<p>The Trades Union Congress (TUC) warned on Tuesday (April 18) that the United Kingdom (UK) government was failing to protect workers against the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that would increasingly determine hiring and firing, and pay and promotion. According to a report by the Financial Times, the TUC argued that the government was failing to put in place the guard rails needed to protect workers as adoption of AI-powered technologies spread.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These technologies were already widely used to make life-changing decisions across the economy, the union said, adding AI systems were being widely used in recruitment. The TUC also encountered teachers' concerns that they were being monitored by systems originally introduced to track the performance of students. The report said that call centre workers reported that their colleagues were routinely allocated calls by AI programs&nbsp;that were more likely to lead to a good outcome, and so attract a bonus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-to-launch-his-ai-platform-truthgpt-583583">Elon Musk to launch his AI platform 'TruthGPT'</a></strong></p>

<p>Mary Towers, a policy officer at the TUC, said that the rise of generative AI brought the renewed urgency to the need for legislation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These technologies are often spoken about as the future of work," Towers said, adding the TUC had evidence to show that it was widespread across employment relationships. "These are existing urgent problems in the workplace and they have been for sometime," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The TUC also pointed out that the government's Data Protection and Digital Information Bill would dilute important existing protections for workers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'TUC's assessment wrong': Government</strong></h2>

<p>The government, meanwhile, criticised the TUC's assessment by saying it was wrong. A government spokesperson said that AI was set to drive growth and create new&nbsp;&nbsp;highly paid jobs across the UK.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/german-artist-refuses-prestigious-photography-award-admits-prize-winning-image-was-ai-generated-583532">German artist refuses Sony photography award, admits prize-winning image AI-generated, because...</a></strong></p>

<p>The spokesperson added that the government was working with businesses and regulators to make sure AI was used&nbsp;safely and responsibly in business settings, and that the&nbsp;Data Protection and Digital Information Bill strong safeguards that&nbsp;employers would be required to implement.&nbsp;</p>

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The Trades Union Congress (TUC) warned on Tuesday (April 18) that the United Kingdom (UK) government was failing to protect workers against the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that would increasingly determine hiring and firing, and pay and promotion.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) warned on Tuesday (April 18) that the United Kingdom (UK) government was failing to protect workers against the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that would increasingly determine hiring and firing, and pay and promotion. According to a report by the Financial Times, the TUC argued that the government was failing to put in place the guard rails needed to protect workers as adoption of AI-powered technologies spread. These technologies were already widely used to make life-changing decisions across the economy, the union said, adding AI systems were being widely used in recruitment. The TUC also encountered teachers' concerns that they were being monitored by systems originally introduced to track the performance of students. The report said that call centre workers reported that their colleagues were routinely allocated calls by AI programs that were more likely to lead to a good outcome, and so attract a bonus. ALSO READ | Elon Musk to launch his AI platform 'TruthGPT' Mary Towers, a policy officer at the TUC, said that the rise of generative AI brought the renewed urgency to the need for legislation. "These technologies are often spoken about as the future of work," Towers said, adding the TUC had evidence to show that it was widespread across employment relationships. "These are existing urgent problems in the workplace and they have been for sometime," she said. The TUC also pointed out that the government's Data Protection and Digital Information Bill would dilute important existing protections for workers. 'TUC's assessment wrong': Government The government, meanwhile, criticised the TUC's assessment by saying it was wrong. A government spokesperson said that AI was set to drive growth and create new highly paid jobs across the UK. ALSO READ | German artist refuses Sony photography award, admits prize-winning image AI-generated, because... The spokesperson added that the government was working with businesses and regulators to make sure AI was used safely and responsibly in business settings, and that the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill strong safeguards that employers would be required to implement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK failing to protect workers from AI, warns trade union: Report

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.9 per cent of women haven't got a penis, when faced with&nbsp;questions on the ongoing transgender debate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sir Keir said recently that ‘99 per cent of women of course haven’t got a penis’. What percentage would you put it at?” the interviewer asked Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tory leader laughed initially before saying he had a “slightly different point of view to him on this.”</p>

<p>“I’ve been very clear that when it comes...on this topic, I think the first,' said Sunak before he was cut short and asked, “Do you think it’s 100 per cent?”</p>

<p>To which Sunak replied in the affirmative before adding, “But I think the first thing to say is we should always have compassion and understanding and tolerance for those who are thinking about their gender. Of course we should, right? We’re a compassionate and understanding society and we’ll always remember that.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-wont-happen-overnight-sunak-appears-defeatist-on-small-boats-channel-crossings-582456"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue</strong></a></p>

<p>The Conservatives are planning to go ahead with the pledge made during last year's leadership election to reform the legal definition of sex. If the said proposal goes through, sporting events organisers could exclude trans women from participating in women's competitions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sir Keir Starmer on 'what is a woman'</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer caused a bit of row when he said trans rights cannot override women's rights, adding that 99.9 per cent&nbsp;of women "of course haven't got a penis."</p>

<p>Starmer asserted that a 'very small number' of people identified differently to the gender they were born with and called for an end to 'toxic divide' on trans issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, there has been a growing trend of sorts where politicians are asked what they mean by a 'woman' or who is a woman.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-risks-provoking-conservative-mps-says-migrant-pledge-is-complicated-wion-582431"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak risks provoking Conservative MPs, says 'migrant pledge is complicated' | WION</strong></a></p>

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<p>While the answer might have been simple back in the day, most politicians trudge a careful line so as not to offend a minority that does not cater to the traditional gender divisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newly crowned New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was the prime example of that when he was asked the same question. Hipkins appeared hesitant and floundered while answering the question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Um...to be honest that question has come slightly out of left field for me," said Hipkins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Well biology, sex, gender. Um," he paused before saying, "I wasn't expecting that question, so it wasn't something I pre-formulated an answer on. But in terms of gender identity, people identify for themselves."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.9 per cent of women haven't got a penis, when faced with questions on the ongoing transgender debate. “Sir Keir said recently that ‘99 per cent of women of course haven’t got a penis’. What percentage would you put it at?” the interviewer asked Sunak. The Tory leader laughed initially before saying he had a “slightly different point of view to him on this.” “I’ve been very clear that when it comes...on this topic, I think the first,' said Sunak before he was cut short and asked, “Do you think it’s 100 per cent?” To which Sunak replied in the affirmative before adding, “But I think the first thing to say is we should always have compassion and understanding and tolerance for those who are thinking about their gender. Of course we should, right? We’re a compassionate and understanding society and we’ll always remember that.” ALSO READ | 'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue The Conservatives are planning to go ahead with the pledge made during last year's leadership election to reform the legal definition of sex. If the said proposal goes through, sporting events organisers could exclude trans women from participating in women's competitions. Sir Keir Starmer on 'what is a woman' Earlier this month, Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer caused a bit of row when he said trans rights cannot override women's rights, adding that 99.9 per cent of women "of course haven't got a penis." Starmer asserted that a 'very small number' of people identified differently to the gender they were born with and called for an end to 'toxic divide' on trans issues. Recently, there has been a growing trend of sorts where politicians are asked what they mean by a 'woman' or who is a woman. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak risks provoking Conservative MPs, says 'migrant pledge is complicated' | WION × While the answer might have been simple back in the day, most politicians trudge a careful line so as not to offend a minority that does not cater to the traditional gender divisions. Newly crowned New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was the prime example of that when he was asked the same question. Hipkins appeared hesitant and floundered while answering the question. "Um...to be honest that question has come slightly out of left field for me," said Hipkins. "Well biology, sex, gender. Um," he paused before saying, "I wasn't expecting that question, so it wasn't something I pre-formulated an answer on. But in terms of gender identity, people identify for themselves." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British PM Sunak wades into trans debate, declares 100% women do not have penises

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<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has tempered his expectations regarding solving the illegal migrants' issue — one that may not sit well with the staunch Conservative leaders in his party, During an interview, Sunak conceded that his plan to stop small boats crossing the Channel 'won't happen overnight' as he pushed the timeline beyond the general elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the start of the year, the Tory leader, amid much pomp laid out five pledges for 2023, of which one was to&nbsp;stop migrants from entering the UK illegally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ve always said that this is not something that is easy – it is a complicated problem, where there’s no single, simple solution that will fix it. And I’ve also said that it won’t happen overnight,” Sunak said in an interview with the website ConservativeHome.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People should know it's very important to me, it's hugely important to the country that we need to fix the system, as a matter of fairness. It's not fair that people are breaking the rules and coming here illegally," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked if the objective could be achieved by the next general elections, scheduled to take place in 2024, Sunak appeared to dodge the question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, to regain some of the favour from his partymen, the former chancellor stated his government's approach to tackle the issue was 'ambitious' and that he wasn't 'going to make any apologies for that'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-announces-law-to-stop-illegal-immigrants-569817"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK announces law to stop illegal immigrants</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-detain-rishi-sunak-defends-new-bill-for-crackdown-on-illegal-immigrants-570071#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>We will detain you: Sunak on illegal migrants&nbsp;last month</strong></h2>

<p>After Home Secretary Suella Braverman last month tabled the 'Illegal Migration Bill' before the House of Commons, Sunak was a charged man as he issued ultimatum to the illegal migrants crossing the Channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Stopping the boats is not just my priority, it's the people's priority. Our position is clear, if you arrive here illegally you will not be able to claim asylum," argued Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People must know that if they come here illegally it will result in their detention and swift removal. Once this happens, and they know it will happen — they will not come, and the boats will stop."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-detain-rishi-sunak-defends-new-bill-for-crackdown-on-illegal-immigrants-570071" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | 'We will detain': UK PM Rishi Sunak defends new bill for crackdown on illegal immigrants</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, former interior minister Priti Patel in April last year brought the 'Rwanda Asylum Policy' under which immigrants arriving in the UK through 'illegal' means would be sent to the African country of Rwanda to seek asylum.</p>

<p>The immigration crisis reached a peak in 2022 when over 45,000 entered the UK, breaking&nbsp;the record of the previous year with more than 17,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has tempered his expectations regarding solving the illegal migrants' issue — one that may not sit well with the staunch Conservative leaders in his party, During an interview, Sunak conceded that his plan to stop small boats crossing the Channel 'won't happen overnight' as he pushed the timeline beyond the general elections.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has tempered his expectations regarding solving the illegal migrants' issue — one that may not sit well with the staunch Conservative leaders in his party, During an interview, Sunak conceded that his plan to stop small boats crossing the Channel 'won't happen overnight' as he pushed the timeline beyond the general elections. At the start of the year, the Tory leader, amid much pomp laid out five pledges for 2023, of which one was to stop migrants from entering the UK illegally. “I’ve always said that this is not something that is easy – it is a complicated problem, where there’s no single, simple solution that will fix it. And I’ve also said that it won’t happen overnight,” Sunak said in an interview with the website ConservativeHome. "People should know it's very important to me, it's hugely important to the country that we need to fix the system, as a matter of fairness. It's not fair that people are breaking the rules and coming here illegally," he added. When asked if the objective could be achieved by the next general elections, scheduled to take place in 2024, Sunak appeared to dodge the question. However, to regain some of the favour from his partymen, the former chancellor stated his government's approach to tackle the issue was 'ambitious' and that he wasn't 'going to make any apologies for that'. WATCH | UK announces law to stop illegal immigrants × We will detain you: Sunak on illegal migrants last month After Home Secretary Suella Braverman last month tabled the 'Illegal Migration Bill' before the House of Commons, Sunak was a charged man as he issued ultimatum to the illegal migrants crossing the Channel. "Stopping the boats is not just my priority, it's the people's priority. Our position is clear, if you arrive here illegally you will not be able to claim asylum," argued Sunak. "People must know that if they come here illegally it will result in their detention and swift removal. Once this happens, and they know it will happen — they will not come, and the boats will stop." ALSO READ | 'We will detain': UK PM Rishi Sunak defends new bill for crackdown on illegal immigrants Notably, former interior minister Priti Patel in April last year brought the 'Rwanda Asylum Policy' under which immigrants arriving in the UK through 'illegal' means would be sent to the African country of Rwanda to seek asylum. The immigration crisis reached a peak in 2022 when over 45,000 entered the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue

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<p>A Conservative politician in the UK has come under the scanner after allegedly claiming that all white men should have Black slaves in a shocking audio recording.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The politician has been identified as Pembrokeshire County councillor Andrew Edwards who could also be heard saying that Black people were of 'lower class' than whites while refusing to deny the claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nothing wrong with the skin colour at all. I think all white men should have a Black man as a slave or Black woman as a slave, you know," said Edwards in the audio recording that appeared online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There's nothing wrong with skin colour, it's just that they're lower class than us white people," he added.</p>

<p>It is not yet known where did the 16-second recording clip emerge but it was political opponents who identified Edwards' voice in it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tories have confirmed they are investigating the allegations and that Edwards had not yet been suspended from the party or his position.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-misogyny-and-racism-rampant-at-fire-brigade-537778"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK: Misogyny and racism rampant at fire brigade</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Matter referred to&nbsp;Ombudsman</strong></h2>

<p>When quizzed about the allegations, Edwards refused to confirm whether the recording was of him. Edwards, who represents the Haverfordwest Prendergast ward added that he had referred the matter to a watchdog and could not comment further.</p>

<p>"I am aware of such serious allegations being made against me. This is why I have self-referred to the Public Services Ombudsman for an independent evaluation," said Edwards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is now in the hands of legal experts and the ombudsman. It would be unfair on the process for me to comment."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire council also released a statement saying, "We are aware of an allegation being made and have referred the matter to the ombudsman. It would be inappropriate to comment further."</p>

<p>Di Clements, the Conservative group leader in the council informed that Edwards had left the party group on the council on Tuesday. Notably, the Tories are the opposition group in the independent-led council.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wasteful-britons-after-tories-plan-to-spend-98mn-on-free-portraits-of-king-charles-578271" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | ‘Wasteful’, say Britons as Tories plan to spend $9.8 million on free portraits of King Charles III</strong></a></p>

<p>Black Equity Organisation (BEO)&nbsp;- a national level Black civil rights group expressed shock at Edwards'&nbsp;racist&nbsp;comments and demanded action from the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is truly shocking to hear from anyone in this day and age, let alone an elected representative and county councillor," said&nbsp;&nbsp;Dr Wanda Wyporska, chief executive of the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have to ask if this is the first time he has expressed such racist views? Action clearly needs to be taken."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A Conservative politician in the UK has come under the scanner after allegedly claiming that all white men should have Black slaves in a shocking audio recording.

A Conservative politician in the UK has come under the scanner after allegedly claiming that all white men should have Black slaves in a shocking audio recording. The politician has been identified as Pembrokeshire County councillor Andrew Edwards who could also be heard saying that Black people were of 'lower class' than whites while refusing to deny the claims. "Nothing wrong with the skin colour at all. I think all white men should have a Black man as a slave or Black woman as a slave, you know," said Edwards in the audio recording that appeared online. "There's nothing wrong with skin colour, it's just that they're lower class than us white people," he added. It is not yet known where did the 16-second recording clip emerge but it was political opponents who identified Edwards' voice in it. The Tories have confirmed they are investigating the allegations and that Edwards had not yet been suspended from the party or his position. WATCH | UK: Misogyny and racism rampant at fire brigade × Matter referred to Ombudsman When quizzed about the allegations, Edwards refused to confirm whether the recording was of him. Edwards, who represents the Haverfordwest Prendergast ward added that he had referred the matter to a watchdog and could not comment further. "I am aware of such serious allegations being made against me. This is why I have self-referred to the Public Services Ombudsman for an independent evaluation," said Edwards. "It is now in the hands of legal experts and the ombudsman. It would be unfair on the process for me to comment." Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire council also released a statement saying, "We are aware of an allegation being made and have referred the matter to the ombudsman. It would be inappropriate to comment further." Di Clements, the Conservative group leader in the council informed that Edwards had left the party group on the council on Tuesday. Notably, the Tories are the opposition group in the independent-led council. ALSO READ | ‘Wasteful’, say Britons as Tories plan to spend $9.8 million on free portraits of King Charles III Black Equity Organisation (BEO) - a national level Black civil rights group expressed shock at Edwards' racist comments and demanded action from the authorities. "This is truly shocking to hear from anyone in this day and age, let alone an elected representative and county councillor," said Dr Wanda Wyporska, chief executive of the group. "We have to ask if this is the first time he has expressed such racist views? Action clearly needs to be taken." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'White men should have a Black slave': Tory leader caught making racist comments in viral audio clip

<p>The United Kingdom government has come up with a one of its kind anti-smoking scheme, which offers one million people a chance to give up their cigarettes and instead pick up a vape. The government's "swap to stop" programme is aimed at helping people quit smoking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British government said on Tuesday (April 11) that they will encourage smokers to swap cigarettes for "vapes". The authorities will also offer financial incentives to pregnant women to make the change in what will be a world first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities will also provide smokers with a vaping starter kit, they will also give behavioural support in order to help them manage the change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government is aiming to reduce the number of smokers across the nation. Britain hopes to meet the target of becoming the smoke-free by 2030 and reduce smoking rates to 5 per cent or less.</p>

<p>UK health minister Neil O’Brien said on Tuesday that he will chalk out the plan for the programme. O'Brien said that "cigarettes are the only product on sale which will kill you if used correctly" and the government will offer a million smokers new help to quit.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Neil O’Brien, public health minister, outlining plans to help transfer smokers to vapes while stopping kids getting access to them.<br />
<br />
“If your business plan relies on getting kids hooked on nicotine, we’re coming for you” <a href="https://t.co/tw14eaA9v6">pic.twitter.com/tw14eaA9v6</a></p>
— Fraser Knight (@Fraser_Knight) <a href="https://twitter.com/Fraser_Knight/status/1645761371164884994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨Achieving Smokefree 2030: Cutting Smoking and Stopping Kids Vaping<br />
<br />
💬Neil O'Brien MP: "We are very keen to work with industry to promote vaping and stamp out the illicit trade"<br />
<br />
🔗<a href="https://t.co/UNn96lKAuv">https://t.co/UNn96lKAuv</a> <a href="https://t.co/vKg9tMsGYi">pic.twitter.com/vKg9tMsGYi</a></p>
— UKVIA (@Vaping_Industry) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vaping_Industry/status/1645771634949738496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The government said in a statement the plan will help reduce the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, as well as reduce the number of babies born underweight or underdeveloped.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The United Kingdom government has come up with a one of its kind anti-smoking scheme, which offers one million people a chance to give up their cigarettes and instead pick up a vape.

The United Kingdom government has come up with a one of its kind anti-smoking scheme, which offers one million people a chance to give up their cigarettes and instead pick up a vape. The government's "swap to stop" programme is aimed at helping people quit smoking. The British government said on Tuesday (April 11) that they will encourage smokers to swap cigarettes for "vapes". The authorities will also offer financial incentives to pregnant women to make the change in what will be a world first. The authorities will also provide smokers with a vaping starter kit, they will also give behavioural support in order to help them manage the change. The government is aiming to reduce the number of smokers across the nation. Britain hopes to meet the target of becoming the smoke-free by 2030 and reduce smoking rates to 5 per cent or less. UK health minister Neil O’Brien said on Tuesday that he will chalk out the plan for the programme. O'Brien said that "cigarettes are the only product on sale which will kill you if used correctly" and the government will offer a million smokers new help to quit. Neil O’Brien, public health minister, outlining plans to help transfer smokers to vapes while stopping kids getting access to them. “If your business plan relies on getting kids hooked on nicotine, we’re coming for you” pic.twitter.com/tw14eaA9v6 — Fraser Knight (@Fraser_Knight) April 11, 2023 × 🚨Achieving Smokefree 2030: Cutting Smoking and Stopping Kids Vaping 💬Neil O'Brien MP: "We are very keen to work with industry to promote vaping and stamp out the illicit trade" 🔗https://t.co/UNn96lKAuv pic.twitter.com/vKg9tMsGYi — UKVIA (@Vaping_Industry) April 11, 2023 × The government said in a statement the plan will help reduce the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, as well as reduce the number of babies born underweight or underdeveloped. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swap cigarettes for vapes: Britain's unique plan to quit smoking

<p>A woman in the United Kingdom claimed that she had married a ghost, and now she says she wants an exorcism to get rid of her husband. It may sound bizarre, but the life of 38-year-old Rocker Brocarde has become a living "hell".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brocarde, who is reportedly from Oxfordshire, tied the knot with her husband Edwardo five months. She said that they met on Halloween last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, things appear to have gone awry as she now wants to separate from her husband, who ended up haunting her using "the screams of a crying baby".&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said that she wants to end the marriage because Edwardo, who is said to be a ghost of a Victoria soldier, is apparently stalking her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to Daily Star, she said, "I am at the end of my tether. I don't want to admit defeat, but it feels like being married to a ghost doesn't work."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the media outlets, Brocarde has also said that she has been experiencing "deep dark thoughts" of late. She linked the issues to Edwardo (the ghost husband) as she says he is happy about her decision to end the marriage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media outlets have also mentioned that she is a singer and songwriter. A report by Daily Mail stated that Brocarde reached out to a medium. However, she claimed that Edwardo did not want to take the "marriage counselling" seriously.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>When she opened up about the wedding</strong></h2>

<p>The UK woman said that she met her husband when he appeared in her room and before that, she didn't believe in ghosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said that it was difficult to find a church that would marry them, hence, they tied the knot at an abandoned chapel on October 31 and went on a honeymoon at Barry Island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Edwardo just couldn't resist winding me up and made an inappropriate comment about Marilyn Monroe looking hot. I was like, 'Wow really? It's our wedding day'. The comment completely ruined my evening," she said, while talking about the wedding.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">'What, what, what, what, WHAT?!'<a href="https://twitter.com/hollywills?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hollywills</a> was caught off-guard today by an unexpected visitor on the sofa...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThisMorning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThisMorning</a> <a href="https://t.co/J5e6dqU1Wr">pic.twitter.com/J5e6dqU1Wr</a></p>
— This Morning (@thismorning) <a href="https://twitter.com/thismorning/status/1587032036237316098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A woman in the United Kingdom claimed that she had married a ghost, and now she says she wants an exorcism to get rid of her husband. It may sound bizarre, but the life of 38-year-old Rocker Brocarde has become a living "hell".

A woman in the United Kingdom claimed that she had married a ghost, and now she says she wants an exorcism to get rid of her husband. It may sound bizarre, but the life of 38-year-old Rocker Brocarde has become a living "hell". Brocarde, who is reportedly from Oxfordshire, tied the knot with her husband Edwardo five months. She said that they met on Halloween last year. However, things appear to have gone awry as she now wants to separate from her husband, who ended up haunting her using "the screams of a crying baby". She said that she wants to end the marriage because Edwardo, who is said to be a ghost of a Victoria soldier, is apparently stalking her. While speaking to Daily Star, she said, "I am at the end of my tether. I don't want to admit defeat, but it feels like being married to a ghost doesn't work." As quoted by the media outlets, Brocarde has also said that she has been experiencing "deep dark thoughts" of late. She linked the issues to Edwardo (the ghost husband) as she says he is happy about her decision to end the marriage. Media outlets have also mentioned that she is a singer and songwriter. A report by Daily Mail stated that Brocarde reached out to a medium. However, she claimed that Edwardo did not want to take the "marriage counselling" seriously. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brocarde (@brocarde) × When she opened up about the wedding The UK woman said that she met her husband when he appeared in her room and before that, she didn't believe in ghosts. She said that it was difficult to find a church that would marry them, hence, they tied the knot at an abandoned chapel on October 31 and went on a honeymoon at Barry Island. "Edwardo just couldn't resist winding me up and made an inappropriate comment about Marilyn Monroe looking hot. I was like, 'Wow really? It's our wedding day'. The comment completely ruined my evening," she said, while talking about the wedding. 'What, what, what, what, WHAT?!'@hollywills was caught off-guard today by an unexpected visitor on the sofa...#ThisMorning pic.twitter.com/J5e6dqU1Wr — This Morning (@thismorning) October 31, 2022 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Otherworld issues! Woman wants divorce via exorcism from haunting ghost she married

<p>UK's data watchdog fined TikTok £12.7 million ($15.84 million) for not protecting children’s privacy. According to its data, TikTok permitted around 1.4 million UK children, who were below the age of 13, to use the social platform in 2020.</p>

<p>As per an investigation carried out by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO),&nbsp; data of children below the age of 13 was used by the video-sharing site without parental consent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-to-ban-tiktok-on-government-devices-over-security-concerns-report-578689">Australia to ban TikTok on government devices: Reports</a></p>

<p>TikTok said it had "invested heavily" to prevent under-13s from accessing the site.</p>

<p>The ICO said that many people were able to get access to the site even after TikTok had set 13 as the minimum age for creating an account.</p>

<p>It stated that the data of children may have been used for tracking and profiling them, and potentially exposing them to inappropriate or harmful content.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Information Commissioner John Edwards said, "There are laws in place to make sure our children are as safe in the digital world as they are in the physical world. TikTok did not abide by those laws.”</p>

<p>"As a consequence, an estimated one million under-13s were inappropriately granted access to the platform, with TikTok collecting and using their personal data. TikTok should have known better. TikTok should have done better. Our £12.7m fine reflects the serious impact their failures may have had,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | TikTok hit with $15.9 million fine in UK: Global crackdown on Chinese app</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiktok-hit-with-159-million-fine-in-uk-global-crackdown-on-chinese-app-579261/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Later speaking to BBC News, he said that TikTok had "taken no steps" to get parental consent.</p>

<p>"When you sign up you can be targeted for advertising, you can be profiled, your data contributes to an algorithm which feeds content. If you've been looking at content which is not appropriate for your age, that can get more and more extreme. It can be quite harmful for people who are not old enough to fully appreciate the implications and to make appropriate choices,” he stated.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UK's data watchdog fined TikTok £12.7 million ($15.84 million) for not protecting children’s privacy. According to its data, TikTok permitted around 1.4 million UK children, who were below the age of 13, to use the social platform in 2020.

UK's data watchdog fined TikTok £12.7 million ($15.84 million) for not protecting children’s privacy. According to its data, TikTok permitted around 1.4 million UK children, who were below the age of 13, to use the social platform in 2020. As per an investigation carried out by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), data of children below the age of 13 was used by the video-sharing site without parental consent. ALSO READ | Australia to ban TikTok on government devices: Reports TikTok said it had "invested heavily" to prevent under-13s from accessing the site. The ICO said that many people were able to get access to the site even after TikTok had set 13 as the minimum age for creating an account. It stated that the data of children may have been used for tracking and profiling them, and potentially exposing them to inappropriate or harmful content. Information Commissioner John Edwards said, "There are laws in place to make sure our children are as safe in the digital world as they are in the physical world. TikTok did not abide by those laws.” "As a consequence, an estimated one million under-13s were inappropriately granted access to the platform, with TikTok collecting and using their personal data. TikTok should have known better. TikTok should have done better. Our £12.7m fine reflects the serious impact their failures may have had,” he added. WATCH | TikTok hit with $15.9 million fine in UK: Global crackdown on Chinese app Later speaking to BBC News, he said that TikTok had "taken no steps" to get parental consent. "When you sign up you can be targeted for advertising, you can be profiled, your data contributes to an algorithm which feeds content. If you've been looking at content which is not appropriate for your age, that can get more and more extreme. It can be quite harmful for people who are not old enough to fully appreciate the implications and to make appropriate choices,” he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK's watchdog fines TikTok $15.84mn for misusing children's data

<p>The amount being spent by the gambling companies and lobbyists on MPs has increased by tenfold in five years, as per an analysis carried out by The Guardian which shows how the industry has developed as one of Westminster's best-connected sectors.</p>

<p>Data from parliamentary records, which are publicly available, shows that dozens of Conservative and Labour MPs have received corporate hospitality worth thousands of pounds in the past few years, which was paid by some of the biggest betting companies in the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-watchdog-fines-tiktok-1584m-for-misusing-childrens-data-579404">UK's watchdog fines TikTok $15.84mn for misusing children's data</a></p>

<p>The analysis, which came after reports suggested that Conservative MP Scott Benton had made the offer of lobbying ministers on behalf of the industry in exchange for money, showed that the sector is currently spending tens of thousands of pounds every year, mostly on the sports tickets bought for MPs. There are chances that the figure may be even higher than what has been reported, as anything less than £300 does not have to be declared.</p>

<p>The exorbitant figures have increased concern among some members of the parliament who feel that the gambling industry is now enjoying enormous political power, especially as preparations are being done by the government to publish its gambling white paper.</p>

<p>Labour MP for Swansea East, Carolyn Harris, who has campaigned for more regulation of gambling, said the industry’s fondness and deep pockets for treating MPs have been very obvious inside and around the parliament.</p>

<p>“If you go to the bar, you will probably see somebody from that industry, and they’re buying people drinks. They attract people with offers to go to things that ordinary people would never get access to, like the Brits, or to watch Manchester United in the hospitality section,” she said.</p>

<p>“There are certain times you can have a conversation with someone from an industry, and then you go off and make an independent decision, and that’s how it works. But what happens with this industry is, why do people have to keep on being convinced so many times? Some people take the hospitality time and time again,” Harris added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak's popularity rising within the conservative party</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-popularity-rising-within-the-conservative-party-578991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“They do this because they’re terrified of regulation. They have grown beyond even their own expectations, but it’s an industry where 10 per cent of the customers make 60 per cent of the profits. They want to protect what they have,” the Labour MP further stated.</p>

<p>The Times, earlier this week, had revealed that it had captured undercover footage of Blackpool South MP Benton, who was promising to “call in favours” from colleagues and offer “easy access” to ministers in exchange for £4,000 from a fake gambling company.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The amount being spent by the gambling companies and lobbyists on MPs has increased by tenfold in five years, as per an analysis carried out by The Guardian which shows how the industry has developed as one of Westminster's best-connected sectors.

The amount being spent by the gambling companies and lobbyists on MPs has increased by tenfold in five years, as per an analysis carried out by The Guardian which shows how the industry has developed as one of Westminster's best-connected sectors. Data from parliamentary records, which are publicly available, shows that dozens of Conservative and Labour MPs have received corporate hospitality worth thousands of pounds in the past few years, which was paid by some of the biggest betting companies in the country. ALSO READ | UK's watchdog fines TikTok $15.84mn for misusing children's data The analysis, which came after reports suggested that Conservative MP Scott Benton had made the offer of lobbying ministers on behalf of the industry in exchange for money, showed that the sector is currently spending tens of thousands of pounds every year, mostly on the sports tickets bought for MPs. There are chances that the figure may be even higher than what has been reported, as anything less than £300 does not have to be declared. The exorbitant figures have increased concern among some members of the parliament who feel that the gambling industry is now enjoying enormous political power, especially as preparations are being done by the government to publish its gambling white paper. Labour MP for Swansea East, Carolyn Harris, who has campaigned for more regulation of gambling, said the industry’s fondness and deep pockets for treating MPs have been very obvious inside and around the parliament. “If you go to the bar, you will probably see somebody from that industry, and they’re buying people drinks. They attract people with offers to go to things that ordinary people would never get access to, like the Brits, or to watch Manchester United in the hospitality section,” she said. “There are certain times you can have a conversation with someone from an industry, and then you go off and make an independent decision, and that’s how it works. But what happens with this industry is, why do people have to keep on being convinced so many times? Some people take the hospitality time and time again,” Harris added. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak's popularity rising within the conservative party “They do this because they’re terrified of regulation. They have grown beyond even their own expectations, but it’s an industry where 10 per cent of the customers make 60 per cent of the profits. They want to protect what they have,” the Labour MP further stated. The Times, earlier this week, had revealed that it had captured undercover footage of Blackpool South MP Benton, who was promising to “call in favours” from colleagues and offer “easy access” to ministers in exchange for £4,000 from a fake gambling company. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gambling companies increased amount spent on MPs tenfold in five years, shows data

<p>UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that it has detected a tick virus in various areas of England, United Kingdom which can cause serious meningitis-like symptoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency said that testing needs to be changed in hospitals to prevent the tick virus from spreading. After the health agency raised the alarm, enhanced surveillance was carried out for the virus in Scotland and England, reported BBC.</p>

<p>The report said that the health officials are also checking if the virus is present in the people’s blood samples even though they have no symptoms in various parts of Yorkshire. The officials were able to confirm one such non-symptomatic case.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sars-cov-2-virus-can-alter-our-dna-lead-to-long-covid-study-575438">SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study</a></p>

<p>The UKHSA, in an official statement, said that three cases of confirmed or probable tick-borne encephalitis contracted in England were found since 2019, which included one detected in the Yorkshire area last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The virus was also detected in the Norfolk and Hampshire/Dorset areas. The officials have released the information about the virus now because the tick season is starting, said a health agency spokesperson, according to news agency Reuters.</p>

<p>UKHSA deputy director Meera Chand said, “Our surveillance suggests that tick-borne encephalitis virus is very uncommon in the UK. Ticks also carry various other infections, including Lyme disease, so take steps to reduce your chances of being bitten when outdoors in areas where ticks thrive.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Marburg virus: US health body warns travellers to observe symptoms for 21 days</strong></p>

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<p>The tick virus is commonly found in many countries. The disease upon contraction can either cause an asymptomatic infection, mild illness, such as a stiff neck or headache, or severe infection that can present itself in the form of reduced consciousness or confusion.&nbsp;It affects the&nbsp;central nervous system and can even lead to meningitis or encephalitis</p>

<p>The health agency of the UK said that the risk of the virus is low, however, early testing would be beneficial as the virus is present in some cases asymptomatically. People should check their bodies and clothes for ticks after coming from outdoors, advised the health agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that it has detected a tick virus in various areas of England, United Kingdom which can cause serious meningitis-like symptoms.

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that it has detected a tick virus in various areas of England, United Kingdom which can cause serious meningitis-like symptoms. The agency said that testing needs to be changed in hospitals to prevent the tick virus from spreading. After the health agency raised the alarm, enhanced surveillance was carried out for the virus in Scotland and England, reported BBC. The report said that the health officials are also checking if the virus is present in the people’s blood samples even though they have no symptoms in various parts of Yorkshire. The officials were able to confirm one such non-symptomatic case. ALSO READ | SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study The UKHSA, in an official statement, said that three cases of confirmed or probable tick-borne encephalitis contracted in England were found since 2019, which included one detected in the Yorkshire area last year. The virus was also detected in the Norfolk and Hampshire/Dorset areas. The officials have released the information about the virus now because the tick season is starting, said a health agency spokesperson, according to news agency Reuters. UKHSA deputy director Meera Chand said, “Our surveillance suggests that tick-borne encephalitis virus is very uncommon in the UK. Ticks also carry various other infections, including Lyme disease, so take steps to reduce your chances of being bitten when outdoors in areas where ticks thrive.” WATCH | Marburg virus: US health body warns travellers to observe symptoms for 21 days The tick virus is commonly found in many countries. The disease upon contraction can either cause an asymptomatic infection, mild illness, such as a stiff neck or headache, or severe infection that can present itself in the form of reduced consciousness or confusion. It affects the central nervous system and can even lead to meningitis or encephalitis The health agency of the UK said that the risk of the virus is low, however, early testing would be beneficial as the virus is present in some cases asymptomatically. People should check their bodies and clothes for ticks after coming from outdoors, advised the health agency. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Health warning over tick virus in UK. Here’s what we know so far

<p>All mobile phones across the United Kingdom (UK) will get a siren-like alert next month as the government tests a new public warning system. According to an official statement on Sunday (March 19), the "Emergency Alerts&nbsp;service is launched and is in operation from today, and the UK-wide alerts test will take place on the evening of April 23."</p>

<p>"The Emergency Alerts system will transform the UK’s warning and informing capability; providing a means to get urgent messages quickly to nearly 90 per cent of mobile phones in a defined area; providing clear instructions about how best to respond," the statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added the system is now ready to be tested across the country following successful tests in East Suffolk and Reading and will help authorities warn people about life-threatening events. The government added that the alerts will only come from government or emergency services and they will issue a warning, always including&nbsp;details of the area impacted, and provide instructions about how best to respond.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Alerts to be used very rarely'</strong></h2>

<p>The government highlighted that these alerts will be used very rarely, only being sent where there is an immediate risk to people’s lives,&nbsp;so people may not receive an alert for months or even years.</p>

<p>"The service has already been used successfully in a number of other countries, including the US, Canada, the Netherlands and Japan, where it has been widely credited with saving lives, for example, during severe weather events. In the UK, alerts could be used to tell residents of villages being encroached by wildfires, or of severe flooding," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-mail-systemically-failed-to-meet-delivery-requirement-mps-573175">UK: Royal Mail ‘systemically failed’ to meet delivery requirement, say MPs</a></strong></p>

<p>These alerts will be used across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and their initial use will focus on the most serious severe weather-related incidents. The government has been working closely with a range of stakeholders and partners across the UK on developing the system, including officials from emergency services, transport groups, and the Environment Agency.</p>

<p>These alerts will also be secure, free to receive, and one-way. They will not reveal anyone's location or collect personal information. They can only be sent by authorised governmental and emergency services users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Dowden, said that the Emergency Alerts system would revolutionise the government's ability to warn and inform people who are in immediate danger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mark Hardingham, the chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said, "Together with every fire and rescue service in the country, I’m looking forward to having Emergency Alerts available to help us to do our jobs and to help communities in the event of emergencies."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Caroline Douglass, the executive Director for Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said that the system is a fantastic addition to the agency's toolbox that can be used in emergencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Being able to communicate warnings in a timely and accurate manner during incidents is really important to help people take action to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbours," Douglass said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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All mobile phones across the United Kingdom (UK) will get a siren-like alert next month as the government tests a new public warning system. According to an official statement on Sunday (March 19), the "Emergency Alerts service is launched and is in operation from today, and the UK-wide alerts test will take place on the evening of April 23.

All mobile phones across the United Kingdom (UK) will get a siren-like alert next month as the government tests a new public warning system. According to an official statement on Sunday (March 19), the "Emergency Alerts service is launched and is in operation from today, and the UK-wide alerts test will take place on the evening of April 23." "The Emergency Alerts system will transform the UK’s warning and informing capability; providing a means to get urgent messages quickly to nearly 90 per cent of mobile phones in a defined area; providing clear instructions about how best to respond," the statement said. It added the system is now ready to be tested across the country following successful tests in East Suffolk and Reading and will help authorities warn people about life-threatening events. The government added that the alerts will only come from government or emergency services and they will issue a warning, always including details of the area impacted, and provide instructions about how best to respond. 'Alerts to be used very rarely' The government highlighted that these alerts will be used very rarely, only being sent where there is an immediate risk to people’s lives, so people may not receive an alert for months or even years. "The service has already been used successfully in a number of other countries, including the US, Canada, the Netherlands and Japan, where it has been widely credited with saving lives, for example, during severe weather events. In the UK, alerts could be used to tell residents of villages being encroached by wildfires, or of severe flooding," the statement added. ALSO READ | UK: Royal Mail ‘systemically failed’ to meet delivery requirement, say MPs These alerts will be used across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and their initial use will focus on the most serious severe weather-related incidents. The government has been working closely with a range of stakeholders and partners across the UK on developing the system, including officials from emergency services, transport groups, and the Environment Agency. These alerts will also be secure, free to receive, and one-way. They will not reveal anyone's location or collect personal information. They can only be sent by authorised governmental and emergency services users. Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Dowden, said that the Emergency Alerts system would revolutionise the government's ability to warn and inform people who are in immediate danger. Mark Hardingham, the chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said, "Together with every fire and rescue service in the country, I’m looking forward to having Emergency Alerts available to help us to do our jobs and to help communities in the event of emergencies." Meanwhile, Caroline Douglass, the executive Director for Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said that the system is a fantastic addition to the agency's toolbox that can be used in emergencies. "Being able to communicate warnings in a timely and accurate manner during incidents is really important to help people take action to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbours," Douglass said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK: All mobile phones to get siren-like alert next month as govt tests new public warning system

<p>According to a recent global study, the United Kingdom has left behind Canada, Germany and Australia to become one of the most socially liberal nations of the world on the issues of divorce and abortion.</p>

<p>In the last five years, Britons have moved further towards acceptance of casual sex, prostitution and homosexuality, the World Values Survey stated, which is a progression from saying earlier that these practices are justifiable.</p>

<p>The survey by the Policy Institute at King’s College London is focused on 24 nations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Americas, accounting for around half of the population of the world.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-year-old-uk-boy-dresses-up-as-prince-harry-for-world-book-day-568208">Three-year-old UK boy dresses up as Prince Harry for World Book Day</a></p>

<p>The UK ranked&nbsp;at the top among the four nations which consider matters like casual sex, euthanasia, divorce, abortion, and suicide. Swedes have emerged as the most liberal people on abortion and divorce, the French have liberal thoughts on suicide, and Germans are liberal about euthanasia.</p>

<p>“What were once pressing moral concerns – things like homosexuality, divorce and casual sex – have become simple facts of life for much of the public,” said Prof Bobby Duffy, the Policy Institute's director.</p>

<p>“This mostly isn’t just driven by younger generations replacing older generations. All generations have changed their views significantly,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: The UK is no more a great place to live</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking about the issue of executions, Duffy said that the enthusiasm of the British for the death penalty had softened in recent years, but the matter remains bound up with political identities, “with Conservative voters much more supportive of capital punishment [67 per cent said it was at least potentially justifiable] than Labour voters [47 per cent], which helps explain why it continues to be brought up in political discussions”.</p>

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According to a recent global study, the United Kingdom has left behind Canada, Germany and Australia to become one of the most socially liberal nations of the world on the issues of divorce and abortion.

According to a recent global study, the United Kingdom has left behind Canada, Germany and Australia to become one of the most socially liberal nations of the world on the issues of divorce and abortion. In the last five years, Britons have moved further towards acceptance of casual sex, prostitution and homosexuality, the World Values Survey stated, which is a progression from saying earlier that these practices are justifiable. The survey by the Policy Institute at King’s College London is focused on 24 nations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Americas, accounting for around half of the population of the world. ALSO READ | Three-year-old UK boy dresses up as Prince Harry for World Book Day The UK ranked at the top among the four nations which consider matters like casual sex, euthanasia, divorce, abortion, and suicide. Swedes have emerged as the most liberal people on abortion and divorce, the French have liberal thoughts on suicide, and Germans are liberal about euthanasia. “What were once pressing moral concerns – things like homosexuality, divorce and casual sex – have become simple facts of life for much of the public,” said Prof Bobby Duffy, the Policy Institute's director. “This mostly isn’t just driven by younger generations replacing older generations. All generations have changed their views significantly,” he added. WATCH | Gravitas: The UK is no more a great place to live Speaking about the issue of executions, Duffy said that the enthusiasm of the British for the death penalty had softened in recent years, but the matter remains bound up with political identities, “with Conservative voters much more supportive of capital punishment [67 per cent said it was at least potentially justifiable] than Labour voters [47 per cent], which helps explain why it continues to be brought up in political discussions”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK ranks number one among most liberal nations on abortion and divorce: survey

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday promised to resolve the issue of illegal migrants within weeks as per the new plan to stop people from illegally crossing the Channel on small boats.</p>

<p>Sunak was speaking after the Conservative government unveiled proposals barring illegal migrants entry into the country, as the government acknowledged were stretching international law amid protests from rights campaigners.</p>

<p>Last year, England recorded the arrival of more than 45,000 migrants on the shores on small boats, which was a jump of 60 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-home-secretary-suella-braverman-lays-down-governments-illegal-migration-bill-before-house-of-commons-569591">UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman lays down Illegal Migration Bill before House of Commons</a></p>

<p>As per the draft law, anyone who will arrive in the UK illegally will not be allowed to claim asylum, Sunak said at a news conference.</p>

<p>"If you come here illegally, you can't claim asylum. You can't benefit from our modern slavery protections. You can't make spurious human rights claims and you can't stay," he added.</p>

<p>"We will detain those who come here illegally and then remove them in weeks, either to their own country if it is safe to do so. Or to a Safe Third Country like Rwanda and once you are removed, you will be banned as you are in America and Australia from ever re-entering our country," he stated.</p>

<p>As per the draft law, interior minister Suella Braverman will be assigned the task of deporting all migrants entering illegally.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak announces crackdown on Albanian illegal migrants</strong></p>

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<p>"The current situation is neither moral nor sustainable. It cannot go on. And it's devastatingly unfair on those who most need our help, but can't get it as our asylum system is being overwhelmed by those travelling illegally across the channel," Sunak said.</p>

<p>In the parliament, Right-winger Braverman said that she was "confident that this bill is compatible with international obligations", despite earlier accepting that it "pushed the boundaries of international law".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday promised to resolve the issue of illegal migrants within weeks as per the new plan to stop people from illegally crossing the Channel on small boats.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday promised to resolve the issue of illegal migrants within weeks as per the new plan to stop people from illegally crossing the Channel on small boats. Sunak was speaking after the Conservative government unveiled proposals barring illegal migrants entry into the country, as the government acknowledged were stretching international law amid protests from rights campaigners. Last year, England recorded the arrival of more than 45,000 migrants on the shores on small boats, which was a jump of 60 per cent. ALSO READ | UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman lays down Illegal Migration Bill before House of Commons As per the draft law, anyone who will arrive in the UK illegally will not be allowed to claim asylum, Sunak said at a news conference. "If you come here illegally, you can't claim asylum. You can't benefit from our modern slavery protections. You can't make spurious human rights claims and you can't stay," he added. "We will detain those who come here illegally and then remove them in weeks, either to their own country if it is safe to do so. Or to a Safe Third Country like Rwanda and once you are removed, you will be banned as you are in America and Australia from ever re-entering our country," he stated. As per the draft law, interior minister Suella Braverman will be assigned the task of deporting all migrants entering illegally. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak announces crackdown on Albanian illegal migrants "The current situation is neither moral nor sustainable. It cannot go on. And it's devastatingly unfair on those who most need our help, but can't get it as our asylum system is being overwhelmed by those travelling illegally across the channel," Sunak said. In the parliament, Right-winger Braverman said that she was "confident that this bill is compatible with international obligations", despite earlier accepting that it "pushed the boundaries of international law". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Stop the boats | Illegal migrants to be detained and deported, says Sunak

<p>Australia's former defence minister Peter Dutton said that the nation is losing interest in purchasing British nuclear submarines and is thinking about buying the ones made in America instead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dutton, who was the country's defence minister until 10 months ago and led the government's decision of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, reportedly said that he has been informed about various hurdles in purchasing a British submarine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The problems include the UK's weak production capacity and compatibility issues of a British-designed submarine with those operated by the United States, which is Australia’s closest defence ally.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/olaf-scholzs-visit-to-india-germany-to-pursue-52-billion-submarine-deal-says-sources-565576">Olaf Scholz's visit to India: Germany to pursue $5.2 billion submarine deal, say sources</a></p>

<p>As per the news report, the latest operational nuclear-powered submarine of the United States, Virginia-class is the rival of the UK.</p>

<p>The comments of Dutton came as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gears up to travel to Washington this month. He, along with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden, is likely to talk about the “optimal pathway” for Australia to replace its ageing fleet of diesel-electric submarines, which have been built locally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Aukus defence pact which was signed by Australia with the UK and the US in late 2021, eight nuclear-powered submarines, of either British or US design or a combination of the two, will be acquired by Australia.</p>

<p>The vessels will cost around $AUD100 billion (£56 billion).</p>

<p>However, the comment made by Dutton did not go down well with Australia’s Defence Minister Pat Conroy who accused the former defence minister of undermining the new submarine programme's confidence and said that the classified information he had received as a defence minister was misused by him.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | China objects to Aukus nuclear submarine deal talks</strong></p>

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<p>“He (Dutton) is either being mischievous or he’s not privy to the latest information. I have just come back from Barrow in the United Kingdom where I have got a full briefing on what the UK is doing. I think those comments from Peter Dutton are incredibly irresponsible. This was a man who received classified briefings up until May 21 on this programme," Conroy said.&nbsp;</p>

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Australia's former defence minister Peter Dutton said that the nation is losing interest in purchasing British nuclear submarines and is thinking about buying the ones made in America instead.

Australia's former defence minister Peter Dutton said that the nation is losing interest in purchasing British nuclear submarines and is thinking about buying the ones made in America instead. Dutton, who was the country's defence minister until 10 months ago and led the government's decision of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, reportedly said that he has been informed about various hurdles in purchasing a British submarine. The problems include the UK's weak production capacity and compatibility issues of a British-designed submarine with those operated by the United States, which is Australia’s closest defence ally. ALSO READ | Olaf Scholz's visit to India: Germany to pursue $5.2 billion submarine deal, say sources As per the news report, the latest operational nuclear-powered submarine of the United States, Virginia-class is the rival of the UK. The comments of Dutton came as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gears up to travel to Washington this month. He, along with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden, is likely to talk about the “optimal pathway” for Australia to replace its ageing fleet of diesel-electric submarines, which have been built locally. As per the Aukus defence pact which was signed by Australia with the UK and the US in late 2021, eight nuclear-powered submarines, of either British or US design or a combination of the two, will be acquired by Australia. The vessels will cost around $AUD100 billion (£56 billion). However, the comment made by Dutton did not go down well with Australia’s Defence Minister Pat Conroy who accused the former defence minister of undermining the new submarine programme's confidence and said that the classified information he had received as a defence minister was misused by him. WATCH | China objects to Aukus nuclear submarine deal talks “He (Dutton) is either being mischievous or he’s not privy to the latest information. I have just come back from Barrow in the United Kingdom where I have got a full briefing on what the UK is doing. I think those comments from Peter Dutton are incredibly irresponsible. This was a man who received classified briefings up until May 21 on this programme," Conroy said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia losing interest in acquiring British nuclear submarines, says ex-defence minister

<p>Phoenix Community Capital, a cryptocurrency investment firm in the United Kingdom that had links to two all-party parliamentary groups (APPGs), seems to have disappeared. The development has left several investors worried about losing tens of thousands of pounds in investment. Valued at around £665 million ($800 million) at one point, it was launched as an investment scheme and a cryptocurrency project at the start of 2022. It has also cast doubts about the roles of APPGs in the parliament, British news platform the Guardian reported, further pointing out that this is a typical case of a firm trying to gain credibility by associating itself with APPGs and parliamentarians.</p>

<p>While it was the sponsor for one of the APPGs, the firm's co-founder Luke Sullivan was reported to have spoken for the second APPG at an event. A former Premier League footballer is among investors who bear the loss with the disappearance. The firm was last active on Twitter in September 2022.</p>

<p>Despite warnings of the risks involved, the UK registered around 2 million crypto investors in 2021. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)&nbsp;said at the time that the country registered a rise of 400,000 users compared to 2020. Even as the government is taking steady steps to regulate cryptocurrency, members of parliament have been among those who have been targeted.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Gravitas: Cryptocurrency: New tool for money laundering</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier this month, the UK government revealed elaborate plans in this regard. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow the economy and enable technological change and innovation – and this includes cryptoasset technology," Economic Secretary to the Treasury Andrew Griffith said. “But we must also protect consumers who are embracing this new technology - ensuring robust, transparent, and fair standards.”</p>

<p>Also read| <a href="wionews.com/business-economy/uk-cryptocurrency-atms-used-to-exchange-traditional-currency-with-bitcoins-busted-in-leeds-562108">UK: Cryptocurrency ATMs, used to exchange traditional currency with Bitcoins, busted in Leeds</a></p>

<p>As part of the measures, the UK government said, it would seek to regulate a broad suite of cryptoasset activities, consistent with its approach to traditional finance. "These proposals will place responsibility on crypto trading venues for defining the detailed content requirements for admission and disclosure documents – ensuring crypto exchanges have fair and robust standards," it underlined in an official release.</p>

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Phoenix Community Capital, a cryptocurrency investment firm in the United Kingdom that had links to two all-party parliamentary groups (APPGs), seems to have disappeared.

Phoenix Community Capital, a cryptocurrency investment firm in the United Kingdom that had links to two all-party parliamentary groups (APPGs), seems to have disappeared. The development has left several investors worried about losing tens of thousands of pounds in investment. Valued at around £665 million ($800 million) at one point, it was launched as an investment scheme and a cryptocurrency project at the start of 2022. It has also cast doubts about the roles of APPGs in the parliament, British news platform the Guardian reported, further pointing out that this is a typical case of a firm trying to gain credibility by associating itself with APPGs and parliamentarians. While it was the sponsor for one of the APPGs, the firm's co-founder Luke Sullivan was reported to have spoken for the second APPG at an event. A former Premier League footballer is among investors who bear the loss with the disappearance. The firm was last active on Twitter in September 2022. Despite warnings of the risks involved, the UK registered around 2 million crypto investors in 2021. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said at the time that the country registered a rise of 400,000 users compared to 2020. Even as the government is taking steady steps to regulate cryptocurrency, members of parliament have been among those who have been targeted. Also watch | Gravitas: Cryptocurrency: New tool for money laundering × Earlier this month, the UK government revealed elaborate plans in this regard. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow the economy and enable technological change and innovation – and this includes cryptoasset technology," Economic Secretary to the Treasury Andrew Griffith said. “But we must also protect consumers who are embracing this new technology - ensuring robust, transparent, and fair standards.” Also read| UK: Cryptocurrency ATMs, used to exchange traditional currency with Bitcoins, busted in Leeds As part of the measures, the UK government said, it would seek to regulate a broad suite of cryptoasset activities, consistent with its approach to traditional finance. "These proposals will place responsibility on crypto trading venues for defining the detailed content requirements for admission and disclosure documents – ensuring crypto exchanges have fair and robust standards," it underlined in an official release. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK cryptocurrency firm, with links to parliamentarians, seems to have disappeared

<p>Ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom (UK) are no longer at a higher risk of death from Covid than white Britons, a report from the Guardian said on Wednesday (February 22) citing data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS). The ONS data showed that the rates of deaths involving the virus are now substantially lower for all ethnic groups than earlier in the pandemic. During the first and second Covid waves, ethnic minorities had a significantly higher virus mortality rate than white Britons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During successive lockdowns, ethnic minorities were more likely exposed to Covid as they were more likely to be key workers or live in multi-generational households. Data showed that mortality rates were the highest for Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, black African and black Caribbean groups. By the third and fourth waves (Alpha and Delta waves), deaths came down, but ethnic disparities remained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the Guardian, ONS' senior statistician Vahé Nafilyan said that in the first and second waves, the differences in the mortality rates were largely due to social demographic factors, adding the main reason for these differences was differences in the risk of infection.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/after-three-years-of-wearing-masks-study-reveals-it-did-little-to-nothing-to-curb-covid-19-563051">Most of us wore masks for three years. Now study claims it did 'little to nothing' to curb Covid-19</a></strong></p>

<p>“The Delta wave coincided with the rollout of the vaccination campaign, where the uptake of the vaccine was much lower in some groups, such as the black Caribbean and black African groups, compared to the white British group,” He said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Omicron variant, meanwhile, caused&nbsp;less severe disease than the Delta variant. The senior statistician also told the Guardian that more and more people got immunity (from Covid) as they had been previously infected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So what hasn’t changed in the Omicron period is the gap in vaccination uptake. It has reduced slightly between groups, but it’s still there,” Nafilyan said. He also pointed out that further research was required to look into the level of immunity in different groups, and see whether groups with a lower vaccination rate had a higher level of infection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the onset of the pandemic, the UK has registered over 24.3 million infections, 206,246 deaths and nearly 23 million recoveries. Speaking to the Guardian, Kit Yates from the University of Bath said that it was unclear what was the reason behind the latest figures about ethnic minorities.</p>

<p>Yates, the director of the Centre for Mathematical Biology at the university, guessed "that there were disparities in terms of exposure levels for different ethnic groups earlier on in the pandemic when we were actively trying to control transmission."</p>

<p>"I suspect that these have now largely dissipated given the unmitigated spread situation in which we have found ourselves for the last year or so,” Yates added. He also said that another possibility was that the impact of vaccines was diminishing.&nbsp;</p>

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Ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom (UK) are no longer at a higher risk of death from Covid than white Britons, a report from the Guardian said on Wednesday (February 22) citing data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS).

Ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom (UK) are no longer at a higher risk of death from Covid than white Britons, a report from the Guardian said on Wednesday (February 22) citing data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS). The ONS data showed that the rates of deaths involving the virus are now substantially lower for all ethnic groups than earlier in the pandemic. During the first and second Covid waves, ethnic minorities had a significantly higher virus mortality rate than white Britons. During successive lockdowns, ethnic minorities were more likely exposed to Covid as they were more likely to be key workers or live in multi-generational households. Data showed that mortality rates were the highest for Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, black African and black Caribbean groups. By the third and fourth waves (Alpha and Delta waves), deaths came down, but ethnic disparities remained. Speaking to the Guardian, ONS' senior statistician Vahé Nafilyan said that in the first and second waves, the differences in the mortality rates were largely due to social demographic factors, adding the main reason for these differences was differences in the risk of infection. ALSO READ | Most of us wore masks for three years. Now study claims it did 'little to nothing' to curb Covid-19 “The Delta wave coincided with the rollout of the vaccination campaign, where the uptake of the vaccine was much lower in some groups, such as the black Caribbean and black African groups, compared to the white British group,” He said. The Omicron variant, meanwhile, caused less severe disease than the Delta variant. The senior statistician also told the Guardian that more and more people got immunity (from Covid) as they had been previously infected. "So what hasn’t changed in the Omicron period is the gap in vaccination uptake. It has reduced slightly between groups, but it’s still there,” Nafilyan said. He also pointed out that further research was required to look into the level of immunity in different groups, and see whether groups with a lower vaccination rate had a higher level of infection. Since the onset of the pandemic, the UK has registered over 24.3 million infections, 206,246 deaths and nearly 23 million recoveries. Speaking to the Guardian, Kit Yates from the University of Bath said that it was unclear what was the reason behind the latest figures about ethnic minorities. Yates, the director of the Centre for Mathematical Biology at the university, guessed "that there were disparities in terms of exposure levels for different ethnic groups earlier on in the pandemic when we were actively trying to control transmission." "I suspect that these have now largely dissipated given the unmitigated spread situation in which we have found ourselves for the last year or so,” Yates added. He also said that another possibility was that the impact of vaccines was diminishing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK: Ethnic minorities no longer at higher risk of death from Covid, says report

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<p>Shamima Begum, who left London when she was 15 to join the terror group ISIS eight years ago, on Wednesday lost an appeal for citizenship. The ex-ISIS member had married a fighter of the group and had three children, who died as infants. The 23-year-old will also not be allowed to return to the United Kingdom. She is currently living in a refugee camp in Syria. The Special Immigration Appeals Commission's Justice Jay, who presided over the appeal, said that the UK citizenship is "not an absolute entitlement for everyone", reported British network Sky News.</p>

<p>She had challenged the decision by former British interior minister Sajid Javid of stripping her of citizenship in 2019. Reports also pointed out that Justice Jay on Wednesday ruled that Javid was not formally required to consider the claim about her trafficking to Syria when he took the decision. There was a “credible suspicion”, he further stressed, that she was a victim in this regard. The Secretary of State’s conclusion that she voluntarily travelled to Syria was “as stark as unsympathetic”, Justice Jay was quoted as saying by The Mirror. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the dismissal of the appeal, a spokesperson of the UK Home office underlined: "We are pleased that the court has found in favour of the government's position in this case. We will robustly defend any decision made in doing so.”&nbsp; Javid also welcomed the decision by the Special Immigration Appeals Commission. “This is a complex case, but home secretaries should have the power to prevent anyone entering our country who is assessed to pose a threat to it," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch: Book claims spy for Canada smuggled Shamima Begum, 2 other schoolgirls to Syria</strong></p>

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<p>In 2015, Shamima Begum left with school friends for Syria, where she married the hardline IS member and Dutch national Yago Riedijk. She was later found in a detention camp in Syria; and was stripped of her British citizenship on national security grounds.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-isis-leader-killed-four-us-troops-dog-wounded-after-helicopter-raid-in-syria-563245">Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military</a></strong></p>

<p>In November, she challenged the decision as her lawyers argued that Britain’s interior ministry did not probe if she was a “child victim of trafficking”. Her lawyers also argued that then-Home Secretary Sajid Javid had “pre-determined” that Begum’s British citizenship should be revoked before getting any evidence.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, her lawyers said the "legal fight was far from over".</p>

<p><em>(With agency inputs)</em></p>

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Shamima Begum, who left London when she was 15 to join the terror group ISIS eight years ago, on Wednesday lost an appeal for citizenship. The ex-ISIS member had married a fighter of the group and had three children, who died as infants.

Shamima Begum, who left London when she was 15 to join the terror group ISIS eight years ago, on Wednesday lost an appeal for citizenship. The ex-ISIS member had married a fighter of the group and had three children, who died as infants. The 23-year-old will also not be allowed to return to the United Kingdom. She is currently living in a refugee camp in Syria. The Special Immigration Appeals Commission's Justice Jay, who presided over the appeal, said that the UK citizenship is "not an absolute entitlement for everyone", reported British network Sky News. She had challenged the decision by former British interior minister Sajid Javid of stripping her of citizenship in 2019. Reports also pointed out that Justice Jay on Wednesday ruled that Javid was not formally required to consider the claim about her trafficking to Syria when he took the decision. There was a “credible suspicion”, he further stressed, that she was a victim in this regard. The Secretary of State’s conclusion that she voluntarily travelled to Syria was “as stark as unsympathetic”, Justice Jay was quoted as saying by The Mirror. In response to the dismissal of the appeal, a spokesperson of the UK Home office underlined: "We are pleased that the court has found in favour of the government's position in this case. We will robustly defend any decision made in doing so.” Javid also welcomed the decision by the Special Immigration Appeals Commission. “This is a complex case, but home secretaries should have the power to prevent anyone entering our country who is assessed to pose a threat to it," he said. Also Watch: Book claims spy for Canada smuggled Shamima Begum, 2 other schoolgirls to Syria × In 2015, Shamima Begum left with school friends for Syria, where she married the hardline IS member and Dutch national Yago Riedijk. She was later found in a detention camp in Syria; and was stripped of her British citizenship on national security grounds. Also read: Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military In November, she challenged the decision as her lawyers argued that Britain’s interior ministry did not probe if she was a “child victim of trafficking”. Her lawyers also argued that then-Home Secretary Sajid Javid had “pre-determined” that Begum’s British citizenship should be revoked before getting any evidence. On Wednesday, her lawyers said the "legal fight was far from over". (With agency inputs) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-ISIS member Shamima Begum can't return to UK, loses citizenship bid

<p>Seasoned British politician Jeremy Corbyn has reacted strongly over the latest remarks by his successor in the Labour Party on the next general election, calling it "a flagrant attack on the democratic rights" of the members. Sir Keir Starmer - who has been serving as the leader of the opposition since 2020 - on Wednesday (February 15) said that Jeremy Corbyn won't be a Labour Party candidate in the next polls. Corbyn was suspended as the Labour MP in 2020 after a massive controversy broke out over anti-Semitism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Emphasising on the changes in the party, Sir Keir Starmer was quoted as saying in a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-64640069">BBC report</a>, "We are not going back, and that is why Jeremy Corbyn will not stand as a Labour candidate at the next general election."</p>

<p>This was followed by a Twitter tirade by Corbyn. "Ever since I was elected as a Labour MP 40 years ago, I have fought on behalf of my community for a more equal, caring and peaceful society," he underlined in a long note shared on Twitter. Poverty, rising rents, healthcare crisis, safety of refugees, and fate of the planet - he counted the issues in focus during his stint as Islington North MP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Keir Starmer's statement "about my future is a flagrant attack on the democratic rights of Islington North Labour Party members," he further wrote, and added: "It is up to them - not party leaders - to decide who their party leader should be. Any attempt to block my candidacy is a denial of due process, and should be opposed by anybody who believes in democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK is faced with "worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation", he insisted, terming Starmer's comments as diversionary tactics, taking his former party away from the goal of defeating the Conservatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/labour-party-pledges-to-abolish-uks-house-of-lords-ahead-of-2024-elections-540207">Labour Party plans to abolish UK's House of Lords, says leader Keir Starmer</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Starmer had also tweeted about changes in the party under his leadership. "The Labour Party has changed from a party that looked inwards to a party that meets the public gaze. From a party of dogma to a party of patriotism. With my leadership, there will be zero tolerance of antisemitism, of racism, of discrimination of any kind. (sic)," read the post, which also had a video.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speculation, however, is rife that Corbyn may seek a Labour Party nomination from his constituency.&nbsp;</p>

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Seasoned British politician Jeremy Corbyn has reacted strongly over the latest remarks by his successor in the Labour Party on the next general election, calling it "a flagrant attack on the democratic rights" of the members.

Seasoned British politician Jeremy Corbyn has reacted strongly over the latest remarks by his successor in the Labour Party on the next general election, calling it "a flagrant attack on the democratic rights" of the members. Sir Keir Starmer - who has been serving as the leader of the opposition since 2020 - on Wednesday (February 15) said that Jeremy Corbyn won't be a Labour Party candidate in the next polls. Corbyn was suspended as the Labour MP in 2020 after a massive controversy broke out over anti-Semitism. Emphasising on the changes in the party, Sir Keir Starmer was quoted as saying in a BBC report, "We are not going back, and that is why Jeremy Corbyn will not stand as a Labour candidate at the next general election." This was followed by a Twitter tirade by Corbyn. "Ever since I was elected as a Labour MP 40 years ago, I have fought on behalf of my community for a more equal, caring and peaceful society," he underlined in a long note shared on Twitter. Poverty, rising rents, healthcare crisis, safety of refugees, and fate of the planet - he counted the issues in focus during his stint as Islington North MP. Keir Starmer's statement "about my future is a flagrant attack on the democratic rights of Islington North Labour Party members," he further wrote, and added: "It is up to them - not party leaders - to decide who their party leader should be. Any attempt to block my candidacy is a denial of due process, and should be opposed by anybody who believes in democracy." The UK is faced with "worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation", he insisted, terming Starmer's comments as diversionary tactics, taking his former party away from the goal of defeating the Conservatives. Also read: Labour Party plans to abolish UK's House of Lords, says leader Keir Starmer On Wednesday, Starmer had also tweeted about changes in the party under his leadership. "The Labour Party has changed from a party that looked inwards to a party that meets the public gaze. From a party of dogma to a party of patriotism. With my leadership, there will be zero tolerance of antisemitism, of racism, of discrimination of any kind. (sic)," read the post, which also had a video. Speculation, however, is rife that Corbyn may seek a Labour Party nomination from his constituency. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jeremy Corbyn vs Labour Party's Starmer over polls: 'Attack on democracy'

<p>After 66 years of marriage, when an 83-year-old woman in the United Kingdom and her daughters got nothing in her husband's will when he died, she took up the matter legally. A court in London has now ruled in her favour, granting her a share of an estate worth more than £1 million (around $1.2 million).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karnail Singh, as per reports, died in 2021 and left everything to his two sons because he "wished to leave his estate solely down the male line”, the family division of the high court in London was told. Harbans Kaur, his wife, and their four daughters were cut out in the will that was written in 2005. Kaur was married since 1955. The family owns a clothing business, and an estate valued at £1.9 million (approx. $2.23 million), according to Kaur. Her son, however, said the estate was worth £1.2 million ($1.4 million).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Justice Peel, who heard the matter, was quoted as saying in a report <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2023/feb/15/widow-left-out-of-husbands-will-after-66-year-marriage-wins-half-of-1m-estate">by The Guardian</a>: "It seems to me that this is the clearest possible case entitling me to conclude that reasonable provision has not been made for the claimant." The wife was left "next to nothing," the judge further noted, stressing, "it is hard to see how any other conclusion can be reached". Kaur made a "full and equal contribution" during the marriage of 66 &nbsp;years, he said.</p>

<p>The London court has ruled that she should get 50 per cent of the net value of the estate. Post the decision, Kaur's lawyer emphasised that the ruling "should be a warning", adding that "spouses can't be simply cut out of wills".</p>

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After 66 years of marriage, when an 83-year-old woman in the United Kingdom and her daughters got nothing in her husband's will when he died, she took up the matter legally.

After 66 years of marriage, when an 83-year-old woman in the United Kingdom and her daughters got nothing in her husband's will when he died, she took up the matter legally. A court in London has now ruled in her favour, granting her a share of an estate worth more than £1 million (around $1.2 million). Karnail Singh, as per reports, died in 2021 and left everything to his two sons because he "wished to leave his estate solely down the male line”, the family division of the high court in London was told. Harbans Kaur, his wife, and their four daughters were cut out in the will that was written in 2005. Kaur was married since 1955. The family owns a clothing business, and an estate valued at £1.9 million (approx. $2.23 million), according to Kaur. Her son, however, said the estate was worth £1.2 million ($1.4 million). Justice Peel, who heard the matter, was quoted as saying in a report by The Guardian: "It seems to me that this is the clearest possible case entitling me to conclude that reasonable provision has not been made for the claimant." The wife was left "next to nothing," the judge further noted, stressing, "it is hard to see how any other conclusion can be reached". Kaur made a "full and equal contribution" during the marriage of 66 years, he said. The London court has ruled that she should get 50 per cent of the net value of the estate. Post the decision, Kaur's lawyer emphasised that the ruling "should be a warning", adding that "spouses can't be simply cut out of wills". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cut out of husband's will after 66 years of marriage, woman in UK gets 50% of wealth: Report

<p>Britain's opposition, the Labour Party is set to launch a campaign targetting the Conservatives for indiscriminate spending of taxpayers' money on luxury travel and hotels. Labour is launching the campaign following&nbsp;an analysis of government spending.</p>

<p>“As Conservative ministers once again reach into the pockets of taxpayers to dine out on a five-star luxury lifestyle, families up and down the country are sick with anxiety about whether their pay cheque will cover the weekly shop," said Angela Rayner, labour party deputy leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Far from actually governing, Conservative ministers are living the high life and treating taxpayers like a cash machine.”</p>

<p>The Keir Starmer-led opposition is expected to launch an intense social media campaign to highlight how Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Tory leaders used public money 'like a cash machine'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings of the dossier compiled by the Labour were published on www.theGPCfiles.com and showed how the use of Government Procurement Cards (GPC)&nbsp;had increased under the current Tory regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/questions-raised-on-sunak-for-spending-thousands-on-helicopter-trips-since-becoming-pm-559216"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Questions raised on Sunak for spending thousands on helicopter trips since becoming PM</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, a GPC is Whitehall's version of a contactless debit card that is used by different government agencies and their employees to buy goods and services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report stated that as of March 2022, the average spend per GPC had more than doubled from 2010.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of 31 March 2022, there were 8,666 GPCs in circulation across the 14 departments examined, and – where relevant – their executive agencies, compared to the almost 11,000 recorded by the NAO for those departments in October 2011. That means the average annual spend per card for those departments has more than doubled from $9,319 (£7,727) in 2010/11 to $20,251 (£16,790) in 2021."</p>

<p>The report is especially severe on Sunak for his rich expenditure during his time in the office as country's chancellor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rishi-sunak-accused-of-wasting-14-billion-in-debt-interest-payments-486795"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments</strong></a></p>

<p>The Tory leader stayed in Hotel Danieli, a five-star hotel in Venice when attending the G20 meeting of finance ministers in July 2021. More than $5,400 was spent on the accommodation of Sunak and his aides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It adds that Sunak's Treasury group spent as much as $30,572 (£25,347) on buying IT/office equipment in March 2021 alone&nbsp;whilst a fortune was spent on training courses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In a different type of bulk buying, the Cabinet Office and Treasury spent a combined total of $201,584 (£167,131) in the month of March 2021 on training course fees, 178 per cent more than the average of $72,513 (£60,120) they spent on training in the other eleven months of the year," the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rishi-sunaks-tenure-amidst-uks-economic-crisis-will-he-tackle-soaring-energy-bills-inflation-528202"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Rishi Sunak's tenure amidst UK's economic crisis, will he tackle soaring energy bills, inflation?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Similarly, newly crowned Tory chairman Greg Hands is also accused of shelling taxpayers' money to attend a private gathering of European policymakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the UK's economy taking a beating in the aftermath of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the Labour party is attempting to use this campaign to inflict damage upon Tories and their credibility.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Britain's opposition, the Labour Party is set to launch a campaign targetting the Conservatives for indiscriminate spending of taxpayers' money on luxury travel and hotels.

Britain's opposition, the Labour Party is set to launch a campaign targetting the Conservatives for indiscriminate spending of taxpayers' money on luxury travel and hotels. Labour is launching the campaign following an analysis of government spending. “As Conservative ministers once again reach into the pockets of taxpayers to dine out on a five-star luxury lifestyle, families up and down the country are sick with anxiety about whether their pay cheque will cover the weekly shop," said Angela Rayner, labour party deputy leader. "Far from actually governing, Conservative ministers are living the high life and treating taxpayers like a cash machine.” The Keir Starmer-led opposition is expected to launch an intense social media campaign to highlight how Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Tory leaders used public money 'like a cash machine'. The findings of the dossier compiled by the Labour were published on www.theGPCfiles.com and showed how the use of Government Procurement Cards (GPC) had increased under the current Tory regime. Read more: Questions raised on Sunak for spending thousands on helicopter trips since becoming PM Notably, a GPC is Whitehall's version of a contactless debit card that is used by different government agencies and their employees to buy goods and services. The report stated that as of March 2022, the average spend per GPC had more than doubled from 2010. "As of 31 March 2022, there were 8,666 GPCs in circulation across the 14 departments examined, and – where relevant – their executive agencies, compared to the almost 11,000 recorded by the NAO for those departments in October 2011. That means the average annual spend per card for those departments has more than doubled from $9,319 (£7,727) in 2010/11 to $20,251 (£16,790) in 2021." The report is especially severe on Sunak for his rich expenditure during his time in the office as country's chancellor. Read more: UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments The Tory leader stayed in Hotel Danieli, a five-star hotel in Venice when attending the G20 meeting of finance ministers in July 2021. More than $5,400 was spent on the accommodation of Sunak and his aides. It adds that Sunak's Treasury group spent as much as $30,572 (£25,347) on buying IT/office equipment in March 2021 alone whilst a fortune was spent on training courses. "In a different type of bulk buying, the Cabinet Office and Treasury spent a combined total of $201,584 (£167,131) in the month of March 2021 on training course fees, 178 per cent more than the average of $72,513 (£60,120) they spent on training in the other eleven months of the year," the report added. WATCH | Rishi Sunak's tenure amidst UK's economic crisis, will he tackle soaring energy bills, inflation? × Similarly, newly crowned Tory chairman Greg Hands is also accused of shelling taxpayers' money to attend a private gathering of European policymakers. With the UK's economy taking a beating in the aftermath of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the Labour party is attempting to use this campaign to inflict damage upon Tories and their credibility. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sunak & co. accused of splurging taxpayers' money, Labour releases a damning dossier

<p>The United Kingdom government has made a payment of $2.8 billion to the European Union to settle the long-standing dispute over footwear and textiles imported into the UK from China.</p>

<p>This week, the final payment of $1.33 billion will be made by the government, bringing the case to a close.</p>

<p>Chief secretary to the Treasury John Glen, in a written statement to the Commons, confirmed the payment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-british-mp-jailed-for-corruption-to-fund-his-drug-abuse-560394">Former British MP jailed for fraudulently claiming expenses to fund cocaine addiction</a></p>

<p>“Whilst the UK has now left the European Union and this is a legacy matter from before our departure, the government is keen to resolve this long-running case once and for all and is committed to fulfilling its international obligations,” he said while addressing the MPs.</p>

<p>Glen added that the final bill represented the interest which is due on the “principal amounts paid” and would “draw a line” under the dispute.</p>

<p>The case started in 2017 when the anti-fraud office of the European Union said that criminals were allowed by the British authorities to evade customs duties after they made false claims about shoes and clothes imported from China.</p>

<p>It was also discovered that more than half of all footwear and textiles imported from China to the UK were below “the lowest acceptable prices”.</p>

<p>“The UK has argued throughout the case that it took appropriate steps to counter the fraud in question. However, since these infringement proceedings were raised, the UK has taken proportionate and increased steps to combat this fraud without impacting legitimate trade, including by liquidating suspect traders through enforcement action," Glen said.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | UK's Energy Challenge: Britons urged to cut usage by 15%</strong></p>

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<p>“The UK takes a comprehensive and dynamic approach to tackling customs fraud risk and evolves its responses as any new potential threats emerge," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the MPs, he said that “throughout this process the government has also been conscious of the risk of further protracted legal proceedings, which could open UK taxpayers to not only a larger principal bill but also continued substantial interest accrual”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United Kingdom government has made a payment of $2.8 billion to the European Union to settle the long-standing dispute over footwear and textiles imported into the UK from China.

The United Kingdom government has made a payment of $2.8 billion to the European Union to settle the long-standing dispute over footwear and textiles imported into the UK from China. This week, the final payment of $1.33 billion will be made by the government, bringing the case to a close. Chief secretary to the Treasury John Glen, in a written statement to the Commons, confirmed the payment. ALSO READ | Former British MP jailed for fraudulently claiming expenses to fund cocaine addiction “Whilst the UK has now left the European Union and this is a legacy matter from before our departure, the government is keen to resolve this long-running case once and for all and is committed to fulfilling its international obligations,” he said while addressing the MPs. Glen added that the final bill represented the interest which is due on the “principal amounts paid” and would “draw a line” under the dispute. The case started in 2017 when the anti-fraud office of the European Union said that criminals were allowed by the British authorities to evade customs duties after they made false claims about shoes and clothes imported from China. It was also discovered that more than half of all footwear and textiles imported from China to the UK were below “the lowest acceptable prices”. “The UK has argued throughout the case that it took appropriate steps to counter the fraud in question. However, since these infringement proceedings were raised, the UK has taken proportionate and increased steps to combat this fraud without impacting legitimate trade, including by liquidating suspect traders through enforcement action," Glen said. WATCH | UK's Energy Challenge: Britons urged to cut usage by 15% “The UK takes a comprehensive and dynamic approach to tackling customs fraud risk and evolves its responses as any new potential threats emerge," he added. Speaking to the MPs, he said that “throughout this process the government has also been conscious of the risk of further protracted legal proceedings, which could open UK taxpayers to not only a larger principal bill but also continued substantial interest accrual”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK settles China import row, pays EU $2.8 billion

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky will be visiting united Kingdom on his second foreign visit since the Russian invasion as per the statement issued by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak office, Zelensky will visit Ukrainian forces currently training in Britain.

Ukraine's President Zelensky's first visit to UK since Russia-Ukraine war

<p>The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his views on the Hindu concept of "dharma" during an interview with British TV presenter Piers Morgan. The televised interview took place on the occasion of Sunak's 100th day as Britain's first Indian-origin prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 42-year-old Sunak talked about his motivation behind taking the PM's job after a slew of political scandals that shocked the nation last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak said, "For me, it's about duty. There's a concept in Hinduism called dharma, which roughly translates into duty and that's how I was raised. It was about doing the things that were expected of you and trying to do the right thing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British prime minister said that even though the job appeared to be a "nightmare", he felt that he could be the "best person" to make a difference at that moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Adani saga echoes in UK, Bangladesh&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He said that in the face of challenges that common people were facing nationwide, he thought it was necessary for him to put himself forward to do the job, despite knowing the fact that it would be difficult and challenging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I believe deeply in service and thought I could make a difference for the country,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak has often spoken about his Hindu faith giving him strength. He swore his oath of allegiance on being elected member of Parliament in the House of Commons on the ‘Bhagavad Gita’. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his views on the Hindu concept of "dharma" during an interview with British TV presenter Piers Morgan. The televised interview took place on the occasion of Sunak's 100th day as Britain's first Indian-origin prime minister.

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his views on the Hindu concept of "dharma" during an interview with British TV presenter Piers Morgan. The televised interview took place on the occasion of Sunak's 100th day as Britain's first Indian-origin prime minister. The 42-year-old Sunak talked about his motivation behind taking the PM's job after a slew of political scandals that shocked the nation last year. Sunak said, "For me, it's about duty. There's a concept in Hinduism called dharma, which roughly translates into duty and that's how I was raised. It was about doing the things that were expected of you and trying to do the right thing." The British prime minister said that even though the job appeared to be a "nightmare", he felt that he could be the "best person" to make a difference at that moment. WATCH | Gravitas: Adani saga echoes in UK, Bangladesh × He said that in the face of challenges that common people were facing nationwide, he thought it was necessary for him to put himself forward to do the job, despite knowing the fact that it would be difficult and challenging. “I believe deeply in service and thought I could make a difference for the country,” he said. Sunak has often spoken about his Hindu faith giving him strength. He swore his oath of allegiance on being elected member of Parliament in the House of Commons on the ‘Bhagavad Gita’. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘There’s a concept in Hinduism...’: Rishi Sunak felt it was his ‘dharma’ to take over as British PM

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>The United Kingdom has said that it won't provide Ukraine with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters amid Kyiv's growing demands for fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter Russian aggression.&nbsp;UK-based media outlet Daily Mail reported that Britain has refused a request from Ukraine for advanced fighter jets, stating that it is not "practical".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, Britain said that it&nbsp;won't send RAF Typhoon or F-35 fighters as it would take a long time to train pilots of Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the Daily Mail report, the prime minister's official spokesman said that it was "not currently practical" to send RAF jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uk-italy-japan-to-set-up-international-organisation-for-military-innovation-report-557718">The UK, Italy, Japan to set up international organisation for military innovation: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said, "The UK's Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets are extremely sophisticated and take months to learn how to fly. Given that, we believe it is not practical to send those jets into Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Obviously we will continue to provide and accelerate our military support to Ukraine and listen carefully to their requests."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent consensus among the West to send powerful tanks to Ukraine came as a boost for the war-torn nation, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to lobby the allies to supply fighter jets to repulse Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, the Ukrainian air force has Soviet-era Russian fighters, mainly the Mig-29 and it has further demanded powerful weapons, missiles, especially jets, as Kyiv wants fighter planes sooner rather than later.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Kyiv to get 120-140 Western tanks in first instalment&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russians-must-compete-moscow-responds-as-ukraine-threatens-paris-olympics-boycott-557649">'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, meanwhile,&nbsp;said "there was no taboo" about supplying Kyiv with fighter planes after meeting Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report published by Reuters said that two United States officials briefed on the matter told the news agency on Tuesday that the US is preparing a $2.2 billion package of additional assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Biden administration has already provided Ukraine with reportedly $27.2 billion in military aid since Russia's invasion. The news agency also reported that the US might offer Kyiv longer-range rockets for the first time and other munitions and weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The United Kingdom has said that it won't provide Ukraine with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters amid Kyiv's growing demands for fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter Russian aggression. UK-based media outlet Daily Mail reported that Britain has refused a request from Ukraine for advanced fighter jets, stating that it is not "practical". According to the report, Britain said that it won't send RAF Typhoon or F-35 fighters as it would take a long time to train pilots of Ukrainian forces. As quoted by the Daily Mail report, the prime minister's official spokesman said that it was "not currently practical" to send RAF jets. ALSO READ | The UK, Italy, Japan to set up international organisation for military innovation: Report He said, "The UK's Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets are extremely sophisticated and take months to learn how to fly. Given that, we believe it is not practical to send those jets into Ukraine." He added, "Obviously we will continue to provide and accelerate our military support to Ukraine and listen carefully to their requests." The recent consensus among the West to send powerful tanks to Ukraine came as a boost for the war-torn nation, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to lobby the allies to supply fighter jets to repulse Russian advances. Currently, the Ukrainian air force has Soviet-era Russian fighters, mainly the Mig-29 and it has further demanded powerful weapons, missiles, especially jets, as Kyiv wants fighter planes sooner rather than later. WATCH | War in Ukraine: Kyiv to get 120-140 Western tanks in first instalment × ALSO READ | 'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, meanwhile, said "there was no taboo" about supplying Kyiv with fighter planes after meeting Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in Paris. A report published by Reuters said that two United States officials briefed on the matter told the news agency on Tuesday that the US is preparing a $2.2 billion package of additional assistance. The Biden administration has already provided Ukraine with reportedly $27.2 billion in military aid since Russia's invasion. The news agency also reported that the US might offer Kyiv longer-range rockets for the first time and other munitions and weapons. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: UK says it won’t supply Kyiv with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters, gives reason

<p>Less than two months after leaders of Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom said that their countries will come together to develop a next-generation fighter jet, a report has claimed that the three countries aim to set up an international body by the end of 2023 to push through such tasks of military innovation.</p>

<p>Earlier in December 2022, this cooperation was formally called the Global Combat Air Programme.</p>

<p><strong>Global Combat Air Programme: What changes now?</strong></p>

<p>A report in Bloomberg citing people familiar with the matter says that the parliaments in Rome, Tokyo and London will ratify the formation of an international body in the middle of 2024.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-uk-italy-to-build-fighter-jet-together-pm-sunak-says-deal-will-keep-uk-safe-from-threats-541675">Japan, UK &amp; Italy to build fighter jet together; PM Sunak says 'Deal will keep UK safe from threats'</a></strong></p>

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<p>However, amid evolving discussions between the three countries, the "timeline could slip", the report added.</p>

<p>The talks between three countries are reportedly focused on whether the United Kingdom would be the lead partner or if the three nations would have equal ownership.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Japan, Italy, UK come together to develop advanced fighter jets: What exactly does it&nbsp;mean?</strong></p>

<p>The cooperation exactly combines various fighter jet development programmes led by the three countries separately and softens the supply-chain mechanisms and transfer of technology under an umbrella. Once formalised, it will combine the European Tempest and Japanese F-X projects, both of which have been in the pipeline for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-army-no-longer-among-worlds-top-combat-forces-says-us-general-557256">British Army no longer among world's top combat forces, says US general</a></strong></p>

<p>But even before the formalisation of cooperation into a formal team, the collective effort to boost airpower of three countries has begun. A report in Bloomberg said that as part of the political agreement announced last year, London-based BAE Systems Plc, Europe’s biggest defence company, and Italy’s Leonardo SpA — partners on the Eurofighter Typhoon and Tempest — will work with F-X lead contractor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd on the project.</p>

<p>The negotiations are also continuing on the creation of a joint venture, with the aim of setting the basis for commercial deals from end-2024 and 2025, it added.&nbsp;</p>

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Less than two months after leaders of Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom said that their countries will come together to develop a next-generation fighter jet, a report has claimed that the three countries aim to set up an international body by the end of 2023 to push through such tasks of military innovation.

Less than two months after leaders of Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom said that their countries will come together to develop a next-generation fighter jet, a report has claimed that the three countries aim to set up an international body by the end of 2023 to push through such tasks of military innovation. Earlier in December 2022, this cooperation was formally called the Global Combat Air Programme. Global Combat Air Programme: What changes now? A report in Bloomberg citing people familiar with the matter says that the parliaments in Rome, Tokyo and London will ratify the formation of an international body in the middle of 2024. ALSO WATCH | Japan, UK & Italy to build fighter jet together; PM Sunak says 'Deal will keep UK safe from threats' × However, amid evolving discussions between the three countries, the "timeline could slip", the report added. The talks between three countries are reportedly focused on whether the United Kingdom would be the lead partner or if the three nations would have equal ownership. Japan, Italy, UK come together to develop advanced fighter jets: What exactly does it mean? The cooperation exactly combines various fighter jet development programmes led by the three countries separately and softens the supply-chain mechanisms and transfer of technology under an umbrella. Once formalised, it will combine the European Tempest and Japanese F-X projects, both of which have been in the pipeline for years. ALSO READ | British Army no longer among world's top combat forces, says US general But even before the formalisation of cooperation into a formal team, the collective effort to boost airpower of three countries has begun. A report in Bloomberg said that as part of the political agreement announced last year, London-based BAE Systems Plc, Europe’s biggest defence company, and Italy’s Leonardo SpA — partners on the Eurofighter Typhoon and Tempest — will work with F-X lead contractor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd on the project. The negotiations are also continuing on the creation of a joint venture, with the aim of setting the basis for commercial deals from end-2024 and 2025, it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The UK, Italy, Japan to set up international organisation for military innovation: Report

<p>A report on Friday (January 27) has revealed that a string of billionaire businesspersons, the BBC's chair Richard Sharp, seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton and over 20 Conservative donors are among those who declared that they own British property through offshore jurisdictions. The report by The Guardian said that these declarations were made on the United Kingdom (UK) government's new register of overseas entities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The register gives details on how Gulf royals, wealthy businesspersons and countries such as China legally bought billions of pounds of most London property, often via jurisdictions like the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Channel Islands, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Friday noon, the Companies House register listed more than 17,000 overseas entities and thousands more are expected to be registered before the deadline which is on January 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Richard Sharp, whose appointment as the BBC chair is being questioned following questions about his role in securing a loan for former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, is the beneficial owner of a £4 million flat in London held through a Jersey-based trust, the report said. However, a spokesperson for Sharp said that the flat in question was his elderly mother's home.&nbsp;“Mr Sharp is a UK citizen, UK domiciled and has always been meticulous about always paying the full amount of tax here," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Like many parents, he has been thinking about how to provide for his children on his death. This arrangement isn’t about a personal tax benefit to him as he pays more UK tax under this arrangement, but about him planning for provision for his children,” the spokesperson added, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton owns a property worth £16.5 million in Kensington. A spokesperson for Hamilton said that the British racing driver did not gain tax benefits from this arrangement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Companies House register showed that royal families of Gulf states owned about £1 billion of British property via tax havens such as the BVI. The register also showed that the Chinese Investment Corporation, an arm of the Chinese government, owned at least &nbsp;£580 million worth of property through offshore entities, including distribution centres that are important for the flow of British goods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Conservative donors named in the register include two peers Irvine Laidlaw and Stanley Fink. The Guardian report on Friday said that Laidlaw had donated £3.2 million when the Conservative Party was in opposition. He has a portfolio of offices and residential homes held through at least nine Isle of Man-based companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stanley Fink, the former party treasurer, had given about £3.7 million over two decades. He owns a part of the St Pancras Renaissance hotel building through a Guernsey-based vehicle, the report added. Fink said gained no tax benefits from this structure.</p>

<p>Some other Tory donors include the Reuben brothers, property developers with 106 vehicles spanning the BVI to Guernsey, the report added. A spokesperson for the brother said that all the entities were liable to UK taxes, adding any taxes due were paid in compliance with the HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs). &nbsp;</p>

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A report on Friday (January 27) has revealed that a string of billionaire businesspersons, the BBC's chair Richard Sharp, seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton and over 20 Conservative donors are among those who declared that they own British property through offshore jurisdictions.

A report on Friday (January 27) has revealed that a string of billionaire businesspersons, the BBC's chair Richard Sharp, seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton and over 20 Conservative donors are among those who declared that they own British property through offshore jurisdictions. The report by The Guardian said that these declarations were made on the United Kingdom (UK) government's new register of overseas entities. The register gives details on how Gulf royals, wealthy businesspersons and countries such as China legally bought billions of pounds of most London property, often via jurisdictions like the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Channel Islands, the report said. As of Friday noon, the Companies House register listed more than 17,000 overseas entities and thousands more are expected to be registered before the deadline which is on January 31. Richard Sharp, whose appointment as the BBC chair is being questioned following questions about his role in securing a loan for former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, is the beneficial owner of a £4 million flat in London held through a Jersey-based trust, the report said. However, a spokesperson for Sharp said that the flat in question was his elderly mother's home. “Mr Sharp is a UK citizen, UK domiciled and has always been meticulous about always paying the full amount of tax here," the spokesperson said. “Like many parents, he has been thinking about how to provide for his children on his death. This arrangement isn’t about a personal tax benefit to him as he pays more UK tax under this arrangement, but about him planning for provision for his children,” the spokesperson added, the Guardian reported. Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton owns a property worth £16.5 million in Kensington. A spokesperson for Hamilton said that the British racing driver did not gain tax benefits from this arrangement. The Companies House register showed that royal families of Gulf states owned about £1 billion of British property via tax havens such as the BVI. The register also showed that the Chinese Investment Corporation, an arm of the Chinese government, owned at least £580 million worth of property through offshore entities, including distribution centres that are important for the flow of British goods. On the other hand, Conservative donors named in the register include two peers Irvine Laidlaw and Stanley Fink. The Guardian report on Friday said that Laidlaw had donated £3.2 million when the Conservative Party was in opposition. He has a portfolio of offices and residential homes held through at least nine Isle of Man-based companies. Stanley Fink, the former party treasurer, had given about £3.7 million over two decades. He owns a part of the St Pancras Renaissance hotel building through a Guernsey-based vehicle, the report added. Fink said gained no tax benefits from this structure. Some other Tory donors include the Reuben brothers, property developers with 106 vehicles spanning the BVI to Guernsey, the report added. A spokesperson for the brother said that all the entities were liable to UK taxes, adding any taxes due were paid in compliance with the HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How the rich hold British property through offshore companies? This report explains

<p>Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday&nbsp;Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay.&nbsp;AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month.</p>

<p>Here’s everything you need to know:</p>

<p><strong>Why are they protesting?</strong></p>

<p>The protests are part of a larger action by professionals of&nbsp;various trades over pay raises.</p>

<p>Inflation in the UK has in recent months crossed the 10 per cent mark, and the teacher unions are demanding a pay raise for the nation’s educators.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Nurses and ambulance workers strike in UK over pay hike</strong></p>

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<p><strong>How much raise are they asking for?</strong></p>

<p>They are asking for a raise that at least matches the double-digit inflation.</p>

<p>In Scotland, teachers were offered a five per cent raise, which they rejected, instead demanding 10 per cent.</p>

<p>Across England and Wales, in 2022, many state-school teachers received a 5 per cent pay raise, while in Northern Ireland, many of them were offered 3.2 per cent for the school years 2021-22, and 2022-23.</p>

<p>However, teacher’s unions argue that with inflation above ten per cent, these meagre raises are essentially pay cuts.</p>

<p><strong>When will the strikes start?</strong></p>

<p>As per Daily Mail, strikes will happen over the course of two months; February and March.</p>

<p>On February 1 itself, thousands of teachers will walk out. This is expected to affect more than 23,000 schools.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-to-protest-not-absolute-says-rishi-sunak-as-uk-prepares-to-introduce-broader-powers-for-police-552977">Right to protest ‘not absolute’, says Rishi Sunak as UK prepares to introduce broader powers for Police</a></strong></p>

<p>Further strikes have been announced over six days, spread out between the two months. February 14, March 15 and March 16 will witness larger strikes, while February 28 and March 1 and 2 have been set for regional walkouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NEU said that each school will only be affected for four days each, however, this has caused concern among the parents.</p>

<p><strong>What are the parents saying?</strong></p>

<p>In recent years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, education globally has suffered, with millions of children’s studies getting negatively affected by Covid restrictions and lockdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Writing for Daily Mail Molly Kingsley, mother of a child who’ll be impacted, called the strike an “act of educational sabotage.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-says-ready-for-a-showdown-with-union-leaders-vows-to-introduce-anti-strike-law-543136">Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages</a></strong></p>

<p>She writes, “even a single day of missed education is unacceptable,” adding “it’s hard to understand how anyone could be comfortable inflicting such terrible damage on children at this critical time. Many go into teaching not for financial gain but to better young lives.”</p>

<p>Calling the union’s action “militancy”, Kingsley said that children of the poorest families will be most badly affected.</p>

<p><strong>What would happen to children’s education in their teacher’s absence?</strong></p>

<p>A Department for Education (DfE) issued guidance for schools and has called on headteachers to “take all reasonable steps to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-teachers-announce-strikes-most-english-and-welsh-schools-to-face-closure-553276">UK teachers announce strike, most English and Welsh schools to face closure</a></strong></p>

<p>It also suggested that individual schools or groups of schools may want to consider keeping a bank of “cover supervisors” like volunteers who already support the staff in their teaching.</p>

<p><strong>Is this the first time teachers are going on&nbsp;strike?</strong></p>

<p>No, currently many schools across Scotland are closed due to teacher strike action, while in Northern Ireland, administrative tasks are currently getting affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a new announcement by the Educational Institute of Scotland, the strikes are slated to continue in February, April and March. EIS has announced 16 days of industrial action.</p>

<p>In Ireland, five teacher unions are taking action, which as per Daily Mail falls short of a strike. Because of this, administrative tasks like lesson planning are reportedly being disturbed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month.

Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month. Here’s everything you need to know: Why are they protesting? The protests are part of a larger action by professionals of various trades over pay raises. Inflation in the UK has in recent months crossed the 10 per cent mark, and the teacher unions are demanding a pay raise for the nation’s educators. Watch | Nurses and ambulance workers strike in UK over pay hike How much raise are they asking for? They are asking for a raise that at least matches the double-digit inflation. In Scotland, teachers were offered a five per cent raise, which they rejected, instead demanding 10 per cent. Across England and Wales, in 2022, many state-school teachers received a 5 per cent pay raise, while in Northern Ireland, many of them were offered 3.2 per cent for the school years 2021-22, and 2022-23. However, teacher’s unions argue that with inflation above ten per cent, these meagre raises are essentially pay cuts. When will the strikes start? As per Daily Mail, strikes will happen over the course of two months; February and March. On February 1 itself, thousands of teachers will walk out. This is expected to affect more than 23,000 schools. Also read | Right to protest ‘not absolute’, says Rishi Sunak as UK prepares to introduce broader powers for Police Further strikes have been announced over six days, spread out between the two months. February 14, March 15 and March 16 will witness larger strikes, while February 28 and March 1 and 2 have been set for regional walkouts. The NEU said that each school will only be affected for four days each, however, this has caused concern among the parents. What are the parents saying? In recent years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, education globally has suffered, with millions of children’s studies getting negatively affected by Covid restrictions and lockdowns. Writing for Daily Mail Molly Kingsley, mother of a child who’ll be impacted, called the strike an “act of educational sabotage.” Also read | Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages She writes, “even a single day of missed education is unacceptable,” adding “it’s hard to understand how anyone could be comfortable inflicting such terrible damage on children at this critical time. Many go into teaching not for financial gain but to better young lives.” Calling the union’s action “militancy”, Kingsley said that children of the poorest families will be most badly affected. What would happen to children’s education in their teacher’s absence? A Department for Education (DfE) issued guidance for schools and has called on headteachers to “take all reasonable steps to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible”. Also read | UK teachers announce strike, most English and Welsh schools to face closure It also suggested that individual schools or groups of schools may want to consider keeping a bank of “cover supervisors” like volunteers who already support the staff in their teaching. Is this the first time teachers are going on strike? No, currently many schools across Scotland are closed due to teacher strike action, while in Northern Ireland, administrative tasks are currently getting affected. As per a new announcement by the Educational Institute of Scotland, the strikes are slated to continue in February, April and March. EIS has announced 16 days of industrial action. In Ireland, five teacher unions are taking action, which as per Daily Mail falls short of a strike. Because of this, administrative tasks like lesson planning are reportedly being disturbed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: 23,000 schools across UK to be affected as teachers announce strike. Here's all you need to know

<p>UK nurses on Thursday staged a walkout in an unprecedented first of the two daylong strikes they term as the "last resort" in their fight for better wages and working conditions. Up to 100,000 members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are stopping work from 0800 to 2000 GMT after rejecting a government pay offer.&nbsp;The RCN's industrial action is just one of the many waves of stoppages by public and private sector employees.</p>

<p>The strike is the first in the Royal College of Nursing union's 106-year history.</p>

<p>"We have not chosen industrial action lightly. We're tired. We're fed up," a senior nurse told AFP. "We need a pay rise now to make a living."<br />
<br />
The industrial action had been planned on December 15th and 20th across England, Wales and Northern Ireland for 12 hours at a time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, striking a confrontational tone, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak vowed that anti-strike laws will be brought in "to protect lives and livelihoods".</p>

<p>Speaking to Daily Mail, Sunak said he was gearing up for a showdown with union leaders and that he hopes they can see that wrecking Christmas isn't right.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak under pressure to avert anti-strike legislation</strong></p>

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<p>"I would really hope that union leaders can see that it’s not right to cause such misery and disruption to so many people, particularly at Christmas time," he said.</p>

<p>He said that his government is acting "fairly and reasonably" as evidenced by their acceptance of the full recommendations of an independent pay body and that they will continue to do so.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-nurses-to-teachers-why-workers-across-industries-in-uk-are-going-on-a-strike-540940">Explained: From nurses to teachers, why workers across UK are going on strike</a></strong></p>

<p>However, he added "I’m prepared to introduce new legislation next year to protect people’s lives and minimise the disruption on their livelihoods. And that’s something we are working on at pace."</p>

<p>Reportedly ministers are debating a possible ban on strikes by emergency workers and introducing "minimum service levels" in key sectors.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gillian-keegan-confirms-medical-staff-could-have-right-to-strike-in-restricted-areas-541383">UK: Medical staff could have 'right to strike' restricted, says education secretary</a></strong></p>

<p>However, hospital trusts and unions are still negotiating about what level of service will be maintained as nurses stage a walkout.</p>

<p>Downing Street further said that they have asked paramedics who will be going on strike next week to provide a guarantee that emergency calls will not go unanswered.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UK nurses on Thursday staged a walkout in an unprecedented first of the two daylong strikes they term as the "last resort" in their fight for better wages and working conditions.

UK nurses on Thursday staged a walkout in an unprecedented first of the two daylong strikes they term as the "last resort" in their fight for better wages and working conditions. Up to 100,000 members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are stopping work from 0800 to 2000 GMT after rejecting a government pay offer. The RCN's industrial action is just one of the many waves of stoppages by public and private sector employees. The strike is the first in the Royal College of Nursing union's 106-year history. "We have not chosen industrial action lightly. We're tired. We're fed up," a senior nurse told AFP. "We need a pay rise now to make a living." The industrial action had been planned on December 15th and 20th across England, Wales and Northern Ireland for 12 hours at a time. Earlier, striking a confrontational tone, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak vowed that anti-strike laws will be brought in "to protect lives and livelihoods". Speaking to Daily Mail, Sunak said he was gearing up for a showdown with union leaders and that he hopes they can see that wrecking Christmas isn't right. Watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak under pressure to avert anti-strike legislation "I would really hope that union leaders can see that it’s not right to cause such misery and disruption to so many people, particularly at Christmas time," he said. He said that his government is acting "fairly and reasonably" as evidenced by their acceptance of the full recommendations of an independent pay body and that they will continue to do so. Also read | Explained: From nurses to teachers, why workers across UK are going on strike However, he added "I’m prepared to introduce new legislation next year to protect people’s lives and minimise the disruption on their livelihoods. And that’s something we are working on at pace." Reportedly ministers are debating a possible ban on strikes by emergency workers and introducing "minimum service levels" in key sectors. Also read | UK: Medical staff could have 'right to strike' restricted, says education secretary However, hospital trusts and unions are still negotiating about what level of service will be maintained as nurses stage a walkout. Downing Street further said that they have asked paramedics who will be going on strike next week to provide a guarantee that emergency calls will not go unanswered. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages

<p>United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government, on Monday, will announce new proposals to clamp down on protests. The new proposals as per Reuters will broaden the range of situations in which police are able to act on or end serious disruptions. In a statement, late on Sunday, the PM said that the right to protest “is not absolute”.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK: Rishi Sunak's U-turn on outlawing strikes, steps back on anti-strike law</strong></p>

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<p>“The right to protest is a fundamental principle of our democracy, but this is not absolute,” he said, adding “We cannot have protests conducted by a small minority disrupting the lives of the ordinary public. It’s not acceptable and we’re going to bring it to an end.”</p>

<p>Recent years have seen Britain plagued by disruptive protests, mostly on environmental issues. These protests, which led to a shutdown of large parts of central London and blocked traffic on major highways, have led to calls for more power to the police for stopping these disturbances.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-more-public-disruptions-or-blockades-environmental-group-extinction-rebellion-to-change-its-tactics-548622">No more 'public disruptions' or fake blood: Environment activists Extinction Rebellion to change tactics</a></strong></p>

<p>If passed, the proposed laws will mean that the police forces will have the power to shut down protests pre-emptively or even before they begin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-says-ready-for-a-showdown-with-union-leaders-vows-to-introduce-anti-strike-law-543136">Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages</a></strong></p>

<p>The bill as per Reuters was published last year and is currently in the final stages of debate in the UK parliament.</p>

<p>However, civil rights groups say that the bill is anti-democratic and gives the police way too much power. The bill already has provisions for the creation of a criminal offence for those seeking to lock themselves or a building or an object. It also allows courts to restrict the freedom of protestors seeking to cause serious disruption.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government, on Monday, will announce new proposals to clamp down on protests. The new proposals as per Reuters will broaden the range of situations in which police are able to act on or end serious disruptions.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government, on Monday, will announce new proposals to clamp down on protests. The new proposals as per Reuters will broaden the range of situations in which police are able to act on or end serious disruptions. In a statement, late on Sunday, the PM said that the right to protest “is not absolute”. Watch | UK: Rishi Sunak's U-turn on outlawing strikes, steps back on anti-strike law “The right to protest is a fundamental principle of our democracy, but this is not absolute,” he said, adding “We cannot have protests conducted by a small minority disrupting the lives of the ordinary public. It’s not acceptable and we’re going to bring it to an end.” Recent years have seen Britain plagued by disruptive protests, mostly on environmental issues. These protests, which led to a shutdown of large parts of central London and blocked traffic on major highways, have led to calls for more power to the police for stopping these disturbances. Also read | No more 'public disruptions' or fake blood: Environment activists Extinction Rebellion to change tactics If passed, the proposed laws will mean that the police forces will have the power to shut down protests pre-emptively or even before they begin. Also read | Rishi Sunak vows to introduce anti-strike law as nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages The bill as per Reuters was published last year and is currently in the final stages of debate in the UK parliament. However, civil rights groups say that the bill is anti-democratic and gives the police way too much power. The bill already has provisions for the creation of a criminal offence for those seeking to lock themselves or a building or an object. It also allows courts to restrict the freedom of protestors seeking to cause serious disruption. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Right to protest ‘not absolute’, says Rishi Sunak as UK prepares to introduce broader powers for Police

<p>Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23. According to a report by news agency Associated Press, health officials warned the impact of Wednesday's strike will be worse than the previous one (in December last year) as more staff members, including call handlers, are walking out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People have been advised to call in case of any life-threatening emergency such as a cardiac arrest or a serious road accident,&nbsp;and ambulances will respond to such situations, the report said. However, less urgent cases will not be prioritised and some people will have to make arrangements to reach hospitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-introduce-anti-strike-bill-amid-a-wave-of-strikes-grip-nation-549864">UK to introduce anti-strike bill amid a wave of strikes grip nation</a></strong></p>

<p>“When people accuse us of putting the public at risk, I would say it is this government that has put the public at risk by refusing consistently to talk to us. There is no offer on the table,” Christina McAnea, general secretary of the UNISON union, told striking workers outside an ambulance station in Sheffield on Wednesday, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In London, ambulance staff were seen holding placards and banners outside the London Ambulance service.</p>

<p>Wednesday's strikes come two days after talks <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-ministers-meet-trade-unions-to-end-wave-of-strikes-over-higher-pay-550799">between trade unions and British ministers failed</a></strong>. Reacting to the walkout (of ambulance workers), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ambulance strikes are 'terrifying for patients'.</p>

<p>Referring to the country's '999' emergency services hotline, Sunak told Parliament, "Mr Speaker, what's terrifying is that right now, people not knowing whether when they call nine, nine, nine, they will get the treatment that they need. Now, Mr Speaker in Australia and Canada and the US, they banned strikes on blue light services. We're not doing that. All we're saying is that in these emergency services, patients should be able to rely on a basic level of life-saving care."</p>

<p>Not just ambulance workers, train and bus drivers and postal workers have also joined the strikes,&nbsp;which have been going on for the last few months,&nbsp;to demand better pay. Inflation in the UK has soared to the highest levels since the early 1980s and wages, especially in the public sector, have not kept pace with the skyrocketing cost of living.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported on Wednesday that Unison, a trade union representing ambulance workers, said the government had months to intervene and end the dispute but failed to do so. Unison blamed the administration for repeatedly refusing to come to the table for discussions. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23.

Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) also went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23. According to a report by news agency Associated Press, health officials warned the impact of Wednesday's strike will be worse than the previous one (in December last year) as more staff members, including call handlers, are walking out. People have been advised to call in case of any life-threatening emergency such as a cardiac arrest or a serious road accident, and ambulances will respond to such situations, the report said. However, less urgent cases will not be prioritised and some people will have to make arrangements to reach hospitals. ALSO READ | UK to introduce anti-strike bill amid a wave of strikes grip nation “When people accuse us of putting the public at risk, I would say it is this government that has put the public at risk by refusing consistently to talk to us. There is no offer on the table,” Christina McAnea, general secretary of the UNISON union, told striking workers outside an ambulance station in Sheffield on Wednesday, the report said. In London, ambulance staff were seen holding placards and banners outside the London Ambulance service. Wednesday's strikes come two days after talks between trade unions and British ministers failed. Reacting to the walkout (of ambulance workers), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ambulance strikes are 'terrifying for patients'. Referring to the country's '999' emergency services hotline, Sunak told Parliament, "Mr Speaker, what's terrifying is that right now, people not knowing whether when they call nine, nine, nine, they will get the treatment that they need. Now, Mr Speaker in Australia and Canada and the US, they banned strikes on blue light services. We're not doing that. All we're saying is that in these emergency services, patients should be able to rely on a basic level of life-saving care." Not just ambulance workers, train and bus drivers and postal workers have also joined the strikes, which have been going on for the last few months, to demand better pay. Inflation in the UK has soared to the highest levels since the early 1980s and wages, especially in the public sector, have not kept pace with the skyrocketing cost of living. Reuters reported on Wednesday that Unison, a trade union representing ambulance workers, said the government had months to intervene and end the dispute but failed to do so. Unison blamed the administration for repeatedly refusing to come to the table for discussions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK ambulance workers also go on strike, PM Rishi Sunak calls walkout ‘terrifying for patients’

<p>A Chinese tracking device was found hidden in a car of the United Kingdom (UK) government after officials carried out a security check of government and diplomatic vehicles. According to a report by British news outlet inews on Friday (January 6), the tracking device is a SIM card capable of transmitting location data. The device was placed in the car inside a sealed part imported from a Chinese supplier and installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle, the report said citing a security source.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such a SIM card is capable of tracking the movement of vehicles and sending location data back to the supplier in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-weibo-bans-1000-accounts-critical-of-govts-covid-policy-550296">China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy</a></strong></p>

<p>The discovery has raised national security concerns in the UK amid mounting fears that Chinese and Russian intelligence services had been targeting British ministers.</p>

<p>Another source told the British publication that the tracking SIM gives the ability to survey a government over a period of months and years, constantly filing movements. "You can do it slowly and methodically over a very, very long time. That’s the vulnerability," the source said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to the news, senior backbench Conservative MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been vocal on issues related to China, told inews, "I don’t know how much more the UK needs to know about the threat China poses to us all."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-component-of-taiwans-anti-ship-missile-sent-to-china-for-repair-report-549611">Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Chinese officials have dismissed the discovery of the hidden device as "groundless and sheer rumour." The officials said they are firmly opposed to political manipulation on normal economic and trade cooperation or any smear on Chinese enterprises, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just a few days back, a key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile had been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former country. A theodolite from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent for repair in China's Shandong province.&nbsp;</p>

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A Chinese tracking device was found hidden in a car of the United Kingdom (UK) government after officials carried out a security check of government and diplomatic vehicles.

A Chinese tracking device was found hidden in a car of the United Kingdom (UK) government after officials carried out a security check of government and diplomatic vehicles. According to a report by British news outlet inews on Friday (January 6), the tracking device is a SIM card capable of transmitting location data. The device was placed in the car inside a sealed part imported from a Chinese supplier and installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle, the report said citing a security source. Such a SIM card is capable of tracking the movement of vehicles and sending location data back to the supplier in China. ALSO READ | China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy The discovery has raised national security concerns in the UK amid mounting fears that Chinese and Russian intelligence services had been targeting British ministers. Another source told the British publication that the tracking SIM gives the ability to survey a government over a period of months and years, constantly filing movements. "You can do it slowly and methodically over a very, very long time. That’s the vulnerability," the source said. Reacting to the news, senior backbench Conservative MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been vocal on issues related to China, told inews, "I don’t know how much more the UK needs to know about the threat China poses to us all." ALSO READ | Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report Meanwhile, Chinese officials have dismissed the discovery of the hidden device as "groundless and sheer rumour." The officials said they are firmly opposed to political manipulation on normal economic and trade cooperation or any smear on Chinese enterprises, the report added. Just a few days back, a key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile had been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former country. A theodolite from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent for repair in China's Shandong province. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Security concerns raised after Chinese tracking device found in UK govt car: Report

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidXlkzDBCulLch" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Another huge revelation has tumbled out of Prince Harry's soon-to-be-published autobiography titled 'Spare'. The Duke of Sussex admitted to trying cocaine when he was 17, according to Sky News.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The publication said it managed to get its hands on a copy of Harry's book after a Spanish version mistakenly went on sale in Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It wasn't very fun, and it didn't make me feel especially happy as seems to happen to others, but it did make me feel different, and that was my main objective. To feel. To be different," wrote Harry in the book.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course I had been taking cocaine at that time. At someone's house, during a hunting weekend, I was offered a line, and since then I had consumed some more."</p>

<p>Harry admitted it has his rogue phase as a teenager and that he would have done anything to alter the 'pre-established' order.</p>

<p>"I was a seventeen-year-old willing to try almost anything that would alter the pre-established order. At least, that's what I was trying to convince myself of. At that time, I was as capable of lying to myself as I had lied to that staff member."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-prince-harry-accuses-prince-william-of-assault-549855"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Prince Harry accuses prince William of assault</strong></a></p>

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<p>This is not the first major disclosure by Prince Harry in his book which comes out in five days' time. Notably, in one of the sections of the book, Harry claimed that his brother Prince William hit him and pushed him to the floor after describing Meghan Markle&nbsp;as “difficult”, “rude” and “abrasive”.</p>

<p>“It all happened so fast. So very fast. He grabbed me by the collar, ripped my necklace, and knocked me to the floor. I landed on the dog’s bowl, which cracked under my back, the pieces cutting into me. I lay there for a moment, dazed, then got to my feet and told him to get out."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-reveals-william-hit-him-pushed-him-to-the-floor-over-meghan-markle-549565"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Prince Harry claims in memoir William hit and pushed him to the floor over Meghan Markle</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite penning the rough moments between the duo, Prince Harry during the publicity tour of the book has claimed that he would like to have his 'father and brother back'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It never needed to be this way," said Harry in an excerpt from his interview with ITV's Tom Bradby, due to be released this Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They've shown absolutely no willingness to reconcile. I would like to get my father back; I would like to have my brother back."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ahead-of-autobiography-release-prince-harry-says-he-wants-his-father-and-brother-back-548889" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Ahead of autobiography release, Prince Harry says he wants his father and brother back</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Another huge revelation has tumbled out of Prince Harry's soon-to-be-published autobiography titled 'Spare'. The Duke of Sussex admitted to trying cocaine when he was 17, according to Sky News.

Another huge revelation has tumbled out of Prince Harry's soon-to-be-published autobiography titled 'Spare'. The Duke of Sussex admitted to trying cocaine when he was 17, according to Sky News. The publication said it managed to get its hands on a copy of Harry's book after a Spanish version mistakenly went on sale in Spain. "It wasn't very fun, and it didn't make me feel especially happy as seems to happen to others, but it did make me feel different, and that was my main objective. To feel. To be different," wrote Harry in the book. "Of course I had been taking cocaine at that time. At someone's house, during a hunting weekend, I was offered a line, and since then I had consumed some more." Harry admitted it has his rogue phase as a teenager and that he would have done anything to alter the 'pre-established' order. "I was a seventeen-year-old willing to try almost anything that would alter the pre-established order. At least, that's what I was trying to convince myself of. At that time, I was as capable of lying to myself as I had lied to that staff member." WATCH | Gravitas: Prince Harry accuses prince William of assault × This is not the first major disclosure by Prince Harry in his book which comes out in five days' time. Notably, in one of the sections of the book, Harry claimed that his brother Prince William hit him and pushed him to the floor after describing Meghan Markle as “difficult”, “rude” and “abrasive”. “It all happened so fast. So very fast. He grabbed me by the collar, ripped my necklace, and knocked me to the floor. I landed on the dog’s bowl, which cracked under my back, the pieces cutting into me. I lay there for a moment, dazed, then got to my feet and told him to get out." Read more: Prince Harry claims in memoir William hit and pushed him to the floor over Meghan Markle Despite penning the rough moments between the duo, Prince Harry during the publicity tour of the book has claimed that he would like to have his 'father and brother back'. "It never needed to be this way," said Harry in an excerpt from his interview with ITV's Tom Bradby, due to be released this Sunday. "They've shown absolutely no willingness to reconcile. I would like to get my father back; I would like to have my brother back." Read more: Ahead of autobiography release, Prince Harry says he wants his father and brother back (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'It made me feel different': Prince Harry admits trying cocaine when young

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