London police shot dead a man on February 2 after two people were stabbed in what police described as a terrorism-related incident.

London police shoot man dead, 2 injured by the attacker

The United Kingdom's departure from the EU has revived the Scottish independence movement with many arguing it would be the only way back into the European club of nations. Scotland voted to stay in the European Union by a majority of 62 per cent in the 2016 Brexit referendum.

Brexit: What do the common people think?

The Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth, three years after the&nbsp;neighbouring island quit the organisation over criticism of its human rights record, country's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced on Saturday.

"I had a conversation with the Commonwealth’s Secretary General who informed me that the Maldives has been formally reinstated into the Commonwealth as it’s 54th member state. We shall long strive to uphold the Commonwealth’s values of democracy and human rights," wrote Solih on Twitter.

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A short while ago, I had a conversation with the Commonwealth’s Secretary General who informed me that the Maldives has been formally reinstated into the Commonwealth as it’s 54th member state. We shall long strive to uphold the Commonwealth’s values of democracy and human rights
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After Maldives' readmission, the count of Commonwealth countries is not at 54.

The latest development came hours&nbsp;after the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-era-for-divided-britain-as-it-leaves-european-union-277925"> UK sealed officially left the European Union</a> on January 31.

Welcoming the Maldives back to political association which include countries that were territories of the British Empire,&nbsp;Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said, "The reform process underway in the Maldives aligns with the values and principles of the Commonwealth and we encourage the nation to continue on this path."&nbsp;

"Commonwealth members were pleased to note these developments and are happy once again to count the Maldives as a member of the family. Together we will support the Maldives to realise its ambitions," Patricia Scotland also said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-what-changes-and-what-stays-the-same-for-uk-277885">Also read | Brexit: What changes and what stays the same for UK?</a>

Maldives joined the Commonwealth in 1982 and was a member until it withdrew in October, 2016. The Republic had quit&nbsp;after it was threatened with suspension over its human rights record and lack of progress on democratic reform.

In December 2018, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solid wrote to Commonwealth Secretary-General and requested to rejoin the political association.&nbsp;

The Commonwealth Secretariat said that the assessment included two site visits to the country followed by positive feedback given by a Commonwealth Observer Group which was present for the Parliamentary Elections in April 2019.

Maldives Ambassador to the UK Farah Faizal, now becomes its High Commissioner, signifying Commonwealth membership.

The Commonwealth is a political association of 54 member states, nearly all of them former territories of the British Empire. Its members have agreed to shared goals like development, democracy and peace.

Any country can join the modern Commonwealth. The last country to join the Commonwealth was Rwanda in 2009.

(With inputs from agenices)

The Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth, three years after the neighbouring island quit the organisation over criticism of its human rights record, country's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced on Saturday.

The Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth, three years after the neighbouring island quit the organisation over criticism of its human rights record, country's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced on Saturday. "I had a conversation with the Commonwealth’s Secretary General who informed me that the Maldives has been formally reinstated into the Commonwealth as it’s 54th member state. We shall long strive to uphold the Commonwealth’s values of democracy and human rights," wrote Solih on Twitter. A short while ago, I had a conversation with the Commonwealth’s Secretary General who informed me that the Maldives has been formally reinstated into the Commonwealth as it’s 54th member state. We shall long strive to uphold the Commonwealth’s values of democracy and human rights — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) February 1, 2020 × After Maldives' readmission, the count of Commonwealth countries is not at 54. The latest development came hours after the UK sealed officially left the European Union on January 31. Welcoming the Maldives back to political association which include countries that were territories of the British Empire, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said, "The reform process underway in the Maldives aligns with the values and principles of the Commonwealth and we encourage the nation to continue on this path." "Commonwealth members were pleased to note these developments and are happy once again to count the Maldives as a member of the family. Together we will support the Maldives to realise its ambitions," Patricia Scotland also said. Also read | Brexit: What changes and what stays the same for UK? Maldives joined the Commonwealth in 1982 and was a member until it withdrew in October, 2016. The Republic had quit after it was threatened with suspension over its human rights record and lack of progress on democratic reform. In December 2018, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solid wrote to Commonwealth Secretary-General and requested to rejoin the political association. The Commonwealth Secretariat said that the assessment included two site visits to the country followed by positive feedback given by a Commonwealth Observer Group which was present for the Parliamentary Elections in April 2019. Maldives Ambassador to the UK Farah Faizal, now becomes its High Commissioner, signifying Commonwealth membership. The Commonwealth is a political association of 54 member states, nearly all of them former territories of the British Empire. Its members have agreed to shared goals like development, democracy and peace. Any country can join the modern Commonwealth. The last country to join the Commonwealth was Rwanda in 2009. (With inputs from agenices)

As UK leaves European Union, Maldives rejoins Commonwealth

The UK has officially left the European Union after 47 years of membership - and more than three years after it voted to do so in a referendum.

The UK has officially left the European Union

Britain on Friday ends almost half a century of integration with Europe, finally making its historic departure from the EU to begin a new -- but still uncertain -- future, with emotions running high following years of wrangling and several false starts. At the clocks strike 11:00 pm (2300 GMT) -- midnight in Brussels -- Britain becomes the first country to leave the 28-member bloc and will go it alone for the first time since 1973.

WION Dispatch: Britain becomes the first country to leave EU

A light show featuring the British flag was beamed onto Brussels' main square on the eve of the UK's exit from the European Union.

Music, light show celebrates UK-Belgium friendship

As Britain is set to bid<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-hails-new-dawn-as-britain-set-to-bid-farewell-to-european-union-277806"> farewell to the European Union</a>, the bloc warned that&nbsp;the UK would lose the benefits of close ties after Brexit.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said,&nbsp;"We want to have the best possible relationship with the United Kingdom, but it will never be as good as membership".

"Our union has gained political impetus and has become a global economic powerhouse," she said, appearing with EU Council President Charles Michel and European Parliament speaker David Sassoli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-brexit-new-fast-track-global-talent-visa-unveiled-by-united-kingdom-276861">After Brexit, new fast track 'global talent visa' unveiled by United Kingdom</a>

She also said that "Our experience has taught us that strength does not lie in splendid isolation, but in our unique union."

After years of political deadlock,&nbsp;Britain is due to leave the European Union at 2300 GMT. However, under the 11-month of the transition period, the country will remain under EU rules for trade, travel and business. But, legally Britain is out of the bloc&nbsp;and will go it alone for the first time since 1973.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">'Entirely Internal Matter': India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA</a>

The phrase "splendid isolation" is associated with Britain's 19th-century foreign policy of standing aloof from the politics of the European mainland, while tending to a global trading empire.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Boris Johnson&nbsp;said, "Our job as the government, my job, is to bring this country together and take us forward."&nbsp;

"This is not an end but a beginning. This is the moment when the dawn breaks and the curtain goes up on a new act," Johnson said in a statement to mark the occasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Britain is set to bid farewell to the European Union, the bloc warned that the UK would lose the benefits of close ties after Brexit. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said, "We want to have the best possible relationship with the United Kingdom, but it will never be as good as membership".

As Britain is set to bid farewell to the European Union, the bloc warned that the UK would lose the benefits of close ties after Brexit. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said, "We want to have the best possible relationship with the United Kingdom, but it will never be as good as membership". "Our union has gained political impetus and has become a global economic powerhouse," she said, appearing with EU Council President Charles Michel and European Parliament speaker David Sassoli. Also read: After Brexit, new fast track 'global talent visa' unveiled by United Kingdom She also said that "Our experience has taught us that strength does not lie in splendid isolation, but in our unique union." After years of political deadlock, Britain is due to leave the European Union at 2300 GMT. However, under the 11-month of the transition period, the country will remain under EU rules for trade, travel and business. But, legally Britain is out of the bloc and will go it alone for the first time since 1973. Also read: 'Entirely Internal Matter': India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA The phrase "splendid isolation" is associated with Britain's 19th-century foreign policy of standing aloof from the politics of the European mainland, while tending to a global trading empire. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "Our job as the government, my job, is to bring this country together and take us forward." "This is not an end but a beginning. This is the moment when the dawn breaks and the curtain goes up on a new act," Johnson said in a statement to mark the occasion. (With inputs from agencies)

There is no strength in 'splendid isolation': European Union to UK

Britain will be ending its nearly 5-decade long relation with the European Union today. Lets breakdown post-Brexit events for you.

What will be UK & EU Relations post-Brexit?

Jyllands-Posten cartoon has been declared "an insult to China" by the Chinese Embassy in Denmark and has demanded a public apology from the cartoonist Niels Bo Bojesen as well as the paper in which the cartoon was published.

Similar to the outrage that the cartoon of Prophet Muhammad in 2005 spawned, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">coronavirus </a>cartoon furore has spread to social media.&nbsp; 
China's public have shared memes of Denmark's surrender to Nazi Germany in World War Two, stating that the surrender took place in four hours, while Danes vigorously defend Jyllands-Posten on Twitter.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">&nbsp;Coronavirus: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region</a>

China was reminded by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen that Denmark has the freedom of expression, be it spoken or drawn. Rushing to the defense of the paper were other Danish politicians who have stood by the paper's right to publish such a cartoon.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tracking-chinas-sars-like-coronavirus-275537">grip of the coronavirus</a> on China has paralysed transit in and around the Hubei Province, which shelters about 60 million people. Wuhan, the provincial capital was the epicentre of the virus and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">more than 100 people have died</a> from contracting it.

Jacob Nybroe, Chief Editor of Jyllands-Posten insists that his paper was not making light of the situation, saying "We cannot apologise for something we don't think is wrong. We have no intention of being demeaning or to mock, nor do we think that the drawing does. As far as I can see, this here is about different forms of cultural understanding."

Jyllands-Posten cartoon has been declared "an insult to China" by the Chinese Embassy in Denmark and has demanded a public apology from the cartoonist Niels Bo Bojesen as well as the paper in which the cartoon was published.

Jyllands-Posten cartoon has been declared "an insult to China" by the Chinese Embassy in Denmark and has demanded a public apology from the cartoonist Niels Bo Bojesen as well as the paper in which the cartoon was published. Similar to the outrage that the cartoon of Prophet Muhammad in 2005 spawned, the coronavirus cartoon furore has spread to social media. China's public have shared memes of Denmark's surrender to Nazi Germany in World War Two, stating that the surrender took place in four hours, while Danes vigorously defend Jyllands-Posten on Twitter. Also Read: Coronavirus: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region China was reminded by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen that Denmark has the freedom of expression, be it spoken or drawn. Rushing to the defense of the paper were other Danish politicians who have stood by the paper's right to publish such a cartoon. The grip of the coronavirus on China has paralysed transit in and around the Hubei Province, which shelters about 60 million people. Wuhan, the provincial capital was the epicentre of the virus and more than 100 people have died from contracting it. Jacob Nybroe, Chief Editor of Jyllands-Posten insists that his paper was not making light of the situation, saying "We cannot apologise for something we don't think is wrong. We have no intention of being demeaning or to mock, nor do we think that the drawing does. As far as I can see, this here is about different forms of cultural understanding."

Danish cartoon sparks 'Twitterfeud' between China and Denmark: Publisher insists it was not poking fun

European aerospace giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-defence-unit-sees-cash-challenge-adopts-efficiency-plan-254715">Airbus </a>said Tuesday that it has reached an "agreement in principle" with French, British and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">US</a> authorities over corruption investigations, which might help it avoid expensive litigation.

Airbus has been the subject of corruption probes in all three countries and said it released the statement in response to press reports.

The Financial Times reported Monday that Airbus, which employs 134,000 staff and contributes significantly to the economic output of its major backers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/airbus-set-to-close-deal-for-majority-stake-in-bombardier-cseries-143078">France</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-deadly-virus-continues-to-spread-outside-china-276966">Germany</a>, might have to pay more than 3.0 billion euros&nbsp; to settle the corruption probes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-beats-goal-with-863-jet-deliveries-in-2019-ousts-boeing-from-top-spot-271445">Airbus beats goal with 863 jet deliveries in 2019, ousts Boeing from top spot</a>

The affair began as an internal investigation and was a factor in a more than year-long executive shake-up at Airbus that ended in April 2019 when Guillaume Faury replaced Tom Enders as chief executive.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-not-to-ban-huawei-in-europe-but-to-impose-strict-rules-european-commissioner-breton-277078">United Kingdom</a>'s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and its French equivalent, the PNF, told AFP Tuesday that they would not comment on the statement or report.

"These agreements are made in the context of investigations into allegations of bribery and corruption as well as compliance with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-imposes-record-75-billion-tariffs-on-european-union-256583">US</a> International Traffic in Arms Regulations," Airbus said.

"They remain subject to approval by French and UK courts and (the) US court and regulator."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sale-of-120-jets-worth-11-billion-finalised-airbus-188085">Sale of 120 jets worth $11 billion finalised: Airbus</a>

The amount of the potential settlement is roughly equivalent to the group's 2018 net profit.

Airbus is to release its 2019 results on February 13, when the company may provide more detail on the affair's potential cost.

"For legal reasons, Airbus cannot make any comments on the details of its discussions with the investigating authorities," the statement said.

Airbus has been under investigation for financial irregularities in France and Britain, having approached the authorities itself in 2016.

The US also launched a probe into the company later.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-ups-estimate-of-20-year-demand-for-new-planes-250372">Airbus ups estimate of 20-year demand for new planes</a>

In 2013, Airbus found irregularities, notably in commission levels, in some transactions carried out by its Strategy and Marketing Organization unit.

Commercial agents for some transactions had not been identified to government export aid agencies.

Meanwhile, US authorities suspect that Airbus did not obtain necessary approval for the export of some military equipment that contained US components.

Airbus manufactures civilian and military aircraft from drones and helicopters to long-haul airliners, along with rockets, satellites and communications systems.

The procedure launched by Airbus in France should allow it to negotiate the amount of possible fines without prolonged legal proceedings that could make the final bill much higher.

The strategy has already been used by British engine maker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/rolls-royce-soars-as-ceo-east-sets-ambitious-mid-term-goals-144599">Rolls-Royce</a>, which was ordered in early 2017 to pay 763 million euros to Brazilian, British and US authorities in connection with corruption that it had itself reported to the SFO in late 2012.

<hr />

European aerospace giant Airbus said Tuesday that it has reached an "agreement in principle" with French, British and US authorities over corruption investigations, which might help it avoid expensive litigation.

European aerospace giant Airbus said Tuesday that it has reached an "agreement in principle" with French, British and US authorities over corruption investigations, which might help it avoid expensive litigation. Airbus has been the subject of corruption probes in all three countries and said it released the statement in response to press reports. The Financial Times reported Monday that Airbus, which employs 134,000 staff and contributes significantly to the economic output of its major backers France and Germany, might have to pay more than 3.0 billion euros to settle the corruption probes. Also read: Airbus beats goal with 863 jet deliveries in 2019, ousts Boeing from top spot The affair began as an internal investigation and was a factor in a more than year-long executive shake-up at Airbus that ended in April 2019 when Guillaume Faury replaced Tom Enders as chief executive. The United Kingdom's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and its French equivalent, the PNF, told AFP Tuesday that they would not comment on the statement or report. "These agreements are made in the context of investigations into allegations of bribery and corruption as well as compliance with the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations," Airbus said. "They remain subject to approval by French and UK courts and (the) US court and regulator." Also read: Sale of 120 jets worth $11 billion finalised: Airbus The amount of the potential settlement is roughly equivalent to the group's 2018 net profit. Airbus is to release its 2019 results on February 13, when the company may provide more detail on the affair's potential cost. "For legal reasons, Airbus cannot make any comments on the details of its discussions with the investigating authorities," the statement said. Airbus has been under investigation for financial irregularities in France and Britain, having approached the authorities itself in 2016. The US also launched a probe into the company later. Also read: Airbus ups estimate of 20-year demand for new planes In 2013, Airbus found irregularities, notably in commission levels, in some transactions carried out by its Strategy and Marketing Organization unit. Commercial agents for some transactions had not been identified to government export aid agencies. Meanwhile, US authorities suspect that Airbus did not obtain necessary approval for the export of some military equipment that contained US components. Airbus manufactures civilian and military aircraft from drones and helicopters to long-haul airliners, along with rockets, satellites and communications systems. The procedure launched by Airbus in France should allow it to negotiate the amount of possible fines without prolonged legal proceedings that could make the final bill much higher. The strategy has already been used by British engine maker Rolls-Royce, which was ordered in early 2017 to pay 763 million euros to Brazilian, British and US authorities in connection with corruption that it had itself reported to the SFO in late 2012.

Airbus strikes anti-corruption deals with France, UK, US

Britain finally departs the European Union on Friday but remains bound by the bloc's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) until the end of a transition period on December 31.

What Will Brexit Bring For Fishermen?

Britain's Prince Andrew has provided "zero cooperation" to the FBI investigation into the activities and death of Jeffrey Epstein, US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Geoffrey Berman said on January 27. The FBI requested an interview with Andrew, who socialized with Epstein, Berman publicly confirmed at a news conference of a group which supports victims of abuse but did not say when the request was made. Watch report:

FBI receives 'zero cooperation' from Prince Andrew in Epstein probe

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day.

The protesters were kept away from getting too close to the High Commission building by a strong police presence, including mounted officers on patrol.

Hundreds waved flags and placards calling for "Khalistan 2020 Referendum" and "Free Kashmir"&nbsp;as they chanted slogans against the Indian government and the Indian Army.

The organisers, including Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK and Kashmir Solidarity Movement joined by some Sikh separatist outfits, gathered behind barricades set up opposite India House in Aldwych.

As a result of safety concerns raised by Indian High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam with UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pledge to provide a ?robust? policing plan, a large number of Metropolitan Police officers were on the scene to secure a parameter away from India House and prevent any violence.

"A proportionate policing plan is in place,"&nbsp;Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

A similar so-called ?Free Kashmir? march was banned from assembly outside the High Commission building on Diwali last October following an intervention from the UK Home Office, in the wake of violent clashes during protests to coincide with Indian Independence Day on August 15 last year.

Diaspora groups had been lobbying with the Met Police and London Mayor Sadiq Khan to avert a repeat of similar violent scenes.

"I understand why many British Indians are so deeply concerned about a repeat of those awful scenes. Many have felt deeply threatened and worried, and I would like to assure all Londoners that anyone who acts unlawfully on Sunday will be held fully accountable by the police,"&nbsp;said Sadiq Khan.

"The right to protest is an important and valued part of our democracy, but it must always be done peacefully and within the boundaries of the law,"&nbsp;he said.

Later on Sunday evening, the Indian Workers' Association Great Britain (IWA-GB), an 80-year-old diaspora group, has called a "Defend the Constitution"&nbsp;Republic Day meeting at Southall in west London to hold a discussion on the implications of CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).&nbsp;

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day.

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day. The protesters were kept away from getting too close to the High Commission building by a strong police presence, including mounted officers on patrol. Hundreds waved flags and placards calling for "Khalistan 2020 Referendum" and "Free Kashmir" as they chanted slogans against the Indian government and the Indian Army. The organisers, including Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK and Kashmir Solidarity Movement joined by some Sikh separatist outfits, gathered behind barricades set up opposite India House in Aldwych. As a result of safety concerns raised by Indian High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam with UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pledge to provide a ?robust? policing plan, a large number of Metropolitan Police officers were on the scene to secure a parameter away from India House and prevent any violence. "A proportionate policing plan is in place," Metropolitan Police said in a statement. A similar so-called ?Free Kashmir? march was banned from assembly outside the High Commission building on Diwali last October following an intervention from the UK Home Office, in the wake of violent clashes during protests to coincide with Indian Independence Day on August 15 last year. Diaspora groups had been lobbying with the Met Police and London Mayor Sadiq Khan to avert a repeat of similar violent scenes. "I understand why many British Indians are so deeply concerned about a repeat of those awful scenes. Many have felt deeply threatened and worried, and I would like to assure all Londoners that anyone who acts unlawfully on Sunday will be held fully accountable by the police," said Sadiq Khan. "The right to protest is an important and valued part of our democracy, but it must always be done peacefully and within the boundaries of the law," he said. Later on Sunday evening, the Indian Workers' Association Great Britain (IWA-GB), an 80-year-old diaspora group, has called a "Defend the Constitution" Republic Day meeting at Southall in west London to hold a discussion on the implications of CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Pro-Pakistan, separatist groups stage anti-India protest in UK on Republic Day

US Treasury Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treasurys-mnuchin-to-head-us-delegation-to-davos-conclave-271625">Steven Mnuchin</a> said that he was optimistic the United States and Britain, soon to be out of the European Union, would strike a trade deal this year and that he had discussed it with Britain's finance minister on Saturday.

"I'm quite optimistic. I think the prime minister and the president have a very good relationship," Mnuchin told an audience at the Chatham House think tank in London.

"We're focused on trying to get this done this year because we think it's important to both of us," he added.

After the United States recently concluded the initial phase of a trade agreement with China, deals with Britain and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-imposes-record-75-billion-tariffs-on-european-union-256583">the European Union</a> were now the priority, Mnuchin stated. While the Treasury Secretary conceded that Britain may need to finalise some issues with the EU before it could discuss them with Washington, he didn't see this leading to a delay.

"I think a lot of the issues can be dealt with simultaneously and again we look forward to continuing a great trade relationship, and, if anything, I think there will be significantly more trade between the US and the UK," he said. When asked if Britain's plan to implement a digital services tax on US technology giants such as Facebook and Google could hinder the trade negotiations, Mnuchin said that he discussed the issue on Saturday with Javid.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-approves-uk-governments-brexit-bill-276201">Queen Elizabeth II approves UK government's Brexit bill</a>

<img alt="US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59ffbaed-cc2a-4034-8dc4-fa97bfde2a87" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2884%29_0.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Washington is threatening to put tariffs on products from the EU's member states if they follow through with a plan to introduce a new tax on US tech giants. "The US feels very strongly that any tax that is designed specifically on digital companies is a discriminatory tax and is not appropriate," Mnuchin said.&nbsp;

Britain has said it intends to implement the tax, while France has put off its plans to wait for broader negotiations within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Mnuchin said he wanted to narrow the US trade deficit with the EU but that differences between the bloc's member states would complicate negotiations.

"When we talk about the EU, one of the challenges is some of these issues are really only a couple of countries, but I think, as you know, because of the EU we can’t negotiate these things on a bilateral basis," he said. "One of the challenges of dealing with the EU is even within the EU they have different views," he added. 
&nbsp;

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that he was optimistic the United States and Britain, soon to be out of the European Union, would strike a trade deal this year and that he had discussed it with Britain's finance minister on Saturday.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that he was optimistic the United States and Britain, soon to be out of the European Union, would strike a trade deal this year and that he had discussed it with Britain's finance minister on Saturday. "I'm quite optimistic. I think the prime minister and the president have a very good relationship," Mnuchin told an audience at the Chatham House think tank in London. "We're focused on trying to get this done this year because we think it's important to both of us," he added. After the United States recently concluded the initial phase of a trade agreement with China, deals with Britain and the European Union were now the priority, Mnuchin stated. While the Treasury Secretary conceded that Britain may need to finalise some issues with the EU before it could discuss them with Washington, he didn't see this leading to a delay. "I think a lot of the issues can be dealt with simultaneously and again we look forward to continuing a great trade relationship, and, if anything, I think there will be significantly more trade between the US and the UK," he said. When asked if Britain's plan to implement a digital services tax on US technology giants such as Facebook and Google could hinder the trade negotiations, Mnuchin said that he discussed the issue on Saturday with Javid. Also Read: Queen Elizabeth II approves UK government's Brexit bill [ US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Washington is threatening to put tariffs on products from the EU's member states if they follow through with a plan to introduce a new tax on US tech giants. "The US feels very strongly that any tax that is designed specifically on digital companies is a discriminatory tax and is not appropriate," Mnuchin said. Britain has said it intends to implement the tax, while France has put off its plans to wait for broader negotiations within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Mnuchin said he wanted to narrow the US trade deficit with the EU but that differences between the bloc's member states would complicate negotiations. "When we talk about the EU, one of the challenges is some of these issues are really only a couple of countries, but I think, as you know, because of the EU we can’t negotiate these things on a bilateral basis," he said. "One of the challenges of dealing with the EU is even within the EU they have different views," he added.

Post-Brexit UK trade deal with US 'optimistic', says Treasury Secretary Mnuchin

A number of protests and demonstrations have been planned in the UK to coincide with India's Republic Day celebrations on Sunday, with the Indian High Commission in London urging UK authorities to ensure the mission's safety.

Protests Planned to Mark India's Republic Day in UK

Prince Harry & Meghan Markle are not the first royals to step back from their duties. From Princess Diana to Prince Andrew, here are other members of the royal family who broke away from the Monarchy.

Gravitas: Royals who broke away from monarchy

A recent opinion poll has revealed that 73% of Canadians don't want Canada to bear the expenses of hosting Harry & Meghan.

Gravitas: Canada's Royal Shrug on 'Megxit'

In what is turning out to be a shocker of a revelation, it is now clear that the UK authorities never shared any information about the London attacker, Usman Khan, to Pakistani authorities on him being on the watchlist and even after his death the Pakistani authorities were never informed.

WION Exclusive: UK govt did not share intel on Usman Khan

Britain will&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;tougher&nbsp;jail&nbsp;sentences for&nbsp;convicted&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;and will end early release as part of a series of measures to strengthen its response to terrorism, the government said on Tuesday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britons-trust-in-institutions-falls-to-record-low-edelman-275399">Britons' trust in institutions falls to record low: Edelman</a>

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../prince-harry-leaves-for-canada-in-symbolic- departure-reports-275597">Boris Johnson</a> pledged to make changes&nbsp;after&nbsp;an&nbsp;attack&nbsp;near&nbsp;London&nbsp;Bridge&nbsp;in November in which Usman Khan, a&nbsp;convicted&nbsp;terrorist who had been released early from prison, killed two people.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-protesters-besiege-pak-dailys-office-over-london-attack-suspects-reporting-266790">Pakistan: Protesters besiege Pak daily's office over London attack suspect's reporting</a>

Khan had been sentenced to a minimum of eight years in prison in 2012 with a requirement that the parole board assess his danger to the public before release. He was set free in December 2018 without such an assessment.

"The senseless terror&nbsp;attack&nbsp;at Fishmongers' Hall in November confronted us with some hard truths about how we deal with terrorist offenders," interior minister Priti Patel said in a statement.

The government, elected in December, said it would&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;new counter-terrorism legislation within its first 100 days which would force dangerous offenders who receive extended determinate sentences to serve the whole time in&nbsp;jail.

Those&nbsp;convicted&nbsp;of offences such as preparing acts of terrorism or directing a terrorist organisation would face a minimum of 14 years in prison, the government said, adding that it would also review how terror offenders are managed when they are released.

The father of one of Khan's victims, Jack Merritt, a 25-year-old who had worked on a prisoner rehabilitation scheme, said at the time his son would have been upset to see his death used to justify&nbsp;tougher&nbsp;penalties.

Britain will introduce tougher jail sentences for convicted terrorists and will end early release as part of a series of measures to strengthen its response to terrorism, the government said on Tuesday.

Britain will introduce tougher jail sentences for convicted terrorists and will end early release as part of a series of measures to strengthen its response to terrorism, the government said on Tuesday. Also read- Britons' trust in institutions falls to record low: Edelman Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to make changes after an attack near London Bridge in November in which Usman Khan, a convicted terrorist who had been released early from prison, killed two people. Also read- Pakistan: Protesters besiege Pak daily's office over London attack suspect's reporting Khan had been sentenced to a minimum of eight years in prison in 2012 with a requirement that the parole board assess his danger to the public before release. He was set free in December 2018 without such an assessment. "The senseless terror attack at Fishmongers' Hall in November confronted us with some hard truths about how we deal with terrorist offenders," interior minister Priti Patel said in a statement. The government, elected in December, said it would introduce new counter-terrorism legislation within its first 100 days which would force dangerous offenders who receive extended determinate sentences to serve the whole time in jail. Those convicted of offences such as preparing acts of terrorism or directing a terrorist organisation would face a minimum of 14 years in prison, the government said, adding that it would also review how terror offenders are managed when they are released. The father of one of Khan's victims, Jack Merritt, a 25-year-old who had worked on a prisoner rehabilitation scheme, said at the time his son would have been upset to see his death used to justify tougher penalties.

UK to introduce tougher jail terms for convicted terrorists after London Bridge attack

The music icon Queen on January 20 paid tribute to the four band members - Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon with depictions of their musical instruments. According to The Royal Mint, this is the first time that a British band has been celebrated on UK coinage. The one side of the coin imprinted "The Queen" and the other side "Queen". The Queen coin is the first release in The Royal Mint's upcoming "Music Legends" series.

Royal mint releases commemorative coin, Queen and the Queen on two sides of same coin

The Duke of Sussex has expressed his sadness over his decision to step down from royal duties in his first public remarks on the move, saying he had taken a “leap of faith”.

Prince Harry: We had no other option than to stand down as royals

Pakistan backed protests are being planned outside Indian High Commission in London on Indian Republic Day (January 26). #WION #UK

UK: Protest planned outside Indian High Commission in London

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence will be lit up with a countdown to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-british-lawmakers-approve-historic-brexit-deal-273275">Britain's exit</a> from the European Union on Jan. 31, as part of a light display to mark the moment of Brexit, the government said on Friday.

"January 31st is a significant moment in our history as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-years-of-arguments-british-mps-set-to-finally-seal-brexit-deal-273199">United Kingdom leaves the EU</a> and regains its independence," Johnson's office said in a statement setting out its plans to mark Brexit - a moment which will be celebrated by some and mourned by others in a country still divided on the issue.

"The government intends to use this as a moment to heal divisions, re-unite communities and look forward to the country that we want to build over the next decade."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-british-lawmakers-approve-historic-brexit-deal-273275">Finally, British lawmakers approve historic Brexit deal</a>

On the evening of January&nbsp;31, Johnson will address the nation, his office said. Earlier in the day, he will hold a special meeting of his top team of ministers in northern England.

The government said it plans to broadcast the light display in Downing Street on social media, including a clock counting down to 2300 GMT, the moment <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-stresses-reconciliation-after-bruising-brexit-year-269917">Brexit officially takes place</a>. Other buildings around the government district of Whitehall will also be lit up.

The Union Jack is flown on all of the flag poles around Parliament Square, where Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has been permitted to hold a party with speeches and music.

A commemorative Brexit coin, inscribed with the words "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations", will also be put into circulation on the day Britain leaves the EU, the government said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence will be lit up with a countdown to Britain's exit from the European Union on Jan. 31, as part of a light display to mark the moment of Brexit, the government said on Friday.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence will be lit up with a countdown to Britain's exit from the European Union on Jan. 31, as part of a light display to mark the moment of Brexit, the government said on Friday. "January 31st is a significant moment in our history as the United Kingdom leaves the EU and regains its independence," Johnson's office said in a statement setting out its plans to mark Brexit - a moment which will be celebrated by some and mourned by others in a country still divided on the issue. "The government intends to use this as a moment to heal divisions, re-unite communities and look forward to the country that we want to build over the next decade." Also Read: Finally, British lawmakers approve historic Brexit deal On the evening of January 31, Johnson will address the nation, his office said. Earlier in the day, he will hold a special meeting of his top team of ministers in northern England. The government said it plans to broadcast the light display in Downing Street on social media, including a clock counting down to 2300 GMT, the moment Brexit officially takes place. Other buildings around the government district of Whitehall will also be lit up. The Union Jack is flown on all of the flag poles around Parliament Square, where Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has been permitted to hold a party with speeches and music. A commemorative Brexit coin, inscribed with the words "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations", will also be put into circulation on the day Britain leaves the EU, the government said.

Moment of Brexit to be marked with an explosive sendoff

On January 8, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/most-memorable-moments-of-prince-harry-and-meghan-274211">the Duke and Duchess of Sussex</a>, unveiled their controversial plan to walk away from royal roles.&nbsp;

“We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family and work to become financially independent while continuing to fully support her majesty the queen,'' they said in a joint statement.

"We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to the Queen, the commonwealth and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement added.&nbsp;

Apparently, the announcement on the Sussex Royal Instagram page blindsided the Queen and other family members who had no idea it was coming, it sent tabloids into overdrive. Meanwhile, the Queen summoned Senior Royals to an emergency summit to discuss the future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.&nbsp;

Billed as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sandringham-summit-whos-who-at-the-royal-gathering-274052">the Sandringham summit</a>, the meeting took place at the Queen's estate in Norfolk and involved Queen Elizabeth II, Harry his father Prince Charles and his brother Prince William, with Meghan reportedly joining the discussions by phone from Canada.&nbsp;

Soon after, the queen released a statement, that said, "My family and I are entirely supportive of Harry and Meghan's desire to create a new life as a young family. Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working members of the Royal family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family.&nbsp;

Monarchy in Crisis?&nbsp;

It looks like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have won the reluctant approval of the 93-year-old Queen. But what does their exit mean for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kate-middleton-and-prince-williams-first-2020-public-appearance-274618">British monarchy</a>? And what really went wrong? &nbsp;

Let’s look at this and the other scandals that have rocked the British royal family, the world's most famous monarchy, in the last few decades: 
 
The Sussexes 'step back'&nbsp;

Prince Harry was known as the 'rebel prince' much before he met Meghan on a blind date in mid-2016, set up by a mutual friend. The relationship moved quickly and the couple immediately became endless fodder for the tabloids. In November 2016, Harry’s communications secretary issued a statement condemning the British press’s torment of his girlfriend. This was the start of their troubled relationship with the tabloids. A year later, in November 2017, they got engaged. In an interview, Harry said he tried to warn his future wife 'as much as possible'&nbsp;about the inevitable media scrutiny, but the couple was still 'totally surprised'&nbsp;by it.

Despite these early setbacks, they got married at Windsor Castle in May 2017. American-born, biracial, divorced, former actress Meghan Markle, who also happened to be an independent and outspoken woman, became the Duchess of Sussex. A year later, she gave birth to Archie, the first baby of part African descent in the family. The couple’s relationship and the birth of their son were heralded by many as immensely symbolic moments of modern Britain. An example of the monarchy embracing modernity, but it was not to be.

Throughout it all, the British tabloids kept criticising the Sussex with most of the ire being directed at Meghan. A top-selling British tabloid dubbed their announcement as 'Megxit', putting the blame squarely on Meghan's shoulders. This isn't surprising since she has been at the receiving end for negative coverage by the British press. For issues ranging from her family background to cradling her baby bump, and even eating avocados. One British Radio host was even fired after posting a tweet where he compared their offspring to a baby chimpanzee. It's safe to assume that her race had something to do with her becoming the media's new punching bag.&nbsp;

For his part, Prince Harry has been vocal about what he sees as sexist and racist coverage, even making a statement comparing the treatment of his wife to that of his late mother Princess Diana, who tragically died in a crash as her driver sped away to escape the paparazzi.&nbsp;

There was trouble on other fronts as well, rumours of a rift between Pince Harry and his older brother Prince William started emerging in March 2019. Around this time, Prince Harry and Meghan moved out of Kensington Palace. 2.4 million pounds of public money, which is about Rs 24 crores, was spent on upgrading their new official residence- Frogmore cottage. Soon after, the couple announced that they intend to split from their combined charity with the Cambridge and start their own charity, Sussex Royal.&nbsp;

Trouble was brewing in the Royal family and it started making headlines when they took part in an intimate documentary while on a tour to South Africa. They revealed the strain and pressure of living in the public eye. Meghan even said that her friends warned her not to marry Prince Harry because of the British tabloids and her husband declared that he would not be bullied into playing a game that killed his mother. In November, they announced that they will not be spending Christmas with other members of the Royal family. Opting for a six-week holiday in Canada instead where Meghan is currently residing. &nbsp;

Interestingly after their latest Instagram post, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gained 500,000 Instagram followers in just four days. They are now just 200,000 behind Prince William and Kate Middleton who have 10.8 million followers. In fact, when they joined Instagram last year on April 2, they made a Guinness World record for gaining 1 million fans within 6 hours 
&nbsp; 
So will Harry and Meghan keep their titles while stepping back from the royal life and moving overseas? Well, so far the Sussex has expressed no intentions of relinquishing their HRH (His Royal Highness or Her Royal Highness) titles.&nbsp;

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are now expected to split their time between the UK and Canada, a country that lies within the commonwealth. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offered his support, saying most Canadians would welcome the couple making their home there. However, he also added that further talks are needed over the costs of security.&nbsp;

Which bring us to the question of money. Right now the two receive money from the sovereign grant, a fund set up by the UK government for the Royal family. Apart from this, between them, they are estimated to have a net worth of $30 million. An accumulation of Harry’s yearly allowance and inheritance from his mother Dian and Meghan’s TV earnings.&nbsp;

As British royals, the couple is barred from earning their own cash, but this will change. So we may soon see them build celebrity empires like the Obamas or even the Kardashians. But by distancing themselves from the crown, one way or the other, they are certainly charting a new course. 
 
WATCH: Royal mess continues 
 
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Prince Andrew's sex scandal&nbsp;

The 'megxit bombshell' comes just months after the Duke of York, Prince Andrew was forced to step down from Royal duties, amid accusations of a sex scandal.&nbsp;

Prince Andrew, the second son and third child of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip announced his decision after consulting both his mother and his brother&nbsp;Prince Charles, amid growing criticism following a television interview he gave about his friendship with the late convicted sex offender- Jeffrey Epstein who committed suicide in August last year while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.&nbsp;

Prince Andrew is accused of having sex with Epstein's alleged 'sex slave' Virginia Roberts when she was just 17. The Duke of York has denied these allegations. But the FBI is continuing to investigate the case to untangle his history with the shamed American financier and his human trafficking racket. &nbsp;

In a disastrous interview, Prince Andrew, eighth-in-line to the throne, defended his friendship with Epstein, leaving viewers across the world aghast. The outcry finally forced Buckingham Palace to distance itself from the disgraced Duke - many royal experts surmise that he will not return to public duties until he is fully cleared of any wrongdoing.

Interestingly, his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as Fergie, with whom he continues to share a home, has stood behind him through this controversy.&nbsp;

Sarah Ferguson's scandalous photo&nbsp;

The Duchess of York faced her own crisis in 1992 when she was frozen out of the Royal Family after compromising photographs emerged of her on holiday with John Bryan, her financial advisor.&nbsp;

The Duke and Duchess of York tied the knot in 1986 - but just six years later their marriage ended in a scandal - they announced their separation in March 1992, but were still married when these photographs were published. They would go on to divorce in 1996.&nbsp;

The royal family didn’t want anything to do with Ferguson after the incident, but she was recently accepted into the Royal fold again and even attended the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.&nbsp;

Princess Diana’s Untimely Death 
&nbsp; 
Half-past midnight, a black Mercedes crashed into a concrete pillar outside the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris. And the world lost Princess Diana - the people's Princess.

Diana’s boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and their driver Henri Paul also died in the crash. Only one passenger survived - Trevor Rees-Jones - Fayed’s bodyguard.&nbsp;

In the wake of the crash, given Princess Diana's complicated relationship with Prince Charles and the Queen herself, all kinds of conspiracy theories began to emerge. But in the 2008 inquest of Diana's death, it was concluded that paul’s drunk driving and speeding were to blame for the accident.&nbsp;

However, many questions remain unanswered - why were they not wearing seatbelts? Why didn't Princess Diana have her own bodyguards? And could Diana have been saved?&nbsp;

At her funeral in September 1997, her brother Charles Spencer blamed the paparazzi, describing his sister as “The most hunted person of the modern age".

And hunted she was on the night of the fateful crash, the couple was trying to evade the press.&nbsp;

Diana and Dodi Fayed died barely six weeks after beginning a romance - rumours of Diana's impending engagement and even a pregnancy meant that the couple was relentlessly pursued.

The Egyptian millionaire’s father, Mohamed al-Fayed, believed that Royal Family and British Secret Services were plotting against the marriage because they disapproved of the match.

Diana's activism and glamour made her an international icon, but the Princess of Wales faced difficulties within the royal family and in the public eye from the start.

Prince Charles married lady Diana spencer in 1981, and they welcomed Prince William in 1982 and Prince Harry in 1984, but their relationship was visibly strained. They separated in 1992, before formally divorcing in 1996.

Flouting tradition, in 1995, she gave an explosive interview to journalist Martin Bashir where she revealed that “There were three people in this marriage”, alluding to her husband’s affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, adding it was “a bit crowded.” She also admitted to an adulterous affair with her riding instructor, James Hewitt.&nbsp;

A few weeks later, the Queen herself urged her son and daughter-in-law to divorce, and the following year, they made it official. Sadly, Princess Diana was killed just a year later. However, with these acts of defiance, she set a new precedent for the next generation of royals.

Prince Charles and Camilla’s affair&nbsp;

On the other hand, Prince Charles, the heir to the throne, went on to wed Camilla in 2005, 34 years after their first meeting, and the two are still together.&nbsp;

Interestingly, a year before Diana's interview, he too publicly admitting to having an affair. His confession sent ripples through the Royal Family.&nbsp;

At the time, the public largely blamed Prince Charles’ relationship with Camilla for the breakdown of his marriage to Diana - it became the scandal of the decade.&nbsp;

Princess Margaret, the original rebel &nbsp;

Queen Elizabeth II has been the central figure of Britain's monarchy for more than six decades. Head of state of the United Kingdom and 15 commonwealth nations, she married Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh in 1947. They have four children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.&nbsp;

The queen only had one sibling – Princess Margaret, the late countess of Snowdon. The two sisters could not have been more different. While the British monarch is famously staid and consistent, her younger sister was known as a rebellious royal, ‘a&nbsp;wild child'.

She fell in love with group captain Peter Townsend, a royal air force officer and the equerry to her father King George.&nbsp;

Apart from being a commoner, peter was also a divorcee, and divorcees weren't allowed to remarry in the church of England, which Princess Margaret's sister was the head of.&nbsp;

After facing much opposition, the Princess cut off all ties with Townsend and went on to marry photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960 - the first royal marriage to be broadcast on television. &nbsp;

However, the Royal marriage soon started to crumble and after years of infidelity by both partners, the couple separated. It was the first royal divorce since King Henry VIII's in 1540. &nbsp;

King Edward VIII Abdicates&nbsp;

In December 1936, the Queen's uncle - King Edward VIII abdicated the British throne to marry his lover Wallis Simpson - an American socialite who was divorced from her first husband and was pursuing the divorce of her second. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Being the British Monarch, King Edward VIII was also the head of the Church of England and was forbidden to marry a divorcee. and so he abdicated the throne after ruling for less than a year. Thereafter, he took the title Duke of Windsor and embarked on a life with his new wife in Paris.

And now, more than eight decades later, Prince Harry is set to follow on his footsteps. The circumstances surrounding Prince Harry and King Edward VIII’s royal status decisions are very different. Harry is not the king, but he is set to become a ‘part-time’ royal, having made a decision to quit or reject the royal life and defying the British monarchy.&nbsp;

On January 8, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, unveiled their controversial plan to walk away from royal roles. “We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family and work to become financially independent while continuing to fully support her majesty the queen,'' they said in a joint statement.

On January 8, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, unveiled their controversial plan to walk away from royal roles. “We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family and work to become financially independent while continuing to fully support her majesty the queen,'' they said in a joint statement. "We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to the Queen, the commonwealth and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement added. Apparently, the announcement on the Sussex Royal Instagram page blindsided the Queen and other family members who had no idea it was coming, it sent tabloids into overdrive. Meanwhile, the Queen summoned Senior Royals to an emergency summit to discuss the future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Billed as the Sandringham summit, the meeting took place at the Queen's estate in Norfolk and involved Queen Elizabeth II, Harry his father Prince Charles and his brother Prince William, with Meghan reportedly joining the discussions by phone from Canada. Soon after, the queen released a statement, that said, "My family and I are entirely supportive of Harry and Meghan's desire to create a new life as a young family. Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working members of the Royal family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family. Monarchy in Crisis? It looks like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have won the reluctant approval of the 93-year-old Queen. But what does their exit mean for the British monarchy? And what really went wrong? Let’s look at this and the other scandals that have rocked the British royal family, the world's most famous monarchy, in the last few decades: The Sussexes 'step back' Prince Harry was known as the 'rebel prince' much before he met Meghan on a blind date in mid-2016, set up by a mutual friend. The relationship moved quickly and the couple immediately became endless fodder for the tabloids. In November 2016, Harry’s communications secretary issued a statement condemning the British press’s torment of his girlfriend. This was the start of their troubled relationship with the tabloids. A year later, in November 2017, they got engaged. In an interview, Harry said he tried to warn his future wife 'as much as possible' about the inevitable media scrutiny, but the couple was still 'totally surprised' by it. Despite these early setbacks, they got married at Windsor Castle in May 2017. American-born, biracial, divorced, former actress Meghan Markle, who also happened to be an independent and outspoken woman, became the Duchess of Sussex. A year later, she gave birth to Archie, the first baby of part African descent in the family. The couple’s relationship and the birth of their son were heralded by many as immensely symbolic moments of modern Britain. An example of the monarchy embracing modernity, but it was not to be. Throughout it all, the British tabloids kept criticising the Sussex with most of the ire being directed at Meghan. A top-selling British tabloid dubbed their announcement as 'Megxit', putting the blame squarely on Meghan's shoulders. This isn't surprising since she has been at the receiving end for negative coverage by the British press. For issues ranging from her family background to cradling her baby bump, and even eating avocados. One British Radio host was even fired after posting a tweet where he compared their offspring to a baby chimpanzee. It's safe to assume that her race had something to do with her becoming the media's new punching bag. For his part, Prince Harry has been vocal about what he sees as sexist and racist coverage, even making a statement comparing the treatment of his wife to that of his late mother Princess Diana, who tragically died in a crash as her driver sped away to escape the paparazzi. There was trouble on other fronts as well, rumours of a rift between Pince Harry and his older brother Prince William started emerging in March 2019. Around this time, Prince Harry and Meghan moved out of Kensington Palace. 2.4 million pounds of public money, which is about Rs 24 crores, was spent on upgrading their new official residence- Frogmore cottage. Soon after, the couple announced that they intend to split from their combined charity with the Cambridge and start their own charity, Sussex Royal. Trouble was brewing in the Royal family and it started making headlines when they took part in an intimate documentary while on a tour to South Africa. They revealed the strain and pressure of living in the public eye. Meghan even said that her friends warned her not to marry Prince Harry because of the British tabloids and her husband declared that he would not be bullied into playing a game that killed his mother. In November, they announced that they will not be spending Christmas with other members of the Royal family. Opting for a six-week holiday in Canada instead where Meghan is currently residing. Interestingly after their latest Instagram post, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gained 500,000 Instagram followers in just four days. They are now just 200,000 behind Prince William and Kate Middleton who have 10.8 million followers. In fact, when they joined Instagram last year on April 2, they made a Guinness World record for gaining 1 million fans within 6 hours So will Harry and Meghan keep their titles while stepping back from the royal life and moving overseas? Well, so far the Sussex has expressed no intentions of relinquishing their HRH (His Royal Highness or Her Royal Highness) titles. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are now expected to split their time between the UK and Canada, a country that lies within the commonwealth. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offered his support, saying most Canadians would welcome the couple making their home there. However, he also added that further talks are needed over the costs of security. Which bring us to the question of money. Right now the two receive money from the sovereign grant, a fund set up by the UK government for the Royal family. Apart from this, between them, they are estimated to have a net worth of $30 million. An accumulation of Harry’s yearly allowance and inheritance from his mother Dian and Meghan’s TV earnings. As British royals, the couple is barred from earning their own cash, but this will change. So we may soon see them build celebrity empires like the Obamas or even the Kardashians. But by distancing themselves from the crown, one way or the other, they are certainly charting a new course. WATCH: Royal mess continues × Prince Andrew's sex scandal The 'megxit bombshell' comes just months after the Duke of York, Prince Andrew was forced to step down from Royal duties, amid accusations of a sex scandal. Prince Andrew, the second son and third child of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip announced his decision after consulting both his mother and his brother Prince Charles, amid growing criticism following a television interview he gave about his friendship with the late convicted sex offender- Jeffrey Epstein who committed suicide in August last year while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. Prince Andrew is accused of having sex with Epstein's alleged 'sex slave' Virginia Roberts when she was just 17. The Duke of York has denied these allegations. But the FBI is continuing to investigate the case to untangle his history with the shamed American financier and his human trafficking racket. In a disastrous interview, Prince Andrew, eighth-in-line to the throne, defended his friendship with Epstein, leaving viewers across the world aghast. The outcry finally forced Buckingham Palace to distance itself from the disgraced Duke - many royal experts surmise that he will not return to public duties until he is fully cleared of any wrongdoing. Interestingly, his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as Fergie, with whom he continues to share a home, has stood behind him through this controversy. Sarah Ferguson's scandalous photo The Duchess of York faced her own crisis in 1992 when she was frozen out of the Royal Family after compromising photographs emerged of her on holiday with John Bryan, her financial advisor. The Duke and Duchess of York tied the knot in 1986 - but just six years later their marriage ended in a scandal - they announced their separation in March 1992, but were still married when these photographs were published. They would go on to divorce in 1996. The royal family didn’t want anything to do with Ferguson after the incident, but she was recently accepted into the Royal fold again and even attended the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Princess Diana’s Untimely Death Half-past midnight, a black Mercedes crashed into a concrete pillar outside the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris. And the world lost Princess Diana - the people's Princess. Diana’s boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and their driver Henri Paul also died in the crash. Only one passenger survived - Trevor Rees-Jones - Fayed’s bodyguard. In the wake of the crash, given Princess Diana's complicated relationship with Prince Charles and the Queen herself, all kinds of conspiracy theories began to emerge. But in the 2008 inquest of Diana's death, it was concluded that paul’s drunk driving and speeding were to blame for the accident. However, many questions remain unanswered - why were they not wearing seatbelts? Why didn't Princess Diana have her own bodyguards? And could Diana have been saved? At her funeral in September 1997, her brother Charles Spencer blamed the paparazzi, describing his sister as “The most hunted person of the modern age". And hunted she was on the night of the fateful crash, the couple was trying to evade the press. Diana and Dodi Fayed died barely six weeks after beginning a romance - rumours of Diana's impending engagement and even a pregnancy meant that the couple was relentlessly pursued. The Egyptian millionaire’s father, Mohamed al-Fayed, believed that Royal Family and British Secret Services were plotting against the marriage because they disapproved of the match. Diana's activism and glamour made her an international icon, but the Princess of Wales faced difficulties within the royal family and in the public eye from the start. Prince Charles married lady Diana spencer in 1981, and they welcomed Prince William in 1982 and Prince Harry in 1984, but their relationship was visibly strained. They separated in 1992, before formally divorcing in 1996. Flouting tradition, in 1995, she gave an explosive interview to journalist Martin Bashir where she revealed that “There were three people in this marriage”, alluding to her husband’s affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, adding it was “a bit crowded.” She also admitted to an adulterous affair with her riding instructor, James Hewitt. A few weeks later, the Queen herself urged her son and daughter-in-law to divorce, and the following year, they made it official. Sadly, Princess Diana was killed just a year later. However, with these acts of defiance, she set a new precedent for the next generation of royals. Prince Charles and Camilla’s affair On the other hand, Prince Charles, the heir to the throne, went on to wed Camilla in 2005, 34 years after their first meeting, and the two are still together. Interestingly, a year before Diana's interview, he too publicly admitting to having an affair. His confession sent ripples through the Royal Family. At the time, the public largely blamed Prince Charles’ relationship with Camilla for the breakdown of his marriage to Diana - it became the scandal of the decade. Princess Margaret, the original rebel Queen Elizabeth II has been the central figure of Britain's monarchy for more than six decades. Head of state of the United Kingdom and 15 commonwealth nations, she married Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh in 1947. They have four children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The queen only had one sibling – Princess Margaret, the late countess of Snowdon. The two sisters could not have been more different. While the British monarch is famously staid and consistent, her younger sister was known as a rebellious royal, ‘a wild child'. She fell in love with group captain Peter Townsend, a royal air force officer and the equerry to her father King George. Apart from being a commoner, peter was also a divorcee, and divorcees weren't allowed to remarry in the church of England, which Princess Margaret's sister was the head of. After facing much opposition, the Princess cut off all ties with Townsend and went on to marry photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960 - the first royal marriage to be broadcast on television. However, the Royal marriage soon started to crumble and after years of infidelity by both partners, the couple separated. It was the first royal divorce since King Henry VIII's in 1540. King Edward VIII Abdicates In December 1936, the Queen's uncle - King Edward VIII abdicated the British throne to marry his lover Wallis Simpson - an American socialite who was divorced from her first husband and was pursuing the divorce of her second. Being the British Monarch, King Edward VIII was also the head of the Church of England and was forbidden to marry a divorcee. and so he abdicated the throne after ruling for less than a year. Thereafter, he took the title Duke of Windsor and embarked on a life with his new wife in Paris. And now, more than eight decades later, Prince Harry is set to follow on his footsteps. The circumstances surrounding Prince Harry and King Edward VIII’s royal status decisions are very different. Harry is not the king, but he is set to become a ‘part-time’ royal, having made a decision to quit or reject the royal life and defying the British monarchy.

Explained: Royal mess - all the controversies that British Monarchy has faced till date

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