The UK government is set to bring in a new higher tier of COVID-19 restrictions and put London and southeast England into those measures. PM Boris Johnson announces relaxation rules for Christmas.

News Alert: England to be under world's most stringent restrictions

In what can be called a surprising turn of events, all lorry drivers travelling from the UK to the countries of the European Union will now have to ditch their popular snack of 'ham and cheese' sandwiches.

In an announcement made by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affair, the transport representatives have been advised to impose a strict ban of ham and cheese sandwich and all other meat and dairy products from January 01.&nbsp;

This ban will come into effect from December 31 from 11pm and will disallow the lorry drivers to carry these products, even if they are meant for travel snacking in the long drives. The same ban will also apply to tourists travelling to the EU.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-says-hours-left-for-a-post-brexit-trade-deal-350883">EU says hours left for a post-Brexit trade deal</a>

"Drivers travelling to the EU should be aware of additional restrictions to personal imports taking effect from 1 January 2021. If you are carrying prohibited items in your luggage, vehicle or person you will need to use, consume, or dispose of them at or before the border," the official guidelines read.

The guidelines used the example of 'hand cheese' sandwich in particular sending a furry of laughter across the country. "From 1 January 2021 you will not be able to bring POAO (products of an animal origin) such as those containing meat or dairy (eg a ham and cheese sandwich) into the EU," the officials stated.

This decision has been taken to control the spread of diseases from these food items, especially after the coronavirus pandemic.

As per the official guidelines and the advice leaflets being handed over, if the drivers fail to declare possession of these sandwiches, or any other meat and dairy product, they&nbsp;could bear a fine or even criminal prosecution.

While the meat and dairy products will be disallowed,&nbsp;meat extracts and meat concentrates will be allowed across the country borders, giving a sigh of relief to the Britishers.

The decision has not gained popular vote from the lorry drivers who claim this has been their staple diet for the last few years when travelling to the EU for long trips.

In what can be called a surprising turn of events, all lorry drivers travelling from the UK to the countries of the European Union will now have to ditch their popular snack of 'ham and cheese' sandwiches.

In what can be called a surprising turn of events, all lorry drivers travelling from the UK to the countries of the European Union will now have to ditch their popular snack of 'ham and cheese' sandwiches. In an announcement made by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affair, the transport representatives have been advised to impose a strict ban of ham and cheese sandwich and all other meat and dairy products from January 01. This ban will come into effect from December 31 from 11pm and will disallow the lorry drivers to carry these products, even if they are meant for travel snacking in the long drives. The same ban will also apply to tourists travelling to the EU. Also read| EU says hours left for a post-Brexit trade deal "Drivers travelling to the EU should be aware of additional restrictions to personal imports taking effect from 1 January 2021. If you are carrying prohibited items in your luggage, vehicle or person you will need to use, consume, or dispose of them at or before the border," the official guidelines read. The guidelines used the example of 'hand cheese' sandwich in particular sending a furry of laughter across the country. "From 1 January 2021 you will not be able to bring POAO (products of an animal origin) such as those containing meat or dairy (eg a ham and cheese sandwich) into the EU," the officials stated. This decision has been taken to control the spread of diseases from these food items, especially after the coronavirus pandemic. As per the official guidelines and the advice leaflets being handed over, if the drivers fail to declare possession of these sandwiches, or any other meat and dairy product, they could bear a fine or even criminal prosecution. While the meat and dairy products will be disallowed, meat extracts and meat concentrates will be allowed across the country borders, giving a sigh of relief to the Britishers. The decision has not gained popular vote from the lorry drivers who claim this has been their staple diet for the last few years when travelling to the EU for long trips.

Ahead of Brexit, UK lorry drivers en route EU face ban on 'ham and cheese' sandwiches

Large areas of England will be added to the 'very high alert' COVID-19 category this weekend, placing residents under the most stringent set of restrictions to tackle a rising number of infections.

Two-thirds of England to be under toughest COVID-19 measures

A Scottish designer has won $1 million (£753,000) to fund the manufacture of his innovative smart-wheelchair.

Andrew Slorance, who uses a wheelchair himself, won the prize money in the Toyota-run global Mobility Unlimited Challenge.

According to the challenge, inventors were invited to submit smart technologies to improve the lives of people with lower-limb paralysis.

Slorance started using a wheelchair 37 years ago after injuring his spinal chord falling from a tree when he was 14. His innovation 'Phoenix I' uses smart sensors to detect if the user is leaning forward or backwards and adjusts its centre of gravity to prevent tipping or falling.

The team of five at Phoenix Instinct used a large amount of 3D printing to perfect the winning design, an ultra-lightweight manual wheelchair made from carbon fibre.

The company, based in Forres, Moray, will produce the Phoenix I in-house to keep it cost-effective.

The aim is for it to cost £4,000-£5,000 and be on the market within two years.

The five finalists in the contest included teams from Italy, Japan and America, with devices such as a hybrid exoskeleton on wheels. Each will receive $500,000 to develop prototypes of their design.

A Scottish designer has won $1 million (£753,000) to fund the manufacture of his innovative smart-wheelchair. Andrew Slorance, who uses a wheelchair himself, won the prize money in the Toyota-run global Mobility Unlimited Challenge.

A Scottish designer has won $1 million (£753,000) to fund the manufacture of his innovative smart-wheelchair. Andrew Slorance, who uses a wheelchair himself, won the prize money in the Toyota-run global Mobility Unlimited Challenge. According to the challenge, inventors were invited to submit smart technologies to improve the lives of people with lower-limb paralysis. Slorance started using a wheelchair 37 years ago after injuring his spinal chord falling from a tree when he was 14. His innovation 'Phoenix I' uses smart sensors to detect if the user is leaning forward or backwards and adjusts its centre of gravity to prevent tipping or falling. The team of five at Phoenix Instinct used a large amount of 3D printing to perfect the winning design, an ultra-lightweight manual wheelchair made from carbon fibre. The company, based in Forres, Moray, will produce the Phoenix I in-house to keep it cost-effective. The aim is for it to cost £4,000-£5,000 and be on the market within two years. The five finalists in the contest included teams from Italy, Japan and America, with devices such as a hybrid exoskeleton on wheels. Each will receive $500,000 to develop prototypes of their design.

British designer's wheelchair innovation wins $1 mn Toyota prize

The number of COVID-19 cases in London has increased significantly over the past two weeks and we continue to experience the highest case rates of anywhere in the country.

WION Dispatch: England to be under world's most stringent COVID restrictions

Cars pulled up to the vaccination centre at Hyde Leisure Centre, Greater Manchester, with medics administering the jab within minutes.

UK becomes first country to introduce drive-through vaccine centres

UK's home secretary Priti Patel has accused&nbsp;a former Foreign Office minister of breaching the coronavirus lockdown regulations after he attended a Christmas party in the capital city of London.

A senior Tory MP,&nbsp;Tobias Ellwood, attended an event at the&nbsp;Cavalry and Guards Club on Tuesday in London. This event was attended by 27 people, a few hours before the city moved into a Tier-3 lockdown to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-identified-in-uk-london-in-tier-3-lockdown-349785">New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown</a>

The dinner was hosted by the&nbsp;Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC)&nbsp;in Piccadilly and was being referred to as a 'Christmas party' on the official website — but the information&nbsp;was reportedly removed later. Ellwood, however, has denied this accusation and claimed it to be a business meeting.&nbsp;

"I would not be attending a Christmas party, it was a business meeting," he said. "I went there to meet business people and that is what it was. The club went to extreme lengths so that as a business function it was absolutely Covid compliant."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/closer-to-brexit-trade-deal-but-success-unclear-says-eu-chief-in-european-parliament-350308">Closer to Brexit trade deal but success unclear, says EU chief in European Parliament</a>

Priti Patel, on the other hand, thinks her fellow politician has clearly breached the rules. "Having dinner ... outside of the rules with a large number of people is a breach of the regulations," she said in an interview.

She also assured that a proper investigation will be conducted in this matter and penalty will be levied upon the Tory MP. "There are fixed penalty notices. I don’t know the details as to where this happened or the location, but I’m sure ... as it is a breach, that will be followed up."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Apols re my well intentioned attendance at an Iraqi/British Business event. 
It was fully Covid compliant &amp; helpful to learn more about where Iraq’s heading as UK troops are still there. 
But during this challenging time perceptions count. Something I’m now very more conscious of. <a href="https://t.co/fAbEwILmna">pic.twitter.com/fAbEwILmna</a>
— Tobias Ellwood MP (@Tobias_Ellwood) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tobias_Ellwood/status/1339549569881915396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ellwood took to Twitter to explain his side of the argument and defended this gathering as an opportunity to understand the situation of the Middle East. "We still have troops based in Iraq and the security situation is deteriorating. I work hard to leverage every opportunity to further my understanding of international foreign policy and security matters. I gleaned extremely useful intelligence from this gathering about what is happening on the ground and wider issues affecting the Middle East," he said.

UK's home secretary Priti Patel has accused a former Foreign Office minister of breaching the coronavirus lockdown regulations after he attended a Christmas party in the capital city of London.

UK's home secretary Priti Patel has accused a former Foreign Office minister of breaching the coronavirus lockdown regulations after he attended a Christmas party in the capital city of London. A senior Tory MP, Tobias Ellwood, attended an event at the Cavalry and Guards Club on Tuesday in London. This event was attended by 27 people, a few hours before the city moved into a Tier-3 lockdown to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus. Also read| New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown The dinner was hosted by the Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC) in Piccadilly and was being referred to as a 'Christmas party' on the official website — but the information was reportedly removed later. Ellwood, however, has denied this accusation and claimed it to be a business meeting. "I would not be attending a Christmas party, it was a business meeting," he said. "I went there to meet business people and that is what it was. The club went to extreme lengths so that as a business function it was absolutely Covid compliant." Also read| Closer to Brexit trade deal but success unclear, says EU chief in European Parliament Priti Patel, on the other hand, thinks her fellow politician has clearly breached the rules. "Having dinner ... outside of the rules with a large number of people is a breach of the regulations," she said in an interview. She also assured that a proper investigation will be conducted in this matter and penalty will be levied upon the Tory MP. "There are fixed penalty notices. I don’t know the details as to where this happened or the location, but I’m sure ... as it is a breach, that will be followed up." Apols re my well intentioned attendance at an Iraqi/British Business event. It was fully Covid compliant & helpful to learn more about where Iraq’s heading as UK troops are still there. But during this challenging time perceptions count. Something I’m now very more conscious of. pic.twitter.com/fAbEwILmna — Tobias Ellwood MP (@Tobias_Ellwood) December 17, 2020 × Ellwood took to Twitter to explain his side of the argument and defended this gathering as an opportunity to understand the situation of the Middle East. "We still have troops based in Iraq and the security situation is deteriorating. I work hard to leverage every opportunity to further my understanding of international foreign policy and security matters. I gleaned extremely useful intelligence from this gathering about what is happening on the ground and wider issues affecting the Middle East," he said.

UK's Priti Patel accuses Tory MP of COVID-19 lockdown breach

Despite being at much greater risk of the disease people from minority ethnic backgrounds or with lower incomes are significantly less likely to take the coronavirus vaccine, research suggests.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-trial-volunteers-who-got-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-developed-bells-palsy-348547">Also read: Four trial volunteers who got Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine developed Bell's palsy</a>

A study commissioned by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) found that three in four (76 per cent) of the British public would take a COVID-19 vaccine if advised to do so by their doctor, with just 8 per cent stating they would be very unlikely to do so. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-four-to-six-months-could-be-worst-of-coronavirus-pandemic-bill-gates-349593">Also read | Next four to six months could be worst of coronavirus pandemic: Bill Gates</a> 
 
The UK has covered nearly 138,000 people in the first week of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine rollout across the country.

However, it found that only 57 per cent of respondents from BAME backgrounds (199 respondents) were likely to accept the vaccine, compared to 79 per cent of white respondents.

Confidence in vaccines was found to be lowest among respondents of Asian ethnicity, of whom only 55 per cent were likely to say yes, the study says.

"We have known for years that different communities have different levels of satisfaction in the NHS (National Health Service) and more recently we have seen anti-vaccination messages have been specifically targeted at different groups, including different ethnic or religious communities," said Christina Marriott, Chief Executive of RSPH.

"But these are exactly the groups which have suffered most through COVID. They continue to be most at risk of getting ill and most at risk of dying. So, the government, the NHS and local public health must rapidly and proactively work with these communities. And their most effective ways of working will be with the local community groups," she said.

Earlier studies have shown that COVID-19 has a more adverse impact on minority ethnic groups in the UK, with working and living conditions largely believed to be behind the disparity of higher death rates among BAME groups.

Comorbidities such as blood pressure, obesity and diabetes are also believed to play a part in making those of South Asian ethnicity more susceptible to serious illness from the deadly virus.

These findings are not surprising in light of past experience of the reach of vaccines to BAME communities, but they appear to be particularly worrying as it suggests the COVID vaccine may not reach communities that have been disproportionately impacted," Jabeer Butt, Chief Executive of the UK's Race Equality Foundation, said in reference to the latest survey.

"It is imperative that the NHS uses trusted channels like BAME-led voluntary organisations to reach and address concerns of BAME communities and ensure that the disproportionate impact of COVID is not exacerbated," he said.

The RSPH report highlighted the encouraging finding that BAME respondents who were not willing to be vaccinated were receptive to offers of further health information from their general practitioner (GP).

Over one third (35 per cent) said they would likely change their minds and get the jab if given more information by their GP about how effective it is, almost twice as many as the 18 per cent of White people who were initially unwilling.

The RSPH said the latest findings build on a study earlier this year which found that parents in minority ethnic groups were almost three times more likely to reject a COVID-19 vaccine for themselves and their children than White parents.

The polling also revealed significantly more hesitancy among lower-income groups, with just 70 per cent of lowest earners likely to say yes to the jab compared to 84 per cent of the highest earners.

Last week, the UK began administering the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in a phased manner, starting with the elderly and frontline workers as categories at the highest risk of death from coronavirus.

With a number of other vaccines, including the Oxford University vaccine being produced by AstraZeneca, in the pipeline, the government is keen to get the message out for widespread uptake of the jabs as a means to emerge out of the current cycle of lockdowns to control the spread of infections.

The UK's regulatory body, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has repeatedly stressed that any vaccines will be cleared for mass rollout only after "rigorous" safety tests despite the process being speeded up due to the urgency of finding an effective vaccine against the pandemic which has wreaked havoc around the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite being at much greater risk of the disease people from minority ethnic backgrounds or with lower incomes are significantly less likely to take the coronavirus vaccine, research suggests.

Despite being at much greater risk of the disease people from minority ethnic backgrounds or with lower incomes are significantly less likely to take the coronavirus vaccine, research suggests. Also read: Four trial volunteers who got Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine developed Bell's palsy A study commissioned by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) found that three in four (76 per cent) of the British public would take a COVID-19 vaccine if advised to do so by their doctor, with just 8 per cent stating they would be very unlikely to do so. Also read | Next four to six months could be worst of coronavirus pandemic: Bill Gates The UK has covered nearly 138,000 people in the first week of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine rollout across the country. However, it found that only 57 per cent of respondents from BAME backgrounds (199 respondents) were likely to accept the vaccine, compared to 79 per cent of white respondents. Confidence in vaccines was found to be lowest among respondents of Asian ethnicity, of whom only 55 per cent were likely to say yes, the study says. "We have known for years that different communities have different levels of satisfaction in the NHS (National Health Service) and more recently we have seen anti-vaccination messages have been specifically targeted at different groups, including different ethnic or religious communities," said Christina Marriott, Chief Executive of RSPH. "But these are exactly the groups which have suffered most through COVID. They continue to be most at risk of getting ill and most at risk of dying. So, the government, the NHS and local public health must rapidly and proactively work with these communities. And their most effective ways of working will be with the local community groups," she said. Earlier studies have shown that COVID-19 has a more adverse impact on minority ethnic groups in the UK, with working and living conditions largely believed to be behind the disparity of higher death rates among BAME groups. Comorbidities such as blood pressure, obesity and diabetes are also believed to play a part in making those of South Asian ethnicity more susceptible to serious illness from the deadly virus. These findings are not surprising in light of past experience of the reach of vaccines to BAME communities, but they appear to be particularly worrying as it suggests the COVID vaccine may not reach communities that have been disproportionately impacted," Jabeer Butt, Chief Executive of the UK's Race Equality Foundation, said in reference to the latest survey. "It is imperative that the NHS uses trusted channels like BAME-led voluntary organisations to reach and address concerns of BAME communities and ensure that the disproportionate impact of COVID is not exacerbated," he said. The RSPH report highlighted the encouraging finding that BAME respondents who were not willing to be vaccinated were receptive to offers of further health information from their general practitioner (GP). Over one third (35 per cent) said they would likely change their minds and get the jab if given more information by their GP about how effective it is, almost twice as many as the 18 per cent of White people who were initially unwilling. The RSPH said the latest findings build on a study earlier this year which found that parents in minority ethnic groups were almost three times more likely to reject a COVID-19 vaccine for themselves and their children than White parents. The polling also revealed significantly more hesitancy among lower-income groups, with just 70 per cent of lowest earners likely to say yes to the jab compared to 84 per cent of the highest earners. Last week, the UK began administering the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in a phased manner, starting with the elderly and frontline workers as categories at the highest risk of death from coronavirus. With a number of other vaccines, including the Oxford University vaccine being produced by AstraZeneca, in the pipeline, the government is keen to get the message out for widespread uptake of the jabs as a means to emerge out of the current cycle of lockdowns to control the spread of infections. The UK's regulatory body, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has repeatedly stressed that any vaccines will be cleared for mass rollout only after "rigorous" safety tests despite the process being speeded up due to the urgency of finding an effective vaccine against the pandemic which has wreaked havoc around the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups reluctant to take Covid-19 vaccine jab: UK study

The girl is believed to be the first person in the U.K. to have air pollution listed as the cause of death on their death certificate.

Air pollution listed as cause of 9-year-old’s death in London

A group of US states is planning to take aim at Google with an antitrust lawsuit, saying the internet giant abused its power when ranking its own offerings in search results.

Politico reported Tuesday that a complaint led by attorneys general from Colorado and Nebraska could be filed as early as Thursday.

Amazon, TripAdvisor, Yelp and other internet firms that involve recommending products or services have complained that Google favours its own offerings in general search results.

The suit being prepared by states will argue that Google's search engine disadvantages rivals by design.

Google called the US lawsuit "deeply flawed."

Google's long-running business model based on free services and advertising is already being put to the test in a landmark antitrust lawsuit filed by the US Justice Department.

The US government filed a blockbuster lawsuit in October accusing Google of maintaining an "illegal monopoly" in online search and advertising. The country's biggest antitrust case in decades, it opens the door to a potential breakup of the Silicon Valley titan.

The politically charged case, which could take years to play out, draws new battle lines between the US government and Big Tech, with potentially major implications for the sector.

But the government is likely to face challenges proving monopoly allegations against the tech firm, which grew into one of the world's most successful companies by leveraging its powerful search engine for a network of services such as maps, email, shopping and travel that feed its data-driven digital advertising.

Legal experts point to the fact that it may be difficult to show Google's conduct was illegal under the longstanding "consumer welfare" standard in monopoly cases because its services are largely free.

The case -- joined by 11 states, all of which have Republican attorneys general -- comes against a backdrop of fierce political backlash against Big Tech giants that have extended their dominance in recent years.

The Justice Department argues that Google has cemented its monopoly position using deals with device makers to ensure its apps and services are prominently displayed, and sometimes can't be deleted.

(with inputs from agencies)

A group of US states is planning to take aim at Google with an antitrust lawsuit, saying the internet giant abused its power when ranking its own offerings in search results.

A group of US states is planning to take aim at Google with an antitrust lawsuit, saying the internet giant abused its power when ranking its own offerings in search results. Politico reported Tuesday that a complaint led by attorneys general from Colorado and Nebraska could be filed as early as Thursday. Amazon, TripAdvisor, Yelp and other internet firms that involve recommending products or services have complained that Google favours its own offerings in general search results. The suit being prepared by states will argue that Google's search engine disadvantages rivals by design. Google called the US lawsuit "deeply flawed." Google's long-running business model based on free services and advertising is already being put to the test in a landmark antitrust lawsuit filed by the US Justice Department. The US government filed a blockbuster lawsuit in October accusing Google of maintaining an "illegal monopoly" in online search and advertising. The country's biggest antitrust case in decades, it opens the door to a potential breakup of the Silicon Valley titan. The politically charged case, which could take years to play out, draws new battle lines between the US government and Big Tech, with potentially major implications for the sector. But the government is likely to face challenges proving monopoly allegations against the tech firm, which grew into one of the world's most successful companies by leveraging its powerful search engine for a network of services such as maps, email, shopping and travel that feed its data-driven digital advertising. Legal experts point to the fact that it may be difficult to show Google's conduct was illegal under the longstanding "consumer welfare" standard in monopoly cases because its services are largely free. The case -- joined by 11 states, all of which have Republican attorneys general -- comes against a backdrop of fierce political backlash against Big Tech giants that have extended their dominance in recent years. The Justice Department argues that Google has cemented its monopoly position using deals with device makers to ensure its apps and services are prominently displayed, and sometimes can't be deleted. (with inputs from agencies)

US expands Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine rollout; reassure its safety

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with the visiting UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab on Wednesday called for an "ambitious and outcome-oriented 360-degree roadmap" as part of the 10-year plan. The roadmap will focus on collaboration in all sectors--from defense to trade to education to energy to climate.

The Indian PM stressed on an&nbsp;India-UK partnership in a post-Covid world even as both sides announced a new virtual hub on the covid vaccine. On his part, the UK Foreign secretary "signalled his ambition for a closer UK-India relationship as part of a wider UK focus on our partnerships in the Indo-Pacific", a statement by UK foreign office said.

The virtual hub that has been announced will have experts from both countries sharing best practices, regulatory approvals, efficient distribution of vaccines, and clinical trials. When it comes to the Covid crisis, India's Serum Institute will be producing over a billion doses of the&nbsp;vaccine developed by&nbsp;UK's Oxford University and AstraZeneca. The UK Foreign secretary during his 2nd day of 4 day-long India visit went to a Delhi health clinic where Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines will be administered.

The Foreign Secretary&nbsp;said, "A global pandemic requires a global solution. Scientific cooperation has made breakthroughs on coronavirus vaccines at record-breaking pace and the UK-India Vaccine Hub will now build on these innovations, to bring this crisis to an end and protect us all against future pandemics."

A million doses of vaccines made by India's Serum Institute will be distributed across the world under the global COVAX initiative, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Gavi, the vaccine alliance. Amid the pandemic, India has been able to reaffirm its position as the pharmacy of the world and while it supplies 50% of the world's vaccine, it supplies 25% of the UK's National health service's generic drugs.

The FS also met as India's Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal and called India’s National Education Policy 2020 as visionary. Both sides are working on an agreement for mutual recognition of academic qualifications that will help in the internationalization of India's higher education. An agreement has been signed between the University of Edinburgh and Gujarat to open a new biotechnology university in Gujarat in July 2021.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with the visiting UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab on Wednesday called for an "ambitious and outcome-oriented 360-degree roadmap" as part of the 10-year plan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with the visiting UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab on Wednesday called for an "ambitious and outcome-oriented 360-degree roadmap" as part of the 10-year plan. The roadmap will focus on collaboration in all sectors--from defense to trade to education to energy to climate. The Indian PM stressed on an India-UK partnership in a post-Covid world even as both sides announced a new virtual hub on the covid vaccine. On his part, the UK Foreign secretary "signalled his ambition for a closer UK-India relationship as part of a wider UK focus on our partnerships in the Indo-Pacific", a statement by UK foreign office said. The virtual hub that has been announced will have experts from both countries sharing best practices, regulatory approvals, efficient distribution of vaccines, and clinical trials. When it comes to the Covid crisis, India's Serum Institute will be producing over a billion doses of the vaccine developed by UK's Oxford University and AstraZeneca. The UK Foreign secretary during his 2nd day of 4 day-long India visit went to a Delhi health clinic where Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines will be administered. The Foreign Secretary said, "A global pandemic requires a global solution. Scientific cooperation has made breakthroughs on coronavirus vaccines at record-breaking pace and the UK-India Vaccine Hub will now build on these innovations, to bring this crisis to an end and protect us all against future pandemics." A million doses of vaccines made by India's Serum Institute will be distributed across the world under the global COVAX initiative, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Gavi, the vaccine alliance. Amid the pandemic, India has been able to reaffirm its position as the pharmacy of the world and while it supplies 50% of the world's vaccine, it supplies 25% of the UK's National health service's generic drugs. The FS also met as India's Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal and called India’s National Education Policy 2020 as visionary. Both sides are working on an agreement for mutual recognition of academic qualifications that will help in the internationalization of India's higher education. An agreement has been signed between the University of Edinburgh and Gujarat to open a new biotechnology university in Gujarat in July 2021.

PM Modi calls for outcome oriented roadmap with UK, virtual vaccine hub announced

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth held a virtual visit to KPMG last week to mark the accounting firm’s 150th anniversary, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday.

Members of the company’s choir sang “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” and the queen remotely met staff members based in London, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

One employee, John McCalla-Leacy, asked Elizabeth to thank her son and heir, Prince Charles, for his work as part of the charity The Prince’s Trust which he credited with changing his life by supporting him to become an international white-water canoe slalom competitor.

“I’ll indeed pass it on to my son, who is very proud of the idea of The Prince’s Trust, which I think has helped a lot of people,” the 94-year-old queen replied.

The British monarch has performed nearly all her engagements remotely since the COVID-19 pandemic began and is currently staying with her husband Prince Philip, 99, at her Windsor Castle home where she will remain over Christmas.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth held a virtual visit to KPMG last week to mark the accounting firm’s 150th anniversary, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday. Members of the company’s choir sang “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” and the queen remotely met staff members based in London, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth held a virtual visit to KPMG last week to mark the accounting firm’s 150th anniversary, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday. Members of the company’s choir sang “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” and the queen remotely met staff members based in London, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. One employee, John McCalla-Leacy, asked Elizabeth to thank her son and heir, Prince Charles, for his work as part of the charity The Prince’s Trust which he credited with changing his life by supporting him to become an international white-water canoe slalom competitor. “I’ll indeed pass it on to my son, who is very proud of the idea of The Prince’s Trust, which I think has helped a lot of people,” the 94-year-old queen replied. The British monarch has performed nearly all her engagements remotely since the COVID-19 pandemic began and is currently staying with her husband Prince Philip, 99, at her Windsor Castle home where she will remain over Christmas.

UK's Queen pays virtual visit to KPMG to celebrate firm's 150th anniversary

London on Wednesday moved into the highest level of coronavirus restrictions in an effort to control rising infection rates, dealing another blow to hospitality venues before Christmas. 
 
The British capital's move into "Tier 3" means theatres, pubs, restaurants will have to close, although takeaway food outlets can still operate.

People cannot now socialise with anyone not from their household or support bubble but can meet in groups of up to six in public places outside.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned on Monday that London had seen a "sharp rise" in daily cases and hospital admissions.

"This action is absolutely essential, not just to keep people safe but because we have seen early action can prevent more damage and longer-term problems later," he told parliament.

Cases were doubling every seven days in some areas, he said, sounding a more downbeat note after hopes of a breakthrough were raised last week with the start of a vaccination programme.

Concerns have also been raised about higher rates of infection among secondary school children aged 11-18, leading to increased testing in the worst-hit areas in and around London.

England only emerged from a four-week lockdown earlier this month, and the government introduced a targeted regional system of tiers to try to cut infection rates.

London had been placed in "Tier 2", which means non-essential shops and services can open, but it currently has one of the highest infection rates in the country.

Under Tier 3, essential shops and hairdressers can still stay open, as can schools but not indoor entertainment venues.

Christmas plans

The government is under pressure to review its Christmas plans, under which there will be a five-day relaxation in the rules to allow free travel and for up to three households to meet.

The British Medical Journal (BMJ) and the Health Service Journal (HSJ) on Tuesday warned the plan could lead to the state-run National Health Service (NHS) being overwhelmed.

"We believe the government is about to blunder into another major error that will cost many lives," the BMJ and HSJ said in their second joint editorial in a century.

"Rather than lifting restrictions over Christmas as currently planned, the UK should follow the more cautious examples of Germany, Italy and the Netherlands," they said.

Government minister Steve Barclay said "all things were kept under review" and urged people to "do the minimum" if they visit family over the holidays.

London's vibrant hospitality sector has been devastated by the virus regulations, and will now feel more pain as it is forced to close in the run-up to Christmas, normally it busiest time.

Britain's unemployment rate hit its highest level in four years as a result of the pandemic, rising to 4.9 percent in the three months to the end of October, official statistics indicated.

More than a third of the 819,000 job losses since the start of the UK pandemic in March were in the hospitality sector.

Parts of the counties of Essex, Kent and Hertfordshire, which border London, also entered Tier 3 on Wednesday.

A full review of the restrictions for each English region will take place later on Wednesday.

Britain has been one of the worst affected countries in the pandemic, registering nearly 65,000 deaths from just under 1.9 million positive cases, according to government figures.

London on Wednesday moved into the highest level of coronavirus restrictions in an effort to control rising infection rates, dealing another blow to hospitality venues before Christmas.

London on Wednesday moved into the highest level of coronavirus restrictions in an effort to control rising infection rates, dealing another blow to hospitality venues before Christmas. The British capital's move into "Tier 3" means theatres, pubs, restaurants will have to close, although takeaway food outlets can still operate. People cannot now socialise with anyone not from their household or support bubble but can meet in groups of up to six in public places outside. Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned on Monday that London had seen a "sharp rise" in daily cases and hospital admissions. "This action is absolutely essential, not just to keep people safe but because we have seen early action can prevent more damage and longer-term problems later," he told parliament. Cases were doubling every seven days in some areas, he said, sounding a more downbeat note after hopes of a breakthrough were raised last week with the start of a vaccination programme. Concerns have also been raised about higher rates of infection among secondary school children aged 11-18, leading to increased testing in the worst-hit areas in and around London. England only emerged from a four-week lockdown earlier this month, and the government introduced a targeted regional system of tiers to try to cut infection rates. London had been placed in "Tier 2", which means non-essential shops and services can open, but it currently has one of the highest infection rates in the country. Under Tier 3, essential shops and hairdressers can still stay open, as can schools but not indoor entertainment venues. Christmas plans The government is under pressure to review its Christmas plans, under which there will be a five-day relaxation in the rules to allow free travel and for up to three households to meet. The British Medical Journal (BMJ) and the Health Service Journal (HSJ) on Tuesday warned the plan could lead to the state-run National Health Service (NHS) being overwhelmed. "We believe the government is about to blunder into another major error that will cost many lives," the BMJ and HSJ said in their second joint editorial in a century. "Rather than lifting restrictions over Christmas as currently planned, the UK should follow the more cautious examples of Germany, Italy and the Netherlands," they said. Government minister Steve Barclay said "all things were kept under review" and urged people to "do the minimum" if they visit family over the holidays. London's vibrant hospitality sector has been devastated by the virus regulations, and will now feel more pain as it is forced to close in the run-up to Christmas, normally it busiest time. Britain's unemployment rate hit its highest level in four years as a result of the pandemic, rising to 4.9 percent in the three months to the end of October, official statistics indicated. More than a third of the 819,000 job losses since the start of the UK pandemic in March were in the hospitality sector. Parts of the counties of Essex, Kent and Hertfordshire, which border London, also entered Tier 3 on Wednesday. A full review of the restrictions for each English region will take place later on Wednesday. Britain has been one of the worst affected countries in the pandemic, registering nearly 65,000 deaths from just under 1.9 million positive cases, according to government figures.

London faces highest level of Covid restrictions amid rise in cases

A new strain of the Wuhan Virus has been identified in the UK. Authorities say the new variant has a number of different mutations, it spreads faster, and has infected at least 1000 people already.

Gravitas: UK identifies new Wuhan Virus strain

Canada became the third country in the world to begin the inoculation of its citizens with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

On Monday, Canada began injecting its frontline workers and the elderly in nursing homes.

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The first person to receive the vaccine was Anita Quidangen - whose inoculation was broadcast on live TV. Quidangen works at the Rekai Centre, a non-profit nursing home for the elderly in Canada’s largest city - Toronto, and claimed that she was “excited” to be the first person to get the vaccine in the country.

Soon after she was injected, healthcare workers donning masks and white coats applauded her.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke about it and called it a “great relief”. 
 
"It's a great relief. Clearly, it may only be the beginning of the end but we sense nevertheless that there will be an end to this pandemic," said Justin Trudeau.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-canada-switzerland-stuck-a-secret-deal-with-china-348918" hreflang="en">How Canada, Switzerland stuck a secret deal with China</a> 
 
He also added that he was in no hurry to get vaccinated himself, saying priority must be given to the most vulnerable people. 
 
"We obviously have to give priority to the most vulnerable but the second I have a chance - like all healthy adults - I will do so very visibly and with enthusiasm," he said in conversation with French-language broadcaster Radio-Canada. 
 
Currently, Canada is witnessing a second wave of COVID-19, whereby businesses are forced to shut again, and social gatherings extremely limited.

So far, the country has reported 460,743 cases of COVID-19. Most cases come from Quebec, the country’s most populous province.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-the-vaccine-rollout-will-compare-in-britain-canada-and-the-us-349368" hreflang="en">How the vaccine rollout will compare in Britain, Canada and the US</a> 
 
"It's really good news for Canada. It's really good news for Quebec," country’s Health Minister Patty Hajdu said from the Maimonides Geriatric Center in Montreal, where inoculation also began on Monday.

According to Quebec’s Health Minister Christian Dube, 50,000 people will be vaccinated in the province by January 4. 
 
13,431 people have lost their lives to the virus in Canada, 60 per cent of which have taken place in care homes for the elderly. But it’s an improvement from the grim 80 per cent during the first wave.

On Monday, the US also began vaccinating its citizens. Last week, the UK kicked off its national programme to inoculate against COVID-19. 
&nbsp;

Canada became the third country in the world to begin the inoculation of its citizens with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. On Monday, Canada began injecting its frontline workers and the elderly in nursing homes.

Canada became the third country in the world to begin the inoculation of its citizens with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. On Monday, Canada began injecting its frontline workers and the elderly in nursing homes. The first person to receive the vaccine was Anita Quidangen - whose inoculation was broadcast on live TV. Quidangen works at the Rekai Centre, a non-profit nursing home for the elderly in Canada’s largest city - Toronto, and claimed that she was “excited” to be the first person to get the vaccine in the country. Soon after she was injected, healthcare workers donning masks and white coats applauded her. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke about it and called it a “great relief”. "It's a great relief. Clearly, it may only be the beginning of the end but we sense nevertheless that there will be an end to this pandemic," said Justin Trudeau. Also read: How Canada, Switzerland stuck a secret deal with China He also added that he was in no hurry to get vaccinated himself, saying priority must be given to the most vulnerable people. "We obviously have to give priority to the most vulnerable but the second I have a chance - like all healthy adults - I will do so very visibly and with enthusiasm," he said in conversation with French-language broadcaster Radio-Canada. Currently, Canada is witnessing a second wave of COVID-19, whereby businesses are forced to shut again, and social gatherings extremely limited. So far, the country has reported 460,743 cases of COVID-19. Most cases come from Quebec, the country’s most populous province. Also read: How the vaccine rollout will compare in Britain, Canada and the US "It's really good news for Canada. It's really good news for Quebec," country’s Health Minister Patty Hajdu said from the Maimonides Geriatric Center in Montreal, where inoculation also began on Monday. According to Quebec’s Health Minister Christian Dube, 50,000 people will be vaccinated in the province by January 4. 13,431 people have lost their lives to the virus in Canada, 60 per cent of which have taken place in care homes for the elderly. But it’s an improvement from the grim 80 per cent during the first wave. On Monday, the US also began vaccinating its citizens. Last week, the UK kicked off its national programme to inoculate against COVID-19.

Canada joins US, UK to inoculate people with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine

British grocery stores are stockpiling food amid the possibility of a no-deal scenario as Brexit trade deal negotiations between the EU and U.K.

WION Dispatch: Fears of food shortage amid Brexit no-deal triggers panic buying in UK

Social media and other internet companies face big fines in Britain if they don’t limit the amount of harmful material such as child sexual abuse or terrorist content on their platforms

UK plans big fines for online companies over harmful content

The U.K. government has asked the supermarkets to hold goods. Retail chains have also warned of possible shortage of fresh food and delay in the delivery if Britain leaves the E.U. (European Union) without a trade deal.

U.K. warns against food shortage as the food trade deal is about to end

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will hold talks with Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday. During their meeting, the two leaders are expected to review efforts to create a 10-year road map for India-UK relations and discuss the Defense Logistics Agreement.

U.K. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab holds talks with Indian MEA S. Jaishankar

In a joint statement, European Commission President von der Leyen and UK PM Boris Johnson said they had a useful phone call in which they discussed the major unresolved topics of the talks about the future relationship

WION Dispatch: What will happen in case of a no deal brexit?

London and Brussels agreed on Sunday (December 13) to more talks on an elusive trade agreement, even though they still have a long way to go to avert a turbulent 'no deal' exit for Britain from the European Union's orbit at the end of the month.

UK PM, EU Chief agree to continue trade talks

UK's manufacturing industry warned of a potential 'knockout blow' if Prime Minister Boris Johnson is unable to secure a trade deal with the European Union before temporary transition arrangements end on Dec. 31.

UK manufacturers warn of 'knockout blow' from no-deal Brexit

UK and EU have agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks after a call between leaders earlier on Sunday. In a joint statement, Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck.

Brexit Trade Talks: UK PM, EU Chief agree to continue talks

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union. Although UK and EU have agreed to continue the talks beyond the agreed deadline of Sunday, December 13, both sides appear far from reaching an agreement.

"I'm afraid we're still very far apart on some key things, but where there's life there's hope," Johnson told reporters, after agreeing with EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen to push on with negotiations.

"The UK certainly won't be walking away from the talks. I still think there's a deal to be done if our partners want to do it," Johnson said at 10 Downing Street after briefing his cabinet about the call.

Confederation of British Industry director-general Tony Danker said the news of talks continuing "gives hope", but demanded the government fix the IT rollout and offer more support to businesses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-talks-to-continue-says-eu-chief-on-day-of-the-deadline-349522">Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline</a>

UK and EU are ironing out details over competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play.

"The most likely thing now is of course we have to get ready for WTO terms," Johnson added, referring to tariffs and quotas on the basic rules of trade set by the World Trade Organization.

The trade between UK and EU will be carried out as per World Trade Organisation (WTO) regulations in the event of no-deal Brexit.

"Either way, whatever happens, the UK will do very, very well," said Johson.

UK businesses welcomed the agreement to keep talking, but disagreed strongly with Johnson's cheerful forecasts for Britain's future if it severs all ties with its biggest overall trading partner from the New Year.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-bank-of-england-talks-of-disruption-in-financial-services-in-new-year-349028">Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year</a>

"We now need negotiators to finish the job and agree the deal we all so desperately need," Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Mike Hawes tweeted.

'Catastrophic'

Hawes added: "'No deal' would be nothing less than catastrophic for the automative sector, its workers and their families, and represent a stunning failure of statecraft. Quite simply, it has to be ruled out."

Nissan has warned that a no-deal Brexit would make its Sunderland car factory in northeast England, which employs more than 6,000 workers, unviable due to the restoration of tariffs on cross-Channel trade.

Last week, Japanese automaker Honda suspended production at its British plant for a day after suffering a shortfall in parts, owing to blockages at ports caused by the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit stockpiling.

(With AFP inputs)

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union.

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union. Although UK and EU have agreed to continue the talks beyond the agreed deadline of Sunday, December 13, both sides appear far from reaching an agreement. "I'm afraid we're still very far apart on some key things, but where there's life there's hope," Johnson told reporters, after agreeing with EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen to push on with negotiations. "The UK certainly won't be walking away from the talks. I still think there's a deal to be done if our partners want to do it," Johnson said at 10 Downing Street after briefing his cabinet about the call. Confederation of British Industry director-general Tony Danker said the news of talks continuing "gives hope", but demanded the government fix the IT rollout and offer more support to businesses. Also Read | Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline UK and EU are ironing out details over competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play. "The most likely thing now is of course we have to get ready for WTO terms," Johnson added, referring to tariffs and quotas on the basic rules of trade set by the World Trade Organization. The trade between UK and EU will be carried out as per World Trade Organisation (WTO) regulations in the event of no-deal Brexit. "Either way, whatever happens, the UK will do very, very well," said Johson. UK businesses welcomed the agreement to keep talking, but disagreed strongly with Johnson's cheerful forecasts for Britain's future if it severs all ties with its biggest overall trading partner from the New Year. Also Read | Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year "We now need negotiators to finish the job and agree the deal we all so desperately need," Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Mike Hawes tweeted. 'Catastrophic' Hawes added: "'No deal' would be nothing less than catastrophic for the automative sector, its workers and their families, and represent a stunning failure of statecraft. Quite simply, it has to be ruled out." Nissan has warned that a no-deal Brexit would make its Sunderland car factory in northeast England, which employs more than 6,000 workers, unviable due to the restoration of tariffs on cross-Channel trade. Last week, Japanese automaker Honda suspended production at its British plant for a day after suffering a shortfall in parts, owing to blockages at ports caused by the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit stockpiling. (With AFP inputs)

Brexit: UK businesses urge PM Boris Johnson for trade deal with EU

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