Watch: WION Fineprint, 9th November, 2018

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British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland.

Negotiations have stepped up with Brussels as London seeks a divorce agreement within weeks, to allow time for it to be passed by parliament before Brexit day on March 29, 2019.

But British eurosceptics fear May is planning to break the impasse by giving too much ground on an arrangement to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

The Northern Irish party on whom May depends for her majority in the House of Commons warned that unless the EU offered further concessions, Britain could leave with no deal at all.

At a weekly cabinet meeting, May told ministers she expected an agreement and wanted it as soon as possible, but it would "not be done at any cost", according to her spokesman.

"We will need to be satisfied in the negotiations that we have achieved the best deal that we possibly can for the UK," he added.

Talks with the EU are stuck on the details of a "backstop" arrangement to avoid checks on goods crossing the Irish border until a new trade deal can be signed.

London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with &nbsp;the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement.

There were signs of a possible compromise in a phone call on Monday between May and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, where he said he would consider a "review mechanism" for the backstop.

But he rejected the idea Britain could unilaterally end the arrangement, something Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab and other eurosceptics in her Conservative party want.

Jeffrey Donaldson, an MP from Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government, said Dublin's refusal to budge could scupper a deal.

"Looks like we're heading for no deal," he wrote on Twitter, adding: "Can't understand why Irish government seems so intent on this course."

The Sun newspaper reported Tuesday that Raab and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt would use the cabinet meeting to warn that any deal with the EU that traps Britain within the bloc's orbit would never be approved by MPs.

May's spokesman said ministers agreed on the need for an "effective mechanism" within the backstop to ensure "that the UK cannot be held in the arrangement indefinitely".

Work is continuing on this, he said, adding: "Don't be under any illusions that there remains a significant amount of work to do."

Several government sources have indicated they would like to see a deal before the end of November, although one official admitted Tuesday this was now a "stretch".

British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland.

British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland. Negotiations have stepped up with Brussels as London seeks a divorce agreement within weeks, to allow time for it to be passed by parliament before Brexit day on March 29, 2019. But British eurosceptics fear May is planning to break the impasse by giving too much ground on an arrangement to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. The Northern Irish party on whom May depends for her majority in the House of Commons warned that unless the EU offered further concessions, Britain could leave with no deal at all. At a weekly cabinet meeting, May told ministers she expected an agreement and wanted it as soon as possible, but it would "not be done at any cost", according to her spokesman. "We will need to be satisfied in the negotiations that we have achieved the best deal that we possibly can for the UK," he added. Talks with the EU are stuck on the details of a "backstop" arrangement to avoid checks on goods crossing the Irish border until a new trade deal can be signed. London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement. There were signs of a possible compromise in a phone call on Monday between May and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, where he said he would consider a "review mechanism" for the backstop. But he rejected the idea Britain could unilaterally end the arrangement, something Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab and other eurosceptics in her Conservative party want. Jeffrey Donaldson, an MP from Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government, said Dublin's refusal to budge could scupper a deal. "Looks like we're heading for no deal," he wrote on Twitter, adding: "Can't understand why Irish government seems so intent on this course." The Sun newspaper reported Tuesday that Raab and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt would use the cabinet meeting to warn that any deal with the EU that traps Britain within the bloc's orbit would never be approved by MPs. May's spokesman said ministers agreed on the need for an "effective mechanism" within the backstop to ensure "that the UK cannot be held in the arrangement indefinitely". Work is continuing on this, he said, adding: "Don't be under any illusions that there remains a significant amount of work to do." Several government sources have indicated they would like to see a deal before the end of November, although one official admitted Tuesday this was now a "stretch".

United Kingdom's Theresa May says will not agree Brexit deal 'at any cost'

Britain would remain in a temporary customs union with the EU, avoiding a hard Irish border, as part of a new deal being thrashed out between London and Brussels, according to a Sunday Times report.

Senior sources told the paper that Prime Minister Theresa May has secured concessions from Brussels, with the EU agreeing to write an "all-UK" customs union into the divorce deal.

This would avoid the EU's "backstop" solution that would have treated Northern Ireland differently from the rest of Britain.

There will be an "exit clause" from the customs union in a bid to convince Brexiteers that it is not a permanent arrangement as May looks to secure enough votes to get the deal through parliament, added the paper.

May's spokesman refused to confirm the report, calling it "speculation", according to Sky News.

The Irish border has proved the biggest obstacle to a deal, with both sides vowing not to reinstate a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland for fear of destabilising the peace accord that ended decades of deadly sectarian violence.

Under the agreed deal, the EU accepts that regulatory checks on goods can be carried out in factories and shops rather than at the border, the Sunday Times said.

The deal keeps open the possibility of Britain securing a future free trade agreement similar to the one signed between Canada and the EU in 2016.

The opposition Labour party has all but ruled out supporting any deal May reaches with Brussels, leaving the prime minister reliant on her slender parliamentary majority that comprises her own divided MPs and coalition partners the Democratic Unionist Party.

She is expected to warn her most stridently anti-EU MPs that they will be held responsible for the consequences of a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;if they do not vote for her deal.

However, if these Brexiteers are not convinced that the customs union is only a temporary measure they would almost certainly rebel.

Her cabinet is due to hold talks over the plan on Monday, with a potential EU summit pencilled in for the end of November, if they agree enough progress has been made.

Parliament would then vote on the deal in December.

Britain would remain in a temporary customs union with the EU, avoiding a hard Irish border, as part of a new deal being thrashed out between London and Brussels, according to a Sunday Times report.

Britain would remain in a temporary customs union with the EU, avoiding a hard Irish border, as part of a new deal being thrashed out between London and Brussels, according to a Sunday Times report. Senior sources told the paper that Prime Minister Theresa May has secured concessions from Brussels, with the EU agreeing to write an "all-UK" customs union into the divorce deal. This would avoid the EU's "backstop" solution that would have treated Northern Ireland differently from the rest of Britain. There will be an "exit clause" from the customs union in a bid to convince Brexiteers that it is not a permanent arrangement as May looks to secure enough votes to get the deal through parliament, added the paper. May's spokesman refused to confirm the report, calling it "speculation", according to Sky News. The Irish border has proved the biggest obstacle to a deal, with both sides vowing not to reinstate a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland for fear of destabilising the peace accord that ended decades of deadly sectarian violence. Under the agreed deal, the EU accepts that regulatory checks on goods can be carried out in factories and shops rather than at the border, the Sunday Times said. The deal keeps open the possibility of Britain securing a future free trade agreement similar to the one signed between Canada and the EU in 2016. The opposition Labour party has all but ruled out supporting any deal May reaches with Brussels, leaving the prime minister reliant on her slender parliamentary majority that comprises her own divided MPs and coalition partners the Democratic Unionist Party. She is expected to warn her most stridently anti-EU MPs that they will be held responsible for the consequences of a no-deal Brexit if they do not vote for her deal. However, if these Brexiteers are not convinced that the customs union is only a temporary measure they would almost certainly rebel. Her cabinet is due to hold talks over the plan on Monday, with a potential EU summit pencilled in for the end of November, if they agree enough progress has been made. Parliament would then vote on the deal in December.

UK and EU close to Brexit deal over Irish border: Report

A new sculpture in honour of Indian soldiers who fought during World War I was unveiled on Sunday in the town of Smethwick in the West Midlands region of England on Sunday.

Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick had commissioned the "Lions of the Great War"&nbsp;monument, which depicts a turbaned Sikh soldier, to honour the sacrifices made by millions of South Asian service personnel of all faiths who fought for Britain in the world wars and other conflicts as part of the British Indian Army.

"We are very proud to be bringing this memorial to Smethwick High Street to honour the sacrifice of all those brave men who travelled thousands of miles to fight for a country that wasn't their own,"&nbsp;said Jatinder Singh, President of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick.

The 10-foot bronze statue was unveiled in Smethwick High Street to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I in November 1918, also referred as the Great War.

The new "Lions of the Great War"&nbsp;monument has been placed between the High Street and Tollhouse Way in the town of Smethwick as part of a community project and collaboration between the gurdwara and the local Sandwell Council.&nbsp;

The gurdwara donated around 20,000 pounds for the sculpture, with the council investing in creating the public space with seating and lighting to house the new monument.

"It's so important we remember the sacrifices made by people for our country,"&nbsp;said Councillor Steve Eling, Leader of Sandwell Council.

Designed by local West Midlands artist Luke Perry, the statue stands on a granite plinth with inscriptions naming the regiments in which South Asian soldiers served during the Great War.

"When I realised more than 1.5 million Indian soldiers had been sent to World War I, I just could not understand why their contribution had been ignored for so long in this country,"&nbsp;said Perry.

"Indians of all religions fought in the war and we are such a diverse multicultural country in part because of the sacrifices they made, so this is a wonderful statement which will be perfect for the Commonwealth Games and everything they represent,"&nbsp;he said, in reference to the 2020 Commonwealth Games to be held in Birmingham, just west of Smethwick.

The unveiling of the statue this Sunday comes just a week before Armistice Day on November 11, marked annually in an elaborate wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in central London led by Queen Elizabeth II, as well as other smaller events around the country.&nbsp;

Earlier this week in the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Theresa May had paid tribute to the Indian soldiers who had fought as part of the British Indian Army.

"Over 74,000 soldiers came from undivided India and lost of their lives; 11 of them won the Victoria Cross for their outstanding bravery and played a crucial role in the war across multiple continents," she said on Wednesday&nbsp;when she also pledged to adorn a khadi poppy in honour of these soldiers.

The Poppy Appeal is an annual fundraising campaign for war veterans held in the lead up to Armistice Day, with politicians and members of the public across the country wearing a cloth-based poppy on their lapels as a sign of respect for the war dead.&nbsp;

A khadi version of the poppy was launched by Indian-origin peer Lord Jitesh Gadhia and the Royal British Legion for the first time this year as an "evocative symbol"&nbsp;of undivided India's contribution to the war effort.

A new sculpture in honour of Indian soldiers who fought during World War I was unveiled on Sunday in the town of Smethwick in the West Midlands region of England on Sunday.

A new sculpture in honour of Indian soldiers who fought during World War I was unveiled on Sunday in the town of Smethwick in the West Midlands region of England on Sunday. Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick had commissioned the "Lions of the Great War" monument, which depicts a turbaned Sikh soldier, to honour the sacrifices made by millions of South Asian service personnel of all faiths who fought for Britain in the world wars and other conflicts as part of the British Indian Army. "We are very proud to be bringing this memorial to Smethwick High Street to honour the sacrifice of all those brave men who travelled thousands of miles to fight for a country that wasn't their own," said Jatinder Singh, President of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick. The 10-foot bronze statue was unveiled in Smethwick High Street to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I in November 1918, also referred as the Great War. The new "Lions of the Great War" monument has been placed between the High Street and Tollhouse Way in the town of Smethwick as part of a community project and collaboration between the gurdwara and the local Sandwell Council. The gurdwara donated around 20,000 pounds for the sculpture, with the council investing in creating the public space with seating and lighting to house the new monument. "It's so important we remember the sacrifices made by people for our country," said Councillor Steve Eling, Leader of Sandwell Council. Designed by local West Midlands artist Luke Perry, the statue stands on a granite plinth with inscriptions naming the regiments in which South Asian soldiers served during the Great War. "When I realised more than 1.5 million Indian soldiers had been sent to World War I, I just could not understand why their contribution had been ignored for so long in this country," said Perry. "Indians of all religions fought in the war and we are such a diverse multicultural country in part because of the sacrifices they made, so this is a wonderful statement which will be perfect for the Commonwealth Games and everything they represent," he said, in reference to the 2020 Commonwealth Games to be held in Birmingham, just west of Smethwick. The unveiling of the statue this Sunday comes just a week before Armistice Day on November 11, marked annually in an elaborate wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in central London led by Queen Elizabeth II, as well as other smaller events around the country. Earlier this week in the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Theresa May had paid tribute to the Indian soldiers who had fought as part of the British Indian Army. "Over 74,000 soldiers came from undivided India and lost of their lives; 11 of them won the Victoria Cross for their outstanding bravery and played a crucial role in the war across multiple continents," she said on Wednesday when she also pledged to adorn a khadi poppy in honour of these soldiers. The Poppy Appeal is an annual fundraising campaign for war veterans held in the lead up to Armistice Day, with politicians and members of the public across the country wearing a cloth-based poppy on their lapels as a sign of respect for the war dead. A khadi version of the poppy was launched by Indian-origin peer Lord Jitesh Gadhia and the Royal British Legion for the first time this year as an "evocative symbol" of undivided India's contribution to the war effort.

UK unveils sculpture to honour Indian soldiers who fought World War I

Britain, France and Germany on Sunday said Saudi Arabia must clarify how dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi died inside its Istanbul consulate, and its account must "be backed by facts to be considered credible".

"There remains an urgent need for clarification of exactly what happened on October 2nd -- beyond the hypotheses that have been raised so far in the Saudi investigation, which need to be backed by facts to be considered credible," the three countries said in a joint statement.

"We thus stress that more efforts are needed and expected towards establishing the truth in a comprehensive, transparent and credible manner," they added.

"We will ultimately make our judgement based on the credibility of the further explanation we receive about what happened and our confidence that such a shameful event cannot and will not ever be repeated."

After a fortnight of denials, Saudi authorities admitted Saturday that Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and prominent critic of powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed after entering the consulate in Turkey on October 2.

But it has faced a growing chorus of incredulity over its belated explanation that he died in a "brawl", as world powers demand answers and the whereabouts of his body.

"The threatening, attacking or killing of journalists, under any circumstances, is unacceptable and of utmost concern to our three nations," added the European allies' statement.

"The quality and significance of the relationship we have with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also rests with the respect we have for the norms and values to which the Saudi authorities and us are jointly committed under international law," they warned.

Britain, France and Germany on Sunday said Saudi Arabia must clarify how dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi died inside its Istanbul consulate, and its account must "be backed by facts to be considered credible".

Britain, France and Germany on Sunday said Saudi Arabia must clarify how dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi died inside its Istanbul consulate, and its account must "be backed by facts to be considered credible". "There remains an urgent need for clarification of exactly what happened on October 2nd -- beyond the hypotheses that have been raised so far in the Saudi investigation, which need to be backed by facts to be considered credible," the three countries said in a joint statement. "We thus stress that more efforts are needed and expected towards establishing the truth in a comprehensive, transparent and credible manner," they added. "We will ultimately make our judgement based on the credibility of the further explanation we receive about what happened and our confidence that such a shameful event cannot and will not ever be repeated." After a fortnight of denials, Saudi authorities admitted Saturday that Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and prominent critic of powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed after entering the consulate in Turkey on October 2. But it has faced a growing chorus of incredulity over its belated explanation that he died in a "brawl", as world powers demand answers and the whereabouts of his body. "The threatening, attacking or killing of journalists, under any circumstances, is unacceptable and of utmost concern to our three nations," added the European allies' statement. "The quality and significance of the relationship we have with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also rests with the respect we have for the norms and values to which the Saudi authorities and us are jointly committed under international law," they warned.

'Urgent need for clarification' on Khashoggi death: UK, France, Germany

Britain on Sunday said Saudi Arabia's account of the death of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside its Istanbul consulate was not credible and the culprits must be "held to account".

After a fortnight of denials, Saudi authorities admitted Saturday that the Washington Post columnist, a prominent critic of powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed after entering the consulate in Turkey on October 2.

But it has faced <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/amid-scepticism-saudi-official-provides-yet-another-version-of-khashoggi-death-172620">a growing chorus of incredulity</a> over its belated explanation that he died in a "brawl", as world powers demand answers and the whereabouts of his body.

"I don't think it's credible," Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab told the BBC, adding there was a "serious question mark over the account that has been given".

"We support the Turkish investigation into it, and the British government wants to see people held to account for that death."&nbsp;

After initially saying Khashoggi left the consulate unharmed, and then that they were investigating his disappearance, Saudi authorities conceded the 60-year-old was killed inside the diplomatic compound.

But many questions have remained unanswered since the admission.

Turkish officials have accused Riyadh of carrying out a state-sponsored killing and dismembering the body, with pro-government media in Turkey reporting the existence of video and audio evidence to back those claims.

Police have searched a forest in Istanbul where they believe his body may have been disposed of.

Ankara has vowed to reveal all the details of a two-week inquiry.

Raab called the case "terrible" but said the government was not ending its relationship with the conservative kingdom, which buys hundreds of millions of pounds in weapons from Britain each year.

Noting a "huge number of British jobs" depend on ties, he argued that British influence is best maintained by continuing to talk to the Saudis.

"We have got one of the most rigorous export regimes in the world which makes sure arms are very carefully monitored," Raab added.

The stance echoes that of American President Donald Trump, who has warned against scrapping a multi-billion dollar US-Saudi arms deal. (AFP)

&nbsp;

France wants whole truth on Saudi dissident's killing: Minister

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Saudi Arabia's admission that dissident Jamal Khashoggi was killed at its Istanbul consulate was welcome "progress", but urged the kingdom to follow through with a full and transparent investigation.

"I note that the Saudi authorities have changed tack, admitted the facts and accepted some responsibility, so we're making progress," Le Maire said on France 3 television on Sunday. "But full light needs to be shed."

How bilateral relations develop from here will "depend on the way the truth is aired, the investigation conducted and the results established," Le Maire said. (Reuters)

Britain on Sunday said Saudi Arabia's account of the death of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside its Istanbul consulate was not credible and the culprits must be "held to account".

Britain on Sunday said Saudi Arabia's account of the death of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside its Istanbul consulate was not credible and the culprits must be "held to account". After a fortnight of denials, Saudi authorities admitted Saturday that the Washington Post columnist, a prominent critic of powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed after entering the consulate in Turkey on October 2. But it has faced a growing chorus of incredulity over its belated explanation that he died in a "brawl", as world powers demand answers and the whereabouts of his body. "I don't think it's credible," Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab told the BBC, adding there was a "serious question mark over the account that has been given". "We support the Turkish investigation into it, and the British government wants to see people held to account for that death." After initially saying Khashoggi left the consulate unharmed, and then that they were investigating his disappearance, Saudi authorities conceded the 60-year-old was killed inside the diplomatic compound. But many questions have remained unanswered since the admission. Turkish officials have accused Riyadh of carrying out a state-sponsored killing and dismembering the body, with pro-government media in Turkey reporting the existence of video and audio evidence to back those claims. Police have searched a forest in Istanbul where they believe his body may have been disposed of. Ankara has vowed to reveal all the details of a two-week inquiry. Raab called the case "terrible" but said the government was not ending its relationship with the conservative kingdom, which buys hundreds of millions of pounds in weapons from Britain each year. Noting a "huge number of British jobs" depend on ties, he argued that British influence is best maintained by continuing to talk to the Saudis. "We have got one of the most rigorous export regimes in the world which makes sure arms are very carefully monitored," Raab added. The stance echoes that of American President Donald Trump, who has warned against scrapping a multi-billion dollar US-Saudi arms deal. (AFP) France wants whole truth on Saudi dissident's killing: Minister French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Saudi Arabia's admission that dissident Jamal Khashoggi was killed at its Istanbul consulate was welcome "progress", but urged the kingdom to follow through with a full and transparent investigation. "I note that the Saudi authorities have changed tack, admitted the facts and accepted some responsibility, so we're making progress," Le Maire said on France 3 television on Sunday. "But full light needs to be shed." How bilateral relations develop from here will "depend on the way the truth is aired, the investigation conducted and the results established," Le Maire said. (Reuters)

Saudi explanation of Khashoggi death not credible, want whole truth: France, UK

A UK High Enforcement Officer is set to sell a fleet of Vijay Mallya's cars in the UK as part of efforts to recover loan repayment dues owed by the beleaguered liquor baron to a consortium of 13 Indian banks, the banks' legal representative confirmed on Friday.

TLT LLP, the law firm which had won a landmark case in May when a UK High Court judge ruled in favour of the Indian banks and concluded they were entitled to recover funds amounting to nearly 1.145 billion pounds, said the sale of six cars owned by the 62-year-old former Kingfisher Airline boss and related concerns will take place following a UK High Court enforcement order last week.

The cars listed in the order include a range of luxury vehicles, some with personalised registration numbers - a 2016 Mini Countryman (AD16 1YX); a 2012 Maybach 62 (VJM1); a 2006 Ferrari F430 Spider (B055 VJM); a 2014 Range Rover Autobiography Supercharged (F1 VJM); a Ferrari F512M (M811 VGR); and a Porsche Cayenne (OO07 VJM).

"We can confirm that the High Court Enforcement Officer has acted on the banks' instructions in seizing and selling these cars. The cars are expected to be sold shortly," said Paul Gair, partner at law firm TLT, who is leading the case on behalf of the Indian banks.

"This is one part of the banks' ongoing enforcement of their judgment against Dr Mallya," he said.

In an enforcement order dated October 11, Justice Sara Cockerill had granted an order for a High Court Enforcement Officer to sell the six cars "by private treaty at a price not less than 404,000 pounds plus VAT".

A further cost of making the application, assessed at 1906.10 pounds, was also added to the overall debt amount.

The latest enforcement order follows a previous order by Justice Bryan on June 26, granting permission to the UK High Court Enforcement Officer to enter Vijay Mallya's properties in Hertfordshire, near London. It permits the officer and his agents entry to Ladywalk and Bramble Lodge in Tewin, Welwyn, where Vijay Mallya is currently based.

However, the order is not an instruction to enter, which means the banks have the option to use the order as one of the means to recover estimated funds owed to them in relation to money lent to Vijay Mallya's now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

The litigation in the Queen's Bench Division of the commercial court in England's High Court of Justice involves the State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Corporation bank, Federal Bank Ltd, IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Jammu &amp; Kashmir Bank, Punjab &amp; Sind Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of Mysore, UCO Bank, United Bank of India and JM Financial Asset Reconstruction Co. Pvt Ltd as the applicants.

Vijay Mallya and related concerns - Ladywalk LLP, Rose Capital Ventures Ltd and Orange India Holdings - are listed as respondents.

TLT had acted for the Indian banks in successfully defeating two applications earlier this year - first, an application to set aside the first recorded case of a judgment of the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) in India being registered by the English High Court, and the second, to discharge an associated worldwide freezing order.

The worldwide freezing order prevents Vijay Mallya from removing any assets from England and Wales up to that value or to in any way dispose of, deal with or diminish the value of his assets in or outside of this jurisdiction, up to the same value.

Vijay Mallya, separately fighting his extradition to India on fraud and money laundering charges amounting to nearly Rs. 9,000 crores, is set to find out if he can be forced back to face Indian courts on December 10, when Westminster Magistrates' Court in London is set to rule in his extradition case.

His defence team has deposed a series of expert witnesses to claim he had no "fraudulent" intentions and that he is unlikely to get a fair trial in India.

A UK High Enforcement Officer is set to sell a fleet of Vijay Mallya's cars in the UK as part of efforts to recover loan repayment dues owed by the beleaguered liquor baron to a consortium of 13 Indian banks, the banks' legal representative confirmed on Friday.

A UK High Enforcement Officer is set to sell a fleet of Vijay Mallya's cars in the UK as part of efforts to recover loan repayment dues owed by the beleaguered liquor baron to a consortium of 13 Indian banks, the banks' legal representative confirmed on Friday. TLT LLP, the law firm which had won a landmark case in May when a UK High Court judge ruled in favour of the Indian banks and concluded they were entitled to recover funds amounting to nearly 1.145 billion pounds, said the sale of six cars owned by the 62-year-old former Kingfisher Airline boss and related concerns will take place following a UK High Court enforcement order last week. The cars listed in the order include a range of luxury vehicles, some with personalised registration numbers - a 2016 Mini Countryman (AD16 1YX); a 2012 Maybach 62 (VJM1); a 2006 Ferrari F430 Spider (B055 VJM); a 2014 Range Rover Autobiography Supercharged (F1 VJM); a Ferrari F512M (M811 VGR); and a Porsche Cayenne (OO07 VJM). "We can confirm that the High Court Enforcement Officer has acted on the banks' instructions in seizing and selling these cars. The cars are expected to be sold shortly," said Paul Gair, partner at law firm TLT, who is leading the case on behalf of the Indian banks. "This is one part of the banks' ongoing enforcement of their judgment against Dr Mallya," he said. In an enforcement order dated October 11, Justice Sara Cockerill had granted an order for a High Court Enforcement Officer to sell the six cars "by private treaty at a price not less than 404,000 pounds plus VAT". A further cost of making the application, assessed at 1906.10 pounds, was also added to the overall debt amount. The latest enforcement order follows a previous order by Justice Bryan on June 26, granting permission to the UK High Court Enforcement Officer to enter Vijay Mallya's properties in Hertfordshire, near London. It permits the officer and his agents entry to Ladywalk and Bramble Lodge in Tewin, Welwyn, where Vijay Mallya is currently based. However, the order is not an instruction to enter, which means the banks have the option to use the order as one of the means to recover estimated funds owed to them in relation to money lent to Vijay Mallya's now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. The litigation in the Queen's Bench Division of the commercial court in England's High Court of Justice involves the State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Corporation bank, Federal Bank Ltd, IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of Mysore, UCO Bank, United Bank of India and JM Financial Asset Reconstruction Co. Pvt Ltd as the applicants. Vijay Mallya and related concerns - Ladywalk LLP, Rose Capital Ventures Ltd and Orange India Holdings - are listed as respondents. TLT had acted for the Indian banks in successfully defeating two applications earlier this year - first, an application to set aside the first recorded case of a judgment of the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) in India being registered by the English High Court, and the second, to discharge an associated worldwide freezing order. The worldwide freezing order prevents Vijay Mallya from removing any assets from England and Wales up to that value or to in any way dispose of, deal with or diminish the value of his assets in or outside of this jurisdiction, up to the same value. Vijay Mallya, separately fighting his extradition to India on fraud and money laundering charges amounting to nearly Rs. 9,000 crores, is set to find out if he can be forced back to face Indian courts on December 10, when Westminster Magistrates' Court in London is set to rule in his extradition case. His defence team has deposed a series of expert witnesses to claim he had no "fraudulent" intentions and that he is unlikely to get a fair trial in India.

Indian banks to sell Vijay Mallya's assets in UK to recover loans

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Friday that allegations regarding the case of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi would be totally unacceptable if true but any response by Britain would be "considered".

"Part of our reaction will depend on the Saudi reaction, and whether we sense that they are taking it as seriously as we are taking it. But this is a very, very serious matter," Hunt told BBC radio.

"Our relationship with Saudi is a strategic relationship as well. Our response will be considered... (but) in the end, if these stories are true, we have to be absolutely clear, it would not be consistent with our values."

Turkish officials have said they believe Khashoggi was murdered at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Riyadh denies the allegations.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Friday that allegations regarding the case of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi would be totally unacceptable if true but any response by Britain would be "considered".

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Friday that allegations regarding the case of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi would be totally unacceptable if true but any response by Britain would be "considered". "Part of our reaction will depend on the Saudi reaction, and whether we sense that they are taking it as seriously as we are taking it. But this is a very, very serious matter," Hunt told BBC radio. "Our relationship with Saudi is a strategic relationship as well. Our response will be considered... (but) in the end, if these stories are true, we have to be absolutely clear, it would not be consistent with our values." Turkish officials have said they believe Khashoggi was murdered at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Riyadh denies the allegations.

UK says any response over Khashoggi case would be 'considered'

By Nikos Skoutaris

British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union. At the same time, May’s government has committed to protecting the Good Friday Agreement by not accepting any physical infrastructure at the Irish land border. So, the UK and the EU have been facing an almost unsolvable riddle. How can they keep open a land border between an EU member state and a country that is outside the single market and the customs union?

The text of the political agreement reached between the UK and EU in December 2017 included a formula to square the circle. It stated that the aim of future negotiations would be to address the challenge of the Irish border through the overall EU-UK relationship. If the final withdrawal agreement doesn’t provide a frictionless invisible border, then “specific solutions” will apply to Northern Ireland. But if the UK and the EU cannot agree on those specific solutions, then Northern Ireland or the UK as a whole will remain aligned to the single market and the customs union.

Since then, the UK and EU negotiators have struggled to find a legally operative text that would both fulfil the commitment to keep the land border open and respect the political sensitivities of all the interested parties. Below are the proposals on the table.

The EU backstop

The first attempt to legally codify the December 2017 commitment came in the Draft Withdrawal Treaty published by the European Union in February 2018. This proposed setting up a common regulatory area comprising the European Union and Northern Ireland. The region would, therefore, remain in the EU customs territory. May vehemently rejected the plan noting that “no UK prime minister could agree to it”.

The main problem with the suggested arrangement is that it will create a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. This is why EU negotiator Michel Barnier tried to de-dramatise the proposed solution by insisting that the whole arrangement creates neither a land nor a sea border. It is merely “a set of technical checks and controls”.

Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party, insists that “the entirety of the UK should be leaving the single market and the customs union”. She has threatened to withdraw the parliamentary support on which May’s government relies if Northern Ireland is treated differently to the UK after Brexit.

The UK backstop 
 
In June 2017, the UK government published its own counter-proposal for a backstop arrangement. The biggest difference between the two proposals is that the UK’s applies to the whole country and not just to Northern Ireland. The entire territory of the UK and the Channel Islands would remain part of the customs territory of the European Union, even after the end of the transition period in December 2020.

However, it is not entirely clear whether under this solution there would also be regulatory alignment between the UK and the EU, keeping the UK effectively within a significant part of the single market. Be that as it may, such an arrangement respects the DUP’s red lines but angers Eurosceptic MPs who do not welcome the prospect of the UK being aligned with EU rules in the long term. This group could vote against such a deal when it reaches parliament.

A backstop to a backstop

More problematic, from an EU point of view, is that May insists that the backstop should be a “temporary solution” because the UK does not want to be “stuck permanently in single customs territory, unable to do meaningful trade deals”. Given that the UK insists on legally entrenching the deadline of the backstop option, the EU is asking for a “backstop to a backstop” specific to Northern Ireland that will not be time-limited.

Endgame

The negotiations for the withdrawal of the UK from the EU are reaching their final stages and it is difficult to see how a solution to the Irish border conundrum can be found without some compromise. The solemn commitment that the UK has undertaken to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to keep the Irish land border open raises a significant dilemma. Either it has to opt for a much closer relationship with the EU than the one described in its red lines or it has to accept some differentiation for Northern Ireland.

(Nikos Skoutaris is Senior Lecturer in European Union Law, School of Law, University of East Anglia)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-backstop-refresh-why-the-uk-and-eu-cant-agree-on-northern-ireland-105080">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Nikos Skoutaris British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union.

By Nikos Skoutaris British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union. At the same time, May’s government has committed to protecting the Good Friday Agreement by not accepting any physical infrastructure at the Irish land border. So, the UK and the EU have been facing an almost unsolvable riddle. How can they keep open a land border between an EU member state and a country that is outside the single market and the customs union? The text of the political agreement reached between the UK and EU in December 2017 included a formula to square the circle. It stated that the aim of future negotiations would be to address the challenge of the Irish border through the overall EU-UK relationship. If the final withdrawal agreement doesn’t provide a frictionless invisible border, then “specific solutions” will apply to Northern Ireland. But if the UK and the EU cannot agree on those specific solutions, then Northern Ireland or the UK as a whole will remain aligned to the single market and the customs union. Since then, the UK and EU negotiators have struggled to find a legally operative text that would both fulfil the commitment to keep the land border open and respect the political sensitivities of all the interested parties. Below are the proposals on the table. The EU backstop The first attempt to legally codify the December 2017 commitment came in the Draft Withdrawal Treaty published by the European Union in February 2018. This proposed setting up a common regulatory area comprising the European Union and Northern Ireland. The region would, therefore, remain in the EU customs territory. May vehemently rejected the plan noting that “no UK prime minister could agree to it”. The main problem with the suggested arrangement is that it will create a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. This is why EU negotiator Michel Barnier tried to de-dramatise the proposed solution by insisting that the whole arrangement creates neither a land nor a sea border. It is merely “a set of technical checks and controls”. Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party, insists that “the entirety of the UK should be leaving the single market and the customs union”. She has threatened to withdraw the parliamentary support on which May’s government relies if Northern Ireland is treated differently to the UK after Brexit. The UK backstop In June 2017, the UK government published its own counter-proposal for a backstop arrangement. The biggest difference between the two proposals is that the UK’s applies to the whole country and not just to Northern Ireland. The entire territory of the UK and the Channel Islands would remain part of the customs territory of the European Union, even after the end of the transition period in December 2020. However, it is not entirely clear whether under this solution there would also be regulatory alignment between the UK and the EU, keeping the UK effectively within a significant part of the single market. Be that as it may, such an arrangement respects the DUP’s red lines but angers Eurosceptic MPs who do not welcome the prospect of the UK being aligned with EU rules in the long term. This group could vote against such a deal when it reaches parliament. A backstop to a backstop More problematic, from an EU point of view, is that May insists that the backstop should be a “temporary solution” because the UK does not want to be “stuck permanently in single customs territory, unable to do meaningful trade deals”. Given that the UK insists on legally entrenching the deadline of the backstop option, the EU is asking for a “backstop to a backstop” specific to Northern Ireland that will not be time-limited. Endgame The negotiations for the withdrawal of the UK from the EU are reaching their final stages and it is difficult to see how a solution to the Irish border conundrum can be found without some compromise. The solemn commitment that the UK has undertaken to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to keep the Irish land border open raises a significant dilemma. Either it has to opt for a much closer relationship with the EU than the one described in its red lines or it has to accept some differentiation for Northern Ireland. (Nikos Skoutaris is Senior Lecturer in European Union Law, School of Law, University of East Anglia) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

UK and EU face an almost unsolvable riddle

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament.

Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said.

An AFP photographer on the spot saw a bomb disposal robot being deployed in the area and a controlled explosion was heard.

A building where many MPs have their offices was also cordoned off along with Victoria Embankment which leads to parliament.

The area was targeted in a terror attack last year when Khalid Masood, mowed down and killed five pedestrians before fatally stabbing a police officer outside the parliament building.

A man who crashed his car into the security barriers outside parliament in August is also suspected of attempting an attack.

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament. Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said.

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament. Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said. An AFP photographer on the spot saw a bomb disposal robot being deployed in the area and a controlled explosion was heard. A building where many MPs have their offices was also cordoned off along with Victoria Embankment which leads to parliament. The area was targeted in a terror attack last year when Khalid Masood, mowed down and killed five pedestrians before fatally stabbing a police officer outside the parliament building. A man who crashed his car into the security barriers outside parliament in August is also suspected of attempting an attack.

Suspicious package found near British parliament: Police

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government.&nbsp;

Brexit negotiations with the European Union have accelerated and become more positive over the past week, though significant hurdles remain, finance minister Philip Hammond said.

"What has happened over the last week, 10 days, is that there has been a measurable change in pace," he told the BBC.&nbsp;

"But that shouldn`t conceal the fact that we still have some big differences left to resolve," Hammond said. "So process is a lot more positive this week - substance still very challenging."

With less than six months to go until the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, May is seeking to rally support at home on the details of a divorce deal though it is unclear if she can win parliament`s approval for any agreement.

British and EU negotiators are making headway on the Irish border issue, the biggest hurdle to an overall agreement, and hope for a Brexit deal breakthrough on Monday, diplomats said.

The Irish border "backstop", which seeks a way to avoid customs checks on the frontier between the British province of Northern Ireland and Ireland if there is no overall exit deal, has become the biggest sticking point in negotiations.

As both sides seek to clinch a deal, the United Kingdom will publish on Friday more of its so-called technical notices which lay out the impact of a no-deal Brexit on specific sectors of the economy.

Deal or No-Deal?

May's Northern Irish supporters vehemently oppose any checks between the province and mainland Britain after Brexit.

The head of the Democratic Unionist Party, Arlene Foster, said May "could not in good conscience" back an EU proposal for checks on goods being imported to Northern Ireland from Britain after Brexit.

Under May's proposals, the whole of the United Kingdom would forge a customs partnership with the EU after a transition period ends in December 2020 in the event of the backstop being triggered.

Some of May's ministers have urged her to put a time limit on that plan.&nbsp;

Britain`s international trade, environment and Brexit ministers told May at a meeting on Thursday that they fear the whole of Britain could remain in the EU customs union for an open-ended period, the BBC said.

May will never agree to a backstop plan that means Britain could be permanently tied to the bloc`s customs rules, her spokeswoman said on Friday. "The prime minister would never agree to a deal which could trap the UK in a backstop permanently," she said.

The Times newspaper reported May was warned the issue was so serious that she could face further cabinet resignations unless she found a way to ensure the backstop was not permanent.&nbsp;

Speaking to Northern Ireland journalists at her Downing Street office, May said on Thursday that talks on the Irish backstop were likely to continue until November.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government. Brexit negotiations with the European Union have accelerated and become more positive over the past week, though significant hurdles remain, finance minister Philip Hammond said. "What has happened over the last week, 10 days, is that there has been a measurable change in pace," he told the BBC. "But that shouldn`t conceal the fact that we still have some big differences left to resolve," Hammond said. "So process is a lot more positive this week - substance still very challenging." With less than six months to go until the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, May is seeking to rally support at home on the details of a divorce deal though it is unclear if she can win parliament`s approval for any agreement. British and EU negotiators are making headway on the Irish border issue, the biggest hurdle to an overall agreement, and hope for a Brexit deal breakthrough on Monday, diplomats said. The Irish border "backstop", which seeks a way to avoid customs checks on the frontier between the British province of Northern Ireland and Ireland if there is no overall exit deal, has become the biggest sticking point in negotiations. As both sides seek to clinch a deal, the United Kingdom will publish on Friday more of its so-called technical notices which lay out the impact of a no-deal Brexit on specific sectors of the economy. Deal or No-Deal? May's Northern Irish supporters vehemently oppose any checks between the province and mainland Britain after Brexit. The head of the Democratic Unionist Party, Arlene Foster, said May "could not in good conscience" back an EU proposal for checks on goods being imported to Northern Ireland from Britain after Brexit. Under May's proposals, the whole of the United Kingdom would forge a customs partnership with the EU after a transition period ends in December 2020 in the event of the backstop being triggered. Some of May's ministers have urged her to put a time limit on that plan. Britain`s international trade, environment and Brexit ministers told May at a meeting on Thursday that they fear the whole of Britain could remain in the EU customs union for an open-ended period, the BBC said. May will never agree to a backstop plan that means Britain could be permanently tied to the bloc`s customs rules, her spokeswoman said on Friday. "The prime minister would never agree to a deal which could trap the UK in a backstop permanently," she said. The Times newspaper reported May was warned the issue was so serious that she could face further cabinet resignations unless she found a way to ensure the backstop was not permanent. Speaking to Northern Ireland journalists at her Downing Street office, May said on Thursday that talks on the Irish backstop were likely to continue until November.

As Brexit talks progress, UK PM May struggles to find support at home

Britain's foreign secretary has warned Saudi Arabia of "serious consequences" in case the speculations made by Turkish officials that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659">journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a> was murdered after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul comes out to be true.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said, "People who have long thought of themselves as Saudi's friends are saying this is a very, very serious matter. If these allegations are true, there will be serious consequences because our friendships and our partnerships are based on shared values".

Earlier today Turkish President Recep Tayyip <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-trump-step-up-pressure-over-missing-saudi-journalist-170893">Erdogan and US President Donald Trump also demanded an answer from Saudi Arabia</a> over the sudden disappearance of the journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

While the Turkish President urged Saudi Arabia to release footage of the journalist, President Donald Trump demanded answers over his fate.

The Washington Post, the daily to which Khashoggi was a contributor, added to the mystery by reporting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had ordered an operation to "lure" the critical journalist back home.

Khashoggi has not been seen since October 2 when he went to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to obtain official documents for his upcoming marriage. Turkish officials quoted in media have said he was killed but Riyadh denies that.

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's foreign secretary has warned Saudi Arabia of "serious consequences" in case the speculations made by Turkish officials that journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul comes out to be true.

Britain's foreign secretary has warned Saudi Arabia of "serious consequences" in case the speculations made by Turkish officials that journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul comes out to be true. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said, "People who have long thought of themselves as Saudi's friends are saying this is a very, very serious matter. If these allegations are true, there will be serious consequences because our friendships and our partnerships are based on shared values". Earlier today Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Donald Trump also demanded an answer from Saudi Arabia over the sudden disappearance of the journalist Jamal Khashoggi. While the Turkish President urged Saudi Arabia to release footage of the journalist, President Donald Trump demanded answers over his fate. The Washington Post, the daily to which Khashoggi was a contributor, added to the mystery by reporting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had ordered an operation to "lure" the critical journalist back home. Khashoggi has not been seen since October 2 when he went to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to obtain official documents for his upcoming marriage. Turkish officials quoted in media have said he was killed but Riyadh denies that. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia faces 'serious consequences' if Khashoggi claims turns out to be true: UK

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit.

EU Brexit pointman Michel Barnier and Martin Selmayr, the powerful head of the EU Commission's bureaucracy, briefed commissioners on progress just a week before the October 18 meeting that has been dubbed a "moment of truth."

According to spokesman Margaritis Schinas, Barnier "recalled that decisive progress must be made in time for the October European Council next week and negotiations at technical level will continue this week."

Selmayr meanwhile "provided a brief update on the state of play of the Commission preparedness work and recalled the importance for all stakeholders to prepare for all outcomes and at all levels."

Selmayr, secretary general of the European Commission, has been tasked with coordinating preparedness to protect the EU from economic and political damage if Britain leaves the bloc on March 29 next year without a divorce deal in place.

Barnier is attempting to negotiate such a deal, but time is running out and EU leaders have made it clear that they expect Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May to come up with a way to unblock talks before next week.

Dimitris Avramopoulos, the EU commissioner for migration and home affairs, said Barnier had briefed the body on the state of play in the negotiations.

"Michel Barnier and his team are working day and night to reach a deal, but we are not there yet," he said. He referred further questions to Barnier, who was due to make a speech to European business leaders later in the day. &nbsp;

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit.

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit. EU Brexit pointman Michel Barnier and Martin Selmayr, the powerful head of the EU Commission's bureaucracy, briefed commissioners on progress just a week before the October 18 meeting that has been dubbed a "moment of truth." According to spokesman Margaritis Schinas, Barnier "recalled that decisive progress must be made in time for the October European Council next week and negotiations at technical level will continue this week." Selmayr meanwhile "provided a brief update on the state of play of the Commission preparedness work and recalled the importance for all stakeholders to prepare for all outcomes and at all levels." Selmayr, secretary general of the European Commission, has been tasked with coordinating preparedness to protect the EU from economic and political damage if Britain leaves the bloc on March 29 next year without a divorce deal in place. Barnier is attempting to negotiate such a deal, but time is running out and EU leaders have made it clear that they expect Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May to come up with a way to unblock talks before next week. Dimitris Avramopoulos, the EU commissioner for migration and home affairs, said Barnier had briefed the body on the state of play in the negotiations. "Michel Barnier and his team are working day and night to reach a deal, but we are not there yet," he said. He referred further questions to Barnier, who was due to make a speech to European business leaders later in the day.

EU officials warned to prepare for no-deal Brexit

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Wednesday announced the introduction of a new portfolio&nbsp;for suicide prevention in his ministry.

Health Minister Jackie Doyle Price who has been allocated the new ministry will now be called the minister for mental health, inequalities and suicide prevention.

Doyle who is believed to be the world's first minister for suicide prevention will ensure that every local area has developed effective plans to curb unnecessary deaths.&nbsp;

The ministry will also investigate how they can utilise technology in identifying the most vulnerable.

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Very pleased to receive so many messages of goodwill following <a href="https://twitter.com/10DowningStreet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@10DowningStreet</a> announcement on suicide prevention. Very pleased to support <a href="https://twitter.com/samaritans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@samaritans</a> whose work is do critical <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldMentalHealthDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldMentalHealthDay</a>
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In an interview with BBC, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that the mental health did not have the same level of support in the form of resources and attention as physical health.

He also added that the government wanted to ensure that mental health occupies a crucial place as they list down the long-term plan for the future of National Health Service.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Wednesday announced the introduction of a new portfolio for suicide prevention in his ministry. Health Minister Jackie Doyle Price who has been allocated the new ministry will now be called the minister for mental health, inequalities and suicide prevention.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Wednesday announced the introduction of a new portfolio for suicide prevention in his ministry. Health Minister Jackie Doyle Price who has been allocated the new ministry will now be called the minister for mental health, inequalities and suicide prevention. Doyle who is believed to be the world's first minister for suicide prevention will ensure that every local area has developed effective plans to curb unnecessary deaths. The ministry will also investigate how they can utilise technology in identifying the most vulnerable. Very pleased to receive so many messages of goodwill following @10DowningStreet announcement on suicide prevention. Very pleased to support @samaritans whose work is do critical #WorldMentalHealthDay — Jackie Doyle-Price (@JackieDP) October 10, 2018 × In an interview with BBC, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that the mental health did not have the same level of support in the form of resources and attention as physical health. He also added that the government wanted to ensure that mental health occupies a crucial place as they list down the long-term plan for the future of National Health Service.

UK appoints new minister for suicide prevention

Hong Kong's decision to effectively blacklist a senior Financial Times journalist required an "urgent explanation", the UK said Saturday, as foreign governments sounded the alarm over eroding freedoms in the former British colony.

Victor Mallet, the FT's Asia news editor and a British national, earned the ire of authorities for hosting a speech by Andy Chan, the leader of a tiny pro-independence political party.

Chan attacked China as an empire trying to "annex" and "destroy" Hong Kong in a strident speech at the city's Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC), where Mallet serves as vice president.

China's foreign ministry had asked the club to pull the talk, but the FCC refused, arguing that all sides of a debate should be heard. 
Rival protesters picketed the lunchtime event and the city's former leader Leung Chun-ying called for the club to be evicted from its government-owned premises.

The FT said Friday that immigration authorities in Hong Kong had declined to renew Mallet's visa, a decision rights groups and media organisations said was unprecedented.

"We have asked the Hong Kong government for an urgent explanation," the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and its press freedoms are central to its way of life, and must be fully respected."

'Disturbing'&nbsp;

Semi-autonomous Hong Kong enjoys rights unseen on the mainland, including freedom of expression, which are protected in the city's Basic Law and the handover agreement between China and Britain.

But the space for dissent is shrinking as Beijing flexes its muscles.

Hong Kong authorities last week banned Chan's Hong Kong National Party, calling it a threat to national security.

It was the first ban on a political party since the territory reverted to Chinese control in 1997.

The US consulate said Mallet's visa denial was "especially disturbing".

"It mirrors problems faced by international journalists in the Mainland and appears inconsistent with the principles enshrined in the Basic Law," US consulate general spokesman Harvey Sernovitz told AFP.

Hong Kong's last British governor Chris Patten said the move was a "serious blow against free speech" as well as defying the promise of a high degree of autonomy made to the city when it was handed back to China by Britain in 1997.&nbsp;

"The Hong Kong and Beijing authorities should think again and fast," Patten told AFP.

A handful of demonstrators rallied outside Hong Kong's immigration department on Saturday morning to protest the decision.&nbsp;

"No political red line. We support free press," protesters chanted as they shredded a strip of red fabric to create a long ribbon.

The slogan was in response to comments by Hong Kong's former leader Leung Chun-ying -- whose administration faced down major youth-led democracy protests in 2014 -- that discussion of Hong Kong independence "is an absolute and clear red line".

The decision to deny Mallet a new visa was welcomed by pro-Beijing media in the city, however.

A commentary in the Ta Kung Pao newspaper said the veteran journalist had to "pay the price" for giving exposure to Hong Kong's fringe independence movement, and said authorities may still act to evict the FCC from the premises it has occupied since 1982.

Hong Kong's decision to effectively blacklist a senior Financial Times journalist required an "urgent explanation", the UK said Saturday, as foreign governments sounded the alarm over eroding freedoms in the former British colony.

Hong Kong's decision to effectively blacklist a senior Financial Times journalist required an "urgent explanation", the UK said Saturday, as foreign governments sounded the alarm over eroding freedoms in the former British colony. Victor Mallet, the FT's Asia news editor and a British national, earned the ire of authorities for hosting a speech by Andy Chan, the leader of a tiny pro-independence political party. Chan attacked China as an empire trying to "annex" and "destroy" Hong Kong in a strident speech at the city's Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC), where Mallet serves as vice president. China's foreign ministry had asked the club to pull the talk, but the FCC refused, arguing that all sides of a debate should be heard. Rival protesters picketed the lunchtime event and the city's former leader Leung Chun-ying called for the club to be evicted from its government-owned premises. The FT said Friday that immigration authorities in Hong Kong had declined to renew Mallet's visa, a decision rights groups and media organisations said was unprecedented. "We have asked the Hong Kong government for an urgent explanation," the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office said in a statement. "Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and its press freedoms are central to its way of life, and must be fully respected." 'Disturbing' Semi-autonomous Hong Kong enjoys rights unseen on the mainland, including freedom of expression, which are protected in the city's Basic Law and the handover agreement between China and Britain. But the space for dissent is shrinking as Beijing flexes its muscles. Hong Kong authorities last week banned Chan's Hong Kong National Party, calling it a threat to national security. It was the first ban on a political party since the territory reverted to Chinese control in 1997. The US consulate said Mallet's visa denial was "especially disturbing". "It mirrors problems faced by international journalists in the Mainland and appears inconsistent with the principles enshrined in the Basic Law," US consulate general spokesman Harvey Sernovitz told AFP. Hong Kong's last British governor Chris Patten said the move was a "serious blow against free speech" as well as defying the promise of a high degree of autonomy made to the city when it was handed back to China by Britain in 1997. "The Hong Kong and Beijing authorities should think again and fast," Patten told AFP. A handful of demonstrators rallied outside Hong Kong's immigration department on Saturday morning to protest the decision. "No political red line. We support free press," protesters chanted as they shredded a strip of red fabric to create a long ribbon. The slogan was in response to comments by Hong Kong's former leader Leung Chun-ying -- whose administration faced down major youth-led democracy protests in 2014 -- that discussion of Hong Kong independence "is an absolute and clear red line". The decision to deny Mallet a new visa was welcomed by pro-Beijing media in the city, however. A commentary in the Ta Kung Pao newspaper said the veteran journalist had to "pay the price" for giving exposure to Hong Kong's fringe independence movement, and said authorities may still act to evict the FCC from the premises it has occupied since 1982.

 UK seeks 'urgent explanation' as Hong Kong bans journalist

At the University of Buckingham, a course has been designed to teach would-be spies about the new global dangers. From January, students can get a Bachelor’s degree in security, intelligence and cyber threats. WION’s Mandy Clark travelled to Buckingham to find out more.&nbsp;

The University of Buckingham has created the first undergraduate degree in understanding international espionage. It’s run by Julian Richards, an expert on Pakistan who spent nearly 20 years working in the intelligence field -- but just don’t call his course a spy school.&nbsp;

"So, first of all, this is not a training programme for people going into the world of espionage. This is about these issues rather than training to do these things. The intelligence agencies train their own spies, we don’t do that here in the Universities, they pick the brightest people that they want and then they train them accordingly,” Richards notes. 
&nbsp; 
The issues covered in the course include modern challenges of terrorism, a possible new Cold War between Russia and the West, and cyber threats.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The goal of this course is to understand modern threats to the modern world. But you don’t have to cast away all thoughts of James Bond and his gadget inventor Q.&nbsp;

“Q is not entirely fictional in a way. Technology is an important part of this whole business, not just in governments but in commercial organisations as well. Things like autonomous technology, biomedical technology, the miniaturisation of surveillance devices, drones are the things we need to think about. We need to think about how they look, how they are going to be used, what are the ethical and legal considerations about these things not, just in governments, but across all sorts of organisations. We are not training people to be Q’s or to be James Bonds but we are equipping them with the consideration of what these things will mean and how we will have to develop strategies and policies to deal with it,” Richards added.&nbsp;

 
What the course doesn’t do is reveal how spies do what they do. That’s a secret, WION's Bureau Chief, London, Mandy Clark reported.&nbsp;

At the University of Buckingham, a course has been designed to teach would-be spies about the new global dangers. From January, students can get a Bachelor’s degree in security, intelligence and cyber threats.

At the University of Buckingham, a course has been designed to teach would-be spies about the new global dangers. From January, students can get a Bachelor’s degree in security, intelligence and cyber threats. WION’s Mandy Clark travelled to Buckingham to find out more. The University of Buckingham has created the first undergraduate degree in understanding international espionage. It’s run by Julian Richards, an expert on Pakistan who spent nearly 20 years working in the intelligence field -- but just don’t call his course a spy school. "So, first of all, this is not a training programme for people going into the world of espionage. This is about these issues rather than training to do these things. The intelligence agencies train their own spies, we don’t do that here in the Universities, they pick the brightest people that they want and then they train them accordingly,” Richards notes. The issues covered in the course include modern challenges of terrorism, a possible new Cold War between Russia and the West, and cyber threats. The goal of this course is to understand modern threats to the modern world. But you don’t have to cast away all thoughts of James Bond and his gadget inventor Q. “Q is not entirely fictional in a way. Technology is an important part of this whole business, not just in governments but in commercial organisations as well. Things like autonomous technology, biomedical technology, the miniaturisation of surveillance devices, drones are the things we need to think about. We need to think about how they look, how they are going to be used, what are the ethical and legal considerations about these things not, just in governments, but across all sorts of organisations. We are not training people to be Q’s or to be James Bonds but we are equipping them with the consideration of what these things will mean and how we will have to develop strategies and policies to deal with it,” Richards added. What the course doesn’t do is reveal how spies do what they do. That’s a secret, WION's Bureau Chief, London, Mandy Clark reported.

UK college offers espionage degree to decode modern threats to world

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal.

Johnson will make his long-anticipated speech to the party's annual conference in Birmingham, central England, where he is expected to repeat his attacks on May's strategy for leaving the EU.

Aides to the charismatic former foreign minister said he would also cover a wide range of domestic issues, reinforcing speculation that he is making a pitch for May's job.

In broadcast interviews on Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged Johnson's speech would be a "lively" event, and called for her party to "come together".

But she ensured she dominated the headlines by announcing a new immigration policy -- something that was not expected until Wednesday, and will address many Tory members' concerns.

Free movement of EU workers was a key issue in the 2016 vote for Brexit, and May confirmed that Europeans would be treated the same as non-EU citizens in future.

Her public battle with Johnson comes just weeks before May must return to Brussels in a bid to break the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and reach a deal.

The prime minister hinted at a possible compromise on how to keep the land border with Ireland open after Brexit, a key sticking point in the EU talks, on which London is due to publish new plans shortly.

EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker meanwhile warned that London's threat to walk away from the negotiations without a deal would have consequences.

"We want a deal. Those who think no deal would be the better solution are not aware of the difficulties such a scenario would imply," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

Alternative plan

Johnson was a leading campaigner for Brexit in the referendum. Even after being appointed foreign minister he continually challenged May's EU strategy.

He quit in July in protest at her plan for Britain to follow EU rules in goods after Brexit, which she says will protect cross-border trade but he argues would keep London tied to the bloc well into the future.

The EU has also rejected the plan, saying it undermines the bloc's cherished single market.

Numerous eurosceptic Conservative MPs have already drawn big crowds in Birmingham as they offer their own idea for a looser trade arrangement with the EU.

Johnson endorses the same alternative proposal, but the maverick former London mayor has particular star power, and his lunchtime address in a 1,500-capacity hall is expected to be packed.

"He's not a details guy, but he's a guy who has vision. And he's a winner," said Ian Burgess, a delegate in his 60s from Somerset in western England.

Think he's a clown

Johnson is known for his wit and confrontational style, and before the event he posed for a press photograph in a field of long grass.

It clearly mocked May, who once said the naughtiest thing she had done was run through a field of wheat.

But Johnson's recent comments about her Brexit plan, calling it "deranged" and saying it strapped a suicide vest to the British constitution, have angered many fellow MPs.

Several former colleagues used the conference to make jokes at his expense, while finance minister Philip Hammond said his alternative Brexit plan was "fantasy".

Even former Brexit minister David Davis, a fellow eurosceptic who describes Johnson as a "great mate", said many of his ideas "are good headlines but not necessarily good policies".

Among the delegates, there is also unease about Johnson's public disagreements with May.

Amandeep Garcha, a 21-year-old student activist from Derby, backs Johnson's Brexit position, but said: "When you're high up in the ranks, you should deal with these things privately."

Mike Kay, a 34-year-old delegate from Manchester in northwest England, added: "He has a kind of charisma that so few others do. But he is very divisive, that's a problem.

"A large section of the country thinks he is a clown."

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal. Johnson will make his long-anticipated speech to the party's annual conference in Birmingham, central England, where he is expected to repeat his attacks on May's strategy for leaving the EU. Aides to the charismatic former foreign minister said he would also cover a wide range of domestic issues, reinforcing speculation that he is making a pitch for May's job. In broadcast interviews on Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged Johnson's speech would be a "lively" event, and called for her party to "come together". But she ensured she dominated the headlines by announcing a new immigration policy -- something that was not expected until Wednesday, and will address many Tory members' concerns. Free movement of EU workers was a key issue in the 2016 vote for Brexit, and May confirmed that Europeans would be treated the same as non-EU citizens in future. Her public battle with Johnson comes just weeks before May must return to Brussels in a bid to break the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and reach a deal. The prime minister hinted at a possible compromise on how to keep the land border with Ireland open after Brexit, a key sticking point in the EU talks, on which London is due to publish new plans shortly. EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker meanwhile warned that London's threat to walk away from the negotiations without a deal would have consequences. "We want a deal. Those who think no deal would be the better solution are not aware of the difficulties such a scenario would imply," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Alternative plan Johnson was a leading campaigner for Brexit in the referendum. Even after being appointed foreign minister he continually challenged May's EU strategy. He quit in July in protest at her plan for Britain to follow EU rules in goods after Brexit, which she says will protect cross-border trade but he argues would keep London tied to the bloc well into the future. The EU has also rejected the plan, saying it undermines the bloc's cherished single market. Numerous eurosceptic Conservative MPs have already drawn big crowds in Birmingham as they offer their own idea for a looser trade arrangement with the EU. Johnson endorses the same alternative proposal, but the maverick former London mayor has particular star power, and his lunchtime address in a 1,500-capacity hall is expected to be packed. "He's not a details guy, but he's a guy who has vision. And he's a winner," said Ian Burgess, a delegate in his 60s from Somerset in western England. Think he's a clown Johnson is known for his wit and confrontational style, and before the event he posed for a press photograph in a field of long grass. It clearly mocked May, who once said the naughtiest thing she had done was run through a field of wheat. But Johnson's recent comments about her Brexit plan, calling it "deranged" and saying it strapped a suicide vest to the British constitution, have angered many fellow MPs. Several former colleagues used the conference to make jokes at his expense, while finance minister Philip Hammond said his alternative Brexit plan was "fantasy". Even former Brexit minister David Davis, a fellow eurosceptic who describes Johnson as a "great mate", said many of his ideas "are good headlines but not necessarily good policies". Among the delegates, there is also unease about Johnson's public disagreements with May. Amandeep Garcha, a 21-year-old student activist from Derby, backs Johnson's Brexit position, but said: "When you're high up in the ranks, you should deal with these things privately." Mike Kay, a 34-year-old delegate from Manchester in northwest England, added: "He has a kind of charisma that so few others do. But he is very divisive, that's a problem. "A large section of the country thinks he is a clown."

UK's May and Johnson battle it out as Brexit deadline looms

Britain`s opposition Labour Party will vote against any deal Prime Minister Theresa May clinches with the European Union and is open to a second referendum with the option of staying in the bloc, Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said on Tuesday.

With just over six months until Britain leaves the European Union, May has yet to reach a deal with Brussels on the terms of the divorce, and her plan for future trade ties has been rebuffed by both the EU and many lawmakers in her own Conservative Party.

Labour has listed six tests it would apply to any Brexit deal, including whether it ensured a strong future relationship with the EU and delivered the same benefits Britain has as a member of the bloc`s single market and customs union.

Starmer said May was on course to fail these tests and called for an election to allow a Labour government to steer Britain`s departure from the EU, the biggest shift in the country`s foreign and trade policy in decades.

"If Theresa May brings back a deal that does not meet our tests - and that looks increasingly likely - Labour will vote against her deal," he told Labour members at the party`s conference in the northern city of Liverpool.

He repeated Labour`s argument that if parliament rejected May`s Chequers deal, named after the prime minister`s country residence where she hashed out a plan with her ministers, the party would press for a general election.

"But if we need to break the impasse our options must include campaigning for a public vote and nobody is ruling out remain as an option," he said to a standing ovation and prolonged applause in a packed conference hall.

The Conservative Party`s chairman, Brandon Lewis, accused Labour of breaking "their promises" and taking "us back to square one on Brexit".

But with May`s plan for maintaining close ties with the EU for trade in goods facing opposition from her own lawmakers, Labour could play a decisive role in whether any Brexit deal is approved by parliament.&nbsp;

May has a working majority of just 13 in the 650-seat parliament and a former junior minister said this month as many as 80 of her own lawmakers were prepared to vote against a Brexit deal based on the Chequers plan.

Second Referendum?

But like the governing Conservatives and much of the country, Labour is split over how to leave the bloc, with its veteran eurosceptic leader, Jeremy Corbyn, under pressure from many members to move to a more pro-EU position.

Brendan Chilton, general secretary of Brexit campaigning group Labour Leave, accused Starmer of launching a leadership bid and of trying to undermine Corbyn.

"This is a betrayal of the very highest order. It is a betrayal not only of the millions of Labour voters, but of our 2017 manifesto," he said, referring to the party`s campaign at last year's election that gained Labour more votes than many expected.

Labour`s conference will vote later on Tuesday on keeping a second Brexit referendum as an option if May fails to get her Brexit plan through parliament.

In the published motion which the Labour conference will debate later on Tuesday, the party again set out is position on Brexit - it wants full participation in the EU`s single market after Brexit and will reject a "no deal Brexit".

The wording on a possible second referendum was left vague, opening the way for some to describe it as a fudge when the party`s finance spokesman, John McDonnell, said any such vote should be on how to leave the EU, not whether to do so.

But Starmer was clear. He understood that the motion could allow Britain to vote to stay in the EU.

"This isn`t about frustrating the process," he said. "It`s about stopping a destructive Tory Brexit. It`s about fighting for our values and about fighting for our country."

Britain`s opposition Labour Party will vote against any deal Prime Minister Theresa May clinches with the European Union and is open to a second referendum with the option of staying in the bloc, Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said on Tuesday.

Britain`s opposition Labour Party will vote against any deal Prime Minister Theresa May clinches with the European Union and is open to a second referendum with the option of staying in the bloc, Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said on Tuesday. With just over six months until Britain leaves the European Union, May has yet to reach a deal with Brussels on the terms of the divorce, and her plan for future trade ties has been rebuffed by both the EU and many lawmakers in her own Conservative Party. Labour has listed six tests it would apply to any Brexit deal, including whether it ensured a strong future relationship with the EU and delivered the same benefits Britain has as a member of the bloc`s single market and customs union. Starmer said May was on course to fail these tests and called for an election to allow a Labour government to steer Britain`s departure from the EU, the biggest shift in the country`s foreign and trade policy in decades. "If Theresa May brings back a deal that does not meet our tests - and that looks increasingly likely - Labour will vote against her deal," he told Labour members at the party`s conference in the northern city of Liverpool. He repeated Labour`s argument that if parliament rejected May`s Chequers deal, named after the prime minister`s country residence where she hashed out a plan with her ministers, the party would press for a general election. "But if we need to break the impasse our options must include campaigning for a public vote and nobody is ruling out remain as an option," he said to a standing ovation and prolonged applause in a packed conference hall. The Conservative Party`s chairman, Brandon Lewis, accused Labour of breaking "their promises" and taking "us back to square one on Brexit". But with May`s plan for maintaining close ties with the EU for trade in goods facing opposition from her own lawmakers, Labour could play a decisive role in whether any Brexit deal is approved by parliament. May has a working majority of just 13 in the 650-seat parliament and a former junior minister said this month as many as 80 of her own lawmakers were prepared to vote against a Brexit deal based on the Chequers plan. Second Referendum? But like the governing Conservatives and much of the country, Labour is split over how to leave the bloc, with its veteran eurosceptic leader, Jeremy Corbyn, under pressure from many members to move to a more pro-EU position. Brendan Chilton, general secretary of Brexit campaigning group Labour Leave, accused Starmer of launching a leadership bid and of trying to undermine Corbyn. "This is a betrayal of the very highest order. It is a betrayal not only of the millions of Labour voters, but of our 2017 manifesto," he said, referring to the party`s campaign at last year's election that gained Labour more votes than many expected. Labour`s conference will vote later on Tuesday on keeping a second Brexit referendum as an option if May fails to get her Brexit plan through parliament. In the published motion which the Labour conference will debate later on Tuesday, the party again set out is position on Brexit - it wants full participation in the EU`s single market after Brexit and will reject a "no deal Brexit". The wording on a possible second referendum was left vague, opening the way for some to describe it as a fudge when the party`s finance spokesman, John McDonnell, said any such vote should be on how to leave the EU, not whether to do so. But Starmer was clear. He understood that the motion could allow Britain to vote to stay in the EU. "This isn`t about frustrating the process," he said. "It`s about stopping a destructive Tory Brexit. It`s about fighting for our values and about fighting for our country."

UK's Labour to vote against Brexit deal, open to second referendum

The government has left no stone unturned in convincing a UK court that fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya must be extradited to India, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Thursday.

"Extradition hearings have been going on. I understand that the closing submissions in the case have already been made. We now wait for the verdict. I can only assure you that we have left no stone unturned in our efforts to convince the courts that the extradition of Vijay Mallya to India should take place," Kumar told reporters in response to a question.

In February 2017, India made a formal request to the UK for extradition of Mallya, who faces charges of financial misconduct amounting to nearly Rs 9,000 crore in debt owed to Indian banks by his defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

When asked about the location of fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, who allegedly duped Punjab National Bank to the tune of thousands of crores of rupees, he said the MEA will not be able to provide their location details as it comes into picture only when the agencies concerned inform it about their whereabouts.

Responding to a question on whether the issue of the extradition of Islamic preacher Zakir Naik from Malaysia came up for discussion during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad, Kumar said the interaction between the two leaders was very short.

The meeting happened on May 31 during Modi's visit enroute Singapore and the talks covered a broad overview about the relationship between the two countries.

Modi made a brief stopover in Malaysia to meet the nonagenarian leader, who won polls after trumping Najib Razak, the then Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Kumar added India had sent a request to Malaysia to extradite Naik and it was waiting for a response.

On the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un scheduled for June 12 in Singapore, Kumar said, " India welcomes the proposed meeting and supports the peaceful resolution to the Korean Peninsula problem."

'Extradition hearings have been going on. I understand that the closing submissions in the case have already been made. We now wait for the verdict. I can only assure you that we have left no stone unturned in our efforts to convince the courts that the extradition of Vijay Mallya to India should take place'

The government has left no stone unturned in convincing a UK court that fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya must be extradited to India, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Thursday. "Extradition hearings have been going on. I understand that the closing submissions in the case have already been made. We now wait for the verdict. I can only assure you that we have left no stone unturned in our efforts to convince the courts that the extradition of Vijay Mallya to India should take place," Kumar told reporters in response to a question. In February 2017, India made a formal request to the UK for extradition of Mallya, who faces charges of financial misconduct amounting to nearly Rs 9,000 crore in debt owed to Indian banks by his defunct Kingfisher Airlines. When asked about the location of fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, who allegedly duped Punjab National Bank to the tune of thousands of crores of rupees, he said the MEA will not be able to provide their location details as it comes into picture only when the agencies concerned inform it about their whereabouts. Responding to a question on whether the issue of the extradition of Islamic preacher Zakir Naik from Malaysia came up for discussion during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad, Kumar said the interaction between the two leaders was very short. The meeting happened on May 31 during Modi's visit enroute Singapore and the talks covered a broad overview about the relationship between the two countries. Modi made a brief stopover in Malaysia to meet the nonagenarian leader, who won polls after trumping Najib Razak, the then Prime Minister of Malaysia. Kumar added India had sent a request to Malaysia to extradite Naik and it was waiting for a response. On the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un scheduled for June 12 in Singapore, Kumar said, " India welcomes the proposed meeting and supports the peaceful resolution to the Korean Peninsula problem."

Govt has left no stone unturned in convincing UK court that Mallya should be extradited: MEA

Britain's foreign minister Boris Johnson warned that there could be a Brexit meltdown but it will be "all right in the end" and that US&nbsp;President Trump would take a tougher stance were he leading the talks, according to BuzzFeed.

Johnson's comments were secretly recorded at a dinner on Wednesday evening and released on Thursday by the news website hours after ministers found a compromise on a backstop Brexit plan for the Irish border.

Johnson said that Prime Minister Theresa May was beginning to take a harder line but that there would be a need for level-headedness as talks became more difficult in the months ahead.

"I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson was recorded saying.

"You’ve got to face the fact there may now be a meltdown. OK? I don’t want anybody to panic during the meltdown. No panic. Pro bono publico, no bloody panic. It’s going to be all right in the end."

Johnson said US&nbsp;President Trump, who is locked in a battle over steel tariffs with European allies including Britain, would take a stronger approach if he were in charge of the negotiations.

"Imagine Trump doing Brexit,” said Johnson.

"He’d go in bloody hard… There’d be all sorts of breakdowns, all sorts of chaos. Everyone would think he’d gone mad. But actually you might get somewhere. It’s a very, very good thought."

A spokeswoman at May's Downing Street office did not offer an immediate comment when contacted by Reuters.

"I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson said

Britain's foreign minister Boris Johnson warned that there could be a Brexit meltdown but it will be "all right in the end" and that US President Trump would take a tougher stance were he leading the talks, according to BuzzFeed. Johnson's comments were secretly recorded at a dinner on Wednesday evening and released on Thursday by the news website hours after ministers found a compromise on a backstop Brexit plan for the Irish border. Johnson said that Prime Minister Theresa May was beginning to take a harder line but that there would be a need for level-headedness as talks became more difficult in the months ahead. "I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson was recorded saying. "You’ve got to face the fact there may now be a meltdown. OK? I don’t want anybody to panic during the meltdown. No panic. Pro bono publico, no bloody panic. It’s going to be all right in the end." Johnson said US President Trump, who is locked in a battle over steel tariffs with European allies including Britain, would take a stronger approach if he were in charge of the negotiations. "Imagine Trump doing Brexit,” said Johnson. "He’d go in bloody hard… There’d be all sorts of breakdowns, all sorts of chaos. Everyone would think he’d gone mad. But actually you might get somewhere. It’s a very, very good thought." A spokeswoman at May's Downing Street office did not offer an immediate comment when contacted by Reuters.

Brace for a possible 'Brexit meltdown' but don't panic, UK's Johnson cautions: Buzzfeed

Britain's Prince William visited the England soccer team on Thursday (June 7) ahead of the Three Lions' final World Cup warm-up match.

England face Costa Rica in Leeds on Thursday evening and the Duke of Cambridge - who is also President of the English FA - travelled to Yorkshire's West Riding Football Association to watch the team train.

Among those training was defender Danny Rose, who hit the headlines on Wednesday (June 6) after revealing his recent battle with depression.

Along with his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, and brother Prince Harry, William is spearheading Heads Together - a campaign to end the stigma surrounding mental health.

Britain's Prince William visited the England soccer team ahead of the Three Lions' final World Cup warm-up match

Britain's Prince William visited the England soccer team on Thursday (June 7) ahead of the Three Lions' final World Cup warm-up match. England face Costa Rica in Leeds on Thursday evening and the Duke of Cambridge - who is also President of the English FA - travelled to Yorkshire's West Riding Football Association to watch the team train. Among those training was defender Danny Rose, who hit the headlines on Wednesday (June 6) after revealing his recent battle with depression. Along with his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, and brother Prince Harry, William is spearheading Heads Together - a campaign to end the stigma surrounding mental health.

Watch: Prince William meets England's World Cup squad

France does not think Britain will launch a rival to the European Union’s Galileo satellite navigation system, according to minutes from a meeting between a cabinet minister and lawmakers.

A row over Galileo, a rival of the US-owned GPS, became a flashpoint in Brexit talks after London accused the EU of shutting British companies out of the project.

“Some surprising announcements or positions were recently made public about Galileo,” Delphine Geny-Stephann, a junior economy minister, told French lawmakers in the May 17 hearing on Brexit, the minutes of which were made public on Monday.

“Considering the cost of the programme and the investment that would represent, about 10 billion euros, we find it hard to imagine they could go it alone,” she said.

“Good luck with that,” one lawmaker, Jean-Louis Bourlanges, replied, according to the minutes.

Galileo was commissioned in 2003 and is due for completion by 2020. One expert said last month that any rival system could cost about 3 billion pounds ($4 billion).

Geny-Stephann was asked about London’s threats to withdraw its authorisations to British companies working on Galileo.

“I see in that, more than anything else, a negotiation argument aimed at opening talks,” she said, according to the minutes.

The UK space agency, on behalf of the business minister Greg Clark, wrote to British companies asking them to consult the government before agreeing any new contracts to work on the project, in a move aimed at stopping the transfer of technology to EU companies.

Responding to the French minister’s comments on Monday, a UK Space Agency spokesman said if no agreement could be reached on Galileo, the UK would need to consider alternatives to meet its needs.

“The development of a domestic system is economically viable and made possible by the world-leading expertise of the UK space sector,” the spokesman said.

Britain told the EU last month that it would demand the repayment of up to 1 billion pounds if the bloc restricts its access to Galileo.

A row over Galileo, a rival of the US-owned GPS, became a flashpoint in Brexit talks after London accused the EU of shutting British companies out of the project

France does not think Britain will launch a rival to the European Union’s Galileo satellite navigation system, according to minutes from a meeting between a cabinet minister and lawmakers. A row over Galileo, a rival of the US-owned GPS, became a flashpoint in Brexit talks after London accused the EU of shutting British companies out of the project. “Some surprising announcements or positions were recently made public about Galileo,” Delphine Geny-Stephann, a junior economy minister, told French lawmakers in the May 17 hearing on Brexit, the minutes of which were made public on Monday. “Considering the cost of the programme and the investment that would represent, about 10 billion euros, we find it hard to imagine they could go it alone,” she said. “Good luck with that,” one lawmaker, Jean-Louis Bourlanges, replied, according to the minutes. Galileo was commissioned in 2003 and is due for completion by 2020. One expert said last month that any rival system could cost about 3 billion pounds ($4 billion). Geny-Stephann was asked about London’s threats to withdraw its authorisations to British companies working on Galileo. “I see in that, more than anything else, a negotiation argument aimed at opening talks,” she said, according to the minutes. The UK space agency, on behalf of the business minister Greg Clark, wrote to British companies asking them to consult the government before agreeing any new contracts to work on the project, in a move aimed at stopping the transfer of technology to EU companies. Responding to the French minister’s comments on Monday, a UK Space Agency spokesman said if no agreement could be reached on Galileo, the UK would need to consider alternatives to meet its needs. “The development of a domestic system is economically viable and made possible by the world-leading expertise of the UK space sector,” the spokesman said. Britain told the EU last month that it would demand the repayment of up to 1 billion pounds if the bloc restricts its access to Galileo.

France doubts UK would develop own satnav rival to Galileo

An Indian-origin biochemist has been named alongside the likes of actress-turned-royal Meghan Markle, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney and bestselling author J K Rowling as the 25 most influential and aspirational women in the UK by 'Vogue' magazine.

Priyanka Joshi has been chosen for her cutting-edge research in the inaugural 'The Vogue 25' list released today, which includes artists, activists and executives across different fields.

"Priyanka Joshi had barely completed her PhD when 'Forbes' named her one of the most important young faces in science. A research fellow at Downing College, Cambridge, the 29-year-old sits at the cutting edge of Alzheimer's research, and has been praised for her ground-breaking work building a 'library' of drug-like molecules to target irregular proteins that cause degenerative brain diseases," notes the citation on the young biochemist.

"With dementia now the leading cause of death for women in England and Wales, her early breakthroughs and research could not be more vital," it adds in reference to Joshi, who completed her MSc in Biotechnology from University of Pune before moving to the UK.

Meghan Markle, the new Duchess of Sussex after her marriage to Prince Harry earlier this month, is described as "an extraordinary cast of leaders defining and redefining the way we live now".

"Almost overnight, the 36-year-old has become one of the most recognisable women in the world. But her influence stretches far beyond the ceaseless coverage of her style - as a bi-racial campaigning feminist from America, she is helping to forge a new 21st-century identity for the monarchy," it notes.

The youngest on the list is singer Dua Lipa, 22, who won two Brit Awards for her music this year and is branded by 'Vogue' as a "culture definer". The fashion magazine says her hit song 'New Rules' is an "anthem of female empowerment".

The only politician on the list - which is not ranked in any order - is Ruth Davidson, who made "spectacular gains" for the Conservative party in the last Scottish elections. Davidson, who became leader of the Scottish Conservatives in 2011, is described as a "beacon, thanks to her relatable personality and progressive ideas" among a "sea of old-guard Tories".

For Harry Potter author Rowling, the fashion publication notes her enduring influence as a result of the hit Broadway stage production of ?Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'.

"No surprise that 52-year-old Rowling is now the world's highest-paid author. A generation belongs to her," it says.

The list, which also includes fashion designer Stella McCartney and three Guardian journalists, is categorised as an extraordinary cast of leaders defining - and redefining - the way we live now.

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Priyanka Joshi has been chosen for her cutting-edge research in the inaugural 'The Vogue 25' list released today, which includes artists, activists and executives across different fields

An Indian-origin biochemist has been named alongside the likes of actress-turned-royal Meghan Markle, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney and bestselling author J K Rowling as the 25 most influential and aspirational women in the UK by 'Vogue' magazine. Priyanka Joshi has been chosen for her cutting-edge research in the inaugural 'The Vogue 25' list released today, which includes artists, activists and executives across different fields. "Priyanka Joshi had barely completed her PhD when 'Forbes' named her one of the most important young faces in science. A research fellow at Downing College, Cambridge, the 29-year-old sits at the cutting edge of Alzheimer's research, and has been praised for her ground-breaking work building a 'library' of drug-like molecules to target irregular proteins that cause degenerative brain diseases," notes the citation on the young biochemist. "With dementia now the leading cause of death for women in England and Wales, her early breakthroughs and research could not be more vital," it adds in reference to Joshi, who completed her MSc in Biotechnology from University of Pune before moving to the UK. Meghan Markle, the new Duchess of Sussex after her marriage to Prince Harry earlier this month, is described as "an extraordinary cast of leaders defining and redefining the way we live now". "Almost overnight, the 36-year-old has become one of the most recognisable women in the world. But her influence stretches far beyond the ceaseless coverage of her style - as a bi-racial campaigning feminist from America, she is helping to forge a new 21st-century identity for the monarchy," it notes. The youngest on the list is singer Dua Lipa, 22, who won two Brit Awards for her music this year and is branded by 'Vogue' as a "culture definer". The fashion magazine says her hit song 'New Rules' is an "anthem of female empowerment". The only politician on the list - which is not ranked in any order - is Ruth Davidson, who made "spectacular gains" for the Conservative party in the last Scottish elections. Davidson, who became leader of the Scottish Conservatives in 2011, is described as a "beacon, thanks to her relatable personality and progressive ideas" among a "sea of old-guard Tories". For Harry Potter author Rowling, the fashion publication notes her enduring influence as a result of the hit Broadway stage production of ?Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'. "No surprise that 52-year-old Rowling is now the world's highest-paid author. A generation belongs to her," it says. The list, which also includes fashion designer Stella McCartney and three Guardian journalists, is categorised as an extraordinary cast of leaders defining - and redefining - the way we live now. Introducing the #Vogue25, an extraordinary cast of leaders defining – and redefining – the way we live now https://t.co/fqmzjVyHTN pic.twitter.com/n6WfCX0ZNz — British Vogue (@BritishVogue) May 31, 2018 ×

Indian-origin biochemist and Meghan Markle on UK's most influential women list

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