<p>Some of the world's biggest tech companies pledged to work together to guard against the dangers of artificial intelligence as they wrapped up a two-day AI summit, also attended by multiple governments, in Seoul.</p>

<p>Sector leaders from South Korea's Samsung Electronics to Google promised at the event, co-hosted with Britain, to "minimise risks" and develop new AI models responsibly, even as they push to move the cutting-edge field forward.</p>

<p>The fresh commitment, codified in a so-called Seoul AI Business Pledge Wednesday plus a new round of safety commitments announced the previous day, build on the consensus reached at the inaugural global AI safety summit at Bletchley Park in Britain last year.</p>

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<p>Tuesday's commitment saw companies including OpenAI and Google DeepMind promise to share how they assess the risks of their technology -- including those "deemed intolerable" and how they will ensure such thresholds are not crossed.</p>

<p>But experts warned it was hard for regulators to understand and manage AI when the sector was developing so rapidly.</p>

<p>"I think that's a really, really big problem," said Markus Anderljung, head of policy at the Centre for the Governance of AI, a non-profit research body based in Oxford, Britain.</p>

<p>"Dealing with AI, I expect to be one of the biggest challenges that governments all across the world will have over the next couple of decades."</p>

<p>"The world will need to have some kind of joint understanding of what are the risks from these sort of most advanced general models," he said.</p>

<p>Michelle Donelan, UK Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, said in Seoul on Wednesday that "as the pace of AI development accelerates, we must match that speed... if we are to grip the risks."</p>

<p>She said there would be more opportunities at the next AI summit in France to "push the boundaries" in terms of testing and evaluating new technology.</p>

<p>"Simultaneously, we must turn our attention to risk mitigation outside these models, ensuring that society as a whole becomes resilient to the risks posed by AI," Donelan said.</p>

<h2><strong>- AI inequality -</strong></h2>

<p>The stratospheric success of ChatGPT soon after its 2022 release sparked a gold rush in generative AI, with tech firms around the world pouring billions of dollars into developing their own models.</p>

<p>Such AI models can generate text, photos, audio and even video from simple prompts and its proponents have heralded them as breakthroughs that will improve lives and businesses around the world.</p>

<p>However, critics, rights activists and governments have warned that they can be misused in a wide variety of ways, including the manipulation of voters through fake news stories or "deepfake" pictures and videos of politicians.</p>

<p>Many have called for international standards to govern the development and use of AI.</p>

<p>"I think there's increased realisation that we need global cooperation to really think about the issues and harms of artificial intelligence. AI doesn't know borders," said Rumman Chowdhury, an AI ethics expert who leads Humane Intelligence, an independent non-profit that evaluates and assesses AI models.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/electric-cars-more-likely-to-hit-pedestrians-than-fuel-cars-study-724202">Electric cars more likely to hit pedestrians than fuel cars: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Chowdhury told AFP that it is not just the "runaway AI" of science fiction nightmares that is a huge concern, but issues such as rampant inequality in the sector.</p>

<p>"All AI is just built, developed and the profits reaped (by) very, very few people and organisations," she told AFP on the sidelines of the Seoul summit.</p>

<p>People in developing nations such as India "are often the staff that does the clean-up. They're the data annotators, they're the content moderators. They're scrubbing the ground so that everybody else can walk on pristine territory".<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Some of the world's biggest tech companies pledged to work together to guard against the dangers of artificial intelligence as they wrapped up a two-day AI summit, also attended by multiple governments, in Seoul.

Some of the world's biggest tech companies pledged to work together to guard against the dangers of artificial intelligence as they wrapped up a two-day AI summit, also attended by multiple governments, in Seoul. Sector leaders from South Korea's Samsung Electronics to Google promised at the event, co-hosted with Britain, to "minimise risks" and develop new AI models responsibly, even as they push to move the cutting-edge field forward. The fresh commitment, codified in a so-called Seoul AI Business Pledge Wednesday plus a new round of safety commitments announced the previous day, build on the consensus reached at the inaugural global AI safety summit at Bletchley Park in Britain last year. Also Read | Apple launches iOS update to prevent reappearance of deleted photos Tuesday's commitment saw companies including OpenAI and Google DeepMind promise to share how they assess the risks of their technology -- including those "deemed intolerable" and how they will ensure such thresholds are not crossed. But experts warned it was hard for regulators to understand and manage AI when the sector was developing so rapidly. "I think that's a really, really big problem," said Markus Anderljung, head of policy at the Centre for the Governance of AI, a non-profit research body based in Oxford, Britain. "Dealing with AI, I expect to be one of the biggest challenges that governments all across the world will have over the next couple of decades." "The world will need to have some kind of joint understanding of what are the risks from these sort of most advanced general models," he said. Michelle Donelan, UK Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, said in Seoul on Wednesday that "as the pace of AI development accelerates, we must match that speed... if we are to grip the risks." She said there would be more opportunities at the next AI summit in France to "push the boundaries" in terms of testing and evaluating new technology. "Simultaneously, we must turn our attention to risk mitigation outside these models, ensuring that society as a whole becomes resilient to the risks posed by AI," Donelan said. - AI inequality - The stratospheric success of ChatGPT soon after its 2022 release sparked a gold rush in generative AI, with tech firms around the world pouring billions of dollars into developing their own models. Such AI models can generate text, photos, audio and even video from simple prompts and its proponents have heralded them as breakthroughs that will improve lives and businesses around the world. However, critics, rights activists and governments have warned that they can be misused in a wide variety of ways, including the manipulation of voters through fake news stories or "deepfake" pictures and videos of politicians. Many have called for international standards to govern the development and use of AI. "I think there's increased realisation that we need global cooperation to really think about the issues and harms of artificial intelligence. AI doesn't know borders," said Rumman Chowdhury, an AI ethics expert who leads Humane Intelligence, an independent non-profit that evaluates and assesses AI models. Also Read | Electric cars more likely to hit pedestrians than fuel cars: Study Chowdhury told AFP that it is not just the "runaway AI" of science fiction nightmares that is a huge concern, but issues such as rampant inequality in the sector. "All AI is just built, developed and the profits reaped (by) very, very few people and organisations," she told AFP on the sidelines of the Seoul summit. People in developing nations such as India "are often the staff that does the clean-up. They're the data annotators, they're the content moderators. They're scrubbing the ground so that everybody else can walk on pristine territory". (With inputs from agencies)

World’s biggest tech companies pledge ‘responsible’ development of AI

Matthew Trickett, 37, who was allegedly charged with spying for China died under 'unexplained' circumstances, and a police investigation is ongoing. Watch to know more.

UK man accused of spying for China found dead

Earlier this month, a man was charged with assisting Hong Kong's foreign intelligence service in the UK. Matthew Trickett, a Home Office immigration officer, appeared in court charged under the National Security Act. However, he was found dead by a member of the public in a park in Maidenhead, Berkshire few days back.

UK police investigate unexplained death of man charged with spying for China

UK: A watchdog has warned that the prison system is "creaking at every level" as government prepare to commute certain offenders' sentences by up to 70 days to relieve overcrowding. Watch to know more.

Where will UK send its culprit as prisons become full

<p>A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.)</p>

<p>37-year-old Matthew Trickett was among three men charged earlier this month with agreeing to engage in collecting information, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely&nbsp;assist the Hong Kong intelligence service from late 2023 to May 2 this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecutors further alleged that the accused forced entry into a UK residential address on May 1.</p>

<p>All three men had been bailed and were due to appear at London’s Central Criminal Court for a hearing on Friday (May 24).</p>

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<p>As per the Thames Valley police, Trickett was found dead in a park in Maidenhead, west of London, on Sunday (May 19). An investigation is underway into his death, which is being treated as unexplained.</p>

<p>According to British media reports, Trickett was formerly a Royal Marine who worked as a Home Office immigration enforcement officer. He was reportedly the director of a security consultancy too.</p>

<p>Trickett, along with 38-year-old Chi Leung (Peter) Wai, and 63-year-old Chung Biu Yuen were detained. The men appeared at a brief court hearing to confirm their identities on May 13.</p>

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<p>Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that Yuen was the office manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London.</p>

<p>Trickett’s lawyer, Julian Hayes, expressed his shock at Tuesday’s news and stated that he was supporting Trickett’s family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He declined to comment further due to the ongoing investigations. As of late Tuesday, a police cordon remained in place at Grenfell Park in Maidenhead, with several officers stationed near a black forensics tent close to a children’s playground.</p>

<p>However, Chinese authorities in both the UK and Hong Kong have condemned the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of groundless accusations that the UK government has leveled against China.</p>

<p>Hong Kong’s government demanded that the UK provide full details on the allegations.</p>

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<p>The spying charges came amid tensions between UK and China. UK have been vocal in warning about security threats from Beijing, and recently accused China of being behind a string of cyberespionage operations targeting politicians and Britain’s election watchdog.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said Britain is facing an increasingly dangerous future because of threats from an “axis of authoritarian states,” including Russia, China, Iran and North Korea.</p>

<p>In a separate ongoing court case, two men, including a parliamentary researcher, were recently charged with espionage for China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry are accused of violating the Official Secrets Act by supplying information or documents that could be useful to an enemy—China—and "prejudicial to the safety or interests" of the UK between late 2021 and February 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.

A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.) 37-year-old Matthew Trickett was among three men charged earlier this month with agreeing to engage in collecting information, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely assist the Hong Kong intelligence service from late 2023 to May 2 this year. The prosecutors further alleged that the accused forced entry into a UK residential address on May 1. All three men had been bailed and were due to appear at London’s Central Criminal Court for a hearing on Friday (May 24). Also read: Tornado leaves multiple dead and dozens injured in Iowa, homes in ruins As per the Thames Valley police, Trickett was found dead in a park in Maidenhead, west of London, on Sunday (May 19). An investigation is underway into his death, which is being treated as unexplained. According to British media reports, Trickett was formerly a Royal Marine who worked as a Home Office immigration enforcement officer. He was reportedly the director of a security consultancy too. Trickett, along with 38-year-old Chi Leung (Peter) Wai, and 63-year-old Chung Biu Yuen were detained. The men appeared at a brief court hearing to confirm their identities on May 13. Also read: Key takeaways from primary races in Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon and California Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that Yuen was the office manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. Trickett’s lawyer, Julian Hayes, expressed his shock at Tuesday’s news and stated that he was supporting Trickett’s family. He declined to comment further due to the ongoing investigations. As of late Tuesday, a police cordon remained in place at Grenfell Park in Maidenhead, with several officers stationed near a black forensics tent close to a children’s playground. However, Chinese authorities in both the UK and Hong Kong have condemned the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of groundless accusations that the UK government has leveled against China. Hong Kong’s government demanded that the UK provide full details on the allegations. Also read: Norway recognises Palestine statehood, Ireland to make move next The spying charges came amid tensions between UK and China. UK have been vocal in warning about security threats from Beijing, and recently accused China of being behind a string of cyberespionage operations targeting politicians and Britain’s election watchdog. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said Britain is facing an increasingly dangerous future because of threats from an “axis of authoritarian states,” including Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. In a separate ongoing court case, two men, including a parliamentary researcher, were recently charged with espionage for China. Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry are accused of violating the Official Secrets Act by supplying information or documents that could be useful to an enemy—China—and "prejudicial to the safety or interests" of the UK between late 2021 and February 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

UK man accused of spying for Hong Kong dies under ‘unexplained circumstances’

More than 50 years after the first victims received infected blood in the United Kingdom, a public enquiry has concluded that there might have been a "cover up". The bombshell report, released on Monday (May 20) found that 30,000 haemophiliacs or transfusion recipients, who were infected with HIV and/or hepatitis C over more than two decades could "largely, though not entirely, have been avoided"

UK infected blood scandal: NHS, Government covered up infected blood scandal, says Report

In the past few months polls and surveys in the United Kingdom have brought bad news for the Tories but much to the relief of the ruling party a recent IPSOS poll indicates that economic optimism is growing in Britain.

UK: Sunak's personal rating slightly improves

An infected blood scandal in Britain was no accident but the fault of doctors and a succession of governments that led to 3,000 deaths and thousands more contracting hepatitis or HIV, a public inquiry reported on Monday. Watch in for more details!

UK: Government and NHS carried out 'cover-up' of infected blood scandal, says report

<p>A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl.</p>

<p>Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old Roughley, who is the deputy manager of Tiny Toes nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, placed in "mortal danger" as a "punishment", heard the trial.</p>

<p>She was found guilty of Meehan's manslaughter following a four-week-long trial at a Manchester court and will be sentenced on Wednesday (May 22).</p>

<p>As per local media reports, the court heard that Meehan, who was called by her family as Gigi, was found strapped face down to a beanbag, swaddled in a blanket on 9 May 2022, in Tiny Toes' baby room.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gigi's father, John Meehan, outside of the court said that his daughter's death had destroyed the family and there was not even a day when they did not grieve for her.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TRIBUTE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TRIBUTE</a> | Family of baby Genevieve pay tribute to their little girl.<br />
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"It has been just over two years since our beautiful and wonderful daughter’s life was taken from her. Genevieve’s loss has destroyed our family. We grieve for her every day."<a href="https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A">https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A</a> <a href="https://t.co/50OrdYGQOF">pic.twitter.com/50OrdYGQOF</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We long desperately to see her smile, to hear her laugh and to feel her warm embrace,” John said.</p>

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<p>“To many, Genevieve is just a baby that was seen on CCTV, or discussed in evidence during this trial. But to us, she is our precious and wonderful daughter, and she is not to be defined by the manner of her death," he said.</p>

<p>“She was a person. She loved to laugh, to play with her tambourine, to eat spaghetti bolognese and to spend time with her big sister. She was kind, affectionate … and mischievous,” he further added.</p>

<p>'Will not forgive the callousness of Roughley’s actions,' says John</p>

<p>John then said that his family had trusted Roughley with the responsibility of his daughter's well-being, however, she put her own convenience and selfish interests above Gigi's life.</p>

<p>“Knowing what she had done, she could have taken responsibility and saved our family from enduring the horror of this trial. However, such a basic act of decency was beyond her. Instead, she has lied and lied and lied throughout and has sought to deflect attention to anyone but herself,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl. Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died.

A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl. Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died. The 37-year-old Roughley, who is the deputy manager of Tiny Toes nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, placed in "mortal danger" as a "punishment", heard the trial. She was found guilty of Meehan's manslaughter following a four-week-long trial at a Manchester court and will be sentenced on Wednesday (May 22). As per local media reports, the court heard that Meehan, who was called by her family as Gigi, was found strapped face down to a beanbag, swaddled in a blanket on 9 May 2022, in Tiny Toes' baby room. Gigi's father, John Meehan, outside of the court said that his daughter's death had destroyed the family and there was not even a day when they did not grieve for her. #TRIBUTE | Family of baby Genevieve pay tribute to their little girl. "It has been just over two years since our beautiful and wonderful daughter’s life was taken from her. Genevieve’s loss has destroyed our family. We grieve for her every day."https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A pic.twitter.com/50OrdYGQOF — Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) May 20, 2024 × “We long desperately to see her smile, to hear her laugh and to feel her warm embrace,” John said. Also read: Sunak's inflation victory faces voter doubts “To many, Genevieve is just a baby that was seen on CCTV, or discussed in evidence during this trial. But to us, she is our precious and wonderful daughter, and she is not to be defined by the manner of her death," he said. “She was a person. She loved to laugh, to play with her tambourine, to eat spaghetti bolognese and to spend time with her big sister. She was kind, affectionate … and mischievous,” he further added. 'Will not forgive the callousness of Roughley’s actions,' says John John then said that his family had trusted Roughley with the responsibility of his daughter's well-being, however, she put her own convenience and selfish interests above Gigi's life. “Knowing what she had done, she could have taken responsibility and saved our family from enduring the horror of this trial. However, such a basic act of decency was beyond her. Instead, she has lied and lied and lied throughout and has sought to deflect attention to anyone but herself,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Nursery worker who strapped nine-month-old girl to beanbag found guilty of murder

UK: NHS, Government covered up infected blood scandal, says report

UK's infected blood scandal: PM Rishi Sunak apologises for infected blood scandal

UK's infected blood scandal: 6 year probe reveals chilling details

Six-year probe of UK's infected blood scandal reveals chilling details

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Mourner's gather for Raisi's funeral procession - Ukraine Navy: Sunk Russian warship - France backs ICC for seeking Bibi's arrest - New Caledonia: Cars charred amid unrest - Pune Porsche Crash: Crime branch to probe

Mourners gather for Raisi's funeral | UK to announce NHS blood scandal compensation | WION Headlines

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty now possess more personal wealth than King Charles, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty is richer than King Charles

<p>The post-Brexit border checks are expected to cost taxpayers in the United Kingdom at least $6 billion after repeated delays in setting new rules, according to a report released by the parliament’s spending watchdog, on Monday (May 20).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Significant issues’</strong></h2>

<p>The UK’s National Audit Office (NAO) report noted that the plans to bring in border checks on goods entering the country from the European Union faced “significant issues” including critical shortages of inspectors before their introduction last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Britain voted to leave the EU in 2016, but it was not until this year that the country set up the new rules given to untangle supply chains and erect customs borders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second phase of the UK’s new post-Brexit border controls for food imports began on April 30, when the government introduced physical checks for so-called “medium risk” animal products, plants and plant products.</p>

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<p>The move in April followed the first phase of the UK’s so-called new Border Target Operating Model which required additional certification and came into force on January 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third phase would require safety and security declarations and is slated for the end of October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government report estimates that it will spend at least $6 billion on the 13 most significant border-related programmes over their lifetimes out of which $3.3 billion had been spent by March last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report found that the Cabinet Office’s confidence in the second phase had been rated as “amber” at the start of the year, which means that while the implementation was “feasible”, there were “significant issues that required management attention”.</p>

<p>In this case, it is the difficulty to recruit and train port health authority inspectors who would be responsible for conducting the checks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Repeated delays</strong></h2>

<p>The British government has delayed the implementation of full control of the passage of goods across the border post-Brexit five times since the end of the EU exit transition period on December 31, 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The delay in implementation, according to the report, has not only caused uncertainty for businesses and led to extra costs for government and ports, but also increased the biosecurity risk to the UK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The repeated delays in introducing import controls, and difficulties forecasting requirements, have resulted in government expenditure on infrastructure and staff that were ultimately not needed,” the NAO stated in its report.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>It added, “Late announcements about policy and uncertainty about the implementation of controls have also reduced the ability of businesses and ports to prepare for changes.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>NAO also noted that while border processes, post-EU exit, have operated “relatively smoothly,” the businesses trading goods between the UK and the EU have faced additional costs and administrative burdens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The watchdog also slammed the UK’s hopes to have the “world’s most effective border” by 2025 saying that the plan lacked “a clear timetable and an integrated cross-government delivery plan, with individual departments leading different aspects of implementation.”</p>

<p>The NAO also asked the government to take “a more realistic approach” to digital transformation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The post-Brexit border checks are expected to cost taxpayers in the United Kingdom at least $6 billion after repeated delays in setting new rules, according to a report released by the parliament’s spending watchdog, on Monday (May 20).

The post-Brexit border checks are expected to cost taxpayers in the United Kingdom at least $6 billion after repeated delays in setting new rules, according to a report released by the parliament’s spending watchdog, on Monday (May 20). ‘Significant issues’ The UK’s National Audit Office (NAO) report noted that the plans to bring in border checks on goods entering the country from the European Union faced “significant issues” including critical shortages of inspectors before their introduction last month. Britain voted to leave the EU in 2016, but it was not until this year that the country set up the new rules given to untangle supply chains and erect customs borders. The second phase of the UK’s new post-Brexit border controls for food imports began on April 30, when the government introduced physical checks for so-called “medium risk” animal products, plants and plant products. Also Read | Sunak's inflation victory faces voter doubts The move in April followed the first phase of the UK’s so-called new Border Target Operating Model which required additional certification and came into force on January 31. The third phase would require safety and security declarations and is slated for the end of October. The government report estimates that it will spend at least $6 billion on the 13 most significant border-related programmes over their lifetimes out of which $3.3 billion had been spent by March last year. The report found that the Cabinet Office’s confidence in the second phase had been rated as “amber” at the start of the year, which means that while the implementation was “feasible”, there were “significant issues that required management attention”. In this case, it is the difficulty to recruit and train port health authority inspectors who would be responsible for conducting the checks. Repeated delays The British government has delayed the implementation of full control of the passage of goods across the border post-Brexit five times since the end of the EU exit transition period on December 31, 2020. The delay in implementation, according to the report, has not only caused uncertainty for businesses and led to extra costs for government and ports, but also increased the biosecurity risk to the UK. “The repeated delays in introducing import controls, and difficulties forecasting requirements, have resulted in government expenditure on infrastructure and staff that were ultimately not needed,” the NAO stated in its report. Also Read | US regulators may cut bank capital hikes It added, “Late announcements about policy and uncertainty about the implementation of controls have also reduced the ability of businesses and ports to prepare for changes.” NAO also noted that while border processes, post-EU exit, have operated “relatively smoothly,” the businesses trading goods between the UK and the EU have faced additional costs and administrative burdens. The watchdog also slammed the UK’s hopes to have the “world’s most effective border” by 2025 saying that the plan lacked “a clear timetable and an integrated cross-government delivery plan, with individual departments leading different aspects of implementation.” The NAO also asked the government to take “a more realistic approach” to digital transformation. (With inputs from agencies)

Post-Brexit border arrangements expected to cost UK taxpayers $6 billion

British courts have concluded that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange cannot be promptly extradited to the US to face spying accusations, paving the way for months of judicial fighting over his fate.

UK: Assange wins right to challenge US extradition

<p>If you are amongst over 99.5 per cent of the world's population that missed on the northern lights last weekend, then, well, you may bid farewell to your reeling sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Anybody who missed the northern lights last weekend may get another chance to see them. But this expected aurora-filled sky will only likely be seen across the UK.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Northern Lights in the UK: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Last weekend, aurora borealis, bands of pink and green light lit up the night sky. Rare sightings of Northern Lights made quite a splash across the UK, Europe and as far as Ladakh in India. This came after an "extreme" geomagnetic storm caused them to be more visible, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.</p>

<p>Krista Hammond, a space weather forecaster at the Met Office, told the British media that the phenomenon was likely to occur more frequently over the next few years – but not uniformly so.</p>

<p>"This is all down to what’s known as the sun’s solar cycle. The sun has a roughly 11-year cycle of activity, and this is from what’s known as solar minimum, which then goes towards solar maximum, and back to solar minimum. And we’re now approaching the solar maximum," she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.</p>

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<p>"What defines solar maximum is when we see the most number of sunspots on the sun. And it is sunspots that drive what we see as space weather, which is solar flares."</p>

<p>Hammond added: "As we approach solar maximum, it means the frequency that we see these space weather events, which cause the aurora, increases. But this doesn’t actually dictate the magnitude of those events."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Northern Lights Spectacle &amp; Char Dham Yatra | Wings S3EP29 | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking further she said, "What we saw last weekend was quite a unique situation. We had multiple eruptions of plasma from the sun, which also caught up with each other as it arrived at Earth. And then, when that interacted with the Earth’s upper atmosphere, magnetic field, we viewed it as the aurora."</p>

<p>“And this coincided with clear skies, and it arrived overnight, so we were able to see it really far south. We got sightings across the whole of the UK from last weekend’s event,"&nbsp;Hammond added.</p>

<p>"So, while we would expect to see it more in the way of space weather, whether it’s of the magnitude that allows us to see it at these southern latitudes is, that’s a little bit more tricky to forecast.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


If you are amongst over 99.5 per cent of the world's population that missed on the northern lights last weekend, then, well, you may bid farewell to your reeling sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out).

If you are amongst over 99.5 per cent of the world's population that missed on the northern lights last weekend, then, well, you may bid farewell to your reeling sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Anybody who missed the northern lights last weekend may get another chance to see them. But this expected aurora-filled sky will only likely be seen across the UK. Northern Lights in the UK: What happened? Last weekend, aurora borealis, bands of pink and green light lit up the night sky. Rare sightings of Northern Lights made quite a splash across the UK, Europe and as far as Ladakh in India. This came after an "extreme" geomagnetic storm caused them to be more visible, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Krista Hammond, a space weather forecaster at the Met Office, told the British media that the phenomenon was likely to occur more frequently over the next few years – but not uniformly so. "This is all down to what’s known as the sun’s solar cycle. The sun has a roughly 11-year cycle of activity, and this is from what’s known as solar minimum, which then goes towards solar maximum, and back to solar minimum. And we’re now approaching the solar maximum," she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. Also read | Northern Lights spotted in India! Aurora borealis illuminates Ladakh skies "What defines solar maximum is when we see the most number of sunspots on the sun. And it is sunspots that drive what we see as space weather, which is solar flares." Hammond added: "As we approach solar maximum, it means the frequency that we see these space weather events, which cause the aurora, increases. But this doesn’t actually dictate the magnitude of those events." Also watch | Northern Lights Spectacle & Char Dham Yatra | Wings S3EP29 | WION × Speaking further she said, "What we saw last weekend was quite a unique situation. We had multiple eruptions of plasma from the sun, which also caught up with each other as it arrived at Earth. And then, when that interacted with the Earth’s upper atmosphere, magnetic field, we viewed it as the aurora." “And this coincided with clear skies, and it arrived overnight, so we were able to see it really far south. We got sightings across the whole of the UK from last weekend’s event," Hammond added. "So, while we would expect to see it more in the way of space weather, whether it’s of the magnitude that allows us to see it at these southern latitudes is, that’s a little bit more tricky to forecast.” (With inputs from agencies)

Missed Northern Lights? Don't worry, you can sight them really soon here

The Chinese social media app remains under Global scrutiny. The Canadian intelligence Chief has come up with a stark warning against using the app. He said that China could in fact be using it to spy on Canadians. Watch in for more details!

TikTok: Firm never shared user data with Chinese government

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is making headlines again and this time it's about the increase in wealth that Rishi Sunak and his wife have amassed.

UK PM Rishi Sunak, wife amass more wealth in 2024

<p>On March 16, 1986, conman Charles Sobhraj and six other notorious inmates escaped from the high-security Tihar Jail in Indian capital New Delhi. Their tactic? Spiking sweets and fruit cream with drugs, which were given to all jail officials on an inmate's birthday, and tying them up with medical gauze tape before making their escape.&nbsp;In a similar case at a prison in UK's Kent, inmates allegedly spiked a staff curry with a dangerous synthetic drug.</p>

<p>The episode, described as 'mass poisoning' by the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU),&nbsp;led to several prison guards being hospitalised, according to The Metro.</p>

<p>At HMP Swaleside, which houses dangerous criminals, inmates working in the staff canteen are suspected of adding Spice, a harmful synthetic drug, to the curry.</p>

<p>Up to 25 prison staff were affected, raising concerns about security within the facility. Inmates are allowed to work in the canteen after risk assessments, but these are supposed to be low-risk prisoners.</p>

<p>A prior inspection by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons had already identified high levels of violence and easy access to drugs at the prison.</p>

<p>"Prisoners preparing food in the staff canteen spiked a "staff special curry" with what is believed to be an NPS. 25 staff were affected and were witnessed under the influence of NPS," Andy Hamlin, an official for the CJWU, told The Metro.</p>

<div style="clear: both;">"Among those affected, there were symptoms, including breathing difficulties and raised heart rates," he added.</div>

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<div style="clear: both;">Nine ambulances arrived at the scene, resulting in the hospitalisation of five prison officers who were later released. The CJWU has demanded a prison service investigation into the incident.</div>

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<div style="clear: both;"><strong>Also watch | UK plans to ban sex education for children under 9</strong></div>

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<h2 class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">How dangerous was the drug?</h2>

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<p>As reported by The Sun, Spice, a type of NPS, is suspected to have been used, although this has not been confirmed.</p>

<p>Spice is a term for substances that contain synthetic cannabinoids. These lab-created drugs were initially designed to replicate the effects of cannabis but are more harmful and unpredictable.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/contaminated-tap-water-gives-explosive-diarrhea-to-residents-of-this-uk-town-722242">Also read | Contaminated tap water gives 'explosive diarrhea' to residents of this UK town</a></p>

<p>Spice can cause various effects and health risks, including chest pain, breathing difficulties, paralysis, seizures, vomiting, paranoia, and extreme anxiety.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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<div style="position:fixed;top:100%;">Listen to the <a href="https://www.jiosaavn.com/featured/new-music-this-week/Ns2UZo9qDvI" target="_blank">latest songs, only on </a><a href="https://www.jiosaavn.com" target="_blank">JioSaavn.co</a>"Among those affected, there were symptoms, including breathing difficulties and raised heart rates."</div>
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On March 16, 1986, conman Charles Sobhraj and six other notorious inmates escaped from the high-security Tihar Jail in Indian capital New Delhi. Their tactic? Spiking sweets and fruit cream with drugs, which were given to all jail officials on an inmate's birthday, and tying them up with medical gauze tape before making their escape.

On March 16, 1986, conman Charles Sobhraj and six other notorious inmates escaped from the high-security Tihar Jail in Indian capital New Delhi. Their tactic? Spiking sweets and fruit cream with drugs, which were given to all jail officials on an inmate's birthday, and tying them up with medical gauze tape before making their escape. In a similar case at a prison in UK's Kent, inmates allegedly spiked a staff curry with a dangerous synthetic drug. The episode, described as 'mass poisoning' by the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU), led to several prison guards being hospitalised, according to The Metro. At HMP Swaleside, which houses dangerous criminals, inmates working in the staff canteen are suspected of adding Spice, a harmful synthetic drug, to the curry. Up to 25 prison staff were affected, raising concerns about security within the facility. Inmates are allowed to work in the canteen after risk assessments, but these are supposed to be low-risk prisoners. A prior inspection by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons had already identified high levels of violence and easy access to drugs at the prison. "Prisoners preparing food in the staff canteen spiked a "staff special curry" with what is believed to be an NPS. 25 staff were affected and were witnessed under the influence of NPS," Andy Hamlin, an official for the CJWU, told The Metro. "Among those affected, there were symptoms, including breathing difficulties and raised heart rates," he added. Nine ambulances arrived at the scene, resulting in the hospitalisation of five prison officers who were later released. The CJWU has demanded a prison service investigation into the incident. Also watch | UK plans to ban sex education for children under 9 How dangerous was the drug? As reported by The Sun, Spice, a type of NPS, is suspected to have been used, although this has not been confirmed. Spice is a term for substances that contain synthetic cannabinoids. These lab-created drugs were initially designed to replicate the effects of cannabis but are more harmful and unpredictable. Also read | Contaminated tap water gives 'explosive diarrhea' to residents of this UK town Spice can cause various effects and health risks, including chest pain, breathing difficulties, paralysis, seizures, vomiting, paranoia, and extreme anxiety. (With inputs from agencies) Listen to the latest songs, only on JioSaavn.co"Among those affected, there were symptoms, including breathing difficulties and raised heart rates."

UK prison guards hospitalised after inmates poison staff food with dangerous drug

Labour has decided to take direct control of the selection race that will determine who replaces former party leader Jeremy Corbyn as the parliamentary candidate in Islington North. Watch in for more details!

UK: Labour takes direct control of selection to replace Jeremy Corbyn

<p>Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fico is "not in a life-threatening situation at this moment," a day after escaping an assassination attempt.</p>

<p>In other news, Vladimir Putin is on a visit to China. There, the&nbsp;Russian President's counterpart, Xi Jinping, told him that China was&nbsp;ready to build closer ties with Russia.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in Florida, a new legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis is set to erase the mention of "climate change" from the state's law.</p>

<p>Again, in the US, another instance of pro-Palestine protests required police to step in, taking back control of a hall in&nbsp;the University of California, Irvine, from protestors.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slovak-pm-robert-fico-not-in-life-threatening-situation-dy-pm-gives-update-721901">Slovak PM Robert Fico 'not in life-threatening situation': Dy PM gives update</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/16/431681-slovak-prime-minister-robert-fico.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico escaped a life-threatening situation after surviving an assassination attempt, as per media reports.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-arrives-in-china-in-first-overseas-trip-since-russia-re-elects-him-in-march-721897">Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in China in first overseas trip since being re-elected in March</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/21/340174-vladimir-putin-and-xi-jinping-5.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>In a bid to further strengthen China-Russia&nbsp;ties amid global upheaval, Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing on Thursday&nbsp;(May 16), in his first overseas visit since his re-election in March that solidified his grip on power. Putin secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia in March and&nbsp;commenced his fifth term in office.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protest-uc-irvine-protests-lead-to-police-action-721923">Pro-Palestinian protest: University Irvine protests lead to police action</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/16/431693-untitled-design-27.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Police took&nbsp;control of a lecture hall building at the University of California, Irvine&nbsp;from pro-Palestinian protesters on Wednesday (May 15).</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-isnt-real-ron-desantis-erases-mentions-of-climate-change-from-florida-law-721915">'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/16/431688-new-wion-2024-05-16t083705413.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's Citizenship (Amendment) Act in action: 14 migrants granted citizenship by MHA</strong></p>

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Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fico is "not in a life-threatening situation at this moment," a day after escaping an assassination attempt. In other news, Vladimir Putin is on a visit to China.

Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fico is "not in a life-threatening situation at this moment," a day after escaping an assassination attempt. In other news, Vladimir Putin is on a visit to China. There, the Russian President's counterpart, Xi Jinping, told him that China was ready to build closer ties with Russia. Meanwhile, in Florida, a new legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis is set to erase the mention of "climate change" from the state's law. Again, in the US, another instance of pro-Palestine protests required police to step in, taking back control of a hall in the University of California, Irvine, from protestors. Click on the headlines to read more Slovak PM Robert Fico 'not in life-threatening situation': Dy PM gives update Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico escaped a life-threatening situation after surviving an assassination attempt, as per media reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in China in first overseas trip since being re-elected in March In a bid to further strengthen China-Russia ties amid global upheaval, Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing on Thursday (May 16), in his first overseas visit since his re-election in March that solidified his grip on power. Putin secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia in March and commenced his fifth term in office. Pro-Palestinian protest: University Irvine protests lead to police action Police took control of a lecture hall building at the University of California, Irvine from pro-Palestinian protesters on Wednesday (May 15). 'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes. Watch | India's Citizenship (Amendment) Act in action: 14 migrants granted citizenship by MHA

Morning news brief: Putin in Russia; Slovak PM no longer in life-threatening condition, and more

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<p>A severe diarrhea outbreak has left hundreds of residents in UK's Devon practically bedridden. According to a <em>Metro</em> report, the illness is linked to cryptosporidium, a parasite found in contaminated water that causes severe gastrointestinal issues.</p>
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<p>The parasite gets stuck to human intestines, leading to gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. It spreads through swimming in or consuming contaminated water and can also be transmitted through food. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea, vomiting, mild fever, and loss of appetite. The illness could last up to a month.</p>

<p>Residents in Brixham, Boohay, Kingswear, Roseland, and North East Paignton in Devon are now advised to boil tap water before drinking.</p>

<p>Tanya Matthews, who lives in Ocean View, said every home in her street had people with the same symptoms.&nbsp;She told&nbsp;DevonLive: "I started having stomach cramps and explosive diarrhoea nine days ago and it has been the same every day since. I started to feel a little bit better yesterday than today [May 14] it hit me again.''</p>

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<p>Consequently, residents have been panic-buying bottled water. The source of the parasite and its entry into the water supply remain unknown.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | UK's covid inquiry, costliest in the world?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What do the authorities say?</strong></h2>

<p>The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has stated that it is working with local councils to investigate the outbreak. Meanwhile, South West Water has reported that its water quality tests in Brixham have so far shown no contamination.</p>

<p>South West Water commented: "We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and will continue to keep customers and businesses updated."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uks-graduate-route-visa-to-stay-offering-major-benefits-to-indian-students-721777">Also read |&nbsp;UK’s graduate route visa to stay, offering major benefits to Indian students</a></p>

<p>The water firm further stated: ''Customers in Alston and the Hillhead area of Brixham are advised to boil their drinking water before consuming following new test results for cryptosporidium. We are issuing this as a precaution following small traces of the organism identified overnight and this morning. We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source. For those customers registered for Priority Services we will be delivering bottled water to your address. ''</p>

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<p>Emergency bottled water stations have been set up for residents.</p>

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<p>Patients have been advised to drink lots of fluids since there's no specific treatment for the bug.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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A severe diarrhea outbreak has left hundreds of residents in UK's Devon practically bedridden. According to a Metro report, the illness is linked to cryptosporidium, a parasite found in contaminated water that causes severe gastrointestinal issues.

A severe diarrhea outbreak has left hundreds of residents in UK's Devon practically bedridden. According to a Metro report, the illness is linked to cryptosporidium, a parasite found in contaminated water that causes severe gastrointestinal issues. The parasite gets stuck to human intestines, leading to gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. It spreads through swimming in or consuming contaminated water and can also be transmitted through food. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea, vomiting, mild fever, and loss of appetite. The illness could last up to a month. Residents in Brixham, Boohay, Kingswear, Roseland, and North East Paignton in Devon are now advised to boil tap water before drinking. Tanya Matthews, who lives in Ocean View, said every home in her street had people with the same symptoms. She told DevonLive: "I started having stomach cramps and explosive diarrhoea nine days ago and it has been the same every day since. I started to feel a little bit better yesterday than today [May 14] it hit me again.'' Consequently, residents have been panic-buying bottled water. The source of the parasite and its entry into the water supply remain unknown. Also watch | UK's covid inquiry, costliest in the world? What do the authorities say? The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has stated that it is working with local councils to investigate the outbreak. Meanwhile, South West Water has reported that its water quality tests in Brixham have so far shown no contamination. South West Water commented: "We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and will continue to keep customers and businesses updated." Also read | UK’s graduate route visa to stay, offering major benefits to Indian students The water firm further stated: ''Customers in Alston and the Hillhead area of Brixham are advised to boil their drinking water before consuming following new test results for cryptosporidium. We are issuing this as a precaution following small traces of the organism identified overnight and this morning. We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source. For those customers registered for Priority Services we will be delivering bottled water to your address. '' Emergency bottled water stations have been set up for residents. Patients have been advised to drink lots of fluids since there's no specific treatment for the bug. (With inputs from agencies)

Contaminated tap water gives 'explosive diarrhea' to residents of this UK town

Rishi Sunak faces the threat of an accidental leadership contest after a wave of disgruntled Tories submitted letters of no confidence. Watch to know more.

UK: Tories losing confidence in Sunak?

The UK government is changing its regulations on sex education in schools. It is making subjects like gender identity illegal to be taught to children under the age of nine years. It says the new guidance will be enforced later this year and will ensure that parents can demand access to all media and materials used to teach their children. The British government says the new guidelines in primary schools will stop teaching lessons under relationships, sex and health education.

UK plans to ban sex education for children under 9

The cost of the Covid Inquiry is projected to be over £196 million. The cost per day is estimated to be £136907. Watch to know more.

UK's covid inquiry, costliest in the world?

UK's Covid investigation an 'eye-watering bill' or a lesson?

A new portrait of King Charles has been unveiled at Buckingham Palace. It is the first official portrait of Charles since his coronation on May 6 last year. Watch in for more details!

First official portrait of King Charles unveiled since coronation

Good news for the workers and staffers of the Labour Party in the UK. After spending weeks anticipating an early election the opposition party has now eased the rules on the holiday limit for staffers.

UK general elections: Labour Party relaxes holiday rules

There's a new covid variant called KP.2 under the name FLiRT that has emerged in the US, UK and India. These new variant mutants are collectively called FLiRT.

India reports maximum number of 'FLiRT' COVID cases

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