<p>Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The trial of the foreigners raises the stakes in the Russian Federation's negotiation process. They are using them as hostages to put pressure on the world over the negotiation process," he told national television.</p>

<p>Two Britons and a Moroccan received the death sentence on Thursday from a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), one of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, Russian news agencies reported.</p>

<p>They were brought to trial after a Ukrainian court sentenced a Russian soldier to life in prison last month for killing an unarmed civilian in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv said Thursday's court ruling had no authority, that the fighters were members of the Ukrainian armed forces and that they were subject to Geneva Convention protections.</p>

<p>Vadym Denysenko, an Interior Ministry adviser, said on Friday Ukraine would coordinate its position on the sentences with Britain, the United States and the European Union.</p>

<p>Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are frozen. Russia has accused Ukraine of blocking talks, but Kyiv says Moscow is to blame.</p>

<p>Britain on Friday condemned Russian proxy authorities in Donbas for what it called an "egregious breach" of the Geneva convention in sentencing to death two British nationals captured in the separatist region while fighting for Ukraine.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said he was talking to Ukraine rather than Russia over the situation facing Aiden Aslin and Shaun Pinner, who were convicted of "mercenary activities" on Thursday by a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR).</p>

<p>Aslin's family said he and Pinner "are not, and never were mercenaries."</p>

<p>They had been living in Ukraine when the war broke out and "as members of Ukrainian armed forces, should be treated with respect just like any other prisoners of war," the family said in a statement.</p>

<p><em>[with inputs from agencies]</em></p>

<p><br />
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Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday.

Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday. "The trial of the foreigners raises the stakes in the Russian Federation's negotiation process. They are using them as hostages to put pressure on the world over the negotiation process," he told national television. Two Britons and a Moroccan received the death sentence on Thursday from a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), one of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, Russian news agencies reported. They were brought to trial after a Ukrainian court sentenced a Russian soldier to life in prison last month for killing an unarmed civilian in Ukraine. Kyiv said Thursday's court ruling had no authority, that the fighters were members of the Ukrainian armed forces and that they were subject to Geneva Convention protections. Vadym Denysenko, an Interior Ministry adviser, said on Friday Ukraine would coordinate its position on the sentences with Britain, the United States and the European Union. Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are frozen. Russia has accused Ukraine of blocking talks, but Kyiv says Moscow is to blame. Britain on Friday condemned Russian proxy authorities in Donbas for what it called an "egregious breach" of the Geneva convention in sentencing to death two British nationals captured in the separatist region while fighting for Ukraine. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said he was talking to Ukraine rather than Russia over the situation facing Aiden Aslin and Shaun Pinner, who were convicted of "mercenary activities" on Thursday by a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). Aslin's family said he and Pinner "are not, and never were mercenaries." They had been living in Ukraine when the war broke out and "as members of Ukrainian armed forces, should be treated with respect just like any other prisoners of war," the family said in a statement. [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.

Ukrainian official says Russia wants to use captured fighters as ‘hostages’

In pics - The many marriages and affairs of Boris Johnson

<p>Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced massive backlash for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The Johnson government was accused of hosting alcohol-fueled parties during coronavirus (COVID-19) when such gatherings were not allowed across the nation. A probe into lockdown-breaking parties in Downing Street revealed that Johnson participated in the gatherings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath, the Sunday Times newspaper reported that Johnson's ruling Conservative Party expect a challenge to his leadership this week and has pencilled in a vote for Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid rising criticism, some Conservative lawmakers have said that they have submitted letters to officially call for a vote of confidence in their leader, the report mentioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To formally request a confidence vote to the chairman of the party's 1922 Committee for one to be triggered, at least 54 Conservative members of parliament are required.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been understood that the letters are confidential so only the chairman of the committee knows how many have been submitted. Tory lawmakers have expressed doubts about Johnson's continued leadership and dozens of his MPs have now publicly criticised him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>25 lawmakers have gone public with their letters so far. The Times report stated that more than the rebel lawmakers believed that around 54 are on the verge of writing a letter of no-confidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newspaper reported, "Officers of the 1922 executive have already pencilled in Wednesday as the day for the leadership vote."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid criticism, Johnson's ratings in the country plunged. Recent reports by the UK media outlets showed that his ratings have dropped significantly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the ConservativeHome survey, Johnson is at the bottom of the "Cabinet League Table" of party members. Reports have mentioned that his net satisfaction rating this month is at minus 15 points.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced massive backlash for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The Johnson government was accused of hosting alcohol-fueled parties during coronavirus (COVID-19) when such gatherings were not allowed across the nation.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced massive backlash for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The Johnson government was accused of hosting alcohol-fueled parties during coronavirus (COVID-19) when such gatherings were not allowed across the nation. A probe into lockdown-breaking parties in Downing Street revealed that Johnson participated in the gatherings. In the aftermath, the Sunday Times newspaper reported that Johnson's ruling Conservative Party expect a challenge to his leadership this week and has pencilled in a vote for Wednesday. Amid rising criticism, some Conservative lawmakers have said that they have submitted letters to officially call for a vote of confidence in their leader, the report mentioned. To formally request a confidence vote to the chairman of the party's 1922 Committee for one to be triggered, at least 54 Conservative members of parliament are required. It has been understood that the letters are confidential so only the chairman of the committee knows how many have been submitted. Tory lawmakers have expressed doubts about Johnson's continued leadership and dozens of his MPs have now publicly criticised him. 25 lawmakers have gone public with their letters so far. The Times report stated that more than the rebel lawmakers believed that around 54 are on the verge of writing a letter of no-confidence. The newspaper reported, "Officers of the 1922 executive have already pencilled in Wednesday as the day for the leadership vote." Amid criticism, Johnson's ratings in the country plunged. Recent reports by the UK media outlets showed that his ratings have dropped significantly. As per the ConservativeHome survey, Johnson is at the bottom of the "Cabinet League Table" of party members. Reports have mentioned that his net satisfaction rating this month is at minus 15 points. (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 PM Boris Johnson could face leadership challenge this week: Report

In pics: All the hits & misses from Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration

<p>The shortage of baby formula in the United States has caused a lot of problem in the last few weeks but the authorities announced on Wednesday that they were successful in arranging two additional shipments of formula from overseas as part of the initiative called “Operation Fly Formula”. The White House said that 3.7 million bottles worth of baby formula will be transported to the United States from the Heathrow Airport in United Kingdom. The mission will be carried out by the help of emergency flights, and it is reportedly going to start from June 9. Australian company Bubs will also be supplying 4.6 million bottles which will reach Pennsylvania and California on June 9 and 11.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-expects-many-months-of-russia-ukraine-conflict-484243" hreflang="en">Blinken expects 'many months' of Russia-Ukraine war</a></p>

<p>The statement from the White House stated that the two deliveries should be enough to take care of the shortage in the short run and the product should be available “in the coming weeks”.</p>

<p>“This first shipment, which includes Kendamil Classic and Kendamil Organic formula, will be available at Target stores across the country in the coming weeks,” the statement said.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-cases-in-africa-vs-elsewhere-is-there-inequality-in-response-484203" hreflang="en">Monkeypox cases in Africa vs elsewhere: Is there inequality in response?</a></p>

<p>The shortage of baby formula became a major issue in the past few weeks after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to shut down a manufacturing plant belonging to Abbott. Since then, the authorities have struggled to contain the shortage and it has caused anger among the parents.</p>

<p>The White House has also arranged a meeting with the largest baby formula manufacturers in the United States and an understanding can finally bring the shortage to an end.</p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The shortage of baby formula in the United States has caused a lot of problem in the last few weeks but the authorities announced on Wednesday that they were successful in arranging two additional shipments of formula from overseas as part of the initiative called “Operation Fly Formula”.

The shortage of baby formula in the United States has caused a lot of problem in the last few weeks but the authorities announced on Wednesday that they were successful in arranging two additional shipments of formula from overseas as part of the initiative called “Operation Fly Formula”. The White House said that 3.7 million bottles worth of baby formula will be transported to the United States from the Heathrow Airport in United Kingdom. The mission will be carried out by the help of emergency flights, and it is reportedly going to start from June 9. Australian company Bubs will also be supplying 4.6 million bottles which will reach Pennsylvania and California on June 9 and 11. Also read | Blinken expects 'many months' of Russia-Ukraine war The statement from the White House stated that the two deliveries should be enough to take care of the shortage in the short run and the product should be available “in the coming weeks”. “This first shipment, which includes Kendamil Classic and Kendamil Organic formula, will be available at Target stores across the country in the coming weeks,” the statement said. Also read | Monkeypox cases in Africa vs elsewhere: Is there inequality in response? The shortage of baby formula became a major issue in the past few weeks after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to shut down a manufacturing plant belonging to Abbott. Since then, the authorities have struggled to contain the shortage and it has caused anger among the parents. The White House has also arranged a meeting with the largest baby formula manufacturers in the United States and an understanding can finally bring the shortage to an end. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

3.7 million bottles of baby formula headed to United States as part of Operation Fly Formula

<p>The UK government is being urged to ban conversion therapies that claim to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity.</p>

<p>Ministers have already drafted a bill that would make it illegal for conversion therapies to be administered to minors or nonconsenting adults.</p>

<p>People who perform conversion therapy on minors could face up to five years in jail under a government bill introduced in late October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, victims and campaign groups say it doesn't go far enough.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-major-win-for-lgbt-community-canadas-house-of-commons-votes-to-ban-conversion-therapy-433459">In major win for LGBT community, Canada's House of Commons votes to ban conversion therapy</a></strong></p>

<p>The bill, however, does not apply to the "treatment" of adults who are deemed to have freely consented to the treatment.</p>

<p>Despite the draft bill's largely positive reception, this clause has been widely criticised by LGBT+ groups.</p>

<p>Campaigners assert that those who consent to conversion cannot be considered to have freely consented. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Leni Morris with the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity Galop, such therapies take "a wide range of forms, including verbal, psychological, physical, and sexual abuse."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The problem is, unlike "pray the gay away" camps in the United States, such events take place more often in the UK behind closed doors, such as in homes or community centres.</p>

<p>"The most common form of conversion therapy in the West is done in a religious setting," said Jayne Ozanne, a leading evangelical figure in the Church of England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She has been campaigning against the "horrendous torture" of the therapy since 2015, which she herself underwent for two decades.</p>

<p>People with a conflict over their sexuality usually begin by seeking help from their church and prayer groups, which put them through "healing prayer ministry".&nbsp;She says she talked to "special Christian counselors" who looked at her past, including her sexual experiences and her relationship with her parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It sounds quite gentle, but... actually it's anything but", she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnamese-tourist-city-hoi-an-to-phase-out-a-delicacy-dog-and-cat-meat-435845" hreflang="en">Vietnamese tourist city Hoi An to phase out a 'delicacy' — dog and cat meat</a></strong></p>

<p>In this approach "the pressure is always on the victim", she explained, and as a result "the level of shame and self-hate is really high".&nbsp;</p>

<p>After that did not work, she sought out a "special ministry," which claims to be able to "deliver you of... the demon of homosexuality" through exorcism.&nbsp;"I was hit by a Bible, you know, someone trying to hit the devil out of me a couple of times."</p>

<p>She emphasised that this wasn't always the worst-case scenario because some victims are "violently beaten" and even "correctively raped" by their family members "who are trying to show them that this will make you straight".</p>

<p>According to a 2017 survey by the UK government, five per cent of LGBT+ people have been offered conversion therapy, and two per cent have reportedly undergone it.</p>

<p>Morris believed that masked the full extent of the practice, with most people unaware that they have undergone it.</p>

<p>As she put it, the practice is "abuse" and can have long-term effects.</p>

<p>"Survivors have experienced serious psychological and emotional and sometimes physical trauma" that continues to affect their loving relationships and sex lives "years or even decades later", she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did British Officials secretly meet a Conversion Therapy group?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-british-officials-secretly-meet-a-conversion-therapy-group-426518/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In 2015, the country's principal psychological and psychiatric associations outlawed such therapies due to their "unethical and potentially harmful" nature. However, these therapies continue to be practised today.</p>

<p>Such therapies "nearly always take place within imbalanced power dynamics: parent and child, faith leader and congregant," said Morris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People who 'consent' to so-called conversion therapies are often financially and emotionally dependent on those asking them to do so. Refusal could result in social ostracisation".</p>

<p>Parliament is scheduled to examine the bill early next year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UK government is being urged to ban conversion therapies that claim to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Ministers have already drafted a bill that would make it illegal for conversion therapies to be administered to minors or nonconsenting adults.

The UK government is being urged to ban conversion therapies that claim to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Ministers have already drafted a bill that would make it illegal for conversion therapies to be administered to minors or nonconsenting adults. People who perform conversion therapy on minors could face up to five years in jail under a government bill introduced in late October. However, victims and campaign groups say it doesn't go far enough. Also read | In major win for LGBT community, Canada's House of Commons votes to ban conversion therapy The bill, however, does not apply to the "treatment" of adults who are deemed to have freely consented to the treatment. Despite the draft bill's largely positive reception, this clause has been widely criticised by LGBT+ groups. Campaigners assert that those who consent to conversion cannot be considered to have freely consented. According to Leni Morris with the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity Galop, such therapies take "a wide range of forms, including verbal, psychological, physical, and sexual abuse." The problem is, unlike "pray the gay away" camps in the United States, such events take place more often in the UK behind closed doors, such as in homes or community centres. "The most common form of conversion therapy in the West is done in a religious setting," said Jayne Ozanne, a leading evangelical figure in the Church of England. She has been campaigning against the "horrendous torture" of the therapy since 2015, which she herself underwent for two decades. People with a conflict over their sexuality usually begin by seeking help from their church and prayer groups, which put them through "healing prayer ministry". She says she talked to "special Christian counselors" who looked at her past, including her sexual experiences and her relationship with her parents. "It sounds quite gentle, but... actually it's anything but", she said. Also read | Vietnamese tourist city Hoi An to phase out a 'delicacy' — dog and cat meat In this approach "the pressure is always on the victim", she explained, and as a result "the level of shame and self-hate is really high". After that did not work, she sought out a "special ministry," which claims to be able to "deliver you of... the demon of homosexuality" through exorcism. "I was hit by a Bible, you know, someone trying to hit the devil out of me a couple of times." She emphasised that this wasn't always the worst-case scenario because some victims are "violently beaten" and even "correctively raped" by their family members "who are trying to show them that this will make you straight". According to a 2017 survey by the UK government, five per cent of LGBT+ people have been offered conversion therapy, and two per cent have reportedly undergone it. Morris believed that masked the full extent of the practice, with most people unaware that they have undergone it. As she put it, the practice is "abuse" and can have long-term effects. "Survivors have experienced serious psychological and emotional and sometimes physical trauma" that continues to affect their loving relationships and sex lives "years or even decades later", she added. Watch | Gravitas: Did British Officials secretly meet a Conversion Therapy group? In 2015, the country's principal psychological and psychiatric associations outlawed such therapies due to their "unethical and potentially harmful" nature. However, these therapies continue to be practised today. Such therapies "nearly always take place within imbalanced power dynamics: parent and child, faith leader and congregant," said Morris. "People who 'consent' to so-called conversion therapies are often financially and emotionally dependent on those asking them to do so. Refusal could result in social ostracisation". Parliament is scheduled to examine the bill early next year. (With inputs from agencies)

'Horrendous torture': Britain's LGBT+ groups, campaigners urge total ban on conversion therapies

<p>In the United Kingdom, James MacDougall, a 37-year-old man reportedly fathered 15 children after he advertised his sperm to lesbians on social media. Local media reported that he has an inheritable condition which can not be cured. As a result, a court has banned him from contacting some of the children he fathered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Guardian report mentioned that MacDougall has fragile-X syndrome (FXS). It is a genetic condition that causes a range of developmental problems. People with the fragile-X syndrome have learning difficulties and cognitive impairment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ratings-plunge-as-boris-johnson-now-least-popular-member-of-his-own-cabinet-poll-483854">Ratings plunge as Boris Johnson now least popular member of his Cabinet: Poll</a></strong></p>

<p>Media reports mentioned that previously, he signed an agreement saying he didn't want contact with some of his children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, later he applied for parental responsibility and child arrangement orders for four of his kids. During the family court battle in UK's Derby, his identity was revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | UK business confidence tick higher in May: Lloyds bank business barometer rose in May</strong></p>

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<p>A genetic condition means his kids could have the same issues as him. The judge has also allowed him to be identified. This will help protect other people planning to use private sperm donors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the media outlet, Derby Court Judge Justice Nathalie Lieven said there was "a very specific benefit in him being named in the hope that women will look him up on the internet and see this judgment".&nbsp;</p>

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In the United Kingdom, James MacDougall, a 37-year-old man reportedly fathered 15 children after he advertised his sperm to lesbians on social media. Local media reported that he has an inheritable condition which can not be cured.

In the United Kingdom, James MacDougall, a 37-year-old man reportedly fathered 15 children after he advertised his sperm to lesbians on social media. Local media reported that he has an inheritable condition which can not be cured. As a result, a court has banned him from contacting some of the children he fathered. A Guardian report mentioned that MacDougall has fragile-X syndrome (FXS). It is a genetic condition that causes a range of developmental problems. People with the fragile-X syndrome have learning difficulties and cognitive impairment. ALSO READ | Ratings plunge as Boris Johnson now least popular member of his Cabinet: Poll Media reports mentioned that previously, he signed an agreement saying he didn't want contact with some of his children. However, later he applied for parental responsibility and child arrangement orders for four of his kids. During the family court battle in UK's Derby, his identity was revealed. WATCH | UK business confidence tick higher in May: Lloyds bank business barometer rose in May × ALSO READ | As part of 'alternative protein' research, primary school kids in Wales to be offered edible insects A genetic condition means his kids could have the same issues as him. The judge has also allowed him to be identified. This will help protect other people planning to use private sperm donors. As quoted by the media outlet, Derby Court Judge Justice Nathalie Lieven said there was "a very specific benefit in him being named in the hope that women will look him up on the internet and see this judgment". 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: Private sperm donor fathered 15 kids despite having genetic condition

<p>British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The members of the opposition party have asked him to resign after senior civil servant Sue Gray released her report related to the numerous parties in Downing Street. As per the report, Johnson participated in the gatherings. Such gatherings at the heart of the government angered common people because they were organised during the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. The UK government hosted wine and cheese parties at No 10 when people across the country were forced to stay inside their homes because of the deadly virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-part-of-alternative-protein-research-primary-school-kids-in-wales-to-be-offered-edible-insects-483813">As part of 'alternative protein' research, primary school kids in Wales to be offered edible insects</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Johnson's ratings in the country plunged. As reported by the UK media outlets, his ratings have dropped significantly. As per the ConservativeHome survey, Johnson is at the bottom of the "Cabinet League Table" of party members. Reports have mentioned that his net satisfaction rating this month is at minus 15 points.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No - even his own party don't think much of him in this survey of their members.<br />
<br />
He's at the bottom (again) <a href="https://t.co/KdPqAeovk3">pic.twitter.com/KdPqAeovk3</a></p>
— Julia Smith (@juliasm18659356) <a href="https://twitter.com/juliasm18659356/status/1531288107970088961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Boris Johnson’s approval rating sits at 34 percent, one of the lowest points since he was appointed as Britain's prime minister in 2019.<br />
<br />
While the mood against him has hardened since Sue Gray’s Partygate report was released last week, it only caused a slight drop in his rating. <a href="https://t.co/NmlGzd4BIL">pic.twitter.com/NmlGzd4BIL</a></p>
— POLITICO Poll of Polls (@pollofpolls_EU) <a href="https://twitter.com/pollofpolls_EU/status/1531582768483811328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Conservative leader William Hague said on Tuesday (May 31) that Johnson could face a vote among his own MPs to end his tenure in power as soon as next week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hague told Times Radio: "The fuse is getting closer to the dynamite here and it's speeding up." He added that it was "just another indication the Conservative Party is moving faster towards a vote". The former foreign secretary added: "A few more letters like that and it will come next week."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-final-touches-as-uks-village-prepares-for-queens-platinum-jubilee-party-483208">Final touches as UK’s village prepares for queen’s Platinum Jubilee party</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK: Tory whips draw up battle plan as more Tory MPs call for PM Boris Johnson's resignation&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In the aftermath of the Partygate scandal, more Tory lawmakers have expressed doubts about Johnson's continued leadership. Dozens of his MPs have now publicly criticised him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If 54 of them write a letter of no-confidence in Johnson to a powerful backbench committee of Tory MPs, it will trigger a vote of all 359 Conservative lawmakers on whether he should continue as leader and thereby prime minister. Nearly, 30 MPs are publicly known to have submitted such a letter.&nbsp;</p>

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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The members of the opposition party have asked him to resign after senior civil servant Sue Gray released her report related to the numerous parties in Downing Street.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism for the Partygate scandal that shocked the nation. The members of the opposition party have asked him to resign after senior civil servant Sue Gray released her report related to the numerous parties in Downing Street. As per the report, Johnson participated in the gatherings. Such gatherings at the heart of the government angered common people because they were organised during the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. The UK government hosted wine and cheese parties at No 10 when people across the country were forced to stay inside their homes because of the deadly virus. ALSO READ | As part of 'alternative protein' research, primary school kids in Wales to be offered edible insects Meanwhile, Johnson's ratings in the country plunged. As reported by the UK media outlets, his ratings have dropped significantly. As per the ConservativeHome survey, Johnson is at the bottom of the "Cabinet League Table" of party members. Reports have mentioned that his net satisfaction rating this month is at minus 15 points. No - even his own party don't think much of him in this survey of their members. He's at the bottom (again) pic.twitter.com/KdPqAeovk3 — Julia Smith (@juliasm18659356) May 30, 2022 × Boris Johnson’s approval rating sits at 34 percent, one of the lowest points since he was appointed as Britain's prime minister in 2019. While the mood against him has hardened since Sue Gray’s Partygate report was released last week, it only caused a slight drop in his rating. pic.twitter.com/NmlGzd4BIL — POLITICO Poll of Polls (@pollofpolls_EU) May 31, 2022 × Former Conservative leader William Hague said on Tuesday (May 31) that Johnson could face a vote among his own MPs to end his tenure in power as soon as next week. Hague told Times Radio: "The fuse is getting closer to the dynamite here and it's speeding up." He added that it was "just another indication the Conservative Party is moving faster towards a vote". The former foreign secretary added: "A few more letters like that and it will come next week." IN PICS | Final touches as UK’s village prepares for queen’s Platinum Jubilee party WATCH | UK: Tory whips draw up battle plan as more Tory MPs call for PM Boris Johnson's resignation × In the aftermath of the Partygate scandal, more Tory lawmakers have expressed doubts about Johnson's continued leadership. Dozens of his MPs have now publicly criticised him. If 54 of them write a letter of no-confidence in Johnson to a powerful backbench committee of Tory MPs, it will trigger a vote of all 359 Conservative lawmakers on whether he should continue as leader and thereby prime minister. Nearly, 30 MPs are publicly known to have submitted such a letter. 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.

Ratings plunge as Boris Johnson now least popular member of his Cabinet: Poll

<p>3,000 employees from 60 British companies are going to participate in a six-month trial of a four-day working week.</p>

<p>Aiming to help companies shorten their working hours without cutting salaries or sacrificing revenues, the pilot is being touted as the world's biggest so far.</p>

<p>It is being conducted by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, a programme manager at 4 Day Week Global, who has held similar trials in Spain, Iceland, the United States and Canada. Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to start theirs in August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pang has said that the trial will give firms "more time" to work through challenges, experiment with new practices and gather data.</p>

<p>He believes that smaller organisation will find it easier to adapt as they can make big changes more readily.</p>

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<p>Pressure Drop brewery, which is one of the companies participating in the trial, is based in Tottenham Hale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is hoping the experiment will not only improve their employees' productivity but also their well-being as well as reduce their carbon footprint.</p>

<p>According to its co-founder Sam Smith, "It will be difficult for a company like us which needs to be kept running all the time, but that's what we will experiment with in this trial."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Royal Society of Biology, another participant in the trial, says it wants to give employees "more autonomy over their time and working patterns".</p>

<p>Both hope a shorter working week could help them retain employees, at a time when UK businesses are confronted with severe staff shortages, and job vacancies hitting a record 1.3 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Countries working fewer hours tend to have higher productivity according to Aidan Harper, author of "The Case for a Four Day Week".</p>

<p>"Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands work fewer hours than the UK, yet have higher levels of productivity," he told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Within Europe, Greece works more hours than anyone, and yet have the lowest levels of productivity."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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3,000 employees from 60 British companies are going to participate in a six-month trial of a four-day working week. Aiming to help companies shorten their working hours without cutting salaries or sacrificing revenues, the pilot is being touted as the world's biggest so far.

3,000 employees from 60 British companies are going to participate in a six-month trial of a four-day working week. Aiming to help companies shorten their working hours without cutting salaries or sacrificing revenues, the pilot is being touted as the world's biggest so far. It is being conducted by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, a programme manager at 4 Day Week Global, who has held similar trials in Spain, Iceland, the United States and Canada. Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to start theirs in August. Pang has said that the trial will give firms "more time" to work through challenges, experiment with new practices and gather data. He believes that smaller organisation will find it easier to adapt as they can make big changes more readily. Pressure Drop brewery, which is one of the companies participating in the trial, is based in Tottenham Hale. It is hoping the experiment will not only improve their employees' productivity but also their well-being as well as reduce their carbon footprint. According to its co-founder Sam Smith, "It will be difficult for a company like us which needs to be kept running all the time, but that's what we will experiment with in this trial." The Royal Society of Biology, another participant in the trial, says it wants to give employees "more autonomy over their time and working patterns". Both hope a shorter working week could help them retain employees, at a time when UK businesses are confronted with severe staff shortages, and job vacancies hitting a record 1.3 million. Countries working fewer hours tend to have higher productivity according to Aidan Harper, author of "The Case for a Four Day Week". "Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands work fewer hours than the UK, yet have higher levels of productivity," he told AFP. "Within Europe, Greece works more hours than anyone, and yet have the lowest levels of productivity." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

3,000 employees in Britain taking part in world's biggest pilot for four-day workweek

<p>In the United Kingdom, on Saturday (May 28), a massive fire broke out in a superyacht moored at a Devon harbour. The luxury yacht is reportedly carrying 8,000 litres of fuel. Devon &amp; Cornwall Police tweeted that emergency services are currently responding to a yacht fire in Torquay. "We are asking people to avoid the area and close doors/windows due to the smoke and fumes," the tweet added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Striking images and videos were circulated on social media forums that show a huge plume of thick black smoke rising in the sky.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-arms-supply-to-ukraine-risks-further-destabilisation-warns-putin-482983">Western arms supply to Ukraine risks further destabilisation, warns Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>Local media reports mentioned that fire crews are battling the raging fire at 85ft superyacht said to be worth $7.5 million (£6.5 million).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police said no one was reported to be injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It noted, "Police were called at 12.10pm today to Princess Pier in Torquay following reports of a fire on a yacht moored in the marina. The boat is believed to be well alight and had broken from the mooring. It has now been secured by the Fire service near the pier."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-assesses-unusual-trajectory-of-missile-test-fired-by-north-korea-report-482970">US intelligence assesses 'unusual trajectory' of missile test-fired by North Korea: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Massive fire at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Torquay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Torquay</a> Harbour. 85 foot super yacht ablaze. No news of any casualties as yet. <a href="https://t.co/szOz4zqCF2">pic.twitter.com/szOz4zqCF2</a></p>
— peter brown (@peterrichardbro) <a href="https://twitter.com/peterrichardbro/status/1530542379261997058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A yacht is on fire by Torquay marina it’s like a fire ball! <a href="https://t.co/KVDb0K9Woc">pic.twitter.com/KVDb0K9Woc</a></p>
— Cllr Cat Johns (@Catheri55068811) <a href="https://twitter.com/Catheri55068811/status/1530508758522249216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/DevonLiveNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DevonLiveNews</a> Boat on fire in Torquay harbour <a href="https://t.co/kwTxmNyv2D">pic.twitter.com/kwTxmNyv2D</a></p>
— Mykie🏳️‍🌈 (@Mykie0121) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mykie0121/status/1530507642774425600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/DevonLiveNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DevonLiveNews</a> Boat on fire in Torquay harbour <a href="https://t.co/kwTxmNyv2D">pic.twitter.com/kwTxmNyv2D</a></p>
— Mykie🏳️‍🌈 (@Mykie0121) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mykie0121/status/1530507642774425600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Emergency services are currently responding to a yacht fire in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Torquay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Torquay</a>.<br />
<br />
We are asking people to avoid the area and close doors/windows due to the smoke and fumes.<a href="https://t.co/zE2DPjg9oH">https://t.co/zE2DPjg9oH</a> <a href="https://t.co/MEn2QlZzP4">https://t.co/MEn2QlZzP4</a></p>
— Devon &amp; Cornwall Police (@DC_Police) <a href="https://twitter.com/DC_Police/status/1530541594574737416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To all residents in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Torquay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Torquay</a> area near to the marina, please keep your windows and doors closed due to noxious fumes from the yacht fire. Crews are making steady progress extinguishing the fire.</p>
— Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (@DSFireUpdates) <a href="https://twitter.com/DSFireUpdates/status/1530549746456219649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our officers have been checking air quality around Torquay harbour this afternoon following the yacht fire, which was declared a major incident. Thought to be no real issues with air quality, but we're keeping an eye on the situation.</p>
— Environment AgencySW (@EnvAgencySW) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnvAgencySW/status/1530565561188491265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Locals have noted that they heard explosions shortly after the fire began. One witness told Devon Live: "Ropes burnt through and it drifted into pier. Firemen took trolleys and pumps along pontoons but water not reaching."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some people are trapped on the other end of the pier and can't get back. Firemen are running along the pier. Still huge flames," the witness added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by Metro UK, the boat looks like a Princess yacht called Rendezvous. Media reports have mentioned that the expensive boat was built in 2010 in Plymouth.&nbsp;</p>

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In the United Kingdom, on Saturday (May 28), a massive fire broke out in a superyacht moored at a Devon harbour. The luxury yacht is reportedly carrying 8,000 litres of fuel.

In the United Kingdom, on Saturday (May 28), a massive fire broke out in a superyacht moored at a Devon harbour. The luxury yacht is reportedly carrying 8,000 litres of fuel. Devon & Cornwall Police tweeted that emergency services are currently responding to a yacht fire in Torquay. "We are asking people to avoid the area and close doors/windows due to the smoke and fumes," the tweet added. Striking images and videos were circulated on social media forums that show a huge plume of thick black smoke rising in the sky. ALSO READ | Western arms supply to Ukraine risks further destabilisation, warns Putin Local media reports mentioned that fire crews are battling the raging fire at 85ft superyacht said to be worth $7.5 million (£6.5 million). In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police said no one was reported to be injured. It noted, "Police were called at 12.10pm today to Princess Pier in Torquay following reports of a fire on a yacht moored in the marina. The boat is believed to be well alight and had broken from the mooring. It has now been secured by the Fire service near the pier." ALSO READ | US intelligence assesses 'unusual trajectory' of missile test-fired by North Korea: Report Massive fire at #Torquay Harbour. 85 foot super yacht ablaze. No news of any casualties as yet. pic.twitter.com/szOz4zqCF2 — peter brown (@peterrichardbro) May 28, 2022 × A yacht is on fire by Torquay marina it’s like a fire ball! pic.twitter.com/KVDb0K9Woc — Cllr Cat Johns (@Catheri55068811) May 28, 2022 × @DevonLiveNews Boat on fire in Torquay harbour pic.twitter.com/kwTxmNyv2D — Mykie🏳️‍🌈 (@Mykie0121) May 28, 2022 × @DevonLiveNews Boat on fire in Torquay harbour pic.twitter.com/kwTxmNyv2D — Mykie🏳️‍🌈 (@Mykie0121) May 28, 2022 × Emergency services are currently responding to a yacht fire in #Torquay. We are asking people to avoid the area and close doors/windows due to the smoke and fumes.https://t.co/zE2DPjg9oH https://t.co/MEn2QlZzP4 — Devon & Cornwall Police (@DC_Police) May 28, 2022 × To all residents in the #Torquay area near to the marina, please keep your windows and doors closed due to noxious fumes from the yacht fire. Crews are making steady progress extinguishing the fire. — Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (@DSFireUpdates) May 28, 2022 × Our officers have been checking air quality around Torquay harbour this afternoon following the yacht fire, which was declared a major incident. Thought to be no real issues with air quality, but we're keeping an eye on the situation. — Environment AgencySW (@EnvAgencySW) May 28, 2022 × Locals have noted that they heard explosions shortly after the fire began. One witness told Devon Live: "Ropes burnt through and it drifted into pier. Firemen took trolleys and pumps along pontoons but water not reaching." "Some people are trapped on the other end of the pier and can't get back. Firemen are running along the pier. Still huge flames," the witness added. As reported by Metro UK, the boat looks like a Princess yacht called Rendezvous. Media reports have mentioned that the expensive boat was built in 2010 in Plymouth. 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: Massive fire breaks out at multi-million-dollar luxury superyacht, video goes viral

<p>United Kingdom prime minister Boris Johnson believes that Ukraine should receive more long-range multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) in order to combat the Russian forces. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is already in its third month and Johnson said that the new ammunition can be key for Kyiv to defend the Donbas region. In an interview with Bloomberg, Johnson said that the MLRS system are important “to defend themselves against this very brutal Russian artillery, and that’s where the world needs to go”. However, the British PM did not commit to sending the M270 rocket system despite repeated requests from Ukraine in front of the NATO countries in the last few weeks.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-pro-russian-forces-claim-to-have-captured-strategic-town-lyman-482653" hreflang="en">Ukrainian officials say Russia-backed forces captured strategic town Lyman</a></p>

<p>The stance from NATO nations have not been in favour of sending long-range rockets to Ukraine till now but this can mean that the approach can be changing. Earlier, the United States also rejected Ukraine’s request but a CNN report suggested that they can also be changing their tone very soon.</p>

<p>In the interview, Johnson said that Russia is “continuing to chew through ground” in the Donbas region, making “slow, but I’m afraid palpable, progress”. Ukrainian officials on Friday said that the Russian forces have taken control of the city of Lyman in the country's eastern Donetsk region.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-pledge-to-phaseout-coal-and-fossil-fuel-for-electricity-generation-but-no-date-fixed-482684">G7 pledges to phaseout coal for electricity generation, but no date fixed</a></p>

<p>Earlier, Kira Rudik, a Ukrainian MP, asked the UK to help them with powerful weapons.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“There’s this discussion of getting us more MLRS systems. I know that the British government is right now deciding on if they can get to us from the United Kingdom and that will be fantastic. That is something that we exactly need right now,” she said according to a report on The Guardian.</p>

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United Kingdom prime minister Boris Johnson believes that Ukraine should receive more long-range multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) in order to combat the Russian forces.

United Kingdom prime minister Boris Johnson believes that Ukraine should receive more long-range multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) in order to combat the Russian forces. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is already in its third month and Johnson said that the new ammunition can be key for Kyiv to defend the Donbas region. In an interview with Bloomberg, Johnson said that the MLRS system are important “to defend themselves against this very brutal Russian artillery, and that’s where the world needs to go”. However, the British PM did not commit to sending the M270 rocket system despite repeated requests from Ukraine in front of the NATO countries in the last few weeks. Also read | Ukrainian officials say Russia-backed forces captured strategic town Lyman The stance from NATO nations have not been in favour of sending long-range rockets to Ukraine till now but this can mean that the approach can be changing. Earlier, the United States also rejected Ukraine’s request but a CNN report suggested that they can also be changing their tone very soon. In the interview, Johnson said that Russia is “continuing to chew through ground” in the Donbas region, making “slow, but I’m afraid palpable, progress”. Ukrainian officials on Friday said that the Russian forces have taken control of the city of Lyman in the country's eastern Donetsk region. Also read | G7 pledges to phaseout coal for electricity generation, but no date fixed Earlier, Kira Rudik, a Ukrainian MP, asked the UK to help them with powerful weapons. “There’s this discussion of getting us more MLRS systems. I know that the British government is right now deciding on if they can get to us from the United Kingdom and that will be fantastic. That is something that we exactly need right now,” she said according to a report on The Guardian. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Boris Johnson calls for Ukraine to be sent more long-range rocket systems to fight Russia

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill but with a huge amount of the world’s population getting vaccinated, it looks like the journey towards normalcy has already started. But there seems to be a new problem plaguing a number of countries as the number of monkeypox cases are going up with every passing day. The total number of cases in the United Kingdom has already gone up to 78 with seven more cases on Wednesday but scientists believe that the monkeypox virus has been circulating unsuspected in multiple nations for quite some now.</p>

<p>The UK has reported the highest number of cases in the world till now with around 20-25 countries getting affected in the last month alone. According to the official data, around 200 cases have been detected around the world and although it has existed in parts of Africa in the past, this is the first outbreak of the monkeypox virus outside the continent.</p>

<p>Professor David Heymann, who chairs a World Health Organization expert group on infectious threats to global health, believes that the virus has been present in the UK for the last two to three years, but the impact was not detected earlier.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-foreign-minister-arrives-in-solomon-islands-482250">Chinese foreign minister arrives in Solomon Islands, all eyes on the pact</a></p>

<p>“It could hypothetically be that the virus transmission amplified from this low level of transmission when by chance it entered the population that is at present amplifying transmission,” Heymann said according to The Guardian.</p>

<p>The scientists have been conducting studies on the virus right now and it seems to be a mutated version of the same virus that reached the UK in 2018.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lgbtiqa-1-in-12-young-adults-in-uk-identifies-as-lesbian-gay-or-bisexual-482311">LGBTIQA+: 1 in 12 young adults in UK identifies as lesbian, gay or bisexual</a></p>

<p>“This may be a virus that’s been circulating undetected for quite a while. They all have a common ancestor and that common ancestor probably dates back to 2019, though it’s too early to date with any kind of accuracy,” said Prof Marc Van Ranst, a virologist at the University of Leuven in Belgium as quoted by The Guardian report.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE -</strong></p>

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The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill but with a huge amount of the world’s population getting vaccinated, it looks like the journey towards normalcy has already started.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill but with a huge amount of the world’s population getting vaccinated, it looks like the journey towards normalcy has already started. But there seems to be a new problem plaguing a number of countries as the number of monkeypox cases are going up with every passing day. The total number of cases in the United Kingdom has already gone up to 78 with seven more cases on Wednesday but scientists believe that the monkeypox virus has been circulating unsuspected in multiple nations for quite some now. The UK has reported the highest number of cases in the world till now with around 20-25 countries getting affected in the last month alone. According to the official data, around 200 cases have been detected around the world and although it has existed in parts of Africa in the past, this is the first outbreak of the monkeypox virus outside the continent. Professor David Heymann, who chairs a World Health Organization expert group on infectious threats to global health, believes that the virus has been present in the UK for the last two to three years, but the impact was not detected earlier. Also read | Chinese foreign minister arrives in Solomon Islands, all eyes on the pact “It could hypothetically be that the virus transmission amplified from this low level of transmission when by chance it entered the population that is at present amplifying transmission,” Heymann said according to The Guardian. The scientists have been conducting studies on the virus right now and it seems to be a mutated version of the same virus that reached the UK in 2018. Also read | LGBTIQA+: 1 in 12 young adults in UK identifies as lesbian, gay or bisexual “This may be a virus that’s been circulating undetected for quite a while. They all have a common ancestor and that common ancestor probably dates back to 2019, though it’s too early to date with any kind of accuracy,” said Prof Marc Van Ranst, a virologist at the University of Leuven in Belgium as quoted by The Guardian report. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Was monkeypox already circulating in UK? Scientists have interesting answers

<p>The United Kingdom has classified two types of Omicron variant — BA.4 and BA.5 — of coronavirus (COVID-19) as variants of concern, an announcement on Friday (May 20) revealed. Notably, only a fewer cases of these two types of variants have been identified in the country so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, data by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicates that the mentioned Omicron variants are likely to have a "growth advantage" over the current dominant variant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 115 cases of confirmed (or probable) BA.4 have been identified in the UK as of May 20. The cases were detected in England (67), Scotland (41), Wales (6) and Northern Ireland (1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, a total of 80 cases of BA.5 have been identified so far in England (48), Scotland (25), Northern Ireland (6) and Wales (1).&nbsp;</p>

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<p>As quoted by Evening Standard, Dr Meera Chand, who is the UKHSA director of clinical and emerging infections, said: "The reclassification of these variants as variants of concern reflects emerging evidence on the growth of BA.4 and BA.5 internationally and in the UK."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Whilst the impact of these variants is uncertain, the variant classification system aims to identify potential risk as early as possible. UKHSA is undertaking further detailed studies. Data and analysis will be released in due course through our regular surveillance reporting," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Foreign students and teachers drop out of Chinese schools amid stringent Covid curbs</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, vaccine advisers in Britain recently told that an anticipated autumn Covid booster campaign would be aimed at people aged over 65. Frontline health workers, social care workers, care home residents and all adults in a clinical risk group are included.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The JCVI’s [Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation] current view is that in autumn 2022, a COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to: Residents in a care home for older adults and staff; Frontline health and social care workers; All those 65 years of age and over; Adults aged 16 to 64 years who are in a clinical risk group," UKHSA said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

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The United Kingdom has classified two types of Omicron variant — BA.4 and BA.5 — of coronavirus (COVID-19) as variants of concern, an announcement on Friday (May 20) revealed.

The United Kingdom has classified two types of Omicron variant — BA.4 and BA.5 — of coronavirus (COVID-19) as variants of concern, an announcement on Friday (May 20) revealed. Notably, only a fewer cases of these two types of variants have been identified in the country so far. However, data by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicates that the mentioned Omicron variants are likely to have a "growth advantage" over the current dominant variant. A total of 115 cases of confirmed (or probable) BA.4 have been identified in the UK as of May 20. The cases were detected in England (67), Scotland (41), Wales (6) and Northern Ireland (1). On the other hand, a total of 80 cases of BA.5 have been identified so far in England (48), Scotland (25), Northern Ireland (6) and Wales (1). ALSO READ | Impact of climate change: Rising temperatures could cause hours of sleep loss As quoted by Evening Standard, Dr Meera Chand, who is the UKHSA director of clinical and emerging infections, said: "The reclassification of these variants as variants of concern reflects emerging evidence on the growth of BA.4 and BA.5 internationally and in the UK." "Whilst the impact of these variants is uncertain, the variant classification system aims to identify potential risk as early as possible. UKHSA is undertaking further detailed studies. Data and analysis will be released in due course through our regular surveillance reporting," she added. ALSO READ | Parasites that can alter the mind can make infected people more attractive, study claims WATCH | Foreign students and teachers drop out of Chinese schools amid stringent Covid curbs × Meanwhile, vaccine advisers in Britain recently told that an anticipated autumn Covid booster campaign would be aimed at people aged over 65. Frontline health workers, social care workers, care home residents and all adults in a clinical risk group are included. "The JCVI’s [Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation] current view is that in autumn 2022, a COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to: Residents in a care home for older adults and staff; Frontline health and social care workers; All those 65 years of age and over; Adults aged 16 to 64 years who are in a clinical risk group," UKHSA said in a statement. 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 classifies two types of the Omicron variants of Covid as variants of concern

<p>A World Health Organization (WHO) report, published in 2021, noted that tobacco kills more than eight million people each year around the world. The report mentioned that more than seven million of the total die as a result of direct tobacco use. On the other hand, around 1.2 million die as a result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Countries have been taking necessary steps to curb the use of tobacco, especially among the younger generation. For example, the UK is considering revamping the legal age for smoking, Telegraph reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, the legal age for smoking could be increased to 21 from 18 in the country. The independent review is commissioned by the country's Health Secretary Sajid Javid, who had reportedly considered recommending it be set at 25.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-britains-opposition-asks-boris-johnson-to-urgently-explain-secret-meeting-with-sue-gray-480999">Partygate scandal: Britain's opposition asks Boris Johnson to 'urgently explain' secret meeting with Sue Gray</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the media outlet, the independent review will recommend that the legal age to purchase cigarettes be increased and also, new taxes are imposed on tobacco company profits. The review report is expected to come in the coming weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the media outlet, one source involved in the report said: "Sajid Javid is interested in health inequality and he is interested in tackling public health issues, but the Government is in hock to right-wing MPs. On tobacco, they are still nervous about some kind of nanny state attack."&nbsp;</p>

<p>One source said that "we will have to wait for the full independent report before responding to any recommendations but we are not minded towards further restrictions on age of sale".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-classifies-two-types-of-the-omicron-variants-of-covid-as-variants-of-concern-480932">UK classifies two types of the Omicron variants of Covid as variants of concern</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;"We need to do much more as a country to tackle smoking, which causes huge harm, including measures such as making vaping more accessible to help people get off cigarettes. We are looking forward to receiving the final report," the source added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is no official comment by UK's&nbsp;Department for Health.&nbsp;</p>

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A World Health Organization (WHO) report, published in 2021, noted that tobacco kills more than eight million people each year around the world. The report mentioned that more than seven million of the total die as a result of direct tobacco use.

A World Health Organization (WHO) report, published in 2021, noted that tobacco kills more than eight million people each year around the world. The report mentioned that more than seven million of the total die as a result of direct tobacco use. On the other hand, around 1.2 million die as a result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke. Countries have been taking necessary steps to curb the use of tobacco, especially among the younger generation. For example, the UK is considering revamping the legal age for smoking, Telegraph reported. As per the report, the legal age for smoking could be increased to 21 from 18 in the country. The independent review is commissioned by the country's Health Secretary Sajid Javid, who had reportedly considered recommending it be set at 25. ALSO READ | Partygate scandal: Britain's opposition asks Boris Johnson to 'urgently explain' secret meeting with Sue Gray As per the media outlet, the independent review will recommend that the legal age to purchase cigarettes be increased and also, new taxes are imposed on tobacco company profits. The review report is expected to come in the coming weeks. As quoted by the media outlet, one source involved in the report said: "Sajid Javid is interested in health inequality and he is interested in tackling public health issues, but the Government is in hock to right-wing MPs. On tobacco, they are still nervous about some kind of nanny state attack." One source said that "we will have to wait for the full independent report before responding to any recommendations but we are not minded towards further restrictions on age of sale". ALSO READ | UK classifies two types of the Omicron variants of Covid as variants of concern "We need to do much more as a country to tackle smoking, which causes huge harm, including measures such as making vaping more accessible to help people get off cigarettes. We are looking forward to receiving the final report," the source added. There is no official comment by UK's Department for Health. 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 considers revamping legal age for smoking, it could rise to 21: Report

<p>The United Kingdom wants to generate solar energy in space and as per a report by space.com, they think they can do it by 2035.</p>

<p>UK Space Energy Initiative, which was launched last year in an effort to explore options for developing a space-based solar power plant, has gathered over 50 British technology organisations, including heavyweights such as aerospace manufacturer Airbus, Cambridge University, and satellite maker SSTL.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Universe: After 13.8 billion years, it's time to slow down</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The programme claims that using the sun to beam power from space might help the UK accomplish its target of zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 at a lower cost than many existing technologies.</p>

<p>As per the initiative's chairman Martin Soltau, the technology required to develop the plant exists already, but the challenge is the size and scope of the project.</p>

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<p>Soltau explained that the programme has devised a 12-year development plan in which a prototype power plant erected by robots in orbit may beam gigawatts of power from space to Earth as early as 2035.</p>

<p>CASSIOPeiA (for Constant Aperture, Solid-State, Integrated, Orbital Phased Array) a modular design devised by the British engineering firm International Electric Company is to be used in this initiative.</p>

<p>The orbiting power plant's modular design allows it to be extended after the demonstration phase. Even the demonstrator, according to Soltau, would be massive, measuring several miles across, and would require 300 launches of a rocket the size of SpaceX Starship to reach orbit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/theres-a-blackhole-4-million-times-the-size-of-sun-at-the-centre-of-milky-way-check-it-out-478429" hreflang="en">There's a blackhole 4 million times the size of sun at the centre of Milky Way. Check it out!</a></strong></p>

<p>It would be 22,000 miles (36,000 kilometres) above our planet, with a perpetual view of the sun and Earth.</p>

<p>The principal function as per Soltau would be similar to that of an earth-bound solar plant, the only difference being that CASSIOPeiA would produce a much higher amount of electricity than a similarly sized terrestrial plant.</p>

<p>Additionally, the plant would not be plagued by problems like an overcast sky that affect most terrestrial plants.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Kingdom wants to generate solar energy in space and as per a report by space.com, they think they can do it by 2035. UK Space Energy Initiative, which was launched last year in an effort to explore options for developing a space-based solar power plant, has gathered over 50 British technology organisations, including heavyweights such as aerospace manufacturer Airbus, Cambridge University, and satellite maker SSTL.

The United Kingdom wants to generate solar energy in space and as per a report by space.com, they think they can do it by 2035. UK Space Energy Initiative, which was launched last year in an effort to explore options for developing a space-based solar power plant, has gathered over 50 British technology organisations, including heavyweights such as aerospace manufacturer Airbus, Cambridge University, and satellite maker SSTL. Watch | Universe: After 13.8 billion years, it's time to slow down The programme claims that using the sun to beam power from space might help the UK accomplish its target of zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 at a lower cost than many existing technologies. As per the initiative's chairman Martin Soltau, the technology required to develop the plant exists already, but the challenge is the size and scope of the project. Also read | A super-long blood moon is gonna grace the skies soon. Here's how you can see it Soltau explained that the programme has devised a 12-year development plan in which a prototype power plant erected by robots in orbit may beam gigawatts of power from space to Earth as early as 2035. CASSIOPeiA (for Constant Aperture, Solid-State, Integrated, Orbital Phased Array) a modular design devised by the British engineering firm International Electric Company is to be used in this initiative. The orbiting power plant's modular design allows it to be extended after the demonstration phase. Even the demonstrator, according to Soltau, would be massive, measuring several miles across, and would require 300 launches of a rocket the size of SpaceX Starship to reach orbit. Also read | There's a blackhole 4 million times the size of sun at the centre of Milky Way. Check it out! It would be 22,000 miles (36,000 kilometres) above our planet, with a perpetual view of the sun and Earth. The principal function as per Soltau would be similar to that of an earth-bound solar plant, the only difference being that CASSIOPeiA would produce a much higher amount of electricity than a similarly sized terrestrial plant. Additionally, the plant would not be plagued by problems like an overcast sky that affect most terrestrial plants. (With inputs from agencies)

Science fiction or reality? UK to build a solar power plant in space. Here's how

<p>There is no shortage of bizarre news on the internet and almost every week, one comes across an oddly shaped food item being sold for eyewatering prices. The latest to join this long line of oddly shaped, extremely expensive food item is a single Sour Cream and Onion Pringle potato chip.</p>

<p>Finding a weirdly shaped chip is not quite rare considering the amount of chips being consumed around the world on a daily basis but a seller in the United Kingdom has demanded £2,000 for that particular Pringle potato chip on eBay as he believes that the shape is "extremely rare".</p>

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<p>According to a report on The Mirror, the seller from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire described the chip as "brand-new, unused, unopened and undamaged item” on the site and the picture showed that the top edges folded perfectly to line up with the rest of the chip to create an interesting shape.</p>

<p>While there were not many bids on the product, the seller has also included finance options for buying the snack. As a result, any potential buyer can pay £95 every month for two years – taking the price of the chip to a massive £2,280.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-plans-to-distribute-1-million-cannabis-trees-to-people-to-promote-it-as-household-crop-478083" hreflang="en">Thailand plans to distribute 1 million cannabis trees to people to promote it as 'household crop'</a></p>

<p>For reference, a packet of Pringles chips is available for around £1.65 in the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>Incidentally, there is another seller who is offering is offering two Sour Cream and Onion snacks for £50 while one in Manchester have decided to ask for £65 for a Honey Glazed Ham flavour Pringle which was described as “Folded back Pringle with a slight crack in it but holding together strongly”.</p>


There is no shortage of bizarre news on the internet and almost every week, one comes across an oddly shaped food item being sold for eyewatering prices. The latest to join this long line of oddly shaped, extremely expensive food item is a single Sour Cream and Onion Pringle potato chip.

There is no shortage of bizarre news on the internet and almost every week, one comes across an oddly shaped food item being sold for eyewatering prices. The latest to join this long line of oddly shaped, extremely expensive food item is a single Sour Cream and Onion Pringle potato chip. Finding a weirdly shaped chip is not quite rare considering the amount of chips being consumed around the world on a daily basis but a seller in the United Kingdom has demanded £2,000 for that particular Pringle potato chip on eBay as he believes that the shape is "extremely rare". Also read | Ukraine pushing back Russians from Kharkiv: Zelensky According to a report on The Mirror, the seller from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire described the chip as "brand-new, unused, unopened and undamaged item” on the site and the picture showed that the top edges folded perfectly to line up with the rest of the chip to create an interesting shape. While there were not many bids on the product, the seller has also included finance options for buying the snack. As a result, any potential buyer can pay £95 every month for two years – taking the price of the chip to a massive £2,280. Also read | Thailand plans to distribute 1 million cannabis trees to people to promote it as 'household crop' For reference, a packet of Pringles chips is available for around £1.65 in the United Kingdom. Incidentally, there is another seller who is offering is offering two Sour Cream and Onion snacks for £50 while one in Manchester have decided to ask for £65 for a Honey Glazed Ham flavour Pringle which was described as “Folded back Pringle with a slight crack in it but holding together strongly”.

'One of a kind': UK man sells single 'extremely rare' potato chip for £2,000

<p>There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation. As a result, they face a considerable amount of risk when it comes to the payment received by them or in some cases, pressure from the parents to continue making content.</p>

<p>According to British MPs, there needs to be some sort of legislation that can protect the ‘kidfluencers’ from exploitation and also enforce proper regulations regarding sponsored content.</p>

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<p>Julian Knight, the Conservative chair of the House of Commons digital, culture, media and sport committee, said that the growing number of influencers has made the situation even worse.</p>

<p>“The rise of influencer culture online has brought significant new opportunities for those working in the creative industries and a boost to the UK economy,” he said according to The Guardian.</p>

<p>“However, as is so often the case where social media is involved, if you dig below the shiny surface of what you see on screen you will discover an altogether murkier world where both the influencers and their followers are at risk of exploitation and harm online,” he added.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/victory-day-parade-absolutely-unacceptable-threat-russia-defending-motherland-in-ukraine-says-putin-477528" hreflang="en">Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin</a></p>

<p>The report from the committee explained that the ‘kidfluencers’ need to be included in the UK child labour and performance regulations to make sure that they are not forced into the sector.</p>

<p>“We are deeply concerned that a lack of action in the booming influencer market will lead to even more children in the industry being exploited,” said the report submitted by the report.</p>


There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation.

There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation. As a result, they face a considerable amount of risk when it comes to the payment received by them or in some cases, pressure from the parents to continue making content. According to British MPs, there needs to be some sort of legislation that can protect the ‘kidfluencers’ from exploitation and also enforce proper regulations regarding sponsored content. Also read | Troops deployed in Colombo after pro-government supporters attack protesters Julian Knight, the Conservative chair of the House of Commons digital, culture, media and sport committee, said that the growing number of influencers has made the situation even worse. “The rise of influencer culture online has brought significant new opportunities for those working in the creative industries and a boost to the UK economy,” he said according to The Guardian. “However, as is so often the case where social media is involved, if you dig below the shiny surface of what you see on screen you will discover an altogether murkier world where both the influencers and their followers are at risk of exploitation and harm online,” he added. Also read | Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin The report from the committee explained that the ‘kidfluencers’ need to be included in the UK child labour and performance regulations to make sure that they are not forced into the sector. “We are deeply concerned that a lack of action in the booming influencer market will lead to even more children in the industry being exploited,” said the report submitted by the report.

UK must protect child influencers from exploitation through labour laws, says report

<p>McColl's a British store chain with a network of more than 1,100 convenience stores and newsagents across the United Kingdom has gone bust in face of rising inflation. This has put 16000 jobs at risk.</p>

<p>The company is entering administration, a process in which a failing company seeks outside assistance in order to avoid job losses.</p>

<p>According to Reuters, the convenience store chain's lenders have declined to provide additional cash. Last-ditch talks with supermarket behemoth Morrisons, according to reports, have also failed.</p>

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<p>"In order to protect creditors, preserve the future of the business and to protect the interests of employees, the board was regrettably... left with no choice other than to place the company in administration," said McColl's in its statement.</p>

<p>For the process, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has been appointed as administrators. The collapsing company said that it expects PwC to make a sale of the business to a third-party purchaser "as soon as possible".</p>

<p>In a trading update last month, McColl's said it was impacted by reduced customer spending and continued supply chain disruption throughout the industry.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Bank Of England hikes interest rates to 13-year high</strong></p>

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<p>The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has also suspended the group's shares, whose price gained 20 per cent on Friday amid hopes of a rescue deal.</p>

<p>Britain is facing a cost-of-living crisis as inflation reaches 7 per cent, the highest in thirty years.</p>

<p>As per a warning by the Bank of England, by the end of this year, because of rising energy prices, UK's inflation is expected to reach 10 per cent, a four-decade high.</p>

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<p>The bank also warned that Britain could enter a recession, as the central bank raised its main interest rate by a quarter-point to one per cent, the highest since the 2009 global financial crisis.</p>

<p>Globally consumer prices have been surging as economies that have already been struggling after pandemic lockdowns, face costs aggravated by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


McColl's a British store chain with a network of more than 1,100 convenience stores and newsagents across the United Kingdom has gone bust in face of rising inflation.

McColl's a British store chain with a network of more than 1,100 convenience stores and newsagents across the United Kingdom has gone bust in face of rising inflation. This has put 16000 jobs at risk. The company is entering administration, a process in which a failing company seeks outside assistance in order to avoid job losses. According to Reuters, the convenience store chain's lenders have declined to provide additional cash. Last-ditch talks with supermarket behemoth Morrisons, according to reports, have also failed. Also read | US Fed makes biggest rate increase since 2000 to fight inflation "In order to protect creditors, preserve the future of the business and to protect the interests of employees, the board was regrettably... left with no choice other than to place the company in administration," said McColl's in its statement. For the process, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has been appointed as administrators. The collapsing company said that it expects PwC to make a sale of the business to a third-party purchaser "as soon as possible". In a trading update last month, McColl's said it was impacted by reduced customer spending and continued supply chain disruption throughout the industry. Watch | Bank Of England hikes interest rates to 13-year high The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has also suspended the group's shares, whose price gained 20 per cent on Friday amid hopes of a rescue deal. Britain is facing a cost-of-living crisis as inflation reaches 7 per cent, the highest in thirty years. As per a warning by the Bank of England, by the end of this year, because of rising energy prices, UK's inflation is expected to reach 10 per cent, a four-decade high. Also read | Random guy named Ma gets detained, Alibaba loses USD 26 billion The bank also warned that Britain could enter a recession, as the central bank raised its main interest rate by a quarter-point to one per cent, the highest since the 2009 global financial crisis. Globally consumer prices have been surging as economies that have already been struggling after pandemic lockdowns, face costs aggravated by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's convenience store chain McColl's goes bust due to inflation; 1,100 stores and 16,000 jobs at risk

Voters are all set to cast their ballots in local polls on Thursday in what is believed to be a midterm test for Boris Johnson's conservative government amid spiraling allegations over the Partygate scandal in England.

United Kingdom: PM Boris Johnson faces major test in local polls

From plethora of Grand Slam titles to jail term: Reliving Boris Becker's topsy-turvy ride

<p>New research found that red deer, elk and wild boar would have roamed land near the Stonehenge area around 4,000 years before the standing stones were constructed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The iconic Stonehenge, which is said to be the most architecturally sophisticated and only surviving lintelled stone circle in the world, is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After examining Blick Mead, a Mesolithic archaeological site in the vicinity, scientists found that the area had not been covered in dens and closed-canopy forests which was previously believed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, it has been understood that the area would have been populated by grazing animals and hunter-gatherers. "There has been intensive study of the Bronze Age and Neolithic history of the Stonehenge landscape, but less is known about earlier periods," explained lead researcher, Samuel Hudson, of Geography and Environmental Science at Southampton.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The integration of evidence recovered from previous excavations at Blick Mead, coupled with our own fieldwork, allowed us to understand more about the flora and fauna of the landscape prior to construction of the later world-famous monument complex," Hudson added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Past theories suggest the area was thickly wooded and cleared in later periods for farming and monument building. However, our research points to pre-Neolithic, hunting-gatherer inhabitants, living in open woodland which supported aurochs and other grazing herbivores," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings of the study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, were established after analysing pollen, fungal spores and traces of DNA preserved in ancient sediment (sedaDNA), combined with optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radiocarbon dating to produce an environmental history of the Wiltshire site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, the researchers used the evidence to build a picture of the habitat in the area from the later Mesolithic (5500 BC) to the Neolithic period (from 4,000 BC).&nbsp;</p>

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New research found that red deer, elk and wild boar would have roamed land near the Stonehenge area around 4,000 years before the standing stones were constructed.

New research found that red deer, elk and wild boar would have roamed land near the Stonehenge area around 4,000 years before the standing stones were constructed. The iconic Stonehenge, which is said to be the most architecturally sophisticated and only surviving lintelled stone circle in the world, is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England. After examining Blick Mead, a Mesolithic archaeological site in the vicinity, scientists found that the area had not been covered in dens and closed-canopy forests which was previously believed. Meanwhile, it has been understood that the area would have been populated by grazing animals and hunter-gatherers. "There has been intensive study of the Bronze Age and Neolithic history of the Stonehenge landscape, but less is known about earlier periods," explained lead researcher, Samuel Hudson, of Geography and Environmental Science at Southampton. "The integration of evidence recovered from previous excavations at Blick Mead, coupled with our own fieldwork, allowed us to understand more about the flora and fauna of the landscape prior to construction of the later world-famous monument complex," Hudson added. "Past theories suggest the area was thickly wooded and cleared in later periods for farming and monument building. However, our research points to pre-Neolithic, hunting-gatherer inhabitants, living in open woodland which supported aurochs and other grazing herbivores," he added. The findings of the study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, were established after analysing pollen, fungal spores and traces of DNA preserved in ancient sediment (sedaDNA), combined with optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radiocarbon dating to produce an environmental history of the Wiltshire site. Later, the researchers used the evidence to build a picture of the habitat in the area from the later Mesolithic (5500 BC) to the Neolithic period (from 4,000 BC). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

New study tells Stonehenge was 'built on land inhabited by deer, elk and wild boar'

<p><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.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>The United Kingdom's defence ministry said on Tuesday (April 26) that it is probing a Russian hack that is targeting its army recruits.</p>

<p>According to a report published in the British newspaper Daily Mail, the main suspect of the cyberattack was "feared to have been a Russian agent."&nbsp;</p>

<p>''The incident is a very poor reflection on our own IT,'' said James Heappey, UK's minister of armed forces, said in response.</p>

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<p>The country's defence ministry has "ordered an urgent review of our IT security as a consequence," he added.</p>

<p>Russian hackers illegally accessed the personal records of 124 army candidates as per the report.</p>

<p>''But it is thought hundreds more could have been at risk," the report stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unleashes-string-of-attack-against-ukraines-rail-fuel-facilities-473702" hreflang="en">Russia unleashes string of attacks against Ukraine's rail, fuel facilities</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Heappey downplayed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's warning about the real threat of World War III breaking out.</p>

<p>Lavrov said, "It is real, you can't underestimate it."</p>

<p>"Lavrov's trademark over the course of 15 years or so that he has been the Russian foreign secretary has been that sort of bravado. I don't think that right now there is an imminent threat of escalation," BBC reported Heappey as saying.</p>

<p>"What the West is doing to support its allies in Ukraine is very well-calibrated," he added.</p>

<p>Russia has accused NATO of providing military aid to Ukraine, which Heappey denied saying the alliance is only reinforcing its eastern flank.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATO</a> Allies have increased the number of fighter jets on alert✈️<br />
<br />
They’re conducting around the clock air patrols over Bulgaria 🇧🇬, Estonia 🇪🇪, Latvia 🇱🇻, Lithuania 🇱🇹, Poland🇵🇱 and Romania 🇷🇴 to secure Allied air space <a href="https://t.co/q794ny35mA">pic.twitter.com/q794ny35mA</a></p>
— NATO (@NATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1514548998316736515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"It suits the Kremlin's narrative to claim that they are somehow in a confrontation with NATO. They were saying that before the war even began, but that is nonsense and Lavrov knows it," Heappey said.</p>

<p>He believes that NATO should not underestimate the considerable risks of nuclear conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Watch WION live TV here:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>The UK, along with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States is a part of the ''Five Eyes'' intelligence-sharing network.</p>

<p>Last week, it issued a warning that all countries supporting Ukraine will face powerful cyberattacks by Russia.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Moscow's attack on Ukraine a ''special military operation'' to disarm and ''denazify'' it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


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's defence ministry said on Tuesday (April 26) that it is probing a Russian hack that is targeting its army recruits. According to a report published in the British newspaper Daily Mail, the main suspect of the cyberattack was "feared to have been a Russian agent." ''The incident is a very poor reflection on our own IT,'' said James Heappey, UK's minister of armed forces, said in response. The country's defence ministry has "ordered an urgent review of our IT security as a consequence," he added. Russian hackers illegally accessed the personal records of 124 army candidates as per the report. ''But it is thought hundreds more could have been at risk," the report stated. Also read | Russia unleashes string of attacks against Ukraine's rail, fuel facilities Earlier, Heappey downplayed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's warning about the real threat of World War III breaking out. Lavrov said, "It is real, you can't underestimate it." "Lavrov's trademark over the course of 15 years or so that he has been the Russian foreign secretary has been that sort of bravado. I don't think that right now there is an imminent threat of escalation," BBC reported Heappey as saying. "What the West is doing to support its allies in Ukraine is very well-calibrated," he added. Russia has accused NATO of providing military aid to Ukraine, which Heappey denied saying the alliance is only reinforcing its eastern flank. #NATO Allies have increased the number of fighter jets on alert✈️ They’re conducting around the clock air patrols over Bulgaria 🇧🇬, Estonia 🇪🇪, Latvia 🇱🇻, Lithuania 🇱🇹, Poland🇵🇱 and Romania 🇷🇴 to secure Allied air space pic.twitter.com/q794ny35mA — NATO (@NATO) April 14, 2022 × "It suits the Kremlin's narrative to claim that they are somehow in a confrontation with NATO. They were saying that before the war even began, but that is nonsense and Lavrov knows it," Heappey said. He believes that NATO should not underestimate the considerable risks of nuclear conflict. Watch WION live TV here: The UK, along with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States is a part of the ''Five Eyes'' intelligence-sharing network. Last week, it issued a warning that all countries supporting Ukraine will face powerful cyberattacks by Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Moscow's attack on Ukraine a ''special military operation'' to disarm and ''denazify'' it. (With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits

People are taking energy prices into their own hands by switching to community-led energy production. As the rise in prices does not seem to be slowing down, hundreds of small groups that are creating energy around the United Kingdom are demanding that the government make more effort to support them, take a look.

United Kingdom: Community-owned wind turbines used for power output

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<p>As part of the new AUKUS alliance, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia will jointly start collaborating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities. The decision has been taken after a call between the leaders of the new defence alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a joint statement, they informed, "We... committed today to commence new trilateral cooperation on hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to expand information sharing and to deepen cooperation on defence innovation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These initiatives will add to our existing efforts to deepen cooperation on cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and additional undersea capabilities," the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As our work progresses on these and other critical defense and security capabilities, we will seek opportunities to engage allies and close partners," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angela-merkel-rejects-zelenskys-criticism-stands-by-her-decision-to-block-ukraine-from-nato-468690">Russia-Ukraine war: Antonov AN-225, world's largest plane, in tatters. See pics</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AUKUS leaders have agreed to deepen their partnership across defence, technology and information sharing. We are unwavering in our commitment to an international system based on the rule of law and human rights.<br />
<br />
🇬🇧🇺🇸🇦🇺</p>
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/10DowningStreet/status/1511393688223690762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;&nbsp;the US military said it tested a new&nbsp;hypersonic&nbsp;missile. The US said it completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched&nbsp;hypersonic&nbsp;missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound.</p>

<p>The three partners of the AUKUS alliance said the joint initiatives will bolster existing efforts to deepen cooperation in numerous areas that they already agreed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alliance, formed last September, aimed at countering China, The had also prompted Australia to cancel a crucial contract for a conventional French submarine in favour of a nuclear submarine program supported by the United States and Britain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal had&nbsp;angered French President Emmanuel Macron and the bilateral ties between France and Australia also appeared to be damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Important to note that Russia, China, the United States and North Korea have all test-launched hypersonic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angela-merkel-rejects-zelenskys-criticism-stands-by-her-decision-to-block-ukraine-from-nato-468690">Angela Merkel rejects Zelensky's criticism, stands by her decision to block Ukraine from NATO</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;AUKUS to work on hypersonic weapons&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>What are Hypersonic missiles?</strong></p>

<p>Hypersonic missiles, like traditional ballistic missiles which can deliver nuclear weapons, can fly at more than five times the speed of sound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While ballistic missiles fly high into space in an arc to reach their target, a hypersonic weapon flies on a trajectory low in the atmosphere, potentially reaching a target more quickly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crucially, a hypersonic missile is manoeuvrable - like the much slower, often subsonic cruise missile - making it much harder to track and defend against.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> The United States, Britain and Australia said they will begin jointly collaborating on hypersonic weapons and "electronic warfare capabilities", as part of their new AUKUS alliance aimed at countering China <a href="https://t.co/9945s5OGyg">https://t.co/9945s5OGyg</a> <a href="https://t.co/riSWnWgkS8">pic.twitter.com/riSWnWgkS8</a></p>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1511428962265743363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidDB1Zs1jorbgX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><strong>US tests hypersonic missile</strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday (April 5), the US military announced a new successful test of a hypersonic missile, which was done apparently in mid-March but was kept in dark due to the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict. CNN report mentioned that the US remained quiet to avoid escalating tensions with Russia as President Joe Biden was about to travel to Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) said it had recently completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched hypersonic missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound (at least 3,800 miles per hour, or 6,100 kilometres per hour).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missile flew to an altitude greater than 19,800 meters and soared over 300 nautical miles, said DARPA, the Pentagon's high-tech research body.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As part of the new AUKUS alliance, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia will jointly start collaborating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities.

As part of the new AUKUS alliance, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia will jointly start collaborating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities. The decision has been taken after a call between the leaders of the new defence alliance. In a joint statement, they informed, "We... committed today to commence new trilateral cooperation on hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to expand information sharing and to deepen cooperation on defence innovation." "These initiatives will add to our existing efforts to deepen cooperation on cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and additional undersea capabilities," the statement read. "As our work progresses on these and other critical defense and security capabilities, we will seek opportunities to engage allies and close partners," it added. IN PICS | Russia-Ukraine war: Antonov AN-225, world's largest plane, in tatters. See pics AUKUS leaders have agreed to deepen their partnership across defence, technology and information sharing. We are unwavering in our commitment to an international system based on the rule of law and human rights. 🇬🇧🇺🇸🇦🇺 — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) April 5, 2022 × Meanwhile, the US military said it tested a new hypersonic missile. The US said it completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched hypersonic missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. The three partners of the AUKUS alliance said the joint initiatives will bolster existing efforts to deepen cooperation in numerous areas that they already agreed. The alliance, formed last September, aimed at countering China, The had also prompted Australia to cancel a crucial contract for a conventional French submarine in favour of a nuclear submarine program supported by the United States and Britain. The deal had angered French President Emmanuel Macron and the bilateral ties between France and Australia also appeared to be damaged. Important to note that Russia, China, the United States and North Korea have all test-launched hypersonic missiles. ALSO READ | Angela Merkel rejects Zelensky's criticism, stands by her decision to block Ukraine from NATO WATCH | AUKUS to work on hypersonic weapons × What are Hypersonic missiles? Hypersonic missiles, like traditional ballistic missiles which can deliver nuclear weapons, can fly at more than five times the speed of sound. While ballistic missiles fly high into space in an arc to reach their target, a hypersonic weapon flies on a trajectory low in the atmosphere, potentially reaching a target more quickly. Crucially, a hypersonic missile is manoeuvrable - like the much slower, often subsonic cruise missile - making it much harder to track and defend against. #UPDATE The United States, Britain and Australia said they will begin jointly collaborating on hypersonic weapons and "electronic warfare capabilities", as part of their new AUKUS alliance aimed at countering China https://t.co/9945s5OGyg pic.twitter.com/riSWnWgkS8 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) April 5, 2022 × US tests hypersonic missile On Tuesday (April 5), the US military announced a new successful test of a hypersonic missile, which was done apparently in mid-March but was kept in dark due to the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict. CNN report mentioned that the US remained quiet to avoid escalating tensions with Russia as President Joe Biden was about to travel to Europe. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) said it had recently completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched hypersonic missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound (at least 3,800 miles per hour, or 6,100 kilometres per hour). The missile flew to an altitude greater than 19,800 meters and soared over 300 nautical miles, said DARPA, the Pentagon's high-tech research body. (With inputs from agencies)

US tests hypersonic missile; Australia, US, UK agree to cooperate on hypersonic weapons

<p>Britain pledged on Monday to make the country a crypto-asset hub, paving the path for stablecoin, backed by national currencies, to become a widely accepted payment method.</p>

<p>"It's my ambition to make the UK a global hub for crypto-asset technology, and the measures we've outlined today will help to ensure firms can invest, innovate and scale up in this country," said finance minister Rishi Sunak.</p>

<p>"We want to see the businesses of tomorrow -- and the jobs they create -- here in the UK, and by regulating effectively we can give them the confidence they need to think and invest long-term."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/at-new-yorks-first-nft-atm-buying-digital-art-is-as-easy-as-buying-candy-458000">At New York's first 'NFT ATM', buying digital art is as easy as buying candy</a></strong></p>

<p>Sunak has also commissioned the Royal Mint, Britain's official coin producer, to create a non-fungible token (NFT).</p>

<p>"The government has today announced moves that will see stablecoins recognised as a valid form of payment as part of wider plans to make Britain a global hub for crypto-asset technology and investment," said a Treasury statement.</p>

<p>Stablecoins will be regulated as part of a package of measures aimed at keeping the UK finance sector on the "cutting edge" of technology.</p>

<p>"Appropriate regulation... could provide a more efficient means of payment and widen customer choice," in the sector the Treasury noted.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-cryptocurrencies-money-laundering-via-nfts-is-next-big-worry-450303">After cryptocurrencies, money laundering via NFTs is next big worry</a></strong></p>

<p>Stablecoins do not experience the price swings that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have seen since they are backed by one or more national currencies with a nearly&nbsp;fixed rate of exchange.</p>

<p>The Treasury is also looking into methods to improve&nbsp;&nbsp;"the competitiveness of the UK tax system to encourage further development" of the market.</p>

<p>The thriving cryptocurrency industry, as well as its expanding economic significance, is being keenly monitored around the world.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency &amp; Blockchain- What's driving the craze?</strong></p>

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<p>The United States has also started work on developing a digital dollar, joining more than a hundred other countries that are experimenting with or have already launched pilot projects with their own central bank digital currency.</p>

<p>Regulators, on the other hand, are not that&nbsp;excited about the sector.</p>

<p>Virtual currencies are the "new front line" for criminal schemes, according to Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey.</p>

<p>Last month, Christine Lagarde, the head of the European Central Bank, expressed worry that crypto units were being used as a way to dodge sanctions against Russia over the conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain pledged on Monday to make the country a crypto-asset hub, paving the path for stablecoin, backed by national currencies, to become a widely accepted payment method.

Britain pledged on Monday to make the country a crypto-asset hub, paving the path for stablecoin, backed by national currencies, to become a widely accepted payment method. "It's my ambition to make the UK a global hub for crypto-asset technology, and the measures we've outlined today will help to ensure firms can invest, innovate and scale up in this country," said finance minister Rishi Sunak. "We want to see the businesses of tomorrow -- and the jobs they create -- here in the UK, and by regulating effectively we can give them the confidence they need to think and invest long-term." Also read | At New York's first 'NFT ATM', buying digital art is as easy as buying candy Sunak has also commissioned the Royal Mint, Britain's official coin producer, to create a non-fungible token (NFT). "The government has today announced moves that will see stablecoins recognised as a valid form of payment as part of wider plans to make Britain a global hub for crypto-asset technology and investment," said a Treasury statement. Stablecoins will be regulated as part of a package of measures aimed at keeping the UK finance sector on the "cutting edge" of technology. "Appropriate regulation... could provide a more efficient means of payment and widen customer choice," in the sector the Treasury noted. Also read | After cryptocurrencies, money laundering via NFTs is next big worry Stablecoins do not experience the price swings that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have seen since they are backed by one or more national currencies with a nearly fixed rate of exchange. The Treasury is also looking into methods to improve "the competitiveness of the UK tax system to encourage further development" of the market. The thriving cryptocurrency industry, as well as its expanding economic significance, is being keenly monitored around the world. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency & Blockchain- What's driving the craze? The United States has also started work on developing a digital dollar, joining more than a hundred other countries that are experimenting with or have already launched pilot projects with their own central bank digital currency. Regulators, on the other hand, are not that excited about the sector. Virtual currencies are the "new front line" for criminal schemes, according to Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey. Last month, Christine Lagarde, the head of the European Central Bank, expressed worry that crypto units were being used as a way to dodge sanctions against Russia over the conflict in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom wants to be a crypto-assets hub; to mint its own NFT

The World health organization has released an updated plan to deal with covid-19. The global health body has laid out three possible scenarios for how the pandemic is likely to evolve this year.

WHO lists 3 scenarios on how pandemic may evolve

UK is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. With over 4.3 Million COVID cases recorded in early 2022, covid cases jump in United Kingdom again.

Covid cases jump in UK, infections peak in Scotland and Wales

<p>Britain's Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, expressed "profound sorrow" to Jamaicans over the "appalling atrocity of slavery" while speaking in Kingston, Jamaica. William called the transatlantic slave trade an atrocity that "forever stains our history".</p>

<p>William and his wife Kate are on an eight-day tour to the region. He addressed an audience hosted by the governor-general of Jamaica Patrick Allen on Wednesday (March 23).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the landmark speech, William echoed a statement made by his father, Prince Charles, who last year in Barbados said slavery "forever stains our history".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wikileaks-founder-julian-assange-gets-married-in-british-high-security-prison-465040">WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange gets married in British high-security prison</a></strong></p>

<p>As William addressed dignitaries in Jamaica, he said as quoted by news agencies:&nbsp;"Slavery was abhorrent. And it should never have happened. While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage and fortitude."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The strength and shared sense of purpose of the Jamaican people, represented in your flag and motto, celebrate an invincible spirit," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is this same spirit that spurred on the Windrush generation, who came to the United Kingdom to help rebuild after the Second World War."</p>

<p>"We are forever grateful for the immense contribution that this generation and their descendants have made to British life, which continues to enrich and improve our society," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spring-statement-2022-uk-confronts-cost-of-living-crisis-with-inflation-fighting-budget-465026">Spring Statement 2022: UK confronts cost of living crisis with inflation-fighting budget</a></strong></p>

<p>While speaking at a press briefing, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said William's three-day visit to the island offered a chance to address "unresolved" issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said Jamaica is "moving on" and embracing its destiny as an independent country later calling the Caribbean nation's switch to a republican model "inevitable".&nbsp;</p>

<p>William and Kate's arrival in the former British colony sparked protests over Britain's colonial-era role in the slave trade. The Protesters&nbsp;called&nbsp;for reparations and demand the monarchy apologise for its role in the slave trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>William expressed sorrow but didn't offer an apology.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK to send 6,000 missiles and $33 million financial aid to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, expressed "profound sorrow" to Jamaicans over the "appalling atrocity of slavery" while speaking in Kingston, Jamaica.

Britain's Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, expressed "profound sorrow" to Jamaicans over the "appalling atrocity of slavery" while speaking in Kingston, Jamaica. William called the transatlantic slave trade an atrocity that "forever stains our history". William and his wife Kate are on an eight-day tour to the region. He addressed an audience hosted by the governor-general of Jamaica Patrick Allen on Wednesday (March 23). During the landmark speech, William echoed a statement made by his father, Prince Charles, who last year in Barbados said slavery "forever stains our history". ALSO READ | WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange gets married in British high-security prison As William addressed dignitaries in Jamaica, he said as quoted by news agencies: "Slavery was abhorrent. And it should never have happened. While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage and fortitude." "The strength and shared sense of purpose of the Jamaican people, represented in your flag and motto, celebrate an invincible spirit," he added. "It is this same spirit that spurred on the Windrush generation, who came to the United Kingdom to help rebuild after the Second World War." "We are forever grateful for the immense contribution that this generation and their descendants have made to British life, which continues to enrich and improve our society," he further added. ALSO READ | Spring Statement 2022: UK confronts cost of living crisis with inflation-fighting budget While speaking at a press briefing, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said William's three-day visit to the island offered a chance to address "unresolved" issues. He said Jamaica is "moving on" and embracing its destiny as an independent country later calling the Caribbean nation's switch to a republican model "inevitable". William and Kate's arrival in the former British colony sparked protests over Britain's colonial-era role in the slave trade. The Protesters called for reparations and demand the monarchy apologise for its role in the slave trade. William expressed sorrow but didn't offer an apology. WATCH | UK to send 6,000 missiles and $33 million financial aid to Ukraine × (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Prince William expresses 'profound sorrow' for slavery in Jamaica speech, but no apology

<p>Royal Mint in the United Kingdom will start recovering hundreds of kilograms of gold and other precious metals from electronic waste and will use in its coins and bars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Royal Mint is hopeful that its new plant in Llantrisant, South Wales, will start reclaiming the precious metal from the circuit boards of laptops and mobile phones next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, gold, silver and other precious metals are embedded in circuit boards and other hardware. Such metals are highly conductive in small quantities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These metals are never recovered as people usually throw away their discarded electronics in the landfills or incinerated.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Royal Mint, which is more than 1,100-year-old, said it had partnered with a Canadian start-up called Excir which has developed chemical solutions to extract the metals from the circuit boards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sean Millard, the mint's chief growth officer, said that disused electronics in households represent about seven per cent of the world’s gold.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agency Reuters, Millard said, "If you take all of the disused electronics around your home, that represents about seven per cent of the world's gold. That is a huge number and really gives us the initiative and imperative to start recycling those electronics."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sky News reported that currently 99 per cent of the country's circuit boards are shipped overseas to be processed at high temperatures in smelters, as per the company estimates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the media outlet, Millard said, "As the volume of electronic waste increases each year, this problem is only set to become bigger."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Japanese automaker Suzuki signs deal with SkyDrive to develop 'flying cars'</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Royal Mint in the United Kingdom will start recovering hundreds of kilograms of gold and other precious metals from electronic waste and will use in its coins and bars.

Royal Mint in the United Kingdom will start recovering hundreds of kilograms of gold and other precious metals from electronic waste and will use in its coins and bars. Royal Mint is hopeful that its new plant in Llantrisant, South Wales, will start reclaiming the precious metal from the circuit boards of laptops and mobile phones next year. For the unversed, gold, silver and other precious metals are embedded in circuit boards and other hardware. Such metals are highly conductive in small quantities. These metals are never recovered as people usually throw away their discarded electronics in the landfills or incinerated. Royal Mint, which is more than 1,100-year-old, said it had partnered with a Canadian start-up called Excir which has developed chemical solutions to extract the metals from the circuit boards. Sean Millard, the mint's chief growth officer, said that disused electronics in households represent about seven per cent of the world’s gold. As quoted by news agency Reuters, Millard said, "If you take all of the disused electronics around your home, that represents about seven per cent of the world's gold. That is a huge number and really gives us the initiative and imperative to start recycling those electronics." Sky News reported that currently 99 per cent of the country's circuit boards are shipped overseas to be processed at high temperatures in smelters, as per the company estimates. As quoted by the media outlet, Millard said, "As the volume of electronic waste increases each year, this problem is only set to become bigger." WATCH | Japanese automaker Suzuki signs deal with SkyDrive to develop 'flying cars' × (With inputs from agencies)

Turn garbage into gold: UK's Royal Mint planning to extract precious metals from e-waste

<p>The United Kingdom on Friday ended all coronavirus travel restrictions in what is being deemed by travel experts as the "final game-changer".</p>

<p>The British government said the decision was made to make going on holiday easier for the Easter school vacation.</p>

<p>"Everything we have worked for - every jab, every test, and the sacrifices made by the whole country means that finally, nearly two years on, we can all travel without bureaucratic restrictions," said British Aviation Minister Robert Courts after announcing the move.</p>

<p>Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the changes will mean people “can travel just like in the good old days.”</p>

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<p>Now unvaccinated arrivals will no longer have to take tests and passenger locator forms have been scrapped. These forms require people to fill in travel details, their address in the UK&nbsp;and their vaccination status.</p>

<p>The news was welcomed by UK airlines such as Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, which said they are beginning to ease mask-wearing requirements on some routes.</p>

<p>"The removal of all travel restrictions is the final game-changer - people can now go on holiday or visit family and friends overseas without all of the stress that comes with testing before they return home," said Derek Jones, chief executive of Kuoni, a tourism company.</p>

<p>"Finally, we've seen the back of the unpopular and ineffective passenger locator forms, which were always a hassle to complete. Travel has been in turmoil for two years but now it's back."</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-coronavirus-deaths-top-150000-british-government-asks-nhs-to-get-vaccinated-by-february-3-443244">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths in Britain top&nbsp;150,000</a></strong></p>

<p>The announcement came as coronavirus infections were rising in all four parts of the UK:&nbsp;England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland,&nbsp;for the first time since the end of January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest government figures released Monday showed that there were more than 444,000 new cases recorded in the past seven days, up 48 per cent&nbsp;from the week before.</p>

<p>The number of hospital patients with COVID-19 is also going up, though it is still well below the peak recorded in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists say many of the new infections in England were a more transmissible sub-variant of the Omicron variant.</p>

<p>Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the rise in infections was “to be expected” as people socialize more after all domestic coronavirus restrictions, including the legal requirement for anyone who tested positive to self-isolate, came to an end February 24.</p>

<p>“We will continue monitoring and tracking potential new variants, and keep a reserve of measures which can be rapidly deployed if needed to keep us safe,” Javid said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Kingdom on Friday ended all coronavirus travel restrictions in what is being deemed by travel experts as the "final game-changer". The British government said the decision was made to make going on holiday easier for the Easter school vacation.

The United Kingdom on Friday ended all coronavirus travel restrictions in what is being deemed by travel experts as the "final game-changer". The British government said the decision was made to make going on holiday easier for the Easter school vacation. "Everything we have worked for - every jab, every test, and the sacrifices made by the whole country means that finally, nearly two years on, we can all travel without bureaucratic restrictions," said British Aviation Minister Robert Courts after announcing the move. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the changes will mean people “can travel just like in the good old days.” Now unvaccinated arrivals will no longer have to take tests and passenger locator forms have been scrapped. These forms require people to fill in travel details, their address in the UK and their vaccination status. The news was welcomed by UK airlines such as Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, which said they are beginning to ease mask-wearing requirements on some routes. "The removal of all travel restrictions is the final game-changer - people can now go on holiday or visit family and friends overseas without all of the stress that comes with testing before they return home," said Derek Jones, chief executive of Kuoni, a tourism company. "Finally, we've seen the back of the unpopular and ineffective passenger locator forms, which were always a hassle to complete. Travel has been in turmoil for two years but now it's back." Also read | Coronavirus deaths in Britain top 150,000 The announcement came as coronavirus infections were rising in all four parts of the UK: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, for the first time since the end of January. The latest government figures released Monday showed that there were more than 444,000 new cases recorded in the past seven days, up 48 per cent from the week before. The number of hospital patients with COVID-19 is also going up, though it is still well below the peak recorded in January. Scientists say many of the new infections in England were a more transmissible sub-variant of the Omicron variant. Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the rise in infections was “to be expected” as people socialize more after all domestic coronavirus restrictions, including the legal requirement for anyone who tested positive to self-isolate, came to an end February 24. “We will continue monitoring and tracking potential new variants, and keep a reserve of measures which can be rapidly deployed if needed to keep us safe,” Javid said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Final game-changer': United Kingdom ends coronavirus travel restrictions

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<p>In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In medical terms, adverse pregnancy outcomes are defined as the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities, miscarriage, congenital malformations, stillbirth or birth before 34 weeks of gestation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report media outlet added that the new scanning technique has the potential to assess the pre-birth complications by analysing placentas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-iodine-tablets-for-nuclear-risk-why-is-europe-rushing-to-buy-this-tablet-462841">Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the report, the scanning technology is based on artificial intelligence (AI) that will analyse ultrasound images taken during women's 12-week scans. After that, a risk score will be assigned.</p>

<p>Similar tests, such as Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), can detect Down syndrome. In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyse the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prof Sally Collins, who is a consultant obstetrician and medical lead for women's health at Perspectum Ltd, expressed her opinions on the new technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strain-hasnt-yet-been-seen-in-world-israel-reports-confirmed-cases-of-combined-omicron-and-ba2-strain-462847">'Strain hasn't yet been seen in world': Israel reports confirmed cases of combined Omicron and BA.2 strain</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the media report, Perspectum Ltd is an Oxford University spin-out company that is developing the technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Collins said, "Many studies have shown that if you have a small placenta in the first trimester, you will have a small placenta at term, and a small placenta makes a small baby."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If your placenta is small, and has a normal supply of blood vessels (vascularity), it can be an indication of foetal growth restriction. If it is small with low vascularity, you potentially get a small baby and preeclampsia," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we’ve come up with is a fully automated, artificial intelligence method for seeing and measuring the placenta, and the blood supply at its interface with the uterus,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>so suddenly, we have a computer tool that can tell you the size and the vascularity of the placenta in real time," added Collins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the media report, approximately eight families in the UK are affected by stillbirth, with foetal growth restriction each day.&nbsp;</p>


In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported.

In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported. In medical terms, adverse pregnancy outcomes are defined as the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities, miscarriage, congenital malformations, stillbirth or birth before 34 weeks of gestation. The report media outlet added that the new scanning technique has the potential to assess the pre-birth complications by analysing placentas. ALSO READ | Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet? As per the report, the scanning technology is based on artificial intelligence (AI) that will analyse ultrasound images taken during women's 12-week scans. After that, a risk score will be assigned. Similar tests, such as Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), can detect Down syndrome. In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyse the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. Prof Sally Collins, who is a consultant obstetrician and medical lead for women's health at Perspectum Ltd, expressed her opinions on the new technology. ALSO READ | 'Strain hasn't yet been seen in world': Israel reports confirmed cases of combined Omicron and BA.2 strain As per the media report, Perspectum Ltd is an Oxford University spin-out company that is developing the technology. Collins said, "Many studies have shown that if you have a small placenta in the first trimester, you will have a small placenta at term, and a small placenta makes a small baby." "If your placenta is small, and has a normal supply of blood vessels (vascularity), it can be an indication of foetal growth restriction. If it is small with low vascularity, you potentially get a small baby and preeclampsia," she added. "What we’ve come up with is a fully automated, artificial intelligence method for seeing and measuring the placenta, and the blood supply at its interface with the uterus, so suddenly, we have a computer tool that can tell you the size and the vascularity of the placenta in real time," added Collins. As per the media report, approximately eight families in the UK are affected by stillbirth, with foetal growth restriction each day.

In UK, trial begins for AI scan technique that could assess risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes

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