<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Sunday the coronavirus outbreak was "accelerating", as fears grew that the crisis in Britain was following the same path as the one devastating Italy.</p>

<p>Johnson's plea came after latest health department figures showed that 233 people have died from COVID-19 in the UK, with the number of those testing positive for the virus standing at 5,018.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-ramps-up-restrictions-as-virus-cases-top-300000-287888">World ramps up restrictions as virus cases top 300,000</a></strong></p>

<p>That death toll mirrors the same figure declared in Italy on March 7. On Saturday, Rome said that 4,825 people had perished in the country, a third of the world's total.</p>

<p>"The numbers are very stark, and they are accelerating," Johnson said in a statement ahead of a planned press briefing later in the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are only a matter of weeks -- two or three -- behind Italy. The Italians have a superb health care system. And yet their doctors and nurses have been completely overwhelmed by the demand."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-rejects-trumps-virus-aid-offer-as-toll-jumps-to-1685-287923">Iran rejects Trump's virus aid offer as toll jumps to 1,685</a></strong></p>

<p>Johnson's warning came amid a growing debate about whether people are taking warnings to socially distance from each other seriously enough and whether or not government should enforce stronger restrictions.</p>

<p>The government has outlined emergency legislation to give police, public health and immigration officers extra powers to contain the outbreak.</p>

<p>London is the city worst affected and Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC that police may have to be given powers to enforce social distancing.</p>

<p>"It's really important that the police are focused on the priorities that they've got," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But clearly, if it is the case that people continue to act in a way that's leading to this disease spreading, then those sorts of things will have to be considered."</p>

<p>On Friday, Downing Street announced stronger measures to try and combat the spread, including the closing of bars, pubs and restaurants as fears that health services could soon be overwhelmed.</p>

<p>Housing secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky TV on Sunday morning that if the public did not follow their advice they will "have to consider other options".&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were also signs of a political fallout. Downing Street denied a "highly defamatory" Sunday Times newspaper story that Johnson's chief adviser, Dominic Cummings, had initially argued against strict measures to contain the virus, in an argument summed up as "if that means some pensioners die, too bad".</p>

<p><strong>Most at risk</strong></p>

<p>The concerns came as authorities in the UK told 1.5 million people most at risk to stay at home for 12 weeks.</p>

<p>As part of the latest measures to try and protect the vulnerable, the government advised those with underlying health conditions such as bone or blood cancers, cystic fibrosis, or who have had an organ transplant to do all they can to shield themselves from the virus, including confining themselves at home for a long period.</p>

<p>"People should stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives," Jenrick said.</p>

<p>He also said the government would get protective gear to NHS staff on the frontline "as soon as possible" as fears the virus could be spreading due to a lack of equipment for medics.</p>

<p>In a further sign of growing concern, environmental and heritage charity the National Trust said it would close all of its parks and gardens.</p>

<p>This reversed an earlier decision to keep them open during the crisis, because of fears over social distancing.</p>


Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Sunday the coronavirus outbreak was "accelerating", as fears grew that the crisis in Britain was following the same path as the one devastating Italy.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Sunday the coronavirus outbreak was "accelerating", as fears grew that the crisis in Britain was following the same path as the one devastating Italy. Johnson's plea came after latest health department figures showed that 233 people have died from COVID-19 in the UK, with the number of those testing positive for the virus standing at 5,018. Also read: World ramps up restrictions as virus cases top 300,000 That death toll mirrors the same figure declared in Italy on March 7. On Saturday, Rome said that 4,825 people had perished in the country, a third of the world's total. "The numbers are very stark, and they are accelerating," Johnson said in a statement ahead of a planned press briefing later in the day. "We are only a matter of weeks -- two or three -- behind Italy. The Italians have a superb health care system. And yet their doctors and nurses have been completely overwhelmed by the demand." Also read: Iran rejects Trump's virus aid offer as toll jumps to 1,685 Johnson's warning came amid a growing debate about whether people are taking warnings to socially distance from each other seriously enough and whether or not government should enforce stronger restrictions. The government has outlined emergency legislation to give police, public health and immigration officers extra powers to contain the outbreak. London is the city worst affected and Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC that police may have to be given powers to enforce social distancing. "It's really important that the police are focused on the priorities that they've got," he said. "But clearly, if it is the case that people continue to act in a way that's leading to this disease spreading, then those sorts of things will have to be considered." On Friday, Downing Street announced stronger measures to try and combat the spread, including the closing of bars, pubs and restaurants as fears that health services could soon be overwhelmed. Housing secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky TV on Sunday morning that if the public did not follow their advice they will "have to consider other options". There were also signs of a political fallout. Downing Street denied a "highly defamatory" Sunday Times newspaper story that Johnson's chief adviser, Dominic Cummings, had initially argued against strict measures to contain the virus, in an argument summed up as "if that means some pensioners die, too bad". Most at risk The concerns came as authorities in the UK told 1.5 million people most at risk to stay at home for 12 weeks. As part of the latest measures to try and protect the vulnerable, the government advised those with underlying health conditions such as bone or blood cancers, cystic fibrosis, or who have had an organ transplant to do all they can to shield themselves from the virus, including confining themselves at home for a long period. "People should stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives," Jenrick said. He also said the government would get protective gear to NHS staff on the frontline "as soon as possible" as fears the virus could be spreading due to a lack of equipment for medics. In a further sign of growing concern, environmental and heritage charity the National Trust said it would close all of its parks and gardens. This reversed an earlier decision to keep them open during the crisis, because of fears over social distancing.

UK virus 'accelerating' amid fears country on same path as Italy

<p>Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the United Kingdom, around 60 Indian students held a demonstration outside the Indian High Commission in London demanding a return to their respective homes.</p>

<p>The students, mostly from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana stood outside the High Commission building all day and refused to leave the premises.</p>

<p>According to these students, "they have nowhere to go" as the colleges and hostels have been closed due to the rapidly spreading coronavirus.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Deserted streets in India after self-imposed shutdown for 14 hours amid Coronavirus outbreak</strong></p>

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<p>In a video message, students appealed to the Indian government to rescue them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Due to this coronavirus outbreak, our rent agreements have been cancelled. We cannot afford to pay 250 to 350 pounds per month for our accommodation. Students are unable to find jobs as well&nbsp;people are saying the economy is not doing well, so there are no jobs," one student said in the video appeal.</p>

<p>"Right now we are dependent on the money coming from our families in India. But they can only support us so much. We request Jagan Reddy, KCR and the Indian government to please help us," the student added.</p>

<p>Some of these students booked flights to go back home but those have been cancelled.</p>

<p>India has announced a ban on travel from the UK and the European Union until March 31.</p>

<p>There are more than 5000 confirmed cases in the United Kingdom with more than 220 deaths.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a special Air India flight carrying 263 Indian students and other cases has departed for India from Rome.</p>

<p>This comes as Italy is now the worst-hit country in the world dealing with over 53,578 cases with 4,825 deaths.</p>


Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the United Kingdom, around 60 Indian students held a demonstration outside the Indian High Commission in London demanding a return to their respective homes.

Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the United Kingdom, around 60 Indian students held a demonstration outside the Indian High Commission in London demanding a return to their respective homes. The students, mostly from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana stood outside the High Commission building all day and refused to leave the premises. According to these students, "they have nowhere to go" as the colleges and hostels have been closed due to the rapidly spreading coronavirus. Watch: Deserted streets in India after self-imposed shutdown for 14 hours amid Coronavirus outbreak × In a video message, students appealed to the Indian government to rescue them. "Due to this coronavirus outbreak, our rent agreements have been cancelled. We cannot afford to pay 250 to 350 pounds per month for our accommodation. Students are unable to find jobs as well people are saying the economy is not doing well, so there are no jobs," one student said in the video appeal. "Right now we are dependent on the money coming from our families in India. But they can only support us so much. We request Jagan Reddy, KCR and the Indian government to please help us," the student added. Some of these students booked flights to go back home but those have been cancelled. India has announced a ban on travel from the UK and the European Union until March 31. There are more than 5000 confirmed cases in the United Kingdom with more than 220 deaths. Meanwhile, a special Air India flight carrying 263 Indian students and other cases has departed for India from Rome. This comes as Italy is now the worst-hit country in the world dealing with over 53,578 cases with 4,825 deaths.

Coronavirus outbreak: Stranded Indian students in UK demonstrate outside Indian High Commission

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that school closures across the country were necessary from Friday for most pupils, to slow the spread of coronavirus.

Coronavirus Pandemic: UK shuts down schools to contain outbreak

On Monday, India decided to ban arrivals from European countries, the UK and Turkey. The decision also affects the Indian citizens in these countries. How does the government plan to help them? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Wuhan Coronavirus: Why India banned arrivals from Europe

<p>British foreign minister Dominic Raab advised British nationals on Tuesday to stop all non-essential travel globally for the next 30 days, the latest stringent measure taken by the government to try to stem a growing coronavirus outbreak.</p>

<p>"With immediate effect, I have taken the decision to advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally, for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review," Raab told parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/british-airways-to-cut-jobs-over-coronavirus-ceo-286248">British Airways to cut jobs over coronavirus: CEO</a></strong></p>

<p>Referring to the growing number of border restrictions in other countries, Raab said Britons who decide they need to travel abroad should be aware of the increased risks of doing so, including the possibility of not being able to get home.</p>

<p>He added the Foreign Office was not yet advising Britons abroad to immediately return to Britain, except for those in a few countries, but he warned those who wanted to head home to keep in mind that flights could be cancelled at short notice or be stopped by travel restrictions.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-ban-mass-gatherings-from-next-week-to-curb-coronavirus-286354">UK to ban mass gatherings from next week to curb coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>Raab also said the government would work with the freight industry to ensure the flow of goods continued with as little disruption as possible.</p>


British foreign minister Dominic Raab advised British nationals on Tuesday to stop all non-essential travel globally for the next 30 days, the latest stringent measure taken by the government to try to stem a growing coronavirus outbreak.

British foreign minister Dominic Raab advised British nationals on Tuesday to stop all non-essential travel globally for the next 30 days, the latest stringent measure taken by the government to try to stem a growing coronavirus outbreak. "With immediate effect, I have taken the decision to advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally, for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review," Raab told parliament. Also read: British Airways to cut jobs over coronavirus: CEO Referring to the growing number of border restrictions in other countries, Raab said Britons who decide they need to travel abroad should be aware of the increased risks of doing so, including the possibility of not being able to get home. He added the Foreign Office was not yet advising Britons abroad to immediately return to Britain, except for those in a few countries, but he warned those who wanted to head home to keep in mind that flights could be cancelled at short notice or be stopped by travel restrictions. Also see: UK to ban mass gatherings from next week to curb coronavirus Raab also said the government would work with the freight industry to ensure the flow of goods continued with as little disruption as possible.

Britons should stop all non-essential travel globally: Foreign minister

<p>Britain hopes the measures it has taken to tackle coronavirus mean it will have below 20,000 deaths from the outbreak, the government's chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance said on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-passport-to-return-to-iconic-blue-colour-284289">UK passport to return to iconic blue colour</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday, the government ramped up its battle against the virus, shutting down social life in Britain and ordering the most vulnerable to isolate for 12 weeks.</p>

<p>Vallance said the impact of the measures on the number of infections should be seen in two to three weeks. Based on the modelling being used by the government, it is a "reasonable ballpark" that Britain actually has around 55,000 cases of the virus, compared to the 1,543 confirmed by testing, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-uk-coronavirus-cases-rises-to-273-285120">&nbsp;Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273</a></strong></p>

<p>He told a committee of lawmakers when asked about deaths: "If we can get this down to 20,000 and below, that is a good outcome in terms of where we would hope to get to with this outbreak. It is still horrible, it is still an enormous number of deaths and it is an enormous pressure on the health service."</p>


Britain hopes the measures it has taken to tackle coronavirus mean it will have below 20,000 deaths from the outbreak, the government's chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance said on Tuesday.

Britain hopes the measures it has taken to tackle coronavirus mean it will have below 20,000 deaths from the outbreak, the government's chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance said on Tuesday. Also read: UK passport to return to iconic blue colour On Monday, the government ramped up its battle against the virus, shutting down social life in Britain and ordering the most vulnerable to isolate for 12 weeks. Vallance said the impact of the measures on the number of infections should be seen in two to three weeks. Based on the modelling being used by the government, it is a "reasonable ballpark" that Britain actually has around 55,000 cases of the virus, compared to the 1,543 confirmed by testing, he said. Also see: Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273 He told a committee of lawmakers when asked about deaths: "If we can get this down to 20,000 and below, that is a good outcome in terms of where we would hope to get to with this outbreak. It is still horrible, it is still an enormous number of deaths and it is an enormous pressure on the health service."

UK expects 20,000 deaths from coronavirus: Government chief scientist

After a human right activist launched a campaign to create awareness about the plight of Balochis in Pakistan, the British government has said that they were aware of mass graves in Balochistan.

Activists: Pakistani Army is killing civilians in Balochistan, Anti campaign starts in Geneva

UK concerned over mass graves in Balochistan

<p>Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>The restriction will start from midday March 15 following a proposal from the country's prime minister, the ministry said in a statement on its website.</p>

<p>Visas on arrival for all foreign nationals are also temporarily halted, it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airline-crisis-worsens-as-us-puts-europeans-in-coronavirus-quarantine-285968">Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine</a></strong></p>

<p>The British embassy in Hanoi updated its travel advice on a UK government website.</p>

<p>"From noon Vietnam time, March 15, all foreign nationals will be refused entry to Vietnam if in the previous 14 days they have been to the UK, or any Schengen country, even in transit," said the statement.</p>

<p>"This restriction will be in place for 30 days."</p>

<p><strong>Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-us-seeks-to-address-travel-advisory-concerns-issue-multiple-helplines-285993">Indian Embassy in US seeks to address travel advisory concerns, issue multiple helplines</a></strong></p>

<p>The Schengen Area is a border control-free travel zone comprising 26 European countries.</p>

<p>Vietnam earlier halted visa-free travel for citizens of eight European countries.</p>

<p>Following the government's restriction, the national carrier Vietnam Airlines said it would stop carrying passengers from Paris, London and Frankfurt to Vietnam from March 15, while flights from Vietnam to those destinations would still be operated as normal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-chaos-spreads-globally-trump-declares-us-emergency-286308">Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency</a></strong></p>

<p>Three weeks after Vietnam declared that all 16 of its coronavirus cases had recovered, the number of infected patients is on the rise after the authorities said a spate of new infections was traced to a flight from Britain.</p>

<p>Vietnam has confirmed 49 cases of the coronavirus. There have been no deaths in the country.</p>


Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said.

Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said. The restriction will start from midday March 15 following a proposal from the country's prime minister, the ministry said in a statement on its website. Visas on arrival for all foreign nationals are also temporarily halted, it added. Also read: Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine The British embassy in Hanoi updated its travel advice on a UK government website. "From noon Vietnam time, March 15, all foreign nationals will be refused entry to Vietnam if in the previous 14 days they have been to the UK, or any Schengen country, even in transit," said the statement. "This restriction will be in place for 30 days." Also see: Indian Embassy in US seeks to address travel advisory concerns, issue multiple helplines The Schengen Area is a border control-free travel zone comprising 26 European countries. Vietnam earlier halted visa-free travel for citizens of eight European countries. Following the government's restriction, the national carrier Vietnam Airlines said it would stop carrying passengers from Paris, London and Frankfurt to Vietnam from March 15, while flights from Vietnam to those destinations would still be operated as normal. Also read: Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency Three weeks after Vietnam declared that all 16 of its coronavirus cases had recovered, the number of infected patients is on the rise after the authorities said a spate of new infections was traced to a flight from Britain. Vietnam has confirmed 49 cases of the coronavirus. There have been no deaths in the country.

Vietnam to refuse visitors from UK, Schengen countries

Within a month of taking charge as UK's Finance Minister, Rishi Sunak has presented a Budget which is winning him praises across party lines. Here's a report on the rise of this Indian-origin lawmaker in Britain.

Gravitas: Indian origin Minister presents UK's 1st post Brexit Budget

<p>The British way of colonialism has often been a topic of vigorous discussion -- for the world and UK alike. A little more for the latter as a recent polls has suggested Britain misses its empire more than other post-colonial powers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/main-points-of-uk-budget-dominated-by-coronovirus-285702">Main points of UK budget dominated by coronovirus</a></p>

<p>A YouGov survey, shared with the Guardian, had a shocking number of people -- over a quarter of those surveyed -- saying they would still like to have an empire. These people believe the British Empire left its former colonies "better off", succinctly reaffirming the notion about how Britain educates citizens about its colonial past vis-a-vis how the rest of the world feels about it.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/uk-royals-set-for-last-big-get-together-before-harry-and-meghans-exit-285176" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/uk-royals-set-for-last-big-get-together-before-harry-and-meghans-exit-285176&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJtb-nwpboAhXUV3wKHXjNDHs4FBAWMAh6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0eqI0pUkHY5VCvpHyqqgv4" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/uk-royals-set-for-last-big-get-together-before-harry-and-meghans-exit-285176" target="_blank"><b>UK</b>&nbsp;royals set for last big get together before Harry and Meghan's exit</a></p>

<p>The said results have been interpreted by some as "a proxy for high levels of nationalist sentiment," particularly in the context of Brexit.</p>

<p>Majority of the responses said their former empires were "neither something to be proud nor ashamed of". These responders include 37 per cent of Britons. Nearly 50 per cent said they wouldn't like Britain to still have an empire.</p>

<p>Oku Ekpenyon, founder of Memorial 2007, a campaign for a slavery memorial to be built in London, described the results as 'alarming'.</p>

<p>Nigel Biggar, regius professor of moral and pastoral theology at Christ Church College, Oxford, however, begged to differ. He said, "The fact that only a minority of 32 per cent said empire was something to be proud of meant that if the post-colonialists really want to hound imperial flag-wavers, they should go after the Dutch."</p>

<p>Popular opinion also says that the likelihood that a country believes it left its former colonies better off appears to be correlated to the extent and openness of the national debate about empire.</p>

<p>Only Netherlands appeared to be more proud of its imperial history than the Britain. Half of the Dutch, in the survey, said they were more proud than ashamed of their history.</p>

<p>Germans were the least likely to be proud of its colonial past -- amounting to only 9 per cent.</p>

<p>The data on empire attitudes was collected between June 10, 2019 and December 17, 2019.</p>


The British way of colonialism has often been a topic of vigorous discussion -- for the world and UK alike. A little more for the latter as a recent polls has suggested Britain misses its empire more than other post-colonial powers.

The British way of colonialism has often been a topic of vigorous discussion -- for the world and UK alike. A little more for the latter as a recent polls has suggested Britain misses its empire more than other post-colonial powers. Also read: Main points of UK budget dominated by coronovirus A YouGov survey, shared with the Guardian, had a shocking number of people -- over a quarter of those surveyed -- saying they would still like to have an empire. These people believe the British Empire left its former colonies "better off", succinctly reaffirming the notion about how Britain educates citizens about its colonial past vis-a-vis how the rest of the world feels about it. Also read: UK royals set for last big get together before Harry and Meghan's exit The said results have been interpreted by some as "a proxy for high levels of nationalist sentiment," particularly in the context of Brexit. Majority of the responses said their former empires were "neither something to be proud nor ashamed of". These responders include 37 per cent of Britons. Nearly 50 per cent said they wouldn't like Britain to still have an empire. Oku Ekpenyon, founder of Memorial 2007, a campaign for a slavery memorial to be built in London, described the results as 'alarming'. Nigel Biggar, regius professor of moral and pastoral theology at Christ Church College, Oxford, however, begged to differ. He said, "The fact that only a minority of 32 per cent said empire was something to be proud of meant that if the post-colonialists really want to hound imperial flag-wavers, they should go after the Dutch." Popular opinion also says that the likelihood that a country believes it left its former colonies better off appears to be correlated to the extent and openness of the national debate about empire. Only Netherlands appeared to be more proud of its imperial history than the Britain. Half of the Dutch, in the survey, said they were more proud than ashamed of their history. Germans were the least likely to be proud of its colonial past -- amounting to only 9 per cent. The data on empire attitudes was collected between June 10, 2019 and December 17, 2019.

UK misses its empire more than other ex-colonial powers, 33% think colonies 'better off', poll finds

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson stepped up the response to the coronavirus outbreak on March 12, moving to the so called "delay phase" which includes the option of more stringent measures designed to slow down the spread of the virus.

UK PM Boris Johnson steps up response to coronavirus outbreak

<p>British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Friday said US airstrikes in Iraq were a "proportionate" response to the deaths of two Americans and one Briton in a rocket attack.</p>

<p>The Pentagon said the strikes were against the pro-Iranian Kataeb Hezbollah armed faction in response to the death of the three soldiers on the Taji airbase on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"The response to the cowardly attack on coalition forces in Iraq has been swift, decisive and proportionate," Raab said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/east-syria-strike-kills-26-iraqi-fighters-monitor-285947"> East Syria strike kills 26 Iraqi fighters: Monitor</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will continue working with our partners to ensure those responsible for these deplorable acts will be held to account.</p>

<p>"UK forces are in Iraq with coalition partners to help the country counter-terrorist activity and anyone seeking to harm them can expect a strong response."</p>

<p>The British soldier killed has been named by the defence ministry as Lance Corporal Brodie Gillon, a 26-year-old reservist.</p>

<p>A self-employed sports physiotherapist in civilian life, she had been working as a combat medical technician.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/syria-war-enters-10th-year-with-no-hope-in-sight-285777"><span>Syria war enters 10th year with no hope in sight</span></a></strong></p>

<p>"She was larger than life soldier who was determined to deploy on operations, help others, develop herself and gain practical experience," her commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel William Leek said in a statement.</p>

<p>"She had already achieved a great deal in her relatively short time with us and it was abundantly clear that she was destined for great things in her civilian and military careers.</p>

<p>"Her loss is keenly felt."</p>


British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Friday said US airstrikes in Iraq were a "proportionate" response to the deaths of two Americans and one Briton in a rocket attack.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Friday said US airstrikes in Iraq were a "proportionate" response to the deaths of two Americans and one Briton in a rocket attack. The Pentagon said the strikes were against the pro-Iranian Kataeb Hezbollah armed faction in response to the death of the three soldiers on the Taji airbase on Wednesday. "The response to the cowardly attack on coalition forces in Iraq has been swift, decisive and proportionate," Raab said in a statement. Also Read: East Syria strike kills 26 Iraqi fighters: Monitor "We will continue working with our partners to ensure those responsible for these deplorable acts will be held to account. "UK forces are in Iraq with coalition partners to help the country counter-terrorist activity and anyone seeking to harm them can expect a strong response." The British soldier killed has been named by the defence ministry as Lance Corporal Brodie Gillon, a 26-year-old reservist. A self-employed sports physiotherapist in civilian life, she had been working as a combat medical technician. Also Read: Syria war enters 10th year with no hope in sight "She was larger than life soldier who was determined to deploy on operations, help others, develop herself and gain practical experience," her commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel William Leek said in a statement. "She had already achieved a great deal in her relatively short time with us and it was abundantly clear that she was destined for great things in her civilian and military careers. "Her loss is keenly felt."

UK says US strikes in Iraq 'proportionate' response

Britain's Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak presented the red Budget Box outside of 11 Downing Street. Sunak has pledged £30bn of spending to fight the coronavirus outbreak.

Your Story: Rishi Sunak presents his first budget, Unveils £30bn plan to fight coronavirus

Health minister and Conservative MP Nadine Dorries has been diagnosed with coronavirus, raising pressure to tighten access to parliament as authorities ramp up preparations in anticipation of “many thousands” of cases at the epidemic’s peak. Watch report:

UK Health Minister Nadine Dorries diagnosed with Coronavirus

<p>British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak.</p>

<p>Britain so far reported three deaths and 278 cases of the new coronavirus. The country's biggest retailer, Tesco, has restricted bulk buying of products such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and long-life milk.</p>

<p>"The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the UK and around the world," Johnson said. "We are well prepared and will continue to make decisions to protect the public based on the latest scientific advice."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-uk-coronavirus-cases-rises-to-273-285120">Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273</a></strong></p>

<p>The new coronavirus, which emerged in China in December, causes a disease called COVID-19. It has spread around the world, infecting more than 106,000 people and 3,600 people have died worldwide, according to a Reuters tally.</p>

<p>Britain's emergency scientific group agreed last week that the virus was likely to spread in a significant way and the government will decide on Monday whether to move to the so-called "delay phase" of its plan.</p>

<p>As some British supermarket shelves were emptied of basics such as lavatory paper, the British government said it had set up a team to tackle "interference and disinformation" around the spread of coronavirus.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finance-minister-sunak-looking-at-ways-to-relax-spending-limit-285091">UK finance minister Sunak looking at ways to relax spending limit</a></strong></p>

<p>British culture secretary Oliver Dowden there were no plans to shut museums, art galleries or concert halls, or to order sporting events to be cancelled or played behind closed doors.</p>

<p>"We not anywhere near that sort of stage," he told BBC TV. "There is no reason for people not to attend such events or to cancel them at this stage but we keep it under review."</p>

<p>Dowden added that there was no need for people to stockpile.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"We are confident that supermarkets have the supply chains necessary to keep shelves stocked," he said.</p>


British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak. Britain so far reported three deaths and 278 cases of the new coronavirus. The country's biggest retailer, Tesco, has restricted bulk buying of products such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and long-life milk. "The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the UK and around the world," Johnson said. "We are well prepared and will continue to make decisions to protect the public based on the latest scientific advice." Also read: Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273 The new coronavirus, which emerged in China in December, causes a disease called COVID-19. It has spread around the world, infecting more than 106,000 people and 3,600 people have died worldwide, according to a Reuters tally. Britain's emergency scientific group agreed last week that the virus was likely to spread in a significant way and the government will decide on Monday whether to move to the so-called "delay phase" of its plan. As some British supermarket shelves were emptied of basics such as lavatory paper, the British government said it had set up a team to tackle "interference and disinformation" around the spread of coronavirus. Also see: UK finance minister Sunak looking at ways to relax spending limit British culture secretary Oliver Dowden there were no plans to shut museums, art galleries or concert halls, or to order sporting events to be cancelled or played behind closed doors. "We not anywhere near that sort of stage," he told BBC TV. "There is no reason for people not to attend such events or to cancel them at this stage but we keep it under review." Dowden added that there was no need for people to stockpile. Watch: × "We are confident that supermarkets have the supply chains necessary to keep shelves stocked," he said.

British PM to hold emergency meeting on coronavirus

<p>The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far.</p>

<p>More than 23,500 people in Britain have been tested for the virus, the government said. So far, two patients who have tested positive for coronavirus have died in Britain.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-people-lost-800000-pounds-in-coronavirus-related-scams-284833">UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, finance minister Rishi Sunak said the government would invest whatever was needed to deal with the spread of the virus, including more money for the health service and help to companies suffering short-term cash flow problems.</p>

<p>After reports of people stockpiling goods such as hand sanitiser, soap, dried pasta and toilet rolls, the government said on Friday supermarkets had contingency plans in place to prevent shortages.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-to-take-paternity-leave-after-his-childs-birth-284011">&nbsp;Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain's biggest supermarket Tesco&nbsp;confirmed on Sunday it had introduced a restriction on bulk buying of several products in all of its stores and online. Customers will be limited to buying five units of items such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and UHT milk.</p>

<p>The government has also set out details of planned emergency legislation, including the possibility of holding more court proceedings via telephone or video link, and steps to protect the jobs of those who volunteer for the health service.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to chair a meeting of the government's emergency committee on Monday to discuss the response to the outbreak.</p>


The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far. More than 23,500 people in Britain have been tested for the virus, the government said. So far, two patients who have tested positive for coronavirus have died in Britain. Also read: UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams Earlier, finance minister Rishi Sunak said the government would invest whatever was needed to deal with the spread of the virus, including more money for the health service and help to companies suffering short-term cash flow problems. After reports of people stockpiling goods such as hand sanitiser, soap, dried pasta and toilet rolls, the government said on Friday supermarkets had contingency plans in place to prevent shortages. Also see: Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth Britain's biggest supermarket Tesco confirmed on Sunday it had introduced a restriction on bulk buying of several products in all of its stores and online. Customers will be limited to buying five units of items such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and UHT milk. The government has also set out details of planned emergency legislation, including the possibility of holding more court proceedings via telephone or video link, and steps to protect the jobs of those who volunteer for the health service. Watch: × Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to chair a meeting of the government's emergency committee on Monday to discuss the response to the outbreak.

Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273

Britain's Duke and Duchess of Cambridge continue their official visit to Ireland on Wednesday (March 4) afternoon with a walk along the Howth cliffs in northeast Dublin.

Prince William and his wife Kate continue their Ireland visit

<p>British regional airline Flybe crashed into bankruptcy Thursday after the deadly coronavirus proved to be the final nail in its coffin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trade-impact-of-coronavirus-epidemic-for-india-estimated-at-348-million-dollars-un-report-284461" hreflang="en">Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report</a></p>

<p>The biggest operator of UK domestic flights said it has sunk into administration -- a last-ditch process aimed at salvaging at least some of the company.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-growth-to-fall-below-last-years-level-due-to-coronavirus-imf-284325" hreflang="en">Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF</a></p>

<p>And with the carrier long blighted by fierce competition, volatile fuels costs and a weak pound linked to the uncertainty over Brexit, Flybe's announcement to ground all flights now place some 2,000 jobs at risk.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-drags-hong-kong-business-outlook-to-record-low-data-284240" hreflang="en">Coronavirus drags Hong Kong business outlook to record low: data</a></p>

<p>An airline source told Britain's domestic Press Association news agency that sliding demand owing to COVID-19 had "made a difficult situation worse".</p>

<p>A slew of airlines -- including British Airways and Ryanair -- announced Monday the cancellation of several hundred flight, in particular to Italy, as the novel coronavirus spreads throughout the globe.</p>

<p>Flybe narrowly avoided going bust in January when the UK government agreed to review air passenger duty paid by its customers -- and shareholders pledged extra investment.</p>

<p>But in the early hours of Thursday, the carrier appointed administrators after the government reportedly refused a rescue loan for £100 million ($128 million, 115 million euros)</p>

<p>"Flybe entered administration on 5 March," the carrier said in a brief statement.</p>

<p>"All flights have been grounded and the UK business has ceased trading with immediate effect."</p>

<p>The Exeter-based carrier failed to turn around its fortunes since it was purchased just over a year ago by a consortium led by Virgin.</p>

<p>"Flybe's financial difficulties were long-standing and well documented and pre-date the outbreak of COVID-19," said a government statement.</p>

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<p>Flybe, which flies about eight million passengers annually, is owned also by investment firm Cyrus and infrastructure specialist Stobart.</p>

<p>Flybe operates from 43 airports across Europe and 28 in Britain, and its collapse left potentially thousands of people stranded far from home.</p>

<p>The British government said it had asked bus and train operators to accept Flybe tickets and other airlines to offer reductions to help passengers reach their destination.</p>

<p>Flybe's owner, the Connect Airways consortium, said "every possible attempt" had been made to avoid the collapse, but that the airline had been "unable to overcome significant funding challenges".</p>

<p>At the start of the year, Flybe agreed a payment plan with authorities to defer tax payments of less than £10 million.</p>

<p>That announcement came just days after the airline was saved from collapse in a last-minute financial rescue, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative government agreeing to review air passenger duty (APD) paid by Flybe's customers.</p>

<p>Following the tax deferral, rival companies, including British Airways-parent IAG, complained to the European Union that it was receiving unfair state aid.</p>

<p>The government said its assistance did not breach EU rules and that help was based on the importance of the company's domestic services.</p>

<p>- Timely warning -<br />
Flybe's demise follows a timely coronavirus warning from Dublin-based low-cost airline Ryanair at the start of this week.</p>

<p>The Irish carrier forecast that the fatal outbreak -- which has killed 3,200 and infected 95,000 worldwide so far -- would spark more European airline failures.</p>

<p>"We expect that this COVID-19 virus will result in further EU airline failures over the coming weeks," Ryanair said Monday.</p>

<p>Recent high-profile casualties in Europe's battered aviation sector include French carriers Aigle Azur and XL Airways, as well as Slovenia's Adria Airways and Britain's Thomas Cook, which was both a tour operator and an airline.</p>

<p>In contrast to Flybe, Thomas Cook collapsed without any government assistance in September, causing the loss of 22,000 jobs worldwide and stranding 600,000 holidaymakers abroad.</p>


British regional airline Flybe crashed into bankruptcy Thursday after the deadly coronavirus proved to be the final nail in its coffin. Also read: Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report The biggest operator of UK domestic flights said it has sunk into administration -- a last-ditch process aimed at salvaging at least some of the company.

British regional airline Flybe crashed into bankruptcy Thursday after the deadly coronavirus proved to be the final nail in its coffin. Also read: Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report The biggest operator of UK domestic flights said it has sunk into administration -- a last-ditch process aimed at salvaging at least some of the company. Also read: Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF And with the carrier long blighted by fierce competition, volatile fuels costs and a weak pound linked to the uncertainty over Brexit, Flybe's announcement to ground all flights now place some 2,000 jobs at risk. Also read: Coronavirus drags Hong Kong business outlook to record low: data An airline source told Britain's domestic Press Association news agency that sliding demand owing to COVID-19 had "made a difficult situation worse". A slew of airlines -- including British Airways and Ryanair -- announced Monday the cancellation of several hundred flight, in particular to Italy, as the novel coronavirus spreads throughout the globe. Flybe narrowly avoided going bust in January when the UK government agreed to review air passenger duty paid by its customers -- and shareholders pledged extra investment. But in the early hours of Thursday, the carrier appointed administrators after the government reportedly refused a rescue loan for £100 million ($128 million, 115 million euros) "Flybe entered administration on 5 March," the carrier said in a brief statement. "All flights have been grounded and the UK business has ceased trading with immediate effect." The Exeter-based carrier failed to turn around its fortunes since it was purchased just over a year ago by a consortium led by Virgin. "Flybe's financial difficulties were long-standing and well documented and pre-date the outbreak of COVID-19," said a government statement. Flybe, which flies about eight million passengers annually, is owned also by investment firm Cyrus and infrastructure specialist Stobart. Flybe operates from 43 airports across Europe and 28 in Britain, and its collapse left potentially thousands of people stranded far from home. The British government said it had asked bus and train operators to accept Flybe tickets and other airlines to offer reductions to help passengers reach their destination. Flybe's owner, the Connect Airways consortium, said "every possible attempt" had been made to avoid the collapse, but that the airline had been "unable to overcome significant funding challenges". At the start of the year, Flybe agreed a payment plan with authorities to defer tax payments of less than £10 million. That announcement came just days after the airline was saved from collapse in a last-minute financial rescue, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative government agreeing to review air passenger duty (APD) paid by Flybe's customers. Following the tax deferral, rival companies, including British Airways-parent IAG, complained to the European Union that it was receiving unfair state aid. The government said its assistance did not breach EU rules and that help was based on the importance of the company's domestic services. - Timely warning - Flybe's demise follows a timely coronavirus warning from Dublin-based low-cost airline Ryanair at the start of this week. The Irish carrier forecast that the fatal outbreak -- which has killed 3,200 and infected 95,000 worldwide so far -- would spark more European airline failures. "We expect that this COVID-19 virus will result in further EU airline failures over the coming weeks," Ryanair said Monday. Recent high-profile casualties in Europe's battered aviation sector include French carriers Aigle Azur and XL Airways, as well as Slovenia's Adria Airways and Britain's Thomas Cook, which was both a tour operator and an airline. In contrast to Flybe, Thomas Cook collapsed without any government assistance in September, causing the loss of 22,000 jobs worldwide and stranding 600,000 holidaymakers abroad.

UK airline Flybe dealt final blow by coronavirus

<p>After Brexit, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be blue.</p>

<p>The first blue passports are being issued this month following the UK’s departure from the European Union.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/back-to-blue-uk-passports-revert-to-old-colour-from-next-month-282141"> Back to blue: UK passports revert to old colour from next month</a></strong></p>

<p>It’s not just the colour that’s different but the design too. The new passport does not have the words "European Union"&nbsp;on the front cover and back cover carries on embossment featuring the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.<br />
They will be made in France but personalised in the UK.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-starts-issuing-passports-without-european-union-on-cover-208340">UK starts issuing passports without 'European Union' on cover</a></strong></p>

<p>The UK Home Office said the manufacturing carbon footprint of the passports will be reduced to net zero through projects such as planting trees. And it will carry an updated security feature to keep personal information secure and involve secure printing and design techniques to combat identity theft and forgery.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: Brexit:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-what-changes-and-what-stays-the-same-for-uk-277885"> What changes and what stays the same for UK?</a></strong></p>

<p>UK Home Secretary Priti Patel said Brexit has given the UK a unique opportunity to forge a new path in the world and enabled a return to the iconic blue and gold design.</p>

<p>The burgundy passports however are still valid and the passport office is still issuing it&nbsp;for now. But soon, the UK will join 81 countries, including India, the US, Canada, and Australia with its blue passports.</p>


After Brexit, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be blue. The first blue passports are being issued this month following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

After Brexit, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be blue. The first blue passports are being issued this month following the UK’s departure from the European Union. Also read: Back to blue: UK passports revert to old colour from next month It’s not just the colour that’s different but the design too. The new passport does not have the words "European Union" on the front cover and back cover carries on embossment featuring the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. They will be made in France but personalised in the UK. Also read: UK starts issuing passports without 'European Union' on cover The UK Home Office said the manufacturing carbon footprint of the passports will be reduced to net zero through projects such as planting trees. And it will carry an updated security feature to keep personal information secure and involve secure printing and design techniques to combat identity theft and forgery. Also read: Brexit: What changes and what stays the same for UK? UK Home Secretary Priti Patel said Brexit has given the UK a unique opportunity to forge a new path in the world and enabled a return to the iconic blue and gold design. The burgundy passports however are still valid and the passport office is still issuing it for now. But soon, the UK will join 81 countries, including India, the US, Canada, and Australia with its blue passports.

UK passport to return to iconic blue colour

<p>After Bretix, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already been started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be Blue.<br />
The first Blue passports are being issued this month following the U.K.’s departure from the European Union.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/back-to-blue-uk-passports-revert-to-old-colour-from-next-month-282141"> Back to blue: UK passports revert to old colour from next month</a></strong></p>

<p>It’s not just the colour that’s different but the design too. The new passport does not have the words European Union on the front cover and back cover carries on embossment featuring the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.<br />
They will be made in France but personalised in the UK.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-starts-issuing-passports-without-european-union-on-cover-208340">UK starts issuing passports without 'European Union' on cover</a></strong></p>

<p>The Home Office said the manufacturing carbon footprint of the passports will be reduced to net zero through projects such as planting trees. And it will carry an updated security feature to keep personal information secure and involve secure printing and design techniques to combat identity theft and forgery.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: Brexit:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-what-changes-and-what-stays-the-same-for-uk-277885"> What changes and what stays the same for UK?</a></strong></p>

<p>Home Secretary Priti Patel said Brexit has given the UK a unique opportunity to forge a new path in the world and enabled a return to the iconic blue and gold design.</p>

<p>Burgundy passports still in date are still valid and the passport office is still issuing burgundy passports for now. But soon, the UK will join 81 countries, including India, the US, Canada, and Australia with its blue passports.<br />
Anila Chowdhry, Wion News.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


After Bretix, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already been started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be Blue.

After Bretix, the UK passport will return to its iconic blue colour. The introduction has already been started and from mid-2020, all new passports will be Blue. The first Blue passports are being issued this month following the U.K.’s departure from the European Union. Also read: Back to blue: UK passports revert to old colour from next month It’s not just the colour that’s different but the design too. The new passport does not have the words European Union on the front cover and back cover carries on embossment featuring the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. They will be made in France but personalised in the UK. Also read: UK starts issuing passports without 'European Union' on cover The Home Office said the manufacturing carbon footprint of the passports will be reduced to net zero through projects such as planting trees. And it will carry an updated security feature to keep personal information secure and involve secure printing and design techniques to combat identity theft and forgery. Also read: Brexit: What changes and what stays the same for UK? Home Secretary Priti Patel said Brexit has given the UK a unique opportunity to forge a new path in the world and enabled a return to the iconic blue and gold design. Burgundy passports still in date are still valid and the passport office is still issuing burgundy passports for now. But soon, the UK will join 81 countries, including India, the US, Canada, and Australia with its blue passports. Anila Chowdhry, Wion News.

UK passport will return to it's iconic Blue colour

<p>Britain's&nbsp;Prince&nbsp;Harry&nbsp;and singer Jon Bon Jovi recreated one of the Beatles' best-known album covers on Friday, walking across the zebra crossing outside Abbey Road recording studios in north London.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Harry&nbsp;was at the studio to meet the singer and members of a military veterans' choir in one of his last engagements as a senior member of the royal family.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9G85ybJzbG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I said I’ll give it a shot...[Sound On 🔊] • Stay tuned for more to come later... #WeAreInvictus</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sussexroyal/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> The Duke and Duchess of Sussex</a> (@sussexroyal) on <time datetime="2020-02-28T11:19:31+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 28, 2020 at 3:19am PST</time></p>
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<p>As countless Beatles fans have done since the 1969 release of the 'Abbey Road'&nbsp;album, the pair walked across the black and white pedestrian crossing, this time led by a military veteran in a wheelchair.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;<img alt="prince" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44181944-808d-44af-87f0-2314289d2106" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_76.jpg" /></p>

<p>Earlier, a video of the two wearing headphones, with Bon Jovi strumming a guitar before beginning to sing was posted on the official Instagram page of&nbsp;Harry&nbsp;and his American wife Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9HVG-VJZn_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Testing, testing🎙… • Recorded inside Abbey Road Studios, home to The Beatles and other music legends, The Duke of Sussex joins Jon Bon Jovi and the Invictus Games Choir for a special live session in aid of the Invictus Games Foundation. The song being played, called ‘Unbroken’, was created by Jon Bon Jovi to shine a spotlight on those veterans living with Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI), to honour their service and acknowledge the strength of the Armed Forces community. The Duke and JBJ are both strong supporters of the military community, with The Duke founding the Invictus Games in 2014. The Invictus Games Choir, made up of wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving personnel from all services and different ranks of the UK Armed Forces, have come together to use the power of music to aid their recovery. Although The Duke was unable to sing, leaving the vocals to the professionals, the special single that was recorded in Studio 2 where The Beatles recorded 11 out of their 13 albums, and will be released in March in support of the @WeAreInvictusGames. Video © SussexRoyal</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sussexroyal/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> The Duke and Duchess of Sussex</a> (@sussexroyal) on <time datetime="2020-02-28T14:53:19+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 28, 2020 at 6:53am PST</time></p>
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<p>The couple announced in January that they would <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/as-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-announce-separation-uk-monarchy-scrambles-for-solution-273323">step down</a> from their duties as senior royals, spend more time in North America and aim to become financially independent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/call-me-harry-says-informal-uk-prince-as-he-starts-last-round-of-royal-duties-282930">'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties</a></p>

<p>The Invictus Games Choir, who are recording a single for charity, is made up of veterans and serving personnel from the British military.</p>

<p>Their song, called 'Unbroken',&nbsp;was created by Bon Jovi to shine a spotlight on veterans living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.</p>

<p>Bon Jovi, whose parents were both in the U.S. Marine Corps, told reporters he had a lot of respect for the royals.</p>

<p>"I just want to give them a hug," he said.</p>

<p>Proceeds from the sale of the record will go to the foundation that supports the Invictus Games, a sporting event for sick and injured veterans that is one of&nbsp;Harry's favourite causes.</p>


Britain's Prince Harry and singer Jon Bon Jovi recreated one of the Beatles' best-known album covers on Friday, walking across the zebra crossing outside Abbey Road recording studios in north London.

Britain's Prince Harry and singer Jon Bon Jovi recreated one of the Beatles' best-known album covers on Friday, walking across the zebra crossing outside Abbey Road recording studios in north London. Harry was at the studio to meet the singer and members of a military veterans' choir in one of his last engagements as a senior member of the royal family. View this post on Instagram I said I’ll give it a shot...[Sound On 🔊] • Stay tuned for more to come later... #WeAreInvictus A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Feb 28, 2020 at 3:19am PST × As countless Beatles fans have done since the 1969 release of the 'Abbey Road' album, the pair walked across the black and white pedestrian crossing, this time led by a military veteran in a wheelchair. Earlier, a video of the two wearing headphones, with Bon Jovi strumming a guitar before beginning to sing was posted on the official Instagram page of Harry and his American wife Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. View this post on Instagram Testing, testing🎙… • Recorded inside Abbey Road Studios, home to The Beatles and other music legends, The Duke of Sussex joins Jon Bon Jovi and the Invictus Games Choir for a special live session in aid of the Invictus Games Foundation. The song being played, called ‘Unbroken’, was created by Jon Bon Jovi to shine a spotlight on those veterans living with Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI), to honour their service and acknowledge the strength of the Armed Forces community. The Duke and JBJ are both strong supporters of the military community, with The Duke founding the Invictus Games in 2014. The Invictus Games Choir, made up of wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving personnel from all services and different ranks of the UK Armed Forces, have come together to use the power of music to aid their recovery. Although The Duke was unable to sing, leaving the vocals to the professionals, the special single that was recorded in Studio 2 where The Beatles recorded 11 out of their 13 albums, and will be released in March in support of the @WeAreInvictusGames. Video © SussexRoyal A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Feb 28, 2020 at 6:53am PST × The couple announced in January that they would step down from their duties as senior royals, spend more time in North America and aim to become financially independent. Also read: 'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties The Invictus Games Choir, who are recording a single for charity, is made up of veterans and serving personnel from the British military. Their song, called 'Unbroken', was created by Bon Jovi to shine a spotlight on veterans living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Bon Jovi, whose parents were both in the U.S. Marine Corps, told reporters he had a lot of respect for the royals. "I just want to give them a hug," he said. Proceeds from the sale of the record will go to the foundation that supports the Invictus Games, a sporting event for sick and injured veterans that is one of Harry's favourite causes.

UK's Prince Harry and Jon Bon Jovi recreate Abbey Road Beatles cover

<p>Amidst the backdrop of potentially long drawn out and convoluted negotiations between Britain and the EU over the nature and form of the former's relationship with the latter is lost a fundamental and even primaeval question: Can Britain have a foreign policy? The question assumes salience against the backdrop of an election that has perhaps moved past the fractiousness of the Brexit debate and its mechanics thereof. With the people’s will aggregated mostly on one party and its political philosophy for an assorted set of reasons, it is perhaps now time to also focus or more accurately focus on Britain’s relationship with the world and the country’s role in it.</p>

<p>There are basically two approaches that Britain can take: A more of the same one that would entail and mean what Gideon Rachman has called 'social work' and whose content is foreign aid coupled with a recalibration of the foreign service. The second, a more pragmatic one, would or could be to shake and dust off the vestiges of the ‘imperialist’ label and assert itself internationally. (Assertion here is not the same as imperial(ist)- a label that is oftentimes employed to hold down a state or society by inducing guilt).</p>

<p>It is essentially about power and its use. In this day and age, while it amounts to sating a cliché, the nature and form of power has changed. It is not that power- a contested concept- and its use have become mushy or sentimental. No. Not at all. It is that power, in all its dimensions, its form has come to incorporate and integrate both its ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ nature - a combination or synthesis that Joseph Nye, a Harvard academic termed ‘smart power'. It is this smart power that Britain must develop, cultivate and employ.</p>

<p>What, the question is, would a ‘smart power’ approach look for Britain?</p>

<p>First and foremost, Britain must shake off its abashedness about power and its employment. This shyness and coyness about power stem from Britain’s past, which is over. The legacy of the past must not be allowed to override the present and the future. &nbsp;The country must, to iterate another cliché, live in a future-oriented present while also living in the present. This has implications for how Britain thinks of, conceives and employs power. To make a digression here, in the final analysis, nation-states’ ultimate quest is for and of power and security. This is a cardinal axiom in the world of states that even a post-modern vision or version of politics might find difficult to argue. If this axiom holds, then Britain with its coyness of and about power will find itself overtaken substantially by others in the power game. It is then in the nature of an imperative for Britain to stay relevant or even ahead in the power game.</p>

<p>But, power is not merely about the number of missiles you have, or how quickly and effectively you can mobilise your army or war preparedness. It is all of the above and more: Power, in this day and age, is also, to paraphrase Joseph Nye is about agenda-setting. But agenda setting is a corollary of influence. And, Britain has, not only a diminished power capability in terms of hard power but also diminished influence. Does this mean that the country is destined or doomed to remain diminished in these areas and thus gradually lose relevance in and at the global stage?</p>

<p>No is the answer. Britain has huge reservoirs of influence embedded in the sinews of its social and economic structures plus institutions and as the defying of the doomsayers, economic prognostications about the impact of Brexit negotiations on the wider economy suggest, an inbuilt resilience to it. It is in the interstices of the two that Britain can reclaim and develop its smart power. For Britain then, the causality of power would be reversed; it can and must develop its power from the influence which stems from its institutions- &nbsp;its universities, &nbsp;its reasonably robust legal and judicial system, and generally tolerant society where people, in the main, feel home and so on.</p>

<p>In a world where other states, in the hard dimensions of power, are rapidly catching up, influence then becomes a key and vital element toward power. Within a balance of power setting, countering power with power can only generate frisson and friction but influence can lead to real power in these contexts: that of agenda-setting. It is this agenda-setting, power and influence, thereof that Britain must develop - an arena that is eminently possible and achievable for a middle power country – especially against the backdrop of the reservoirs of soft power Britain has: it's attractive and robust university system that offer diverse students all over the world pathways to better careers, the use of English as a global lingua franca, education and career development, and the country’s diversity are a natural contender for developing the country’s influence. Among other things, university outputs, systems and the graduates of these institutions become natural conveyors of influence that also allow a given country to radiate outward in a non-offensive and non-jarring manner.</p>

<p>But, while agenda-setting influence is or might be the end game, it is incomplete without the foundational elements of hard power, rendered all the more salient in a world where interstate competition and the imbalances of power are fluid and will get pronounced with the passage of time. Hard power capabilities are best when these hover in the backdrop; that is, when these are not actually used but rendered as instruments of diplomacy and a hedge against bullying and threats by others. And, without these capabilities, influence can only be skin deep. For Britain to develop into a relevant, influential global actor, it not only has to leverage all its potentialities but also develop a smart power strategy that allows it to have a foreign policy. This, given a range of factors and elements, is eminently doable.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;</em></p>


Amidst the backdrop of potentially long drawn out and convoluted negotiations between Britain and the EU over the nature and form of the former's relationship with the latter is lost a fundamental and even primaeval question: Can Britain have a foreign policy?

Amidst the backdrop of potentially long drawn out and convoluted negotiations between Britain and the EU over the nature and form of the former's relationship with the latter is lost a fundamental and even primaeval question: Can Britain have a foreign policy? The question assumes salience against the backdrop of an election that has perhaps moved past the fractiousness of the Brexit debate and its mechanics thereof. With the people’s will aggregated mostly on one party and its political philosophy for an assorted set of reasons, it is perhaps now time to also focus or more accurately focus on Britain’s relationship with the world and the country’s role in it. There are basically two approaches that Britain can take: A more of the same one that would entail and mean what Gideon Rachman has called 'social work' and whose content is foreign aid coupled with a recalibration of the foreign service. The second, a more pragmatic one, would or could be to shake and dust off the vestiges of the ‘imperialist’ label and assert itself internationally. (Assertion here is not the same as imperial(ist)- a label that is oftentimes employed to hold down a state or society by inducing guilt). It is essentially about power and its use. In this day and age, while it amounts to sating a cliché, the nature and form of power has changed. It is not that power- a contested concept- and its use have become mushy or sentimental. No. Not at all. It is that power, in all its dimensions, its form has come to incorporate and integrate both its ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ nature - a combination or synthesis that Joseph Nye, a Harvard academic termed ‘smart power'. It is this smart power that Britain must develop, cultivate and employ. What, the question is, would a ‘smart power’ approach look for Britain? First and foremost, Britain must shake off its abashedness about power and its employment. This shyness and coyness about power stem from Britain’s past, which is over. The legacy of the past must not be allowed to override the present and the future. The country must, to iterate another cliché, live in a future-oriented present while also living in the present. This has implications for how Britain thinks of, conceives and employs power. To make a digression here, in the final analysis, nation-states’ ultimate quest is for and of power and security. This is a cardinal axiom in the world of states that even a post-modern vision or version of politics might find difficult to argue. If this axiom holds, then Britain with its coyness of and about power will find itself overtaken substantially by others in the power game. It is then in the nature of an imperative for Britain to stay relevant or even ahead in the power game. But, power is not merely about the number of missiles you have, or how quickly and effectively you can mobilise your army or war preparedness. It is all of the above and more: Power, in this day and age, is also, to paraphrase Joseph Nye is about agenda-setting. But agenda setting is a corollary of influence. And, Britain has, not only a diminished power capability in terms of hard power but also diminished influence. Does this mean that the country is destined or doomed to remain diminished in these areas and thus gradually lose relevance in and at the global stage? No is the answer. Britain has huge reservoirs of influence embedded in the sinews of its social and economic structures plus institutions and as the defying of the doomsayers, economic prognostications about the impact of Brexit negotiations on the wider economy suggest, an inbuilt resilience to it. It is in the interstices of the two that Britain can reclaim and develop its smart power. For Britain then, the causality of power would be reversed; it can and must develop its power from the influence which stems from its institutions- its universities, its reasonably robust legal and judicial system, and generally tolerant society where people, in the main, feel home and so on. In a world where other states, in the hard dimensions of power, are rapidly catching up, influence then becomes a key and vital element toward power. Within a balance of power setting, countering power with power can only generate frisson and friction but influence can lead to real power in these contexts: that of agenda-setting. It is this agenda-setting, power and influence, thereof that Britain must develop - an arena that is eminently possible and achievable for a middle power country – especially against the backdrop of the reservoirs of soft power Britain has: it's attractive and robust university system that offer diverse students all over the world pathways to better careers, the use of English as a global lingua franca, education and career development, and the country’s diversity are a natural contender for developing the country’s influence. Among other things, university outputs, systems and the graduates of these institutions become natural conveyors of influence that also allow a given country to radiate outward in a non-offensive and non-jarring manner. But, while agenda-setting influence is or might be the end game, it is incomplete without the foundational elements of hard power, rendered all the more salient in a world where interstate competition and the imbalances of power are fluid and will get pronounced with the passage of time. Hard power capabilities are best when these hover in the backdrop; that is, when these are not actually used but rendered as instruments of diplomacy and a hedge against bullying and threats by others. And, without these capabilities, influence can only be skin deep. For Britain to develop into a relevant, influential global actor, it not only has to leverage all its potentialities but also develop a smart power strategy that allows it to have a foreign policy. This, given a range of factors and elements, is eminently doable. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How Britain can shape its foreign policy?

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<p>Leader of the fringe far-right group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-suspends-britain-first-leaders-accounts-as-it-enforces-new-anti-abuse-rules-27180" target="_blank">Britain First, Paul Golding</a>, has been charged with violating the terrorism act in the United Kingdom, according to reports.</p>

<p>Golding was returning from a trip to the Russian parliament in Moscow when he was stopped at the Heathrow airport in October. Officers from the Metropolitan police’s counter-terrorism command picked him up and he is now charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-lawmaker-debbie-abrahams-ran-sustained-anti-india-campaign-mea-281879" target="_blank">refusing to comply</a>&nbsp;with a duty under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-bans-uk-far-right-groups-including-bnp-edl-britain-first-211564" target="_blank">Facebook bans UK far-right groups including BNP, EDL &amp; Britain First</a></p>

<p>The 38-year-old reportedly refused to provide pin codes for many of his electronic devices and was charged by postal requisition. He is to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on February 27, said a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Golding stated that he was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-generation-immigrant-priti-patel-introduces-uks-anti-immigration-visa-guidelines-281562" target="_blank">not a terrorist</a>, adding that the charges were “an abuse of legislation.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-uks-new-points-based-visa-system-will-benefit-indians-281640" target="_blank">WION Dispatch: UK's new points-based visa system will benefit Indians?</a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-uks-new-points-based-visa-system-will-benefit-indians-281640/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>2017 was the year that put Britain First on the headlines, after President Donald Trump retweeted anti-Muslim messages sent by the party’s then deputy leader, Jayda Fransen, prompting international condemnation.</p>


Leader of the fringe far-right group Britain First, Paul Golding, has been charged with violating the terrorism act in the United Kingdom, according to reports. Golding was returning from a trip to the Russian parliament in Moscow when he was stopped at the Heathrow airport in October.

Leader of the fringe far-right group Britain First, Paul Golding, has been charged with violating the terrorism act in the United Kingdom, according to reports. Golding was returning from a trip to the Russian parliament in Moscow when he was stopped at the Heathrow airport in October. Officers from the Metropolitan police’s counter-terrorism command picked him up and he is now charged with refusing to comply with a duty under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act. Also Read: Facebook bans UK far-right groups including BNP, EDL & Britain First The 38-year-old reportedly refused to provide pin codes for many of his electronic devices and was charged by postal requisition. He is to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on February 27, said a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police. Golding stated that he was not a terrorist, adding that the charges were “an abuse of legislation.” Watch: WION Dispatch: UK's new points-based visa system will benefit Indians? 2017 was the year that put Britain First on the headlines, after President Donald Trump retweeted anti-Muslim messages sent by the party’s then deputy leader, Jayda Fransen, prompting international condemnation.

Paul Golding, leader of Britain First, arrested by anti-terror police: Report

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