Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election.&nbsp;

Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television.&nbsp;

"The adventure of the mercenaries from Libya has ended, as announced," Communications Minister and government spokesman Cherif Mahamat Zene announced on Twitter.&nbsp;

Four tanks and several soldiers were stationed at the northern entrance of the Chadian capital N'Djamena on Saturday evening, where military vehicles were continuing to drive towards the fighting, an AFP journalist said.&nbsp;

The US embassy there on Saturday told its non-essential staff to leave the country because of the possibility of violence in the city.&nbsp;Britain also urged its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Last Sunday, members of the Force for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) rebel force group, said they had captured garrisons near Chad's northern borders with Niger and Libya 'without resistance'.&nbsp;

FACT is based in Libya, where it has a non-aggression pact with Khalifa Haftar, a military strongman, who controls much of the country's east. Mainly made up of the Saharan Goran people, it clashes regularly with the Chadian army.&nbsp;

The latest assault came on last Sunday, the same day as the country's presidential election, which the incumbent Idriss Deby Itno, who has ruled the country for 30 years, is expected to win.&nbsp;

Preliminary results will not be announced until April 25.&nbsp;

Initial indications suggested large numbers of people stayed away from the vote, prompting opposition figures to claim their calls for a boycott of the polls had worked.&nbsp;

The Tibesti mountains near the Libyan frontier frequently see fighting between rebels and the army. French air strikes were needed to stop an incursion there in early 2019.&nbsp;

In February 2008, a rebel assault reached the gates of the presidential palace before being pushed back with French backing.&nbsp;

Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election. Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television.

Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election. Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television. "The adventure of the mercenaries from Libya has ended, as announced," Communications Minister and government spokesman Cherif Mahamat Zene announced on Twitter. Four tanks and several soldiers were stationed at the northern entrance of the Chadian capital N'Djamena on Saturday evening, where military vehicles were continuing to drive towards the fighting, an AFP journalist said. The US embassy there on Saturday told its non-essential staff to leave the country because of the possibility of violence in the city. Britain also urged its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible. Last Sunday, members of the Force for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) rebel force group, said they had captured garrisons near Chad's northern borders with Niger and Libya 'without resistance'. FACT is based in Libya, where it has a non-aggression pact with Khalifa Haftar, a military strongman, who controls much of the country's east. Mainly made up of the Saharan Goran people, it clashes regularly with the Chadian army. The latest assault came on last Sunday, the same day as the country's presidential election, which the incumbent Idriss Deby Itno, who has ruled the country for 30 years, is expected to win. Preliminary results will not be announced until April 25. Initial indications suggested large numbers of people stayed away from the vote, prompting opposition figures to claim their calls for a boycott of the polls had worked. The Tibesti mountains near the Libyan frontier frequently see fighting between rebels and the army. French air strikes were needed to stop an incursion there in early 2019. In February 2008, a rebel assault reached the gates of the presidential palace before being pushed back with French backing.

Chad's army says rebel column in the north 'destroyed' 

Calls have been growing for UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to cancel the trip to India. UK report cases of variant detected in India. UK has detected 80 cases of double mutant strain. Johnson is all set to arrive in India on April 25 and he has already reduced the duration of the trip amid the COVID surge in India.

Pressure on UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to cancel the trip to India

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK.

A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE).

The B.1.617 variant contains mutations from two separate virus variants, namely E484Q and L452R.

The double mutant strain was first found in samples of saliva collected from Maharashtra, Punjab, and Delhi.

According to health experts, the L452R variant was first found in the US, whereas the E484Q variant is indigenous.

Scientists are worried about the variant as it carries two mutations in the spike protein that may make it more able to evade the body’s immune responses.

Experts in India are working to understand whether or not it could be more infectious and resistant to vaccines.

According to the health ministry, the new variant could also increase infection rates and easily surpass immune defences.

(With inputs from agencies)

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK. A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE).

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK. A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE). The B.1.617 variant contains mutations from two separate virus variants, namely E484Q and L452R. The double mutant strain was first found in samples of saliva collected from Maharashtra, Punjab, and Delhi. According to health experts, the L452R variant was first found in the US, whereas the E484Q variant is indigenous. Scientists are worried about the variant as it carries two mutations in the spike protein that may make it more able to evade the body’s immune responses. Experts in India are working to understand whether or not it could be more infectious and resistant to vaccines. According to the health ministry, the new variant could also increase infection rates and easily surpass immune defences. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian variant of Covid-19 discovered in the UK, 77 cases ‘under investigation’

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson has shorten his visit to India amid rising Coronavirus cases. India is currently battling second wave of Covid-19 with over 1lakh daily cases.

UK PM Boris Johnson shortens India visit due to Covid-19

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26.

Watch |&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020.

"The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said.

"India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world,"&nbsp;it adds.

As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future.

The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme.

"India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector,"&nbsp;the Indian High Commission said.

The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time.

Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries.

Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks.

"This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said.

The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government.

"As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure,"&nbsp;the spokesperson said.

The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation'&nbsp;Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday. Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26. Watch | The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020. "The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said. "India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world," it adds. As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future. The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme. "India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector," the Indian High Commission said. The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time. Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries. Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks. "This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said. The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government. "As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure," the spokesperson said. The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation' Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.

Boris Johnson's India visit to finalise 'Roadmap 2030' for India-UK ties 

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility.

Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020.

The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection.

There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant.

However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant.

Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility.

Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain. The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility. Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020. The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection. There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant. However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant. Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility. Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

UK COVID variant spreads faster but no evidence of worse symptoms: Study

The drinks are flowing as Britain unlocks. The mood on the streets is festive & the pubs are buzzing. Infections, deaths & hospitalisations have all fallen. Which measures worked for the United Kingdom WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Britons celebrate as lockdown ends

A lobbying scandal swirling around former British prime minister David Cameron has deepened with claims that a senior civil servant held down a part-time job with a now-bankrupt financial firm that was awarded lucrative government contracts.&nbsp;

The main opposition Labour Party called a vote in the House of Commons on Wednesday to demand a full parliamentary inquiry into the relationship between government ministers, civil servants and Greensill Capital, a financial services firm that collapsed last month, threatening thousands of jobs at a British steelmaker it helped finance.&nbsp;

The Conservative government has launched an investigation led by a lawyer, but opponents doubt it will get to the truth. Opposition parties are calling for tougher rules on contacts between business representatives and government officials, saying Britain's laxly enforced lobbying regulations leave the door open to corruption.&nbsp;

Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said the revelations showed the 'sleaze and cronyism that's at the heart of this Conservative government.' "We need to overhaul this whole broken system," he said.&nbsp;

A series of news reports over the last month revealed that Cameron lobbied senior government officials on behalf of a finance firm founded by Australian banker Lex Greensill, a former adviser to Cameron's 2010-2016 Conservative-led government.&nbsp;

Greensill Capital was given a lucrative role in 'supply chain finance' arrangements that saw it pay contractors on behalf of the government before being reimbursed by the Treasury. The system was designed to expedite payments to contractors, including pharmacies supplying the National Health Service, but critics say the government should just have paid the contractors directly.&nbsp;

Cameron worked as a part-time adviser to Greensill after he left office and held shares in the company.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, it emerged that a senior civil servant, Bill Crothers, began working as a part-time adviser to Greensill's board in September 2015, two months before he left his job as the government's chief commercial officer in charge of government purchasing.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he shared 'the widespread concern about some of the stuff that we're reading at the moment’. &nbsp;

"I do think it is a good idea in principle that civil servants should be able to engage with business and should have experience of private sector," Johnson told lawmakers in the House of Commons. But, he added, "it's not clear that those boundaries had been properly understood”. &nbsp;

British media began digging into Cameron's work for Greensill after the company's collapse forced the owner of Liberty Steel, which employs about 5,000 people, to seek a government bailout. Greensill was one of the company's key financial backers.&nbsp;

News reports have revealed that Cameron sent text messages to Treasury chief Rishi Sunak in an effort to secure government-backed loans for Greensill under a programme to help companies hurt by the Covid-19 pandemic. He also lobbied Health Secretary Matt Hancock on behalf of a Greensill product that would have allowed healthcare workers to receive advance payments on their salaries.&nbsp;

After weeks of silence, Cameron released a lengthy statement on Sunday, insisting that his work for the company didn't break any rules on the activities of former ministers. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A lobbying scandal swirling around former British prime minister David Cameron has deepened with claims that a senior civil servant held down a part-time job with a now-bankrupt financial firm that was awarded lucrative government contracts.

A lobbying scandal swirling around former British prime minister David Cameron has deepened with claims that a senior civil servant held down a part-time job with a now-bankrupt financial firm that was awarded lucrative government contracts. The main opposition Labour Party called a vote in the House of Commons on Wednesday to demand a full parliamentary inquiry into the relationship between government ministers, civil servants and Greensill Capital, a financial services firm that collapsed last month, threatening thousands of jobs at a British steelmaker it helped finance. The Conservative government has launched an investigation led by a lawyer, but opponents doubt it will get to the truth. Opposition parties are calling for tougher rules on contacts between business representatives and government officials, saying Britain's laxly enforced lobbying regulations leave the door open to corruption. Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said the revelations showed the 'sleaze and cronyism that's at the heart of this Conservative government.' "We need to overhaul this whole broken system," he said. A series of news reports over the last month revealed that Cameron lobbied senior government officials on behalf of a finance firm founded by Australian banker Lex Greensill, a former adviser to Cameron's 2010-2016 Conservative-led government. Greensill Capital was given a lucrative role in 'supply chain finance' arrangements that saw it pay contractors on behalf of the government before being reimbursed by the Treasury. The system was designed to expedite payments to contractors, including pharmacies supplying the National Health Service, but critics say the government should just have paid the contractors directly. Cameron worked as a part-time adviser to Greensill after he left office and held shares in the company. On Tuesday, it emerged that a senior civil servant, Bill Crothers, began working as a part-time adviser to Greensill's board in September 2015, two months before he left his job as the government's chief commercial officer in charge of government purchasing. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he shared 'the widespread concern about some of the stuff that we're reading at the moment’. "I do think it is a good idea in principle that civil servants should be able to engage with business and should have experience of private sector," Johnson told lawmakers in the House of Commons. But, he added, "it's not clear that those boundaries had been properly understood”. British media began digging into Cameron's work for Greensill after the company's collapse forced the owner of Liberty Steel, which employs about 5,000 people, to seek a government bailout. Greensill was one of the company's key financial backers. News reports have revealed that Cameron sent text messages to Treasury chief Rishi Sunak in an effort to secure government-backed loans for Greensill under a programme to help companies hurt by the Covid-19 pandemic. He also lobbied Health Secretary Matt Hancock on behalf of a Greensill product that would have allowed healthcare workers to receive advance payments on their salaries. After weeks of silence, Cameron released a lengthy statement on Sunday, insisting that his work for the company didn't break any rules on the activities of former ministers. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition accuses government of sleaze amid lobbying scandal in UK 

In January this year, as Christmas &amp; New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. &nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-britons-celebrate-as-lockdown-ends-377387/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched.

Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose.

Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. &nbsp;

Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom.

The mood is festive. A customer&nbsp;said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it."&nbsp;

The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time."&nbsp;

The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.”&nbsp;

The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing."&nbsp;

Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..."&nbsp;

And the drinks are flowing.&nbsp;

Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers."&nbsp;

After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy.&nbsp;

Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally."&nbsp;

In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints.&nbsp;

Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic."&nbsp;

And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. &nbsp;

George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat."&nbsp;

At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising.&nbsp;

The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February.&nbsp;

Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated,&nbsp;32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose.&nbsp;

&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." &nbsp;

The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown."&nbsp;

As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. &nbsp;

Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that." &nbsp;

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK.

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched. Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose. Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom. The mood is festive. A customer said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it." The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time." The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.” The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing." Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..." And the drinks are flowing. Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers." After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy. Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally." In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints. Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic." And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat." At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising. The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February. Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated, 32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown." As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that."

UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease 

The study of patients in London hospitals is consistent with emerging evidence that this lineage is more transmissible than the original COVID-19 strain.

UK Covid variant doesn’t lead to severe illness, death: The Lancet

In a setback for Islamabad, the United Kingdom in its new amended regulations on money laundering and&nbsp;terror financing has listed Pakistan under high-risk states. Pakistan is listed under 21 'high-risk third countries', which includes North Korea, Syria, Zimbabwe, Syria and Yemen.&nbsp;

The 'Amendment of the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017' has the amendment with the new list which includes Pakistan. The regulation came into effect on March 26.&nbsp;

The new regulation is a post-Brexit regime and mentioned that replacement of "a country which has been identified by the European Commission as a high-risk third country in delegated acts adopted under Article 9.2 of the fourth money laundering directive” with a new substitute “a high-risk third country”.&nbsp;

Pakistan strongly reacted to the development and said, "UK's assessment leading to the subject regulation is not based on facts", asking London to "review its regulations" and "avoid politically motivated and misplaced measures."&nbsp;

The development comes even as the Financial Action Task Force or FATF's sword continues to hang on Pakistan. The country has been on the financial watchdog's grey list since June 2018, impacting its economy. In the February meeting, the body decided to keep Pakistan on the grey list and gave more time to implement its 27-point action plan. It called on Pakistan to address deficiencies, including "demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1267 and 1373 designated terrorists, specifically those acting for or on their behalf."&nbsp;

In a setback for Islamabad, the United Kingdom in its new amended regulations on money laundering and terror financing has listed Pakistan under high-risk states.

In a setback for Islamabad, the United Kingdom in its new amended regulations on money laundering and terror financing has listed Pakistan under high-risk states. Pakistan is listed under 21 'high-risk third countries', which includes North Korea, Syria, Zimbabwe, Syria and Yemen. The 'Amendment of the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017' has the amendment with the new list which includes Pakistan. The regulation came into effect on March 26. The new regulation is a post-Brexit regime and mentioned that replacement of "a country which has been identified by the European Commission as a high-risk third country in delegated acts adopted under Article 9.2 of the fourth money laundering directive” with a new substitute “a high-risk third country”. Pakistan strongly reacted to the development and said, "UK's assessment leading to the subject regulation is not based on facts", asking London to "review its regulations" and "avoid politically motivated and misplaced measures." The development comes even as the Financial Action Task Force or FATF's sword continues to hang on Pakistan. The country has been on the financial watchdog's grey list since June 2018, impacting its economy. In the February meeting, the body decided to keep Pakistan on the grey list and gave more time to implement its 27-point action plan. It called on Pakistan to address deficiencies, including "demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1267 and 1373 designated terrorists, specifically those acting for or on their behalf."

UK classifies Pakistan as 'high risk' state over money laundering, terror financing 

The UK government has added Pakistan to the list of undesirable 21 high-risk countries with unsatisfactory money laundering and terrorist financing controls.

UK adds Pakistan to its list of 21 high-risk countries

The British government has opened an official independently-run investigation into former prime minister David Cameron's lobbying activities for financier Lex Greensill, The Sun newspaper reported.&nbsp;

While Cameron was British prime minister from 2010 to 2016, the Australian banker was brought in as an adviser to the government. After leaving office, Cameron in turn became an adviser to Greensill's now-insolvent finance firm.&nbsp;

The Financial Times and Sunday Times newspapers have reported that Cameron contacted ministers directly to lobby on behalf of Greensill Capital, including sending texts to finance minister Rishi Sunak and arranging a private drink between Greensill and Health Secretary Matt Hancock.&nbsp;

In his first comments on the row on Sunday, Cameron said that in his representations to government, he was breaking no codes of conduct and no government rules.&nbsp;

Ultimately, the outcome of the discussions on Greensill’s proposals regarding a loan were not taken up, he said, and therefore, his interventions did not lead to a change in the government's approach.&nbsp;

"However, I have reflected on this at length," he said, in a statement to the Press Association news agency.&nbsp;

"There are important lessons to be learnt. As a former Prime Minister, I accept that communications with government need to be done through only the most formal of channels, so there can be no room for misinterpretation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The British government has opened an official independently-run investigation into former prime minister David Cameron's lobbying activities for financier Lex Greensill, The Sun newspaper reported.

The British government has opened an official independently-run investigation into former prime minister David Cameron's lobbying activities for financier Lex Greensill, The Sun newspaper reported. While Cameron was British prime minister from 2010 to 2016, the Australian banker was brought in as an adviser to the government. After leaving office, Cameron in turn became an adviser to Greensill's now-insolvent finance firm. The Financial Times and Sunday Times newspapers have reported that Cameron contacted ministers directly to lobby on behalf of Greensill Capital, including sending texts to finance minister Rishi Sunak and arranging a private drink between Greensill and Health Secretary Matt Hancock. In his first comments on the row on Sunday, Cameron said that in his representations to government, he was breaking no codes of conduct and no government rules. Ultimately, the outcome of the discussions on Greensill’s proposals regarding a loan were not taken up, he said, and therefore, his interventions did not lead to a change in the government's approach. "However, I have reflected on this at length," he said, in a statement to the Press Association news agency. "There are important lessons to be learnt. As a former Prime Minister, I accept that communications with government need to be done through only the most formal of channels, so there can be no room for misinterpretation." (With inputs from agencies)

UK opens official investigation into ex-PM Cameron's lobbying: Report

Schools have reopened and non-essential retail is expected to re-open from 12 April. Hospitality is to follow from 17 May, with remaining restrictions removed from 21 June.

UK's Economy to expand 5% in 2021, 5.5% in 2022

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts. 
 
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed "another hugely significant milestone" after confirming a jab had been offered to all over-50s, the clinically vulnerable and health and social care workers, ahead of a self-imposed April 15 deadline.&nbsp; 
 
"That means more than 32 million people have been given the precious protection vaccines provide against Covid 19," he said in a statement, adding efforts would now focus on delivering second doses and offering all adults an initial shot by August. 
 
The British leader had earlier hailed the latest lifting of rules as "a major step forward in our roadmap to freedom", after pubs were allowed to reopen to serve drinkers outside and non-essential retailers and hairdressers restarted.&nbsp; 
 
Some pubs, many shuttered for large chunks of the last year, wasted no time and opened on the stroke of midnight, while others opened just in time for breakfast. 
 
"I work the night shifts in the hospital," said Richard Newman, a 32-year-old doctor at the Royal London Hospital, as he waited with friends outside the Half Moon pub in east London at nine am (0700 GMT). 
 
"Hopefully, it's the end of lockdown but who knows? What does it represent? Hopefully a nice summer. It should be fun, bringing back a bit of life to London." 
 
Bundled up in coats and hats, customers sat chatting and laughing at outside tables, ordering beers, wine and full English breakfasts of eggs, bacon and sausages. 
 
"For the past few months we've never been able to go out together, celebrate and get through it," said 28-year-old Laura Bennett.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm having a lot of fun."

Zoos, gyms and swimmers 
On London's Oxford Street, some shoppers braved the chilly temperatures to start queueing at 5.30 a.m., two hours before the first non-essential shops such as fast-fashion chain Primark opened. 
 
Hairdressers were also able to open for business, with demand for much-needed trims high more than three months after the latest stay-at-home order began.&nbsp; 
 
In east London, Adam Yours waited outside Jimmy Slicks barber's, desperate to lose his long hair. 
 
"The first thing on the list is to get a haircut so you can go to the pub and look respectable," said the 22-year-old. 
 
Johnson had his unruly mop of blond hair cut, his spokesman told reporters. 
 
As sports and leisure facilities reopened in England, people plunged into pools and lifted weights. 
 
Families flocked to see lions and elephants at Chester Zoo in northwest England and thrill-seekers took rides at Thorpe Park theme park southwest of London. 
 
Self-catering domestic holidays are also allowed and bookings have soared. 
 
Mosques are meanwhile preparing for the start of Ramadan this week, a year after the Muslim holy month was observed without traditional community gatherings.

Watchword: caution 
The UK nations all have different strategies for leaving lockdown, and Monday's pub reopenings applied only to England, while non-essential shops also reopened in Wales.&nbsp; 
 
Government ministers, scientists and health officials are warning against complacency, despite the successful vaccine drive which is seen as the main way to prevent more serious cases of Covid-19 that require hospital treatment. 
 
In London, authorities are boosting testing in the southern districts of Wandsworth and Lambeth after at least 44 confirmed cases of the highly transmissible South African Covid variant were detected. 
 
Although Britain recorded just 3,568 new infections Monday, it has seen more than 4.3 million cases since the pandemic began and over 127,000 deaths -- one of the worst tolls in the world. 
 
Its economy has also been devastated by a year of repeated enforced closures and restrictions, prompting consideration of new measures to ensure businesses stay open in the future. 
 
One possibility is so-called "vaccine passports" but that has triggered debate about whether they would be effective or enforced -- and implications for civil liberties. 
 
There is also increasing pressure for a decision on resuming non-essential international travel, with many eager to book foreign holidays. 
 
Johnson has said the reopening plan will be driven by data, not dates, but has set the next anticipated easing for May 17. 
 
Almost all remaining social restrictions are scheduled to be lifted on June 21.

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts.

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed "another hugely significant milestone" after confirming a jab had been offered to all over-50s, the clinically vulnerable and health and social care workers, ahead of a self-imposed April 15 deadline. "That means more than 32 million people have been given the precious protection vaccines provide against Covid 19," he said in a statement, adding efforts would now focus on delivering second doses and offering all adults an initial shot by August. The British leader had earlier hailed the latest lifting of rules as "a major step forward in our roadmap to freedom", after pubs were allowed to reopen to serve drinkers outside and non-essential retailers and hairdressers restarted. Some pubs, many shuttered for large chunks of the last year, wasted no time and opened on the stroke of midnight, while others opened just in time for breakfast. "I work the night shifts in the hospital," said Richard Newman, a 32-year-old doctor at the Royal London Hospital, as he waited with friends outside the Half Moon pub in east London at nine am (0700 GMT). "Hopefully, it's the end of lockdown but who knows? What does it represent? Hopefully a nice summer. It should be fun, bringing back a bit of life to London." Bundled up in coats and hats, customers sat chatting and laughing at outside tables, ordering beers, wine and full English breakfasts of eggs, bacon and sausages. "For the past few months we've never been able to go out together, celebrate and get through it," said 28-year-old Laura Bennett. "I'm having a lot of fun." Zoos, gyms and swimmers On London's Oxford Street, some shoppers braved the chilly temperatures to start queueing at 5.30 a.m., two hours before the first non-essential shops such as fast-fashion chain Primark opened. Hairdressers were also able to open for business, with demand for much-needed trims high more than three months after the latest stay-at-home order began. In east London, Adam Yours waited outside Jimmy Slicks barber's, desperate to lose his long hair. "The first thing on the list is to get a haircut so you can go to the pub and look respectable," said the 22-year-old. Johnson had his unruly mop of blond hair cut, his spokesman told reporters. As sports and leisure facilities reopened in England, people plunged into pools and lifted weights. Families flocked to see lions and elephants at Chester Zoo in northwest England and thrill-seekers took rides at Thorpe Park theme park southwest of London. Self-catering domestic holidays are also allowed and bookings have soared. Mosques are meanwhile preparing for the start of Ramadan this week, a year after the Muslim holy month was observed without traditional community gatherings. Watchword: caution The UK nations all have different strategies for leaving lockdown, and Monday's pub reopenings applied only to England, while non-essential shops also reopened in Wales. Government ministers, scientists and health officials are warning against complacency, despite the successful vaccine drive which is seen as the main way to prevent more serious cases of Covid-19 that require hospital treatment. In London, authorities are boosting testing in the southern districts of Wandsworth and Lambeth after at least 44 confirmed cases of the highly transmissible South African Covid variant were detected. Although Britain recorded just 3,568 new infections Monday, it has seen more than 4.3 million cases since the pandemic began and over 127,000 deaths -- one of the worst tolls in the world. Its economy has also been devastated by a year of repeated enforced closures and restrictions, prompting consideration of new measures to ensure businesses stay open in the future. One possibility is so-called "vaccine passports" but that has triggered debate about whether they would be effective or enforced -- and implications for civil liberties. There is also increasing pressure for a decision on resuming non-essential international travel, with many eager to book foreign holidays. Johnson has said the reopening plan will be driven by data, not dates, but has set the next anticipated easing for May 17. Almost all remaining social restrictions are scheduled to be lifted on June 21.

UK achieves key vaccination target as pubs, shops and salons reopen

Millions of people in England will get their first chance in months for haircuts, casual shopping and restaurant meals, as the government takes the next step on its lockdown-lifting road map.

Coronavirus restrictions ease in England after months of lockdown

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday.

Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. The gun salutes were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar.

Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as&nbsp;Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames.

One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes&nbsp;"for a superhuman".

Similar salutes -- the most according to military protocol -- were also held in Canberra and Wellington, as the queen is head of state in Australia and New Zealand.

Pope Praises Prince Philip

Joining the list of world leaders who praised and paid tribute to Prince Philip, Pope Francis saluted&nbsp;the late husband of Queen Elizabeth II, as a man devoted "to his marriage and family."

In a message to the British monarch, the 84-year-old Argentine pope offered "heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty and the members of the Royal Family."

Pope praised the prince for his "devotion to his marriage and family, his distinguished record of public service and his commitment to the education and advancement of future generations."&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday. Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander.

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday. Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. The gun salutes were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar. Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames. One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes "for a superhuman". Similar salutes -- the most according to military protocol -- were also held in Canberra and Wellington, as the queen is head of state in Australia and New Zealand. Pope Praises Prince Philip Joining the list of world leaders who praised and paid tribute to Prince Philip, Pope Francis saluted the late husband of Queen Elizabeth II, as a man devoted "to his marriage and family." In a message to the British monarch, the 84-year-old Argentine pope offered "heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty and the members of the Royal Family." Pope praised the prince for his "devotion to his marriage and family, his distinguished record of public service and his commitment to the education and advancement of future generations." (With AFP inputs)

Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed&nbsp;away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news.&nbsp;Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone&nbsp;a successful heart procedure.&nbsp;

Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades.

Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace.

"It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

"Further announcements will be made in due course.

"The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."

The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'.

Also See | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-duke-of-edinburgh-life-in-pictures-376334">Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures</a>

Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort.

"We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street.

(With AFP inputs)

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure.

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure. Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades. Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace. "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. "His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. "Further announcements will be made in due course. "The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss." The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'. Also See | Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort. "We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street. (With AFP inputs)

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passes away

Amid reports of sexual misconduct, the UK government has decided to halt funding for Oxfam in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Oxfam charity confirmed that two members of the staff in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been suspended after allegations of sexual misconduct, bullying and abuse of power were made against them. The two employees are undergoing investigation as of now.

“All organisations bidding for UK aid must meet the high standards of safeguarding required to keep the people they work with safe,” the Foreign Office (FCDO) said. “Given the most recent reports, which call into question Oxfam’s ability to meet those standards, we will not consider any new funding to Oxfam until the issues have been resolved.”

Active in DRC since 1961, the organisation focuses on humanitarian projects and helps the locals of the region by helping them through services such as clean drinking water, proper sanitary surroundings and such.

Oxfam has been under observation since 2019 when Charity Commission had revealed that the organisation had partially hidden the truth of the matter in which employees had allegedly sexually abused children.

“The Charity Commission and FCDO have been notified appropriately and we will continue to keep them informed as the investigation concludes its work,” an Oxfam spokesperson said.

Amid reports of sexual misconduct, the UK government has decided to halt funding for Oxfam in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Oxfam charity confirmed that two members of the staff in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been suspended after allegations of sexual misconduct, bullying and abuse of power were made against them.

Amid reports of sexual misconduct, the UK government has decided to halt funding for Oxfam in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Oxfam charity confirmed that two members of the staff in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been suspended after allegations of sexual misconduct, bullying and abuse of power were made against them. The two employees are undergoing investigation as of now. “All organisations bidding for UK aid must meet the high standards of safeguarding required to keep the people they work with safe,” the Foreign Office (FCDO) said. “Given the most recent reports, which call into question Oxfam’s ability to meet those standards, we will not consider any new funding to Oxfam until the issues have been resolved.” Active in DRC since 1961, the organisation focuses on humanitarian projects and helps the locals of the region by helping them through services such as clean drinking water, proper sanitary surroundings and such. Oxfam has been under observation since 2019 when Charity Commission had revealed that the organisation had partially hidden the truth of the matter in which employees had allegedly sexually abused children. “The Charity Commission and FCDO have been notified appropriately and we will continue to keep them informed as the investigation concludes its work,” an Oxfam spokesperson said.

UK halts funding for Oxfam amid allegations of sexual misconduct

The Prime Minister of the UK Boris Johnson has given green light to the next step of the roadmap out of lockdown. Pubs, gardens, hairdressers, beauty and nail salons and indoor leisure facilities such as gyms and spas can reopen from April 12.

Next stage of lockdown easing in England to begin in April 12

Britain will soon test a series of measures to allow the safe return of sports matches, events and nightclubs. The measures will include COVID-19 passports, these passes would show if a person has been vaccinated against the infection.

UK proposes pilots for COVID-19 passports as way out of lockdown

International travel is currently banned except for a handful of permitted reasons. This has created massive pent-up demand for summer holidays abroad.

UK to announce new traffic light system for international travel

UK is set to announce new rules on Monday to restart international travel. It will use "traffic light system" to flag travel destinations.&nbsp;

The UK has set a tentative date of May 17 to relaunch foreign travel, currently banned except for a handful of permitted reasons. This has created massive pent-up demand for summer holidays abroad.

Travel destinations will be categorised as red, amber or green based on the virus risk.

People heading to low-risk "green" countries will simply take a virus test before and after they travel, the government said.

But those going to amber or red countries will have to self-isolate or quarantine afterwards.

"We are doing everything we can to enable the reopening of our country... as safely as possible," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.

The government urged people not to book summer holidays, saying it was "too early to predict" which would be the green-lighted countries.

The government has announced it will allow a number of people to attend public events such as football matches from this month in trials of a virus certification system.

(With AFP inputs)

UK is set to announce new rules on Monday to restart international travel. It will use "traffic light system" to flag travel destinations. The UK has set a tentative date of May 17 to relaunch foreign travel, currently banned except for a handful of permitted reasons.

UK is set to announce new rules on Monday to restart international travel. It will use "traffic light system" to flag travel destinations. The UK has set a tentative date of May 17 to relaunch foreign travel, currently banned except for a handful of permitted reasons. This has created massive pent-up demand for summer holidays abroad. Travel destinations will be categorised as red, amber or green based on the virus risk. People heading to low-risk "green" countries will simply take a virus test before and after they travel, the government said. But those going to amber or red countries will have to self-isolate or quarantine afterwards. "We are doing everything we can to enable the reopening of our country... as safely as possible," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. The government urged people not to book summer holidays, saying it was "too early to predict" which would be the green-lighted countries. The government has announced it will allow a number of people to attend public events such as football matches from this month in trials of a virus certification system. (With AFP inputs)

UK to announce new rules to restart international travel

UK envoy to UN Barbara Woodward on WION: "We need to find a political solution, UK is looking for an end to violence in Myanmar", Ambassador Barbara Woodward said to WION correspondent Susan Tehrani. She added that "path of democracy" was the only way forward.

UK is looking for an end to violence in Myanmar": Ambassador Barbara Woodward said to WION

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