges, level up across the country and boost prosperity around the world", his office said. Seeking strategic gains for post-Brexit Britain, the plan looks to build on the success of the country`s coronavirus vaccine programme and identify other areas where the research and development sector can benefit from government funding. “From discovery to delivery, our vaccination programme has proven what the UK can achieve at scale and at speed," Johnson said in a statement. “With the right direction, pace and backing, we can breathe life into many more scientific and technological breakthroughs that transform the lives of people across the UK and the world." The government`s Chief Scientific Adviser, Patrick Vallance, will head a new public body whose role will be to implement the strategy. Beyond COVID-19 vaccines and treatments, Britain wants to use its research capability to secure some of the economic benefits of a shift toward greener technology, although competition from other nations is intense. The majority of research and development spending in Britain is funded by the private sector, and overall investment in 2018 was 1.731% of GDP according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development data - below the 2.419% OECD average. Since leaving the European Union, the government has announced plans to increase its spending on R&D. It plans to invest 14.9 billion pounds ($20.58 billion) in 2021/22, rising to 22 billion by 2024/25, and has committed to raise total R&D investment to 2.4% of economic output by 2027.

With $21 billion spending on R&D, UK launches plan to capitalise on science and technology breakthroughs

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of&nbsp;what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago.

Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs. They were discovered in a place where new fossils are constantly revealed due to natural phenomena like coastal waters and stormy conditions affecting the cliff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-finds-coelacanth-a-human-sized-dinosaur-era-fish-can-live-for-100-years-392445">Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years</a>

The credit behind this discovery goes to a scientist from the University of Portsmouth and a curator from Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, this discovery is the last record of dinosaurs in Britain.

David Martill, a Professor of Palaeobiology, said that “This is the first time dinosaur footprints have been found in strata known as the ‘Folkestone Formation’ and it’s quite an extraordinary discovery because these dinosaurs would have been the last to roam in this country before becoming extinct,".

"They were walking around close to where the White Cliffs of Dover are now - next time you’re on a ferry and you see those magnificent cliffs just imagine that!"

Attributed to a variety of dinosaurs species, the footprints show that 110 million years ago, at the end of the Early Cretaceous period, there was a relatively high diversity of dinosaurs in southern England.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-study-indicates-covid-resulting-in-long-term-loss-of-grey-matter-392567">UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter</a>

According to a paper published in the journal Proceedings of the Geologists Association, the footprint fossils were formed when sediments filled up the impression left behind by a dinosaurs foot pushing into the ground, a process which then also preserves it.

These footprints are believed to be from the following dinosaurs; Ankylosaurs, a rugged-looking armoured dinosaur which is believed to have been like living tanks; Theropods, a three-toed dinosaur similar to the Tyrannosaurus rex, which also consumed flesh; and Ornithopods, ‘bird-hipped’ plant-eating dinosaurs, that had a pelvic structure a little bit similar to birds.

While most of the footprint findings are isolated, one discovery comprises six footprints. Classified as a trackway, this means that there is more than one consecutive print from the same animal.

Measuring 80 cm in width and 65 cm in length, the largest footprint found, has been identified as that of an Iguanodon-like dinosaur.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/churchill-painting-from-onassis-superyacht-to-auction-in-new-york-392517">Churchill painting from Onassis superyacht to auction in New York</a>

Growing up to 10 metres in length, Iguanodon were plant-eaters, and they walked on both two legs or on all fours.

"To find such an array of species in one place is fascinating. These dinosaurs probably took advantage of the tidal exposures on coastal foreshores, perhaps foraging for food or taking advantage of clear migration routes," explained Martill. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago. Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs.

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago. Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs. They were discovered in a place where new fossils are constantly revealed due to natural phenomena like coastal waters and stormy conditions affecting the cliff. Also read | Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years The credit behind this discovery goes to a scientist from the University of Portsmouth and a curator from Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, this discovery is the last record of dinosaurs in Britain. David Martill, a Professor of Palaeobiology, said that “This is the first time dinosaur footprints have been found in strata known as the ‘Folkestone Formation’ and it’s quite an extraordinary discovery because these dinosaurs would have been the last to roam in this country before becoming extinct,". "They were walking around close to where the White Cliffs of Dover are now - next time you’re on a ferry and you see those magnificent cliffs just imagine that!" Attributed to a variety of dinosaurs species, the footprints show that 110 million years ago, at the end of the Early Cretaceous period, there was a relatively high diversity of dinosaurs in southern England. Also read | UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter According to a paper published in the journal Proceedings of the Geologists Association, the footprint fossils were formed when sediments filled up the impression left behind by a dinosaurs foot pushing into the ground, a process which then also preserves it. These footprints are believed to be from the following dinosaurs; Ankylosaurs, a rugged-looking armoured dinosaur which is believed to have been like living tanks; Theropods, a three-toed dinosaur similar to the Tyrannosaurus rex, which also consumed flesh; and Ornithopods, ‘bird-hipped’ plant-eating dinosaurs, that had a pelvic structure a little bit similar to birds. While most of the footprint findings are isolated, one discovery comprises six footprints. Classified as a trackway, this means that there is more than one consecutive print from the same animal. Measuring 80 cm in width and 65 cm in length, the largest footprint found, has been identified as that of an Iguanodon-like dinosaur. Also read | Churchill painting from Onassis superyacht to auction in New York Growing up to 10 metres in length, Iguanodon were plant-eaters, and they walked on both two legs or on all fours. "To find such an array of species in one place is fascinating. These dinosaurs probably took advantage of the tidal exposures on coastal foreshores, perhaps foraging for food or taking advantage of clear migration routes," explained Martill. (With inputs from agencies)

Discovered; Footprints of the very last Dinosaurs to walk on UK ground

A new study in the UK, which analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection, has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from Covid-19.

A new study in the UK, which analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection, has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from Covid-19. The loss of grey matter hint towards damage to certain areas of the brain. As per experts, it suggests damage to areas of the brain. As a part of the study, the UK Biobank (UKB) performed brain image tests on over 40,000 participants before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. This is the data centre that collects and collates genetic and health information. The scientists then invited hundreds of these participants for a second imaging visit in 2021. They then studied the effects of the deadly coronavirus in the brain. This was done using data from 782 participants from the re-imaging study. Also Read | Scientists discover largest rotating structures in the universe The scientists used structural and functional brain scans from before and after the Covid-19 infection. This helped them to compare changes in the brain between these 394 Covid patients and 388 controls (those who tested negative) who were matched for age, sex, ethnicity and interval between scans. Most of the Covid patients who were examined had mild to moderate disease in the past. Published in the journal Medrxiv, the study read, "The vast majority of brain imaging studies so far have focused on qualitative, gross pathology of moderate to severe cases, often carried out on hospitalised patients. It remains unknown however whether the impact of COVID-19 can be detected in milder cases, in a quantitative and automated manner, and whether this can reveal a possible mechanism for the spread of the disease". This is not the first study that has suggested evidence of a connection between COVID-19 and brain damage. A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal last year stated that serious COVID-19 infection can potentially damage the brain, further contributing to complications such as stroke or dementia-like symptoms.

UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter

The health service in the United Kingdom is all set to open COVID-19 vaccinations for all adults. The government has vowed to inoculate all willing adults with at least one shot by next month.

Health services in UK set to open vaccination for all adults

Boris Johnson's former aide Dominic Cummings released WhatsApp texts which say the British PM called his health minister 'hopeless'. Clearing the air, the prime minister's office said Johnson 'has full confidence in the health secretary'.

Ex-aide Cummings shares Johnson's WhatsApp texts criticising UK health secy

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent of its national income. This will result in cut of 4 billion Pounds.

The WHO has joined many other agencies to warn about the impact of UK's decision. It mentioned that the "neglected tropical disease" included Trachoma, Elecphantiasis and Guinea Worm. These diseases are among 20 disease groups which mostly affect poorest countries. These disease are preventable but the WHO said the disease could "kill, blind, disfigure and maim"

WHO also said that without UK's aid, about 277 million tablets will expire and will have to be destroyed.

"No obvious alternative source of funding exists to fill the funding gaps that will be left by the exit of Ascend," the WHO added.

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent of its national income. This will result in cut of 4 billion Pounds. The WHO has joined many other agencies to warn about the impact of UK's decision. It mentioned that the "neglected tropical disease" included Trachoma, Elecphantiasis and Guinea Worm. These diseases are among 20 disease groups which mostly affect poorest countries. These disease are preventable but the WHO said the disease could "kill, blind, disfigure and maim" WHO also said that without UK's aid, about 277 million tablets will expire and will have to be destroyed. "No obvious alternative source of funding exists to fill the funding gaps that will be left by the exit of Ascend," the WHO added.

UK's foreign aid cut may put millions at risk: WHO

Ahead of the introduction of a bill raising the minimum age of marriage in the UK to 18, lawmakers said&nbsp;that Britain must scrap the legal loophole that allows child marriage "by the back door".

Introduced in 1929, the current law in the UK allows marriage at the age of 16, provided there is parental consent. According to the lawmakers, this has not only sabotaged girls' futures but has also condoned child abuse.

According to campaign groups, the loophole also undermines Britain's global efforts to end child marriage in other countries.

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"Child marriage is child abuse," former chancellor Sajid Javid told BBC radio before presenting the bill, which has cross-party support. "People think this is often something that just happens in developing countries. It doesn't. It's happening right here ... it has to stop."

He also reported&nbsp;that thousands of minors had been coerced into marriages in Britain in the last decade.

Meanwhile, the government has also said it is committed to lifting the minimum age to 18.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-cases-of-sexual-harassment-in-uk-schools-alarming-watchdog-390631" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-cases-of-sexual-harassment-in-uk-schools-alarming-watchdog-390631&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibjL6j0pzxAhVt63MBHfWBDG44ChAWMAB6BAgCEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw3RNPXgMpS5Bfr9h28kC37_" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-cases-of-sexual-harassment-in-uk-schools-alarming-watchdog-390631" target="_blank">Rising cases of sexual harassment in UK schools alarming</a>

One of the campaigners, Payzee Mahmod, who also had an early marriage at the age of 16 says that "it's a big step in the right direction. We're celebrating this moment."

Campaigners are fighting against dreadful situations where girls are pulled out of school and often subjected to marital rape and domestic abuse in the name of early marriage, he added.

In 1929, the current law set the minimum age at 16 because back then, living together out of wedlock was socially unacceptable, so marriage was seen as a socially acceptable way out. &nbsp;

Today, relationships outside marriage are still often considered shameful by the people belonging to South Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds, which is why girls from these communities are seen to be most at risk of early marriage in Britain.

Campaigners against the 1929 law say that nowadays most girls who marry under 18 are pressured into it by their families and that raising the minimum age would empower them to say no and fight for their rights.

They also assert that it was crucial not only to put an end to&nbsp;the loophole but to make it a criminal offence to assist any underage marriage, including religious marriages and those conducted abroad.

Parliamentarian Pauline Latham, one of the bill's sponsors, said the current law permitted child marriage "by the back door".

"I've spoken to a lot of ministers to say we cannot let this continue, and they've agreed. Boris is keen to get it through," she added, referring to the prime minister.

Spearheaded by Latham, an attempt was made to amend the law last year, but it was foiled by the pandemic. However, campaigners said they are confident that the legislation, which applies to England and Wales, would pass by next spring.

According to official data, between 2008 and 2017 more than 2,740 under-18s were married in England and Wales. Notably, this figure doesn’t include those minors who were wed in traditional ceremonies or were taken abroad to marry.

Talking about how marriages between the ages of 13 and 15 were not uncommon, Karma Nirvana, a British human rights charity that campaigns against forced marriage, reports that&nbsp;it had also come across cases involving children as young as 11.

"Criminalisation is a strong deterrent and necessary to protect every child from all forms of child marriage in all settings," said Mahmod, whose sister Banaz was killed by family members after leaving a husband they had chosen for her at 17.

Ahead of the introduction of a bill raising the minimum age of marriage in the UK to 18, lawmakers said that Britain must scrap the legal loophole that allows child marriage "by the back door".

Ahead of the introduction of a bill raising the minimum age of marriage in the UK to 18, lawmakers said that Britain must scrap the legal loophole that allows child marriage "by the back door". Introduced in 1929, the current law in the UK allows marriage at the age of 16, provided there is parental consent. According to the lawmakers, this has not only sabotaged girls' futures but has also condoned child abuse. According to campaign groups, the loophole also undermines Britain's global efforts to end child marriage in other countries. Also read | London woman shot dead in Pakistan after refusing to marry local "Child marriage is child abuse," former chancellor Sajid Javid told BBC radio before presenting the bill, which has cross-party support. "People think this is often something that just happens in developing countries. It doesn't. It's happening right here ... it has to stop." He also reported that thousands of minors had been coerced into marriages in Britain in the last decade. Meanwhile, the government has also said it is committed to lifting the minimum age to 18. Also read | Rising cases of sexual harassment in UK schools alarming One of the campaigners, Payzee Mahmod, who also had an early marriage at the age of 16 says that "it's a big step in the right direction. We're celebrating this moment." Campaigners are fighting against dreadful situations where girls are pulled out of school and often subjected to marital rape and domestic abuse in the name of early marriage, he added. In 1929, the current law set the minimum age at 16 because back then, living together out of wedlock was socially unacceptable, so marriage was seen as a socially acceptable way out. Today, relationships outside marriage are still often considered shameful by the people belonging to South Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds, which is why girls from these communities are seen to be most at risk of early marriage in Britain. Campaigners against the 1929 law say that nowadays most girls who marry under 18 are pressured into it by their families and that raising the minimum age would empower them to say no and fight for their rights. They also assert that it was crucial not only to put an end to the loophole but to make it a criminal offence to assist any underage marriage, including religious marriages and those conducted abroad. Parliamentarian Pauline Latham, one of the bill's sponsors, said the current law permitted child marriage "by the back door". "I've spoken to a lot of ministers to say we cannot let this continue, and they've agreed. Boris is keen to get it through," she added, referring to the prime minister. Spearheaded by Latham, an attempt was made to amend the law last year, but it was foiled by the pandemic. However, campaigners said they are confident that the legislation, which applies to England and Wales, would pass by next spring. According to official data, between 2008 and 2017 more than 2,740 under-18s were married in England and Wales. Notably, this figure doesn’t include those minors who were wed in traditional ceremonies or were taken abroad to marry. Talking about how marriages between the ages of 13 and 15 were not uncommon, Karma Nirvana, a British human rights charity that campaigns against forced marriage, reports that it had also come across cases involving children as young as 11. "Criminalisation is a strong deterrent and necessary to protect every child from all forms of child marriage in all settings," said Mahmod, whose sister Banaz was killed by family members after leaving a husband they had chosen for her at 17.

Britain set to scrap nearly century-old legal loophole allowing child marriage ‘by back door’

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office. The police officers made arrests and went through computers and seized journalistic material.

"Today's raids &amp; arrests at Apple Daily in Hong Kong demonstrate Beijing is using the National Security Law to target dissenting voices, not tackle public security," Raab wrote on Twitter.

"Freedom of the press is one of the rights China promised to protect in the Joint Declaration &amp; should be respected," Raab said.

It is the first time the content of media reporting has sparked arrests under the city's new national security law. Jimmy Lai, the media tycoon who runs Apple Daily is already in jail

In a message to readers, Apple Daily warned that Hong Kong's press freedoms were "hanging by a thread" but the paper vowed to "stand tall".&nbsp;

Its union described the operation as a "wanton violation of press freedom" that "displayed how much police power has inflated under the national security law".

Police said the five executives were arrested for collusion with a foreign country or external elements "to endanger national security".

"They have overall responsibility for the content, style and principles of news reporting," senior superintendent Steve Li told reporters.&nbsp;

Authorities also seized HK$18 million (US$2.3 million) in Apple Daily assets, the first time a national security law seizure order has been made directly against a Hong Kong media company, rather than an individual.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office.

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office. The police officers made arrests and went through computers and seized journalistic material. "Today's raids & arrests at Apple Daily in Hong Kong demonstrate Beijing is using the National Security Law to target dissenting voices, not tackle public security," Raab wrote on Twitter. "Freedom of the press is one of the rights China promised to protect in the Joint Declaration & should be respected," Raab said. It is the first time the content of media reporting has sparked arrests under the city's new national security law. Jimmy Lai, the media tycoon who runs Apple Daily is already in jail In a message to readers, Apple Daily warned that Hong Kong's press freedoms were "hanging by a thread" but the paper vowed to "stand tall". Its union described the operation as a "wanton violation of press freedom" that "displayed how much police power has inflated under the national security law". Police said the five executives were arrested for collusion with a foreign country or external elements "to endanger national security". "They have overall responsibility for the content, style and principles of news reporting," senior superintendent Steve Li told reporters. Authorities also seized HK$18 million (US$2.3 million) in Apple Daily assets, the first time a national security law seizure order has been made directly against a Hong Kong media company, rather than an individual. (With inputs from agencies)

China 'targetting dissenting voices' in Hong Kong, says UK

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.”

Speaking to reporters on June 15,&nbsp;in New York, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward said, “ the UK is confident in the reliability of the data that has been presented by the UN. It is clear that food, agricultural tools, and life stocks are being destroyed.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-researchers-identify-1900-people-killed-in-tigray-375006">Also Read |&nbsp;Ethiopia: Researchers identify 1,900 people killed in Tigray</a>

She added, “as a result, 350,000 people in&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;are facing hunger on a scale not seen since the famine in Somalia, and many more millions more face food insecurity, exacerbated by disrupted plunting.”

Also Watch |&nbsp;People face horrific situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/people-face-horrific-situation-in-ethiopias-tigray-389967/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The further 16.7 million pounds in aid, brings to a total of 47.7 million pounds since the conflict begin eight months ago.

The UK Ambassador also said, “without a ceasefire, this can be a manmade famine. It is not drought or locust that is causing this hunger, but the decisions of those in power. That means those in power could also end the suffering.”

She continued, “we were told in March that the Eritrean forces will be withdrawing, it is now June, there can be no further delay.

Farmers have been not able to plant for next year’s corps due to the violence, the window for them to do so is about to close, and while the violence continues, it is not only condemning the people of&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;to desperate hunger this year but next year too.

The UK Ambassador reiterated, “the solution is clear – a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and political dialogue.”

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.” Speaking to reporters on June 15, in New York, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward said, “ the UK is confident in the reliability of the data that has been presented by the UN. It is clear that food, agricultural tools, and life stocks are being destroyed.” Also Read | Ethiopia: Researchers identify 1,900 people killed in Tigray She added, “as a result, 350,000 people in Tigray are facing hunger on a scale not seen since the famine in Somalia, and many more millions more face food insecurity, exacerbated by disrupted plunting.” Also Watch | People face horrific situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray The further 16.7 million pounds in aid, brings to a total of 47.7 million pounds since the conflict begin eight months ago. The UK Ambassador also said, “without a ceasefire, this can be a manmade famine. It is not drought or locust that is causing this hunger, but the decisions of those in power. That means those in power could also end the suffering.” She continued, “we were told in March that the Eritrean forces will be withdrawing, it is now June, there can be no further delay. Farmers have been not able to plant for next year’s corps due to the violence, the window for them to do so is about to close, and while the violence continues, it is not only condemning the people of Tigray to desperate hunger this year but next year too. The UK Ambassador reiterated, “the solution is clear – a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and political dialogue.”

UK announces further aid for Ethiopia

Earlier on Monday, UK PM Boris Johnson confirmed that the fourth stage of the lockdown roadmap dubbed 'Freedom Day' will be delayed by 4 weeks.

Cases of Delta variant of Coronavirus rising in the UK

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal. 
 
"We need the EU to be pragmatic about the checks that are undertaken and that was always the way the protocol was drafted," International Trade Secretary Liz Truss told Sky News. 
 
"It requires compromise between the parties, and the EU need to be reasonable," Truss said. 
 
Earlier, French European Affairs junior minister Clement Beaune said that current tensions over Brexit between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government and the European Union were 'a test' for Europe.

The tensions between Britain and the EU threatened to overshadow the Group of Seven summit's conclusion on Sunday, with London accusing France of 'offensive' remarks that Northern Ireland was not part of the United Kingdom.

"Mr Johnson thinks that you can sign deals with the Europeans and not respect them and that Europe will not react. It is a test for Europe," Beaune told Europe 1 radio.

"I am telling the British people, (Brexit) commitments must be respected... If it is not the case, retaliatory measures could be taken," Beaune added.

During talks with Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit, Johnson queried how the French president would react if Toulouse sausages could not be sold in Paris markets, echoing London's accusation that the EU is preventing sales of British chilled meats in Northern Ireland.

"In Northern Ireland, there are sausage import problems... Why? Because when you leave the European Union, you have necessarily some (trade) barriers," Beaune said.

"I cannot tell the French or the Europeans that Britain can export via (EU member) Ireland some products, such as meat without any control... That is what it is all about. Brexit has consequences."

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal.

Britain's trade minister on Wednesday called on the European Union to be responsible and reasonable in a row over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol of the Brexit divorce deal. "We need the EU to be pragmatic about the checks that are undertaken and that was always the way the protocol was drafted," International Trade Secretary Liz Truss told Sky News. "It requires compromise between the parties, and the EU need to be reasonable," Truss said. Earlier, French European Affairs junior minister Clement Beaune said that current tensions over Brexit between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government and the European Union were 'a test' for Europe. The tensions between Britain and the EU threatened to overshadow the Group of Seven summit's conclusion on Sunday, with London accusing France of 'offensive' remarks that Northern Ireland was not part of the United Kingdom. "Mr Johnson thinks that you can sign deals with the Europeans and not respect them and that Europe will not react. It is a test for Europe," Beaune told Europe 1 radio. "I am telling the British people, (Brexit) commitments must be respected... If it is not the case, retaliatory measures could be taken," Beaune added. During talks with Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit, Johnson queried how the French president would react if Toulouse sausages could not be sold in Paris markets, echoing London's accusation that the EU is preventing sales of British chilled meats in Northern Ireland. "In Northern Ireland, there are sausage import problems... Why? Because when you leave the European Union, you have necessarily some (trade) barriers," Beaune said. "I cannot tell the French or the Europeans that Britain can export via (EU member) Ireland some products, such as meat without any control... That is what it is all about. Brexit has consequences." (With inputs from agencies)

UK tells EU on Northern Ireland: Be responsible, be reasonable

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