The UK government on Wednesday became the first country to announce it will regulate the use of self-driving vehicles at slow speeds on motorways, with the first such cars possibly appearing on public roads as soon as this year. 
 
Britain`s transport ministry said it was working on specific wording to update the country`s highway code for the safe use of self-driving vehicle systems, starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS) - which use sensors and software to keep cars within a lane, allowing them to accelerate and brake without driver input. 
 
The government said the use of ALKS would be restricted to motorways, at speeds under 37 miles (60 km) per hour. 
 
The UK government wants to be at the forefront of rolling out autonomous driving technology and the transport ministry forecasts by 2035 around 40% of new UK cars could have self-driving capabilities, creating up to 38,000 new skilled jobs. 
 
"The automotive industry welcomes this vital step to permit the use of automated vehicles on UK roads, which will put Britain in the vanguard of road safety and automotive technology," Mike Hawes, CEO of car industry lobby group the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said in a statement. 
 
But insurance companies warn that Britain`s goal of being a leader in adopting self-driving cars could backfire unless automakers and regulators spell out the current limitations of the technology available today. 
 
They say calling ALKS `automated,` or using the synonymous term `self-driving`, will confuse British drivers into thinking the cars can drive themselves, causing accidents and risking a public backlash against the technology. 
 
"Aside from the lack of technical capabilities, by calling ALKS automated our concern also is that the UK Government is contributing to the confusion and frequent misuse of assisted driving systems that have unfortunately already led to many tragic deaths," said Matthew Avery, research director at Thatcham Research, which has tested ALKS systems. 
 
The dangers of drivers apparently misunderstanding the limits of technology has been an issue in the United States, where regulators are reviewing about 20 crashes involving Tesla`s driver assistance tools, such as its `Autopilot` system.

The UK government on Wednesday became the first country to announce it will regulate the use of self-driving vehicles at slow speeds on motorways, with the first such cars possibly appearing on public roads as soon as this year.

The UK government on Wednesday became the first country to announce it will regulate the use of self-driving vehicles at slow speeds on motorways, with the first such cars possibly appearing on public roads as soon as this year. Britain`s transport ministry said it was working on specific wording to update the country`s highway code for the safe use of self-driving vehicle systems, starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS) - which use sensors and software to keep cars within a lane, allowing them to accelerate and brake without driver input. The government said the use of ALKS would be restricted to motorways, at speeds under 37 miles (60 km) per hour. The UK government wants to be at the forefront of rolling out autonomous driving technology and the transport ministry forecasts by 2035 around 40% of new UK cars could have self-driving capabilities, creating up to 38,000 new skilled jobs. "The automotive industry welcomes this vital step to permit the use of automated vehicles on UK roads, which will put Britain in the vanguard of road safety and automotive technology," Mike Hawes, CEO of car industry lobby group the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said in a statement. But insurance companies warn that Britain`s goal of being a leader in adopting self-driving cars could backfire unless automakers and regulators spell out the current limitations of the technology available today. They say calling ALKS `automated,` or using the synonymous term `self-driving`, will confuse British drivers into thinking the cars can drive themselves, causing accidents and risking a public backlash against the technology. "Aside from the lack of technical capabilities, by calling ALKS automated our concern also is that the UK Government is contributing to the confusion and frequent misuse of assisted driving systems that have unfortunately already led to many tragic deaths," said Matthew Avery, research director at Thatcham Research, which has tested ALKS systems. The dangers of drivers apparently misunderstanding the limits of technology has been an issue in the United States, where regulators are reviewing about 20 crashes involving Tesla`s driver assistance tools, such as its `Autopilot` system.

UK government greenlights 'self-driving' cars on motorways

Britain's opposition Labour Party on Saturday called for an independent commission on ethics and standards in government after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former top adviser criticised the UK leader's integrity.

On Friday&nbsp;Dominic&nbsp;Cummings, who left Johnson's staff suddenly late last year having previously been his most influential adviser over Brexit and the 2019 election campaign, denied reports he leaked Johnson's private communications over the sourcing of COVID-19 ventilators.

Cummings&nbsp;also said he was not responsible for leaks over the cost of refurbishing Johnson's residence and that the prime minister and his office had fallen below acceptable standards of competence and integrity.

Johnson's office in response on Friday said the government had followed the rules over the refurbishment. The prime minister had never interfered in a government leak inquiry, his office added.

"We need some kind of independent commission into ethics and standards in government, we can't let the prime minister mark his own homework on this," Steve Reed, Labour's spokesman on communities and local government, told BBC radio.

"This was the closest ally the prime minister's got and he's telling us the prime minister's behaviour was unethical, foolish and possibly illegal," he said.

Britain's opposition Labour Party on Saturday called for an independent commission on ethics and standards in government after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former top adviser criticised the UK leader's integrity.

Britain's opposition Labour Party on Saturday called for an independent commission on ethics and standards in government after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former top adviser criticised the UK leader's integrity. On Friday Dominic Cummings, who left Johnson's staff suddenly late last year having previously been his most influential adviser over Brexit and the 2019 election campaign, denied reports he leaked Johnson's private communications over the sourcing of COVID-19 ventilators. Cummings also said he was not responsible for leaks over the cost of refurbishing Johnson's residence and that the prime minister and his office had fallen below acceptable standards of competence and integrity. Johnson's office in response on Friday said the government had followed the rules over the refurbishment. The prime minister had never interfered in a government leak inquiry, his office added. "We need some kind of independent commission into ethics and standards in government, we can't let the prime minister mark his own homework on this," Steve Reed, Labour's spokesman on communities and local government, told BBC radio. "This was the closest ally the prime minister's got and he's telling us the prime minister's behaviour was unethical, foolish and possibly illegal," he said.

UK opposition calls for standards commission after PM criticised by former top adviser

A report has claimed that millions of Britons could be given <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid </a>passports by May 17 to allow them to take holidays to foreign countries and avoid quarantine on their arrival at their destinations.&nbsp;

These passports are likely to be different from domestic Covid certificates issued by the UK government, the report by Guardian claimed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-uk-pm-boris-johnson-cancels-his-india-visit-once-again-due-to-covid-378668/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sources said the documents are still under works and should be available before international travel restrictions are lifted next month.&nbsp;

Grant Shapps, the transport secretary said that the passports "will, of course, be a part of international travel".

He hoped that these should not be seen as "controversial," but insisted on the need for a cautious reopening amid the threat of virus strains.&nbsp;

These documents would be for nations that seek proof of vaccination, a Department of Transport insider said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/will-you-need-a-vaccine-passport-in-california-378867">Will you need a vaccine passport in California?</a>

Another source said that the Foreign Office was quietly consulting other countries to check whether they would accept such passports shown through an NHS app that is being developed.&nbsp;

Earlier, Israel is leading the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">vaccination </a>drive and has lifted several of its Covid restrictions, have issued a "green passport" system that gives access to certain places to people who have either vaccinated or recovered from the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization's (WHO) emergency committee on Monday expressed its opposition for international travellers being required to have proof of inoculation, partly on grounds that such measures would increase inequities.

A report has claimed that millions of Britons could be given Covid passports by May 17 to allow them to take holidays to foreign countries and avoid quarantine on their arrival at their destinations.

A report has claimed that millions of Britons could be given Covid passports by May 17 to allow them to take holidays to foreign countries and avoid quarantine on their arrival at their destinations. These passports are likely to be different from domestic Covid certificates issued by the UK government, the report by Guardian claimed. Watch | Sources said the documents are still under works and should be available before international travel restrictions are lifted next month. Grant Shapps, the transport secretary said that the passports "will, of course, be a part of international travel". He hoped that these should not be seen as "controversial," but insisted on the need for a cautious reopening amid the threat of virus strains. These documents would be for nations that seek proof of vaccination, a Department of Transport insider said. Also read | Will you need a vaccine passport in California? Another source said that the Foreign Office was quietly consulting other countries to check whether they would accept such passports shown through an NHS app that is being developed. Earlier, Israel is leading the vaccination drive and has lifted several of its Covid restrictions, have issued a "green passport" system that gives access to certain places to people who have either vaccinated or recovered from the deadly virus. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization's (WHO) emergency committee on Monday expressed its opposition for international travellers being required to have proof of inoculation, partly on grounds that such measures would increase inequities.

Millions in UK could get Covid passports soon: Report

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson is responding to lawmakers' questions.

News Alert: British PM Johnson takes questions in Parliament

The United Kingdom has vowed to reduce 78 per cent emissions by 2035 and is now ramping up efforts to achieve the target, new reports suggested on Tuesday.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will unveil new targets by the end of this week, which will revise the target to 15 years earlier than originally planned, BBC reported.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-earths-atmosphere-more-sensitive-to-co2-emissions-than-thought-315952/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For the first time ever, the new targets will now include emissions incurred from international aviation and shipping, which have remained at the helm of reform demands by many environmental groups.

In November, the country is set to host COP26, the United Nation’s annual climate gathering. Johnson will address a climate summit on Thursday which will be hosted by US President Joe Biden.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/aquatic-ecosystems-source-of-half-of-global-methane-emissions-study-376096" hreflang="en">Aquatic ecosystems source of half of global methane emissions: Study</a>

The UK has a target to become carbon neutral by the middle of this century. In December 2020, the country pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by over two-thirds compared to 1990 levels by 2030.

Part of these moves would include promoting electric vehicles, wind power generation, discouraging meat and dairy consumption.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/emissions-from-cannabis-production-are-driving-temperatures-high-369330" hreflang="en">Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high</a>

Last year, the UK government’s independent advisory body - the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) gave out recommendations, of which the latest 78 per cent target over the next 10 years was posited.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom has vowed to reduce 78 per cent emissions by 2035 and is now ramping up efforts to achieve the target, new reports suggested on Tuesday. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will unveil new targets by the end of this week, which will revise the target to 15 years earlier than originally planned, BBC reported.

The United Kingdom has vowed to reduce 78 per cent emissions by 2035 and is now ramping up efforts to achieve the target, new reports suggested on Tuesday. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will unveil new targets by the end of this week, which will revise the target to 15 years earlier than originally planned, BBC reported. For the first time ever, the new targets will now include emissions incurred from international aviation and shipping, which have remained at the helm of reform demands by many environmental groups. In November, the country is set to host COP26, the United Nation’s annual climate gathering. Johnson will address a climate summit on Thursday which will be hosted by US President Joe Biden. Also read: Aquatic ecosystems source of half of global methane emissions: Study The UK has a target to become carbon neutral by the middle of this century. In December 2020, the country pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by over two-thirds compared to 1990 levels by 2030. Part of these moves would include promoting electric vehicles, wind power generation, discouraging meat and dairy consumption. Also read: Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high Last year, the UK government’s independent advisory body - the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) gave out recommendations, of which the latest 78 per cent target over the next 10 years was posited. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to vow 78% reduction in emissions by 2035, new report claims

Prime minister Boris Johnson is all set to visit India on 25th April but this will a curtailed visit.

United Kingdom: Prime Minister Boris Johnson all set to visit India on April 25

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-shortens-india-visit-due-to-covid-19-377692/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020.

"The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said.

"India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world,"&nbsp;it adds.

As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future.

The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme.

"India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector,"&nbsp;the Indian High Commission said.

The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time.

Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries.

Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks.

"This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said.

The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government.

"As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure,"&nbsp;the spokesperson said.

The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation'&nbsp;Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday. Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26. Watch | The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020. "The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said. "India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world," it adds. As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future. The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme. "India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector," the Indian High Commission said. The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time. Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries. Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks. "This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said. The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government. "As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure," the spokesperson said. The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation' Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.

Boris Johnson's India visit to finalise 'Roadmap 2030' for India-UK ties 

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen.&nbsp;

According to the police data, in the last five years, there has been a three-time increase in the number of cats being stolen, with a significant 12.3 per cent rise in the previous year.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-plane-makes-emergency-landing-after-a-cat-hijacks-cockpit-367035">Sudanese plane makes emergency landing after a cat hijacks cockpit</a>

Cat owners are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in a similar manner as dogs are.&nbsp;

The Telegraph reported that the measure is being introduced to curb the thriving black market of stolen pets.&nbsp;

People who do not get their cats microchipped may face a fine of up to £500 (about USD 670).

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-not-a-cat-lawyer-shows-up-as-kitty-during-zoom-court-hearing-362557">'I am not a cat': Lawyer shows up as kitty during Zoom court hearing</a>&nbsp;

"Last month the home secretary, the lord chancellor and the environment secretary met to discuss a cross-government approach to combatting this issue and we will announce next steps in due course. This builds upon the huge amounts of work already undertaken by junior ministers and officials to address this cruel and criminal practice," a government spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen.

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen. According to the police data, in the last five years, there has been a three-time increase in the number of cats being stolen, with a significant 12.3 per cent rise in the previous year. Also read | Sudanese plane makes emergency landing after a cat hijacks cockpit Cat owners are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in a similar manner as dogs are. The Telegraph reported that the measure is being introduced to curb the thriving black market of stolen pets. People who do not get their cats microchipped may face a fine of up to £500 (about USD 670). Also read | 'I am not a cat': Lawyer shows up as kitty during Zoom court hearing "Last month the home secretary, the lord chancellor and the environment secretary met to discuss a cross-government approach to combatting this issue and we will announce next steps in due course. This builds upon the huge amounts of work already undertaken by junior ministers and officials to address this cruel and criminal practice," a government spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

Soon cats in UK likely to be microchipped as theft increases

In China it was fengcheng. In Spain it was el confinamiento. In France it was le confinement. In Britain it was known as lockdown, plain and simple — but it had the distinction of being one of the longest and most stringent in the world.

On Monday, that finally began drawing to an end.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-covid-variant-doesnt-lead-to-severe-illness-death-the-lancet-377400/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After months of coronavirus restrictions that encroached on almost every aspect of daily life, the English celebrated a hopeful new chapter, many of them in what seemed the most fitting way possible: with a pint at a pub.

“It’s like being out of prison,” said Kate Asani, who was sitting at a small table with two friends in the back garden of the Carlton Tavern in the Kilburn area of London, where they basked in one another’s company as much as in the sunshine.

For people across Europe, struggling with yet another wave of the pandemic and demoralized by a vaccine rollout that, outside Britain, has been deeply troubled, this is hardly a time to rejoice.

And Britons — who have lost more than 150,000 people to the pandemic — know better than anyone that they are facing a wily adversary, a shape-shifter of a virus that spins off variants that can threaten medical advances with a few mutations.

But just past the stroke of midnight Monday, a few select establishments in England served their first drinks since being forced to close in December and January, and more than a year after the first of three national lockdowns was imposed to limit the spread of the virus.

Later in the morning, thousands of gyms, salons and retail stores opened their doors for the first time in months, bringing a frisson of life to streets long frozen in a state of suspended animation. Friends reunited, and families shared a meal at outdoor cafes for the first time in months.

The weather may have been chilly — there were even some snow flurries — and pubs were limited to outdoor service. But the moment was embraced with an enthusiasm born of more than a year of on-and-off deprivation and uncertainty, one in which a once-unimaginable level of government decree became a way of life.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson called it “a major step forward in our road map to freedom.”

Monday marked the start of a phased reopening that is scheduled to culminate on June 21, when the government says it hopes to lift almost all restrictions in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are following separate but similar timetables, which means that some of the restrictions eased on Monday in England will remain in place a while longer in those places.

Lockdowns of one form or another have become so commonplace around the world that it can be hard to recall a time when they did not exist. The word began entering the popular lexicon in the weeks and months after the virus first emerged in China and authorities there moved aggressively to restrict the movement of its citizens.

Images from the ghostly streets of Wuhan riveted the world’s attention, and it soon became clear that the virus respected no national borders. But there was debate over whether Western democracies could — or should — resort to the extreme measures taken by Beijing.

As hospitals struggled to deal with a flood of patients and death tolls soared, the debate was overtaken by the undeniable reality that traditional methods of infectious disease control, like testing and contact tracing, had failed.

And so lockdowns became a way of life.

While no country matched China’s draconian measures, liberal democracies have been engaged in a yearlong effort to balance economic, political and public health concerns. Last spring, that meant about 4 billion people — half of humanity — living under some form of stay-at-home order.

Britain, which held out longer than many of its European neighbors, entered its first national lockdown on March 26, 2020.

Although it is difficult to compare lockdowns, researchers at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford have developed a system ranking their stringency. They found that Britain had spent 175 days at its “maximum stringency level.”

“In this sense, we can say that the U.K. is globally unique in spending the longest period of time at a very high level of stringency,” said Thomas Hale, an associate professor of global public policy at Oxford.

At the height of the epidemic in January, Britain was averaging almost 60,000 new coronavirus infections and more than 1,200 COVID-19 deaths each day. In the past week, the daily averages were about 2,500 cases and 36 fatalities.

On Monday, as Britons flocked to stores and restaurants, there was widespread hope that after so many false dawns, there will be no going back. The return of the pub only enhanced that optimism.

It is hard to find a year quite like the last one for one of Britain’s most cherished institutions. Through plagues and fires, wars and depressions, the nation’s pubs largely stayed open, and when they were first shut down last year, even the prime minister sounded shaken.

“I do accept that what we’re doing is extraordinary,” Johnson said in March last year. “We’re taking away the ancient, inalienable right of freeborn people of the United Kingdom to go to the pub.”

Days earlier, Johnson’s recommendation that the public voluntarily stay away from pubs and other social venues was not universally well received. His own father said: “Of course I’ll go to a pub if I need to go to a pub.”

It was not just pubs that suffered under lockdown. Retail stores, too, struggled to survive.

The flagship store of British retailer Topshop on Oxford Circus, once a destination for fashion-hungry young adults, permanently shut its doors after its parent company filed for bankruptcy last year. And plywood boards now cover the front of Debenhams, another retail chain that foundered during the pandemic.

The two companies crumbled within days of one another, as the country bounced from one lockdown to the next and the pandemic hastened the end of British high-street brands that were already teetering on the edge.

But now, those stores that have survived are hoping for a heyday, after the worst recession in decades.

Retailers hope that there will be a splurge in spending by people who have amassed a record amount of savings, nearly $250 billion according to government estimates, roughly 10% of Britain’s gross domestic product.

Plastered in big letters on the shop front of John Lewis, a British department store, there was an invitation coupled with a fingers-crossed prediction: “Come on in London, brighter days are coming.” 
&nbsp;

In China it was fengcheng. In Spain it was el confinamiento. In France it was le confinement. In Britain it was known as lockdown, plain and simple — but it had the distinction of being one of the longest and most stringent in the world.

In China it was fengcheng. In Spain it was el confinamiento. In France it was le confinement. In Britain it was known as lockdown, plain and simple — but it had the distinction of being one of the longest and most stringent in the world. On Monday, that finally began drawing to an end. Watch | After months of coronavirus restrictions that encroached on almost every aspect of daily life, the English celebrated a hopeful new chapter, many of them in what seemed the most fitting way possible: with a pint at a pub. “It’s like being out of prison,” said Kate Asani, who was sitting at a small table with two friends in the back garden of the Carlton Tavern in the Kilburn area of London, where they basked in one another’s company as much as in the sunshine. For people across Europe, struggling with yet another wave of the pandemic and demoralized by a vaccine rollout that, outside Britain, has been deeply troubled, this is hardly a time to rejoice. And Britons — who have lost more than 150,000 people to the pandemic — know better than anyone that they are facing a wily adversary, a shape-shifter of a virus that spins off variants that can threaten medical advances with a few mutations. But just past the stroke of midnight Monday, a few select establishments in England served their first drinks since being forced to close in December and January, and more than a year after the first of three national lockdowns was imposed to limit the spread of the virus. Later in the morning, thousands of gyms, salons and retail stores opened their doors for the first time in months, bringing a frisson of life to streets long frozen in a state of suspended animation. Friends reunited, and families shared a meal at outdoor cafes for the first time in months. The weather may have been chilly — there were even some snow flurries — and pubs were limited to outdoor service. But the moment was embraced with an enthusiasm born of more than a year of on-and-off deprivation and uncertainty, one in which a once-unimaginable level of government decree became a way of life. Prime Minister Boris Johnson called it “a major step forward in our road map to freedom.” Monday marked the start of a phased reopening that is scheduled to culminate on June 21, when the government says it hopes to lift almost all restrictions in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are following separate but similar timetables, which means that some of the restrictions eased on Monday in England will remain in place a while longer in those places. Lockdowns of one form or another have become so commonplace around the world that it can be hard to recall a time when they did not exist. The word began entering the popular lexicon in the weeks and months after the virus first emerged in China and authorities there moved aggressively to restrict the movement of its citizens. Images from the ghostly streets of Wuhan riveted the world’s attention, and it soon became clear that the virus respected no national borders. But there was debate over whether Western democracies could — or should — resort to the extreme measures taken by Beijing. As hospitals struggled to deal with a flood of patients and death tolls soared, the debate was overtaken by the undeniable reality that traditional methods of infectious disease control, like testing and contact tracing, had failed. And so lockdowns became a way of life. While no country matched China’s draconian measures, liberal democracies have been engaged in a yearlong effort to balance economic, political and public health concerns. Last spring, that meant about 4 billion people — half of humanity — living under some form of stay-at-home order. Britain, which held out longer than many of its European neighbors, entered its first national lockdown on March 26, 2020. Although it is difficult to compare lockdowns, researchers at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford have developed a system ranking their stringency. They found that Britain had spent 175 days at its “maximum stringency level.” “In this sense, we can say that the U.K. is globally unique in spending the longest period of time at a very high level of stringency,” said Thomas Hale, an associate professor of global public policy at Oxford. At the height of the epidemic in January, Britain was averaging almost 60,000 new coronavirus infections and more than 1,200 COVID-19 deaths each day. In the past week, the daily averages were about 2,500 cases and 36 fatalities. On Monday, as Britons flocked to stores and restaurants, there was widespread hope that after so many false dawns, there will be no going back. The return of the pub only enhanced that optimism. It is hard to find a year quite like the last one for one of Britain’s most cherished institutions. Through plagues and fires, wars and depressions, the nation’s pubs largely stayed open, and when they were first shut down last year, even the prime minister sounded shaken. “I do accept that what we’re doing is extraordinary,” Johnson said in March last year. “We’re taking away the ancient, inalienable right of freeborn people of the United Kingdom to go to the pub.” Days earlier, Johnson’s recommendation that the public voluntarily stay away from pubs and other social venues was not universally well received. His own father said: “Of course I’ll go to a pub if I need to go to a pub.” It was not just pubs that suffered under lockdown. Retail stores, too, struggled to survive. The flagship store of British retailer Topshop on Oxford Circus, once a destination for fashion-hungry young adults, permanently shut its doors after its parent company filed for bankruptcy last year. And plywood boards now cover the front of Debenhams, another retail chain that foundered during the pandemic. The two companies crumbled within days of one another, as the country bounced from one lockdown to the next and the pandemic hastened the end of British high-street brands that were already teetering on the edge. But now, those stores that have survived are hoping for a heyday, after the worst recession in decades. Retailers hope that there will be a splurge in spending by people who have amassed a record amount of savings, nearly $250 billion according to government estimates, roughly 10% of Britain’s gross domestic product. Plastered in big letters on the shop front of John Lewis, a British department store, there was an invitation coupled with a fingers-crossed prediction: “Come on in London, brighter days are coming.”

Britain rejoices and asks: Are lockdowns finally finished?

There is a worldwide surge in cases as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>is spreading faster.

The differentiation will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a>.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-uk-israel-vaccinated-over-50-of-their-population-here-is-the-result-374857/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Countries that vaccinate their population in larger numbers will see a drop in case and the ones which lag behind will see a surge.

Our report shows how vaccines have made a difference in Israel and the United Kingdom.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/concerns-rise-worldwide-as-coronavirus-restarts-striking-harder-374844">Concerns rise worldwide as coronavirus restarts striking harder</a>

Israel enjoyed some normalcy on Passover this year.

An open-air shopping centre was alive again, people are filling up restaurants and hotels, museums and theatres are back in business.

The situation was very different last year and businesses had to shut their doors.

There were checkpoints on the roads and people were confined to their homes just like the rest of the world

But, Israel has accomplished a major turnaround because of the vaccines.

Reports say Israel's active cases are now down to their lowest level since June 2020.

With serious infections dipping below 400, that's a three-month low.

Israel has vaccinated more than half of its population and the jabs are working.

Symptomatic infections dropped by 94 per cent in 600,000 people who have got two doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

The same group is also 92 per cent less likely to develop severe illness from the virus.

<h2>The story of the UK</h2>

Britain too seems to have tamed the virus with vaccines.

In January, the UK was struggling as a surge driven by a new strain of the virus had forced the country to impose a third national lockdown.

By January 5, the country had recorded more than 50,000 cases for seven straight days.

The UK approved two vaccines, the Pfizer shot that is being supplied from Belgium and the Oxford vaccine that is Made in Britain.

Now more than 50 per cent of people out of a population of more than 66 million have got at least one shot, making the British vaccine roll out the fastest in Europe.

The benefits are evident as the new infections are substantially down.

On Tuesday, the UK had reported a little more than four thousand cases.

The seven day total stood at close to 36,000, down by almost eight per cent.

On Sunday, the city of London recorded zero daily deaths in a single day for the first time in more than six months.

Earlier this week, the UK began easing the lockdown with people being allowed to gather in groups of six in public spaces.&nbsp;

Even the queen of England was out and about again after having got the jab in January.

There is enough real-world evidence now that proves the effectiveness of vaccines.

The shots not only protect against symptoms but also reduce the spread of the virus.

The only problem is there is not enough to go around. 
&nbsp;

There is a worldwide surge in cases as the coronavirus is spreading faster. The differentiation will be vaccines. Watch | Countries that vaccinate their population in larger numbers will see a drop in case and the ones which lag behind will see a surge.

There is a worldwide surge in cases as the coronavirus is spreading faster. The differentiation will be vaccines. Watch | Countries that vaccinate their population in larger numbers will see a drop in case and the ones which lag behind will see a surge. Our report shows how vaccines have made a difference in Israel and the United Kingdom. Also read | Concerns rise worldwide as coronavirus restarts striking harder Israel enjoyed some normalcy on Passover this year. An open-air shopping centre was alive again, people are filling up restaurants and hotels, museums and theatres are back in business. The situation was very different last year and businesses had to shut their doors. There were checkpoints on the roads and people were confined to their homes just like the rest of the world But, Israel has accomplished a major turnaround because of the vaccines. Reports say Israel's active cases are now down to their lowest level since June 2020. With serious infections dipping below 400, that's a three-month low. Israel has vaccinated more than half of its population and the jabs are working. Symptomatic infections dropped by 94 per cent in 600,000 people who have got two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The same group is also 92 per cent less likely to develop severe illness from the virus. The story of the UK Britain too seems to have tamed the virus with vaccines. In January, the UK was struggling as a surge driven by a new strain of the virus had forced the country to impose a third national lockdown. By January 5, the country had recorded more than 50,000 cases for seven straight days. The UK approved two vaccines, the Pfizer shot that is being supplied from Belgium and the Oxford vaccine that is Made in Britain. Now more than 50 per cent of people out of a population of more than 66 million have got at least one shot, making the British vaccine roll out the fastest in Europe. The benefits are evident as the new infections are substantially down. On Tuesday, the UK had reported a little more than four thousand cases. The seven day total stood at close to 36,000, down by almost eight per cent. On Sunday, the city of London recorded zero daily deaths in a single day for the first time in more than six months. Earlier this week, the UK began easing the lockdown with people being allowed to gather in groups of six in public spaces. Even the queen of England was out and about again after having got the jab in January. There is enough real-world evidence now that proves the effectiveness of vaccines. The shots not only protect against symptoms but also reduce the spread of the virus. The only problem is there is not enough to go around.

Two success stories that substantiate vaccination is a silver lining

Western nations must first set their own house in order before they sit in judgement of others.

A few weeks back a lot of noise was made in the British parliament over India's farm laws.

British lawmakers accused New Delhi of cracking down on farmers, calling the situation "deeply concerning".&nbsp;

We are bringing you this story in which you can see British cops, most of whom are men dragging away a female protester as her jeans fell down, and she's left exposed in her underpants.&nbsp;

Isn't this "deeply concerning" for British lawmakers?

In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heard-of-human-rights-uk-locals-take-to-streets-to-chant-kill-the-bill-373762">'Heard of human rights?': UK locals take to streets to chant 'kill the bill</a>'

And this happened on the streets of Manchester, one of the most urban and metropolitan cities in the UK.&nbsp;

A group of around 150 demonstrators had gathered to protest against a controversial policing bill.&nbsp;

The protesters were largely peaceful and contained, but dozens of police officers arrived at the scene.&nbsp;

Prepared to crack down, they pushed and dragged away from the protesters, claiming to be just doing their job.&nbsp;

Now as for the woman who was left partially exposed, the Manchester Police said they have spoken to her and offered their apologies.&nbsp;

They say the incident was not deliberate but was indeed regrettable.&nbsp;

The question is: how many times will UK cops express their "regret" for forcefully detaining peaceful protesters?

<h2>Not a one-off incident</h2>

What happened in Manchester is not a one-off instance.

On March 13, a vigil was held in London for the killing of Sarah Everard.

She was a 33-year-old woman who was murdered on her way home.

A London cop is the main accused in the case.

And as hundreds of women gathered to express their grief and pay respects, the London Police launched a crackdown.

They arrested the women who were just trying to raise their concerns about women safety.

What has the British government done about this?

It has tabled a new bill to further increase the powers of the police. The bill is called "The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Court Bill" and it's highly problematic.

It gives the police the power of discretion to determine which protests are unlawful and must be dealt with force.&nbsp;

This has led to a national outcry with rights groups and civilians hitting the streets, calling "kill the bill".&nbsp;

They say the bill will outlaw every protest that causes discomfort to 10 Downing Street and will make it easier to convict protesters over petty charges.&nbsp;

In the last two weeks, these protests have taken place in Bristol, Birmingham, Brighton, Cambridge, Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield, among others.&nbsp;

The protests have been peaceful, but the police response not so much.

In the Gravitas video of this story, you can see police brutality in the UK.

Police are using shields as weapons, hitting protesters with batons, shoving them to the ground and when all else fails, simply tossing a police club in their faces.

This is happening in Britain where the parliament is more concerned about debating rights and freedom in former colonies. 
&nbsp;

Western nations must first set their own house in order before they sit in judgement of others. A few weeks back a lot of noise was made in the British parliament over India's farm laws.

Western nations must first set their own house in order before they sit in judgement of others. A few weeks back a lot of noise was made in the British parliament over India's farm laws. British lawmakers accused New Delhi of cracking down on farmers, calling the situation "deeply concerning". We are bringing you this story in which you can see British cops, most of whom are men dragging away a female protester as her jeans fell down, and she's left exposed in her underpants. Isn't this "deeply concerning" for British lawmakers? In pics | 'Heard of human rights?': UK locals take to streets to chant 'kill the bill' And this happened on the streets of Manchester, one of the most urban and metropolitan cities in the UK. A group of around 150 demonstrators had gathered to protest against a controversial policing bill. The protesters were largely peaceful and contained, but dozens of police officers arrived at the scene. Prepared to crack down, they pushed and dragged away from the protesters, claiming to be just doing their job. Now as for the woman who was left partially exposed, the Manchester Police said they have spoken to her and offered their apologies. They say the incident was not deliberate but was indeed regrettable. The question is: how many times will UK cops express their "regret" for forcefully detaining peaceful protesters? Not a one-off incident What happened in Manchester is not a one-off instance. On March 13, a vigil was held in London for the killing of Sarah Everard. She was a 33-year-old woman who was murdered on her way home. A London cop is the main accused in the case. And as hundreds of women gathered to express their grief and pay respects, the London Police launched a crackdown. They arrested the women who were just trying to raise their concerns about women safety. What has the British government done about this? It has tabled a new bill to further increase the powers of the police. The bill is called "The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Court Bill" and it's highly problematic. It gives the police the power of discretion to determine which protests are unlawful and must be dealt with force. This has led to a national outcry with rights groups and civilians hitting the streets, calling "kill the bill". They say the bill will outlaw every protest that causes discomfort to 10 Downing Street and will make it easier to convict protesters over petty charges. In the last two weeks, these protests have taken place in Bristol, Birmingham, Brighton, Cambridge, Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield, among others. The protests have been peaceful, but the police response not so much. In the Gravitas video of this story, you can see police brutality in the UK. Police are using shields as weapons, hitting protesters with batons, shoving them to the ground and when all else fails, simply tossing a police club in their faces. This is happening in Britain where the parliament is more concerned about debating rights and freedom in former colonies.

Why UK needs to look into the mirror before lecturing others

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has altered the course of our lives, hitting some harder than the others. With the emergence of deadlier and more infectious mutations circulating globally, people are being advised to not let their guard down in the fight against coronavirus.

With major loss of lives recorded across the globe, grief has become a major part of everyone’s life since the pandemic began. People are finding new pays to pay tribute to their loved ones who lost their lives to the virus which first originated in Wuhan, China at the end of 2019.

<img alt="Volunteers and relatives of bereaved paint hearts along a wall beside St Thomas' hospital as a memorial to all those who have died so far in the UK from COVID-19, amid the spread of the coronavirus disease pandemic in London, Britain, March 29, 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2e45c11b-47b9-4274-a092-d7f5698bc303" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_10.jpg" />

A campaign group for the victims of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has now begun hand-drawing over 150,000 hearts on a wall situated opposite to Britain’s Houses of Parliament to pay homage to the victims of COVID-19 pandemic.

The hand-drawn mural will stretch for hundreds of metres along the southern bank of River Thames, and will mark a powerful display of solidarity with families of the victims.

<img alt="Volunteers and relatives of bereaved paint hearts along a wall beside St Thomas' hospital as a memorial to all those who have died so far in the UK from COVID-19, amid the spread of the coronavirus disease pandemic in London, Britain, March 29, 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ebdaa73d-d926-4b82-9d8c-e206e9c8baa4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_55.jpg" />

The mural will be situated outside St Thomas’ hospital, where Prime Minister Boris Johnson received care after contracting the virus.

Organised by the group called “Covid-19 Bereaved Families For Justice UK”, each heart is supposed to represent a unique person lost to the pandemic. The group has also called for an inquiry into the government’s handling of the pandemic.

<img alt="Volunteers and relatives of bereaved paint hearts along a wall beside St Thomas' hospital as a memorial to all those who have died so far in the UK from COVID-19, amid the spread of the coronavirus disease pandemic in London, Britain, March 29, 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7fc0c29a-ad95-44b9-a36a-d5f9f4132b54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_43.jpg" />

Matt Fowler, co-founder of the group told Reuters the following - "Each heart is individually hand-painted (and) utterly unique, just like the loved ones we’ve lost… Like the scale of our collective loss, this memorial is going to be enormous."

<img alt="Volunteers and relatives of bereaved paint hearts along a wall beside St Thomas' hospital as a memorial to all those who have died so far in the UK from COVID-19, amid the spread of the coronavirus disease pandemic in London, Britain, March 29, 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4206c94-424c-4ba0-8e5b-52eace307ba7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_35.jpg" />

The government of Britain has promised to build a permanent memorial for the victims of pandemic once it completely settles.

(Images by Reuters)

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has altered the course of our lives, hitting some harder than the others. With the emergence of deadlier and more infectious mutations circulating globally, people are being advised to not let their guard down in the fight against coronavirus.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has altered the course of our lives, hitting some harder than the others. With the emergence of deadlier and more infectious mutations circulating globally, people are being advised to not let their guard down in the fight against coronavirus. With major loss of lives recorded across the globe, grief has become a major part of everyone’s life since the pandemic began. People are finding new pays to pay tribute to their loved ones who lost their lives to the virus which first originated in Wuhan, China at the end of 2019. A campaign group for the victims of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has now begun hand-drawing over 150,000 hearts on a wall situated opposite to Britain’s Houses of Parliament to pay homage to the victims of COVID-19 pandemic. The hand-drawn mural will stretch for hundreds of metres along the southern bank of River Thames, and will mark a powerful display of solidarity with families of the victims. The mural will be situated outside St Thomas’ hospital, where Prime Minister Boris Johnson received care after contracting the virus. Organised by the group called “Covid-19 Bereaved Families For Justice UK”, each heart is supposed to represent a unique person lost to the pandemic. The group has also called for an inquiry into the government’s handling of the pandemic. Matt Fowler, co-founder of the group told Reuters the following - "Each heart is individually hand-painted (and) utterly unique, just like the loved ones we’ve lost… Like the scale of our collective loss, this memorial is going to be enormous." The government of Britain has promised to build a permanent memorial for the victims of pandemic once it completely settles. (Images by Reuters)

In pics: Londoners begin drawing 150,000 hearts to honour coronavirus victims

Salt was manufactured by neolithic people about 6,000 years ago, before the building of Stonehenge and over two millennia earlier than was first considered, a new discovery has found.&nbsp;

Excavations at a region at Street House farm in North Yorkshire have brought out evidence of the earliest salt production site ever discovered in Britain, which existed at about 3,800 BC.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-another-archaeological-discovery-ancient-churches-rooms-found-in-egypt-370443">In another archaeological discovery, ancient churches, rooms found in Egypt</a>

The findings include a trench containing three hearths, broken shards of neolithic pottery, some still filled with salt deposits, and a storage pit, all significant evidence of salt processing, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archaeologists-uncover-ancient-ceremonial-carriage-near-pompeii-366683">Archaeologists uncover ancient ceremonial carriage near Pompeii</a>

The discovery is "spectacular and of national significance," says Steve Sherlock, the archaeologist who led the excavations.&nbsp;

Many bronze salt-working sites are known in the UK, the earliest amongst which dates to around 1,400 BC.&nbsp;

Though neolithic salterns have been found in Europe, particularly in Poland and the Balkans, no such sites were found in Britain.&nbsp;

The research is published in the peer-reviewed journal Antiquity in June.&nbsp;

Sherlock called the people who were processing salt here "pioneers" and said they had cleared oak and elm forests to form their settlements.&nbsp;

He added that the pottery found was brought by people who arrived from northern France about 4,000 BC, and "the salt-working technology probably arrived with these migrating people". 
&nbsp;

Salt was manufactured by neolithic people about 6,000 years ago, before the building of Stonehenge and over two millennia earlier than was first considered, a new discovery has found.

Salt was manufactured by neolithic people about 6,000 years ago, before the building of Stonehenge and over two millennia earlier than was first considered, a new discovery has found. Excavations at a region at Street House farm in North Yorkshire have brought out evidence of the earliest salt production site ever discovered in Britain, which existed at about 3,800 BC. Also read | In another archaeological discovery, ancient churches, rooms found in Egypt The findings include a trench containing three hearths, broken shards of neolithic pottery, some still filled with salt deposits, and a storage pit, all significant evidence of salt processing, reports The Guardian. Also read | Archaeologists uncover ancient ceremonial carriage near Pompeii The discovery is "spectacular and of national significance," says Steve Sherlock, the archaeologist who led the excavations. Many bronze salt-working sites are known in the UK, the earliest amongst which dates to around 1,400 BC. Though neolithic salterns have been found in Europe, particularly in Poland and the Balkans, no such sites were found in Britain. The research is published in the peer-reviewed journal Antiquity in June. Sherlock called the people who were processing salt here "pioneers" and said they had cleared oak and elm forests to form their settlements. He added that the pottery found was brought by people who arrived from northern France about 4,000 BC, and "the salt-working technology probably arrived with these migrating people".

6,000-year-old salt hub discovered in UK

In the United Kingdom, Britons may be allowed in the pubs as long as they show they have a vaccine certificate. Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggested that some pubs might require customers to produce vaccine certificate.

UK: PM Johnson suggests pubs might require customers to produce vaccine certificate

France's foreign minister on Friday accused the United Kingdom of blackmailing the European Union over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>deliveries.&nbsp;

"The United Kingdom has taken great pride in vaccinating well with the first dose except they have a problem with the second dose," Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Info radio, as reported by news agency AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-johnson-suggests-pubs-might-require-customers-to-produce-vaccine-certificate-373216/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"You are vaccinated when you have had both doses. Today there are as many people vaccinated with both in France as the United Kingdom," he said.

He added that Britain is "handicapped" now because it hurried to vaccinate people with the first dose, but now faces a shortage of the second one, thereby using "blackmail" tactics.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-accuses-russia-of-using-its-sputnik-v-covid-19-vaccine-as-propaganda-tool-373370">France accuses Russia of using its Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine as 'propaganda' tool</a>

"You can't be playing like this, a bit of blackmail, just because you hurried to get people vaccinated with a first shot, and now you're a bit handicapped because you don't have the second one," the foreign minister said.&nbsp;

The comments came in the backdrop of EU-UK row on an AstraZeneca plant in the Netherlands, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson argues is part of the British supply chain.

Reacting to this, the EU warned the UK on Thursday that it would ban coronavirus vaccines export to the country and other nations with plenty of drugs if they don't commit their deliveries to the bloc.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

France's foreign minister on Friday accused the United Kingdom of blackmailing the European Union over coronavirus vaccine deliveries. "The United Kingdom has taken great pride in vaccinating well with the first dose except they have a problem with the second dose," Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Info radio, as reported by news agency AFP.

France's foreign minister on Friday accused the United Kingdom of blackmailing the European Union over coronavirus vaccine deliveries. "The United Kingdom has taken great pride in vaccinating well with the first dose except they have a problem with the second dose," Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Info radio, as reported by news agency AFP. Watch | "You are vaccinated when you have had both doses. Today there are as many people vaccinated with both in France as the United Kingdom," he said. He added that Britain is "handicapped" now because it hurried to vaccinate people with the first dose, but now faces a shortage of the second one, thereby using "blackmail" tactics. Also read | France accuses Russia of using its Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine as 'propaganda' tool "You can't be playing like this, a bit of blackmail, just because you hurried to get people vaccinated with a first shot, and now you're a bit handicapped because you don't have the second one," the foreign minister said. The comments came in the backdrop of EU-UK row on an AstraZeneca plant in the Netherlands, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson argues is part of the British supply chain. Reacting to this, the EU warned the UK on Thursday that it would ban coronavirus vaccines export to the country and other nations with plenty of drugs if they don't commit their deliveries to the bloc.

France hits out at UK over 'blackmail' of coronavirus vaccine deliveries

Keepers at London Zoo asked the public for help in choosing names for three new alpacas, the latest fluffy-haired lockdown arrivals.

Alpacaccino or Cookie? Names wanted for new London zoo residents

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government.&nbsp;

"Today's sanctions target the military's financial interests to help drain the sources of finance for their campaigns of repression against civilians," British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in a statement said.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/myanmar-coup-united-states-plans-to-impose-sanctions-on-two-conglomerates-373040/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Britain alleged that MEHL was sanctioned as it backed Myanmar's military in its efforts "on ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya in 2017".

Shortly After the announcement by the UK, the US said it was sanctioning MEHL and also the Myanmar Economic Corporation Limited (MEC). &nbsp;

Myanmar's military "controls significant segments of the country's economy through these holding firms," a statement from the US treasury department said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-blacklist-myanmar-military-companies-after-coup-crackdown-372962">US to blacklist Myanmar military companies after coup, crackdown</a>

The organisations are dominant in many sectors of Myanmar's economy, including natural resources, consumer goods, trading, and alcohol.&nbsp;

"These sanctions specifically target the economic resources of Burma's military regime, which is responsible for the overthrow of Burma's democratically elected government and the ongoing repression of the Burmese people," the US said.

Washington also said that the sanctions were not "directed" towards Myanmar people.&nbsp;

The latest measures follow sanctions by the EU and the US on Myanmar individuals and groups on Monday who were responsible to overthrow the nation's democratically elected government.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government.

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government. "Today's sanctions target the military's financial interests to help drain the sources of finance for their campaigns of repression against civilians," British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in a statement said. Watch | Britain alleged that MEHL was sanctioned as it backed Myanmar's military in its efforts "on ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya in 2017". Shortly After the announcement by the UK, the US said it was sanctioning MEHL and also the Myanmar Economic Corporation Limited (MEC). Myanmar's military "controls significant segments of the country's economy through these holding firms," a statement from the US treasury department said. Also read | US to blacklist Myanmar military companies after coup, crackdown The organisations are dominant in many sectors of Myanmar's economy, including natural resources, consumer goods, trading, and alcohol. "These sanctions specifically target the economic resources of Burma's military regime, which is responsible for the overthrow of Burma's democratically elected government and the ongoing repression of the Burmese people," the US said. Washington also said that the sanctions were not "directed" towards Myanmar people. The latest measures follow sanctions by the EU and the US on Myanmar individuals and groups on Monday who were responsible to overthrow the nation's democratically elected government.

US, UK sanction Myanmar military-owned company

The United Kingdom has marked its first anniversary since the COVID-19 lockdown is imposed in Britain last year. The Britons on Tuesday remembered more than 126,000 people who have lost their lives during the pandemic over the span of last year.

United Kingdom: Britons remembered people who lost their lives

Paintings by Edvard Munch, silverware by Pablo Picasso and a Banksy canvas are among the works on offer at an upcoming Sotheby's auction spanning 500 years of art.

Munch portrait, Picasso silverware and Banksy parody up for auction

The United Kingdom’s Electoral Commission has asked the Conservative party how Prime Minister Boris Johnson was able to pay for the renovation of his Downing Street apartment.

The refurbishment work cost almost $83,220 (£60,000) so far. The commission reportedly urged the party to ascertain whether the expenses fall within the ambit of election body’s regulation.

Tensions between the commission and the Conservative party have been brewing for some time. Last year, Amanda Milling, co-chair of the party called for the abolition of the election watchdog, and said that it is not fit for “purpose”.

The Labour Party also hit at the PM asking him to reveal if any “special favours” are owed to donors who funded the renovation of his apartment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uks-boris-johnson-to-get-astrazeneca-vaccine-as-he-dismisses-safety-fears-371185" hreflang="en">UK's Boris Johnson to get AstraZeneca vaccine as he dismisses safety fears</a>

Daily Mail on Saturday reported that a secret payment worth the same amount as renovation was initiated by the Conservative party in 2020.&nbsp;Mail claims that this amount was reimbursed by Lord Brownlow, but the declaration wasn’t made to either the Electoral Commission or the House of Commons.

Downing Street has been attempting to set up a charity&nbsp;to pay for the interior redesigning of the apartment. The PM receives £30,000 annual allowance for accommodation, while the renovation plans could cost over £200,000.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/sarah-everard-case-britain-needs-cultural-change-says-prime-minister-boris-johnson-371164" hreflang="en">Sarah Everard case: Britain needs cultural change says Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>

Johnson’s press secretary Allegra Stratton earlier this month claimed that every facet of the renovation is being recorded, and that party funds are not being used to pay for renovation of the estate.

The Electoral Commission claims that it is intact with the party to ascertain whether any of these funding measures could be under the organisation’s regulatory powers.

The United Kingdom’s Electoral Commission has asked the Conservative party how Prime Minister Boris Johnson was able to pay for the renovation of his Downing Street apartment.

The United Kingdom’s Electoral Commission has asked the Conservative party how Prime Minister Boris Johnson was able to pay for the renovation of his Downing Street apartment. The refurbishment work cost almost $83,220 (£60,000) so far. The commission reportedly urged the party to ascertain whether the expenses fall within the ambit of election body’s regulation. Tensions between the commission and the Conservative party have been brewing for some time. Last year, Amanda Milling, co-chair of the party called for the abolition of the election watchdog, and said that it is not fit for “purpose”. The Labour Party also hit at the PM asking him to reveal if any “special favours” are owed to donors who funded the renovation of his apartment. Also read: UK's Boris Johnson to get AstraZeneca vaccine as he dismisses safety fears Daily Mail on Saturday reported that a secret payment worth the same amount as renovation was initiated by the Conservative party in 2020. Mail claims that this amount was reimbursed by Lord Brownlow, but the declaration wasn’t made to either the Electoral Commission or the House of Commons. Downing Street has been attempting to set up a charity to pay for the interior redesigning of the apartment. The PM receives £30,000 annual allowance for accommodation, while the renovation plans could cost over £200,000. Also read: Sarah Everard case: Britain needs cultural change says Prime Minister Boris Johnson Johnson’s press secretary Allegra Stratton earlier this month claimed that every facet of the renovation is being recorded, and that party funds are not being used to pay for renovation of the estate. The Electoral Commission claims that it is intact with the party to ascertain whether any of these funding measures could be under the organisation’s regulatory powers.

UK's election watchdog asks Conservatives how Johnson paid for apartment's renovation

Good news came from the vaccine front, United kingdom seems to have kept pace with the inoculation drive. In half of the countries, adults have already received the first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine. UK government plans to vaccinate all adults by the end of July.

Britain government plans to vaccinate all adults by the end of July

We have all learnt the importance of hand-washing during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic </a>as one major way to avoid the deadly virus.&nbsp;

In general, also, hand-washing is considered a good and hygienic habit to lead a healthy life.

However, a growing number of eczema cases in the UK has caused a concern for parents whether they should encourage this habit or not.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/mexico-city-is-struggling-to-enforce-hand-washing-amid-pandemic-heres-why-331221">Mexico City is struggling to enforce hand washing amid pandemic. Here's why</a>

Jordan Ferris, from Grimsby, UK said that her five-year-old child is facing pain in her hand due to the reemergence of eczema caused by soaps and sanitisers, reports BBC.

Eczema is a condition in which skin becomes red and itchy and generally experienced by children. &nbsp;

Ferris said her daughter who had eczema when she was two, faced itching and when the week was about to end her hands "really dry, red, cracked and bleeding slightly"

The British Skin Foundation said the number of children with hand eczema had spiked in the pandemic-period.

"It's a bit upsetting really seeing her come home from school in pain," Ferris said.&nbsp;

"She's there to have fun and learn and she's coming back and she was really upset about it."

The skin foundation's consultant dermatologist Dr Mary Sommerlad said that children are more likely to suffer eczema because of a less-developed skin barrier.&nbsp;

"Irritation from soap and water can make existing eczema worse, or trigger contact irritation eczema for the first time," she said.&nbsp;

"This is because the skin's barrier is disrupted by frequent washing with soap." 
&nbsp;

We have all learnt the importance of hand-washing during the coronavirus pandemic as one major way to avoid the deadly virus. In general, also, hand-washing is considered a good and hygienic habit to lead a healthy life.

We have all learnt the importance of hand-washing during the coronavirus pandemic as one major way to avoid the deadly virus. In general, also, hand-washing is considered a good and hygienic habit to lead a healthy life. However, a growing number of eczema cases in the UK has caused a concern for parents whether they should encourage this habit or not. Also read | Mexico City is struggling to enforce hand washing amid pandemic. Here's why Jordan Ferris, from Grimsby, UK said that her five-year-old child is facing pain in her hand due to the reemergence of eczema caused by soaps and sanitisers, reports BBC. Eczema is a condition in which skin becomes red and itchy and generally experienced by children. Ferris said her daughter who had eczema when she was two, faced itching and when the week was about to end her hands "really dry, red, cracked and bleeding slightly" The British Skin Foundation said the number of children with hand eczema had spiked in the pandemic-period. "It's a bit upsetting really seeing her come home from school in pain," Ferris said. "She's there to have fun and learn and she's coming back and she was really upset about it." The skin foundation's consultant dermatologist Dr Mary Sommerlad said that children are more likely to suffer eczema because of a less-developed skin barrier. "Irritation from soap and water can make existing eczema worse, or trigger contact irritation eczema for the first time," she said. "This is because the skin's barrier is disrupted by frequent washing with soap."

UK: Frequent hand-washing damaging children's skin

UK health secretary has said that there will be a significant shortage in vaccine supply in April confirming supplies have been hit by a need to retest 1.7m doses and a delay in the arrival of imports from India.

United Kingdom: Health Secretary Matt Hancock says need to retest 1.7m COVID-19 doses

EU health regulator on Thursday said that 'no evidence'&nbsp;was found of any direct links between either AstraZeneca or Pfizer Covid vaccine and blood clots.

"The committee has come to a clear scientific conclusion: this is a safe and effective vaccine," European Medicines Agency (EMA) chief Emer Cooke told a press conference after an investigation.

The remarks by the EMA&nbsp;come after the UK health regulator on Thursday also shrugged off concerns regarding Pfizer and Oxford <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Britain's health regulator on Thursday said it had found no evidence between Oxford-AstraZeneca's&nbsp;coronavirus vaccine&nbsp;and cases of blood clots after several countries halted the use of its jabs over safety fears.&nbsp;

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) also said that they did not find any relation even between Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine and blood clots.&nbsp;

"There is no evidence that blood clots in veins is occurring more than would be expected in the absence of vaccination, for either vaccine," said June Raine, chief executive of the independent MHRA, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-astrazeneca-vaccinations-will-go-on-with-full-vigour-371400/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, the European Medicines Agency (EMA), has said that it had detected "no indication" of a major problem and the number of clots after receiving the AstraZeneca shot is not higher than the group of people who are unvaccinated.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trust-in-astrazeneca-vaccine-is-shaken-in-europe-371386">Trust in AstraZeneca vaccine is shaken in Europe</a>

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday continued to urge nations to use the Oxford jab.&nbsp;

"The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the WHO said in a statement on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

EU health regulator on Thursday said that 'no evidence' was found of any direct links between either AstraZeneca or Pfizer Covid vaccine and blood clots. "The committee has come to a clear scientific conclusion: this is a safe and effective vaccine," European Medicines Agency (EMA) chief Emer Cooke told a press conference after an investigation.

EU health regulator on Thursday said that 'no evidence' was found of any direct links between either AstraZeneca or Pfizer Covid vaccine and blood clots. "The committee has come to a clear scientific conclusion: this is a safe and effective vaccine," European Medicines Agency (EMA) chief Emer Cooke told a press conference after an investigation. The remarks by the EMA come after the UK health regulator on Thursday also shrugged off concerns regarding Pfizer and Oxford coronavirus vaccines. Britain's health regulator on Thursday said it had found no evidence between Oxford-AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine and cases of blood clots after several countries halted the use of its jabs over safety fears. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) also said that they did not find any relation even between Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine and blood clots. "There is no evidence that blood clots in veins is occurring more than would be expected in the absence of vaccination, for either vaccine," said June Raine, chief executive of the independent MHRA, as quoted by news agency AFP. Watch | Earlier, the European Medicines Agency (EMA), has said that it had detected "no indication" of a major problem and the number of clots after receiving the AstraZeneca shot is not higher than the group of people who are unvaccinated. Also read | Trust in AstraZeneca vaccine is shaken in Europe Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday continued to urge nations to use the Oxford jab. "The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the WHO said in a statement on Wednesday.

EU, UK regulator shrug off AstraZeneca vaccine concerns

In a first such experiment across the world, burglars, thieves and robbers in the UK will be made to wear GPS tags in a bid to stop them from recommitting any offence.&nbsp;

According to the new rules, convicts who have been jailed for a year or more will be tied up with a GPS tag on release, allowing authorities to track their movements 24/7.&nbsp;

As over half of those convicted of theft and burglary recommit a crime within a year and about 80 per cent of cases resulting in no suspect being identified, the Ministry of Justice said the new rules will add to police's arsenal extra intelligence to nab such people.&nbsp;

"By monitoring their movements, we can both drive down that impulse to reoffend and, if they do reoffend, allow the police to catch up with them much more quickly, because they'll know exactly if they were at the scene of the crime at the time," Kit Malthouse, minister for crime and policing was quoted as saying by Sky News.&nbsp;

Police will be able to work with the Prison and Probation Service staff to probe whether the released offenders on the tags were present in areas of recent burglaries, thefts and robberies.

This could provide the security personnel with key evidence required to nab the perpetrators. 
&nbsp;

In a first such experiment across the world, burglars, thieves and robbers in the UK will be made to wear GPS tags in a bid to stop them from recommitting any offence.

In a first such experiment across the world, burglars, thieves and robbers in the UK will be made to wear GPS tags in a bid to stop them from recommitting any offence. According to the new rules, convicts who have been jailed for a year or more will be tied up with a GPS tag on release, allowing authorities to track their movements 24/7. As over half of those convicted of theft and burglary recommit a crime within a year and about 80 per cent of cases resulting in no suspect being identified, the Ministry of Justice said the new rules will add to police's arsenal extra intelligence to nab such people. "By monitoring their movements, we can both drive down that impulse to reoffend and, if they do reoffend, allow the police to catch up with them much more quickly, because they'll know exactly if they were at the scene of the crime at the time," Kit Malthouse, minister for crime and policing was quoted as saying by Sky News. Police will be able to work with the Prison and Probation Service staff to probe whether the released offenders on the tags were present in areas of recent burglaries, thefts and robberies. This could provide the security personnel with key evidence required to nab the perpetrators.

In world's first, thieves in UK to wear GPS tags to control crimes

More than 70,000 Uber drivers in the United Kingdom will now get the minimum wage in a major win for unions.

The service, whereby driver pick and drop passengers has agreed to grant rights to&nbsp;its workers after losing a case in the Supreme Court last months.

Uber has been criticised for its position on labour rights, both in the US and Europe. The company offered to implement another way, whereby on-demand work receives less benefits than traditional employment.

Now, Uber drivers in the UK will be classified as workers even though they may have lesser rights than employees, who in addition receive guaranteed parental leave and sick pay.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/uber-drivers-are-workers-not-self-employed-uk-supreme-court-364798" hreflang="en">Uber drivers are workers, not self-employed: UK Supreme Court</a>

Last year, Uber won a similar compromise in California. In 2016, two Uber drivers in the UK filed a case claiming entitlement tot paid holidays. A UK tribunal had ruled in favour of the drivers, prompting the company to approach the Supreme Court.

Reuters cited Uber as saying that the company will take up consultations with drivers while lawyers claim it could take multiple months to work out the details of the ruling. But in the meanwhile, more cases could be filed against the company.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/sorry-love-uber-eats-delivery-agent-eats-customers-food-then-gives-cheeky-response-362627" hreflang="en">'Sorry, love': Uber Eats delivery agent eats customer's food, then gives cheeky response</a>

The company on Tuesday said that drivers in the UK would receive extra benefits which include paid holiday time, and that they would be enrolled into a pension scheme. In addition, they would receive minimum wage, which is roughly $12 an hour for people aged 25 and above.

"This follows the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, which provides a clearer path forward as to a model that gives drivers the rights of worker status while continuing to let them work flexibly," Uber said.

More than 70,000 Uber drivers in the United Kingdom will now get the minimum wage in a major win for unions. The service, whereby driver pick and drop passengers has agreed to grant rights to its workers after losing a case in the Supreme Court last months.

More than 70,000 Uber drivers in the United Kingdom will now get the minimum wage in a major win for unions. The service, whereby driver pick and drop passengers has agreed to grant rights to its workers after losing a case in the Supreme Court last months. Uber has been criticised for its position on labour rights, both in the US and Europe. The company offered to implement another way, whereby on-demand work receives less benefits than traditional employment. Now, Uber drivers in the UK will be classified as workers even though they may have lesser rights than employees, who in addition receive guaranteed parental leave and sick pay. Also read: Uber drivers are workers, not self-employed: UK Supreme Court Last year, Uber won a similar compromise in California. In 2016, two Uber drivers in the UK filed a case claiming entitlement tot paid holidays. A UK tribunal had ruled in favour of the drivers, prompting the company to approach the Supreme Court. Reuters cited Uber as saying that the company will take up consultations with drivers while lawyers claim it could take multiple months to work out the details of the ruling. But in the meanwhile, more cases could be filed against the company. Also read: 'Sorry, love': Uber Eats delivery agent eats customer's food, then gives cheeky response The company on Tuesday said that drivers in the UK would receive extra benefits which include paid holiday time, and that they would be enrolled into a pension scheme. In addition, they would receive minimum wage, which is roughly $12 an hour for people aged 25 and above. "This follows the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, which provides a clearer path forward as to a model that gives drivers the rights of worker status while continuing to let them work flexibly," Uber said.

Over 70,000 Uber drivers in UK now entitled to minimum wage, other workers' rights

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "fantastic leadership" in the fight against climate change, UK PM Boris Johnson said his India visit will include discussion for a sustainable future.&nbsp;

"We have a shared vision for a sustainable future for our nations and global community and I very much look forward to discussing this and many other issues with Prime Minister Modi on my upcoming visit to India," Johnson said while addressing the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-kingdom-pm-boris-johnson-expected-to-visit-pune-371007/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said Modi has displayed "fantastic leadership" in fields such as renewable energy to tackle climate change and welcomed the India-led CDRI co-chaired by Britain.&nbsp;

"I applaud my friend Prime Minister Modi for his commitment to this excellent initiative, the Coalition for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure (CDRI). The UK is proud to be its co-chair and I am delighted that since its launch, the coalition has made such a great start with 28 countries and organisations now signed up, the UK PM was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-pm-boris-johnson-to-visit-india-in-april-370759">UK PM Boris Johnson to visit India in April</a>

Johnson's remarks came ahead of his visit to India at the end of April.&nbsp;

Earlier Modi in his inaugural address said that "we are all in the same boat" and the "pandemic has reminded us&nbsp;that no one is safe until everyone is safe."

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "fantastic leadership" in the fight against climate change, UK PM Boris Johnson said his India visit will include discussion for a sustainable future.

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "fantastic leadership" in the fight against climate change, UK PM Boris Johnson said his India visit will include discussion for a sustainable future. "We have a shared vision for a sustainable future for our nations and global community and I very much look forward to discussing this and many other issues with Prime Minister Modi on my upcoming visit to India," Johnson said while addressing the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI). Watch | He said Modi has displayed "fantastic leadership" in fields such as renewable energy to tackle climate change and welcomed the India-led CDRI co-chaired by Britain. "I applaud my friend Prime Minister Modi for his commitment to this excellent initiative, the Coalition for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure (CDRI). The UK is proud to be its co-chair and I am delighted that since its launch, the coalition has made such a great start with 28 countries and organisations now signed up, the UK PM was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson to visit India in April Johnson's remarks came ahead of his visit to India at the end of April. Earlier Modi in his inaugural address said that "we are all in the same boat" and the "pandemic has reminded us that no one is safe until everyone is safe."

UK PM Johnson hails PM Modi's 'fantastic leadership' in fields such as climate change

United Kingdom's Virgin Atlantic starts to issue health pass (digital)) for seamless travel. The airline also turned its lounge into a COVID testing centre.

UK: Airline opts digital health pass for smooth travel

More than 70,000 Uber drivers will be paid the minimum wage while picking up and driving passengers as part of the ride-hailing company's agreement to grant workers' rights after it lost a groundbreaking Supreme Court case last month.

World Business Watch: Uber UK drivers to get workers' rights

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India at the end of April. The meet is a part of an integrated review of British Government policy.

United Kingdom: PM Boris Johnson to visit India at the end of the April

United Kingdom businesses are more likely to expect a rebound in activity this year than their counterparts abroad, and expectations of a pick-up in growth are stronger than at any point since 2015, a survey has shown that.

World Business Watch: UK firms see sharper 2021 rebound, faster than counterparts abroad

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