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Residents in these areas should not socialise with people outside their households from midnight on Thursday. This includes meeting people indoors, outdoors, or in social venues such as restaurants, bars and pubs

COVID-19: UK announces lockdown in parts of North-east

Britain’s unemployment rate rose for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown began in March, prompting fresh calls for finance minister Rishi Sunak to extend a job subsidy programme which is due to expire next month.

Dramatic increase in UK's unemployment could worsen

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Thursday that restrictions would be tightened in northeast England from Friday. The step is being taken to stem the rise of new coronavirus cases. Hancock told Parliament that residents would be banned from socialising with others outside their households or support bubbles.

WION Dispatch: UK announces restrictions in parts of northeast

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging.

It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894">Also read:&nbsp;UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown.&nbsp;

"What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said.

"We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor.

"Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474">Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump.

Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June.

But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer.

The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services.

It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days.

"I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand".

"Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic."

Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October.

Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths.

The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile. His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging. It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown. "What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said. "We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor. "Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check." Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump. Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June. But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer. The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services. It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days. "I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand". "Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic." Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October. Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths. The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

UK's PM urges Britons to flatten pandemic's 'second hump'

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January.

Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December.

Johnson has refused.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894" hreflang="en">UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

"With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive.

In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied".

"This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said.

The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation.

Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom.

Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are."

"Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said.

COMPROMISE WITH REBELS

Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing.

However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

"It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement.

It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal.

Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way".

However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions.

His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue.

EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty. The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January. Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December. Johnson has refused. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill "With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive. In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied". "This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said. The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation. Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom. Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are." "Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said. COMPROMISE WITH REBELS Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing. However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday. Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty "It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement. It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal. Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way". However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions. His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue. EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

Chances of Brexit deal fading every day, EU Commission chief says

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the&nbsp;war-torn country.

The news was announced by&nbsp;British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do."

However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-starts-investigating-9-pakistani-terrorists-held-in-syria-323251">Also read:&nbsp;US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria</a>

As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country.

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Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do.
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1306122091461214208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently&nbsp;efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group.

&nbsp;Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do." However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor. Also read: US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country. Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do. — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) September 16, 2020 × The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group. Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

“There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said.

He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/johnson-accuses-eu-of-plotting-food-blockade-on-uk-327029">Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK</a> 
 
He had stern message for those flouting rules.

“We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said.

The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect.

UK Police Federation has urged the public not to treat this weekend as a 'party weekend' ahead of coronavirus restrictions coming into force from Monday. John Apter, National Chair of Police Federation of England and Wales issued a statement to this effect. “There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday," he said. He further said that it will be "incredibly irresponsible" if people did not take precautions and police, the ambulance service and National Health Service would be affected. Also Read | Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK He had stern message for those flouting rules. “We are in the grip of a deadly pandemic and we have seen cases increasing over recent weeks. Policing is under pressure like never before, but my colleagues will give enforcement notices if they feel it’s appropriate, and we make no apology for doing so,” he said. The new rules that will come in effect in England stipulate that an assembly of six or more people indoors and outdoors should be avoided.

UK Coronavirus: Avoid considering this a 'party weekend', police union tells public

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times.

The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU.

"What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair.

Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner.

"This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said.

Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future.

Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland.

"We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter.

Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday.

Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday.

"We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made.

European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action.

(With Reuters inputs)

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'.

Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major came together to launch an unprecedented attack on current UK PM Boris Johnson and said that his government's actions were 'shaming the nation'. Blair and Major who were fierce rivals in the 90s joined forces to criticise new legislation that seeks to override the Brexit deal struck with the European Union. They targeted Johnson in a joint article in The Sunday Times. The British government said explicitly last week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January when it formally left the EU. "What is being proposed now is shocking," said Major and Blair. Both John Major and Tony Blair were opposed to Brexit said that they accepted that it was happening now. But they expressed displeasure as they said the Boris Johnson's actions were diminishing UK's image as a trustworthy negotiation partner. "This government's action is shaming itself and embarrassing the nation," they said. Theresa May, current Prime Minister Boris Johnson's predecessor, has also questioned whether international partners would be able to trust Britain in future. Johnson says the new legislation is needed to clarify the Northern Ireland protocol element of the Brexit deal, to protect free trade between the four constituent nations of the United Kingdom. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Sunday that the Withdrawal Agreement on Northern Ireland "is not a threat to the integrity of the UK", and had been agreed by the two sides to protect peace on the island of Ireland. "We could not have been clearer about the consequences of Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter. Earlier on Sunday, British Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told Sky News the legislation is "Brexit-critical" and must be passed by parliament, which is due to debate the bill on Monday. Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, described the legislation as wrong on Sunday. "We have broken the trust of our international partners," Starmer wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, adding that his party would oppose the bill in parliament unless changes were made. European lawmakers have warned they would not approve any new trade deal unless the withdrawal agreement was fully implemented, while there is also talk of possible legal action. (With Reuters inputs)

Brexit: Former PMs Tony Blair, John Major slam Boris Johnson for 'shaming' UK

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said.

"Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London. Her Iranian lawyer was told "the case was not happening today", he added.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, 41, has spent more than four years in jail or under house arrest since being arrested in the Iranian capital in April 2016 while on a visit to see relatives with her young daughter.

Iranian state television's website Iribnews said on Tuesday that she and her lawyer had been notified of a new indictment, without giving further details or a trial date.

Ratcliffe had said last week that she was due to appear in court on Sunday, and that it was "increasingly clear" she was being held as a "hostage" against a longstanding UK debt to Iran.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation -- the media organisation's philanthropic arm -- denied sedition but was convicted and jailed for five years.

Her British MP Tulip Siddiq also relayed the news of Sunday's postponement after speaking to Ratcliffe.

"She is relieved, frustrated, stressed and angry. Once again she's being treated like a bargaining chip," Siddiq tweeted. 
&nbsp;

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said. "Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London.

Iran has postponed a new trial due to start Sunday of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman detained in Tehran for sedition, her husband said. "Yes, today's hearing was postponed," Richard Ratcliffe told AFP in London. Her Iranian lawyer was told "the case was not happening today", he added. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, 41, has spent more than four years in jail or under house arrest since being arrested in the Iranian capital in April 2016 while on a visit to see relatives with her young daughter. Iranian state television's website Iribnews said on Tuesday that she and her lawyer had been notified of a new indictment, without giving further details or a trial date. Ratcliffe had said last week that she was due to appear in court on Sunday, and that it was "increasingly clear" she was being held as a "hostage" against a longstanding UK debt to Iran. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation -- the media organisation's philanthropic arm -- denied sedition but was convicted and jailed for five years. Her British MP Tulip Siddiq also relayed the news of Sunday's postponement after speaking to Ratcliffe. "She is relieved, frustrated, stressed and angry. Once again she's being treated like a bargaining chip," Siddiq tweeted.

Iran postpones new trial of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe: husband

Opposition leader Kier Starmer is becoming a series player. The former human rights lawyer knows how to grill the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, particularly on government's handling of COVID-19 & brexit. Now there is another threat to Boris Johnson that comes from within the tory party, Watch to know more.

Boris Johnson new threat within tory party, Starmer accuses PM of being incompetent

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-trade-deal-brits-do-not-understand-says-french-foreign-minister-325567">Also read|&nbsp;Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister</a>

Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland.

"We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote.

"I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-wont-blink-first-uk-warns-the-eu-on-brexit-trade-negotiations-325513">Also read|&nbsp;'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations</a>

The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe.

Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed.

The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland.

After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1.

'Legal safety net'

"More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement.

Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year.

"But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net".

The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty.

"We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused the European Union of threatening to impose a food "blockade" between Britain and Northern Ireland that could tear the UK apart, throwing new fuel on the fire of simmering Brexit talks. Writing in Saturday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said the EU's stance justified his government's introduction of new legislation to rewrite its Brexit withdrawal treaty -- a bill that is causing deep alarm among his own MPs. Also read| Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister Talks between London and Brussels on a future trading relationship are deadlocked. Absent a deal by the end of this year, when the full force of Brexit kicks in, Johnson said the EU was bent on an "extreme interpretation" of rules for Northern Ireland. "We are being told that the EU will not only impose tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, but that they might actually stop the transport of food products from GB to NI," he wrote. "I have to say that we never seriously believed that the EU would be willing to use a treaty, negotiated in good faith, to blockade one part of the UK, to cut it off, or that they would actually threaten to destroy the economic and territorial integrity of the UK." Also read| 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations The food dispute centres on the EU's refusal so far to grant Britain "third country" status, which acknowledges that nations meet basic requirements to export their foodstuffs to Europe. Under Britain's EU withdrawal treaty, Northern Ireland will enjoy a special status to ensure no return of a border with EU member Ireland, in line with a 1998 peace pact that ended three decades of bloodshed. The EU is worried that post-Brexit Britain could undercut its own food standards, as well as rules on state aid for companies, to send goods into its single market via Northern Ireland. After another difficult round of trade talks this week in London, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said "many uncertainties" remained about Britain's food export regime after January 1. 'Legal safety net' "More clarity is needed for the EU to do the assessment for the third-country listing of the UK," he said in a statement. Johnson said his government remained committed to finding agreement with the EU by the end of the year. "But we cannot leave the theoretical power to carve up our country -– to divide it -– in the hands of an international organisation," he wrote, calling the new UK Internal Market Bill a "legal safety net". The prime minister's article appeared after he held a chaotic videoconference on Friday evening with mutinous Conservative MPs who are aghast at the prospect of the government tearing up an international treaty. "We must get this bill through," Johnson wrote, ahead of a debate in parliament on Monday. "So I say to my fellow parliamentarians that we cannot go back to the dark days of last year -– the squabbling that so undermined our negotiators."

Johnson accuses EU of plotting food 'blockade' on UK

Finance minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the figures but added that people were rightly worried about the coming months.

UK economy grew 6.6% in July as lockdowns eased

Ahead of a crucial round of talks between London and Brussels over the future trading relationship between the UK and the European Union, the British government made a startling admission: 'That it would be prepared to break the terms of an international treaty'.

UK might break international law on Brexit: Fear of 'no deal' Brexit returns to UK

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday.

Australian-born Assange, 49, is fighting against being sent to the United States, where he is charged with conspiring to hack government computers and violating an espionage law over the release of confidential cables by WikiLeaks in 2010-2011.

Paul Rogers, a professor of peace studies at Britain's Bradford University, told London's Old Bailey court that the timing of the U.S. prosecution was connected to Assange's political views and Trump's hostility towards him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/julian-assange-secretly-fathered-two-children-says-his-partner-292109" hreflang="en">Julian Assange 'secretly fathered two children', says his partner</a>

"The evidence does support very strongly ... this does appear to be a political trial," Rogers said.

Assange and WikiLeaks enraged the U.S. government a decade ago by publishing thousands of secret American documents, but he was not charged with any criminal offence at the time.

His supporters see him as a champion of free speech exposing abuses of power and hypocrisy by Washington and regard his prosecution as threat to journalism. U.S. authorities say he recklessly endangered the lives of sources with his releases.

Rogers said the Trump administration viewed Assange as a "political enemy" because of his opinions. Assange's defence team are arguing the U.S. case is politically-motivated, something which would bar his extradition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/julian-assange-s-partner-files-bail-plea-seeking-release-of-wikileaks-co-founder-292226" hreflang="en">Julian Assange' s partner files bail plea seeking release of Wikileaks co-founder</a>

"The opinions and views of Mr Assange, demonstrated in his words and actions with the organisation WikiLeaks over many years, can be seen as very clearly placing him in the crosshairs of dispute with the philosophy of the Trump administration," Rogers said in his statement to the court.

James Lewis, the lawyer representing the United States, challenged the assertion the case was politically-motivated, saying U.S. federal prosecutors were forbidden to consider political opinion in making their decisions.

"I'm not saying they are acting in bad faith," Rogers said. "I'm saying that at a different level, a political decision was taken to investigate this further after it had lapsed for eight years."

Assange was warned by the judge on Tuesday he would be removed from the courtroom and tried in his absence if he interrupted proceedings after Assange shouting "nonsense" at Lewis.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is wanted by the United States because he is a "political enemy" of President Donald Trump, his London extradition hearing was told on Wednesday. Australian-born Assange, 49, is fighting against being sent to the United States, where he is charged with conspiring to hack government computers and violating an espionage law over the release of confidential cables by WikiLeaks in 2010-2011. Paul Rogers, a professor of peace studies at Britain's Bradford University, told London's Old Bailey court that the timing of the U.S. prosecution was connected to Assange's political views and Trump's hostility towards him. Also read: Julian Assange 'secretly fathered two children', says his partner "The evidence does support very strongly ... this does appear to be a political trial," Rogers said. Assange and WikiLeaks enraged the U.S. government a decade ago by publishing thousands of secret American documents, but he was not charged with any criminal offence at the time. His supporters see him as a champion of free speech exposing abuses of power and hypocrisy by Washington and regard his prosecution as threat to journalism. U.S. authorities say he recklessly endangered the lives of sources with his releases. Rogers said the Trump administration viewed Assange as a "political enemy" because of his opinions. Assange's defence team are arguing the U.S. case is politically-motivated, something which would bar his extradition. Also read: Julian Assange' s partner files bail plea seeking release of Wikileaks co-founder "The opinions and views of Mr Assange, demonstrated in his words and actions with the organisation WikiLeaks over many years, can be seen as very clearly placing him in the crosshairs of dispute with the philosophy of the Trump administration," Rogers said in his statement to the court. James Lewis, the lawyer representing the United States, challenged the assertion the case was politically-motivated, saying U.S. federal prosecutors were forbidden to consider political opinion in making their decisions. "I'm not saying they are acting in bad faith," Rogers said. "I'm saying that at a different level, a political decision was taken to investigate this further after it had lapsed for eight years." Assange was warned by the judge on Tuesday he would be removed from the courtroom and tried in his absence if he interrupted proceedings after Assange shouting "nonsense" at Lewis.

Trump targeting WikiLeaks' Assange as 'political enemy', UK court told

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference.

The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings. Sharif has been residing in London since November last year on the pretext of medical treatment.

Nawaz Sharif is currently in London for treatment. The government has approached the UK for his extradition.

The opposition parties accuse the government of premier Imran Khan of persecution.

The anti-corruption court had given a final chance to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to appear before it on August 17 in a graft case, saying that failing which he may be declared a proclaimed offender.

The 70-year-old three-time premier, who was sentenced in a graft case by an accountability court, informed a court in Lahore that he is unable to return to the country as his doctors have told him not to go out due to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Sharif’s physician, the three-time prime minister is suffering from complex multi-vessel coronary artery disease and substantial ischemic and threatened myocardium for which he is due to undergo surgery.

(With inputs from agencies)

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference. The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings.

A special court in Islamabad indicted on Wednesday declared former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif an absconder in the treasury house reference. The court has taken the decision due to Sharif's prolonged absence from the proceedings. Sharif has been residing in London since November last year on the pretext of medical treatment. Nawaz Sharif is currently in London for treatment. The government has approached the UK for his extradition. The opposition parties accuse the government of premier Imran Khan of persecution. The anti-corruption court had given a final chance to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to appear before it on August 17 in a graft case, saying that failing which he may be declared a proclaimed offender. The 70-year-old three-time premier, who was sentenced in a graft case by an accountability court, informed a court in Lahore that he is unable to return to the country as his doctors have told him not to go out due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to Sharif’s physician, the three-time prime minister is suffering from complex multi-vessel coronary artery disease and substantial ischemic and threatened myocardium for which he is due to undergo surgery. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan declares Nawaz Sharif as an absconder, approaches UK for extradition

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail. Also read: 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations This week, the eighth round of negotiations between the two will resume in London. Both sides talking increasingly tough, amid accusations of intransigence and political brinkmanship. Britain's top Brexit negotiator warned the European Union that the island country will not blink first in trade negotiations with the EU and is not scared of a no-deal exit. His EU opposite number, Michel Barnier, this week said the talks stood or failed on the need to get an accord on EU access to UK fishing waters and state aid rules, but Britain was giving no ground. Also read: Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister According to Brussels, it indicated that mid-October was the latest a deal could be struck, given the need for translation and ratification by the European Parliament. Despite months of refusing to confirm a firm cut-off date, Johnson agreed. "There needs to be an agreement with our European friends by the time of the European Council on October 15 if it's going to be in force by the end of the year," he said in remarks released by his office. "So, there is no sense in thinking beyond that point. If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us." If this happens, the United Kingdom will have an "Australia-style" deal with the EU or one similar to that agreed with Canada and other countries, he said. Australia trades with the EU under World Trade Organization rules and tariffs. But Johnson, whose government had said it wanted a "zero tariff, zero quota" regime, insisted it would still be a "good outcome" for Britain. (Inputs from AFP)

British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU

The United Kingdom has set a deadline of October 15 to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union.

UK-EU Trade Deal: UK's Brexit negotiator calls on EU for interference

Britain's tortuous divorce from the European Union veered into fresh crisis on Monday after London threatened to undermine the exit agreement unless free trade terms are agreed by next month.

In yet another twist to the four-year saga since Britain voted narrowly to quit the bloc, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government was reportedly planning new legislation to override parts of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement it signed in January.

That could potentially jeopardise the whole treaty and create frictions in British-ruled Northern Ireland where special arrangements had been made to avoid a hard border with Ireland to the south that could be detrimental to a peace agreement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/european-union-chief-warns-uk-must-respect-brexit-withdrawal-deal-325745" hreflang="en">European Union chief warns UK must respect Brexit withdrawal deal</a>

Sections of the proposed internal market bill are expected to "eliminate the legal force of parts of the withdrawal agreement" in areas including state aid and Northern Ireland customs, the Financial Times newspaper said, citing three people familiar with the plans.

EU diplomats were aghast, cautioning that such a step - leaked on the eve of new talks in London - would tarnish Britain's global prestige and heighten chances of a tumultuous final disentangling from the bloc on Dec. 31.

The report was neither confirmed nor denied by Britain.

A government spokeswoman said it would work to resolve outstanding disagreements about Northern Ireland with the EU but was considering fall back options. "We will always reserve the right to act in the best interests of Northern Ireland and the UK's internal market," she said.

"Our top priority is to preserve the huge gains from the peace process and the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, as well as protecting Northern Ireland's place in our United Kingdom."

Sterling fell against the dollar and euro.

Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 but talks on a new trade deal before the end of a status-quo transition arrangement in December have snagged on state aid rules and fishing.

London has set a deadline of Oct. 15 to strike a deal.

"If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us, and we should both accept that and move on," Johnson was to say on Monday, according to his office.

WHO WILL BLINK FIRST?

European diplomats said Britain was playing a game of Brexit chicken by threatening to collapse the process and challenging Brussels to blink first. Some fear Johnson may view a no-deal exit as useful distraction from the coronavirus crisis.

Without a deal, about $900 billion annual trade between Britain and the EU could be thrown into uncertainty, including rules on everything from car parts and medicines to fruit and data.

Some Brexit-supporting members of the ruling Conservatives oppose the withdrawal agreement as threatening British independence even if the two sides secure future trade ties.

There was surprise and anger on both sides of the Irish border and in Brussels at the reported plan to undermine the withdrawal pact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-sets-october-15-as-deadline-for-brexit-negotiations-with-eu-325611" hreflang="en">British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU</a>

"I trust the British government to implement the Withdrawal Agreement, an obligation under international law &amp; prerequisite for any future partnership," said Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission.

"Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland is essential to protect peace and stability on the island &amp; integrity of the single market," she added on Twitter.

Leaders of Northern Ireland's Sinn Fein and SDLP parties, the region's two largest Irish nationalist groups, also criticised the government's reported plan.

British Environment Secretary George Eustice said the government was committed to implementing the Withdrawal Agreement but some legal ambiguities needed to be tidied up over the Northern Irish protocol.

"We are not moving the goal posts," he told Sky News.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier acknowledged anxiety but declined to comment on the FT report. "I remain worried ... the negotiations are difficult, because the British want the best of both worlds," he told France Inter radio.

If no deal is agreed, Britain would have a trading relationship with the bloc like Australia's, which would be "a good outcome", Johnson was also to say on Monday.

Australia is negotiating a free trade deal with the EU to improve its market access, but for now largely trades with the bloc on World Trade Organization terms.

Britain's tortuous divorce from the European Union veered into fresh crisis on Monday after London threatened to undermine the exit agreement unless free trade terms are agreed by next month.

Britain's tortuous divorce from the European Union veered into fresh crisis on Monday after London threatened to undermine the exit agreement unless free trade terms are agreed by next month. In yet another twist to the four-year saga since Britain voted narrowly to quit the bloc, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government was reportedly planning new legislation to override parts of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement it signed in January. That could potentially jeopardise the whole treaty and create frictions in British-ruled Northern Ireland where special arrangements had been made to avoid a hard border with Ireland to the south that could be detrimental to a peace agreement. Also read: European Union chief warns UK must respect Brexit withdrawal deal Sections of the proposed internal market bill are expected to "eliminate the legal force of parts of the withdrawal agreement" in areas including state aid and Northern Ireland customs, the Financial Times newspaper said, citing three people familiar with the plans. EU diplomats were aghast, cautioning that such a step - leaked on the eve of new talks in London - would tarnish Britain's global prestige and heighten chances of a tumultuous final disentangling from the bloc on Dec. 31. The report was neither confirmed nor denied by Britain. A government spokeswoman said it would work to resolve outstanding disagreements about Northern Ireland with the EU but was considering fall back options. "We will always reserve the right to act in the best interests of Northern Ireland and the UK's internal market," she said. "Our top priority is to preserve the huge gains from the peace process and the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, as well as protecting Northern Ireland's place in our United Kingdom." Sterling fell against the dollar and euro. Britain left the EU on Jan. 31 but talks on a new trade deal before the end of a status-quo transition arrangement in December have snagged on state aid rules and fishing. London has set a deadline of Oct. 15 to strike a deal. "If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us, and we should both accept that and move on," Johnson was to say on Monday, according to his office. WHO WILL BLINK FIRST? European diplomats said Britain was playing a game of Brexit chicken by threatening to collapse the process and challenging Brussels to blink first. Some fear Johnson may view a no-deal exit as useful distraction from the coronavirus crisis. Without a deal, about $900 billion annual trade between Britain and the EU could be thrown into uncertainty, including rules on everything from car parts and medicines to fruit and data. Some Brexit-supporting members of the ruling Conservatives oppose the withdrawal agreement as threatening British independence even if the two sides secure future trade ties. There was surprise and anger on both sides of the Irish border and in Brussels at the reported plan to undermine the withdrawal pact. Also read: British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU "I trust the British government to implement the Withdrawal Agreement, an obligation under international law & prerequisite for any future partnership," said Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission. "Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland is essential to protect peace and stability on the island & integrity of the single market," she added on Twitter. Leaders of Northern Ireland's Sinn Fein and SDLP parties, the region's two largest Irish nationalist groups, also criticised the government's reported plan. British Environment Secretary George Eustice said the government was committed to implementing the Withdrawal Agreement but some legal ambiguities needed to be tidied up over the Northern Irish protocol. "We are not moving the goal posts," he told Sky News. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier acknowledged anxiety but declined to comment on the FT report. "I remain worried ... the negotiations are difficult, because the British want the best of both worlds," he told France Inter radio. If no deal is agreed, Britain would have a trading relationship with the bloc like Australia's, which would be "a good outcome", Johnson was also to say on Monday. Australia is negotiating a free trade deal with the EU to improve its market access, but for now largely trades with the bloc on World Trade Organization terms.

Brexit back in crisis as UK threatens to undercut divorce pact

Britain will not blink first in Brexit trade negotiations with the European Union and is not scared of a no-deal exit at the end of the year, the country's top Brexit negotiator warned the bloc on Sunday.

UK says, won't blink first on Brexit trade negotiations

Police said they were searching for a man in relation to a two-hour stabbing spree in the city of Birmingham, central England, early on Sunday, that left one man dead and seven people injured, two of them critically.

UK: One killed, two critically injured in series of stabbings in Birmingham

The distribution of several British newspapers was disrupted on Saturday (September 5) after Extinction Rebellion climate change activists blockaded printing presses used by Rupert Murdoch's News UK, the publisher of The Times and The Sun.

Protesters blockade British newspaper presses in UK

A "major incident" was declared by the British police on Sunday after several people were stabbed in the centre of England's second city Birmingham.

"We can confirm that at approximately 12:30am today (Sunday 6 September) we were called to reports of a stabbing in Birmingham city centre", West Midlands Police said in a statement.

"A number of other stabbings" were reported in the area shortly after and &nbsp;"this has been declared a major incident", the statement added.

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"We are aware of a number of injured people, but at the moment we are not in a position to say how many or how serious.

"However, all emergency services are working together at the scene, and making sure that those who are injured receive medical care."

According to the footage shown by British news channels, large areas of the city centre have been cordoned off as police officers wearing forensic suits worked at the scene.

"Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything," West Midlands Police said.&nbsp;

"At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident."

(Inputs from AFP)

A "major incident" was declared by the British police on Sunday after several people were stabbed in the centre of England's second city Birmingham. "We can confirm that at approximately 12:30am today (Sunday 6 September) we were called to reports of a stabbing in Birmingham city centre", West Midlands Police said in a statement.

A "major incident" was declared by the British police on Sunday after several people were stabbed in the centre of England's second city Birmingham. "We can confirm that at approximately 12:30am today (Sunday 6 September) we were called to reports of a stabbing in Birmingham city centre", West Midlands Police said in a statement. "A number of other stabbings" were reported in the area shortly after and "this has been declared a major incident", the statement added. "We are aware of a number of injured people, but at the moment we are not in a position to say how many or how serious. "However, all emergency services are working together at the scene, and making sure that those who are injured receive medical care." According to the footage shown by British news channels, large areas of the city centre have been cordoned off as police officers wearing forensic suits worked at the scene. "Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything," West Midlands Police said. "At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident." (Inputs from AFP)

'Major incident' in Birmingham after several stabbed: British police

One man was killed and two people critically injured during multiple stabbing attacks in Britain's Birmingham. Incident reported outside the night club in city centre. Police is investigation the incident.

1 man killed, 2 critically injured in stabbings in Birmingham

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