The United Kingdom has now accused Russia of trying to steal its vaccine research. The world superpowers are racing for a viable vaccine for profits and pride. Watch report.

UK claims 'Russian's hacking our research' of COVID-19 vaccine |

Shamima Begum a 20-year-old woman who left London to join the Islamic State group in Syria in 2015 now has a chance to fight for her UK citizenship. Watch report.

Will ISIS bride return to UK? Shamima Begum wins right to return to UK

Shamima Begum, who went to Syria to join Islamic State, has been allowed by a UK court on Thursday to return home to challenge government's decision which revoked her citizenship.

The court said the 20-year-old could not get a "fair and effective appeal" or play "any meaningful part" in the process if she fought her case from a Syrian refugee camp.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-teen-begum-asks-uk-to-show-more-mercy-198901">Runaway Islamic State teen Shamima Begum's mum asks UK for 'mercy'</a>

"Ms Begum should be allowed to come to the United Kingdom to pursue her appeal albeit subject to such controls as the (home secretary) deems appropriate," the court said, reported news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baby-of-islamic-state-teen-shamima-begum-dies-in-syria-sdf-202107">British Islamic State teen bride Shamima Begum's newborn son dies in Syria: SDF</a>

Begum was 15, when she along with two other school-going girls fled home to join the jihadist group on February 17, 2015.

Soon after reaching IS-controlled region, she married a Dutch and was found nine-months pregnant in a refugee camp in February 2019.&nbsp;

Begum's newborn baby died soon after she was born and her two other children lost their lives under IS rule.&nbsp;

The then-home secretary, Sajid Javid, cancelled her citizenship on grounds of national security.&nbsp;

Following this decision, Begum approached court, arguing that the move would make her stateless, encourage imhuman treatment and pose the risk of her death.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said the government was "bitterly disappointed" with the verdict and would seek an appeal to ensure Begum could not return before the matter was heard.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Shamima Begum, who went to Syria to join Islamic State, has been allowed by a UK court on Thursday to return home to challenge government's decision which revoked her citizenship.

Shamima Begum, who went to Syria to join Islamic State, has been allowed by a UK court on Thursday to return home to challenge government's decision which revoked her citizenship. The court said the 20-year-old could not get a "fair and effective appeal" or play "any meaningful part" in the process if she fought her case from a Syrian refugee camp. Also read | Runaway Islamic State teen Shamima Begum's mum asks UK for 'mercy' "Ms Begum should be allowed to come to the United Kingdom to pursue her appeal albeit subject to such controls as the (home secretary) deems appropriate," the court said, reported news agency AFP. Also read | British Islamic State teen bride Shamima Begum's newborn son dies in Syria: SDF Begum was 15, when she along with two other school-going girls fled home to join the jihadist group on February 17, 2015. Soon after reaching IS-controlled region, she married a Dutch and was found nine-months pregnant in a refugee camp in February 2019. Begum's newborn baby died soon after she was born and her two other children lost their lives under IS rule. The then-home secretary, Sajid Javid, cancelled her citizenship on grounds of national security. Following this decision, Begum approached court, arguing that the move would make her stateless, encourage imhuman treatment and pose the risk of her death. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said the government was "bitterly disappointed" with the verdict and would seek an appeal to ensure Begum could not return before the matter was heard.

IS bride Shamima Begum allowed to return UK to fight for citizenship

Britain is home to at least 100,000 modern slaves according to a new study, 10 times more than the official estimate, as activists warned 90% of victims may be going undetected.

Anti-slavery charity Justice and Care and think tank The Centre for Social Justice said the real number could be even higher, and warned that the coronavirus pandemic was likely to push more people into forced labour at car washes and brothels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clothing-factory-in-uk-faces-modern-slavery-probe-310872#:~:text=A%20clothing%20factory%20named%20Jaswal,many%20of%20them%20from%20India.">Clothing factory in UK faces modern slavery probe</a>

The study comes in the wake of media and campaigner reports that online fashion firm Boohoo's suppliers underpaid garment workers in Leicester, central England, and failed to protect them from COVID-19. Boohoo last week said it was investigating.

Justice and Care said political leadership to tackle modern slavery had waned in recent years, and that a landmark 2015 anti-slavery law may have created a "false sense of security".

"Whilst Britain has made progress fighting modern slavery, not least in the passing of the Modern Slavery Act five years ago, so much more work is needed to combat the issue," the charity's chief executive, Christian Guy, said in a statement.

The world-first law has been subjected to reviews following criticism that it is not being used fully to jail traffickers, drive companies to tackle forced labour, or help enough victims.

"Ninety per cent of victims may be going undetected and thousands of traffickers are running riot," Guy added.

A record 10,627 suspected victims were identified last year in Britain - up 52% from 2018. Most were victims of labour abuse and many came from nations such as Albania, Nigeria and Vietnam.

Government 'just getting started'

Britain's home secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel said her department would look closely at the report's findings.

"While the Modern Slavery Act was ground-breaking in tackling this heinous crime, we are just getting started in the fight to rid this evil from the United Kingdom," Patel said.

Government research in 2018 said the crime sets Britain back by up to 4.3 billion pounds ($5.6 billion) annually, based on an earlier estimate of 10,000 - 13,000 slaves living in the nation.

The charity and the think tank said the government needed to update its estimate, and the cost of the crime to the taxpayer.

The study arrived at its 100,000 estimate by taking police statistics from one area of Britain - the West Midlands - that predicted the number of victims locally using a new artificial intelligence model, and extrapolating that data nationwide.

Academics at Nottingham University's Rights Lab, the world's first large-scale research platform on slavery, said the study offered a "very exciting and new way" to measure the problem.

"It is very difficult to estimate the size of a hidden population and this report potentially provides a new part of the anti-slavery measurement toolkit," Zoe Trodd, director of the Rights Lab, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by email.

The 2018 Global Slavery Index by the Walk Free Foundation put the number of slaves in Britain at 136,000, and 40.3 million globally. But the methodology has been widely questioned and criticised by several activists and academics in the field.

Britain is home to at least 100,000 modern slaves according to a new study, 10 times more than the official estimate, as activists warned 90% of victims may be going undetected.

Britain is home to at least 100,000 modern slaves according to a new study, 10 times more than the official estimate, as activists warned 90% of victims may be going undetected. Anti-slavery charity Justice and Care and think tank The Centre for Social Justice said the real number could be even higher, and warned that the coronavirus pandemic was likely to push more people into forced labour at car washes and brothels. Also read | Clothing factory in UK faces modern slavery probe The study comes in the wake of media and campaigner reports that online fashion firm Boohoo's suppliers underpaid garment workers in Leicester, central England, and failed to protect them from COVID-19. Boohoo last week said it was investigating. Justice and Care said political leadership to tackle modern slavery had waned in recent years, and that a landmark 2015 anti-slavery law may have created a "false sense of security". "Whilst Britain has made progress fighting modern slavery, not least in the passing of the Modern Slavery Act five years ago, so much more work is needed to combat the issue," the charity's chief executive, Christian Guy, said in a statement. The world-first law has been subjected to reviews following criticism that it is not being used fully to jail traffickers, drive companies to tackle forced labour, or help enough victims. "Ninety per cent of victims may be going undetected and thousands of traffickers are running riot," Guy added. A record 10,627 suspected victims were identified last year in Britain - up 52% from 2018. Most were victims of labour abuse and many came from nations such as Albania, Nigeria and Vietnam. Government 'just getting started' Britain's home secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel said her department would look closely at the report's findings. "While the Modern Slavery Act was ground-breaking in tackling this heinous crime, we are just getting started in the fight to rid this evil from the United Kingdom," Patel said. Government research in 2018 said the crime sets Britain back by up to 4.3 billion pounds ($5.6 billion) annually, based on an earlier estimate of 10,000 - 13,000 slaves living in the nation. The charity and the think tank said the government needed to update its estimate, and the cost of the crime to the taxpayer. The study arrived at its 100,000 estimate by taking police statistics from one area of Britain - the West Midlands - that predicted the number of victims locally using a new artificial intelligence model, and extrapolating that data nationwide. Academics at Nottingham University's Rights Lab, the world's first large-scale research platform on slavery, said the study offered a "very exciting and new way" to measure the problem. "It is very difficult to estimate the size of a hidden population and this report potentially provides a new part of the anti-slavery measurement toolkit," Zoe Trodd, director of the Rights Lab, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by email. The 2018 Global Slavery Index by the Walk Free Foundation put the number of slaves in Britain at 136,000, and 40.3 million globally. But the methodology has been widely questioned and criticised by several activists and academics in the field.

UK has 100,000 modern slaves but most go undetected, study says

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going."

Britain left the European Union on Jan&nbsp;31, three and a half years after a referendum, but a transition period has delayed any major change in the relationship.

The two sides have been working to agree a trade deal ahead of that period expiring at the end of the year.

Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said on Sunday progress was being made in talks but there were still divisions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/huawei-to-request-uk-to-delay-5g-network-removal-312661" hreflang="en">Huawei to request UK to delay 5G network removal</a>

"At the end of this year we are leaving the single market and Customs Union regardless of the type of agreement we reach with the EU," he said. "This will bring changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare."

The information campaign will launch on Monday, the government said, with ads appearing on TV, radio, billboards and online.&nbsp;

A survey from lobby group the Institute of Directors (IoD) said only a quarter of companies were fully ready for the end of the transition period.

Nearly half of 978 company directors polled in late June said they were not able to prepare right now, with one in seven distracted by the coronavirus and almost a third saying they needed details of changes to be clear, the IoD said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/freeports-tax-cuts-uks-road-to-becoming-fully-independent-from-eu-312647" hreflang="en">'Freeports,' tax cuts: UK's road to becoming fully independent from EU</a>

"With so much going on, many directors feel that preparing for Brexit proper is like trying to hit a moving target," said IoD Director General Jonathan Geldart. "Jumping immediately into whatever comes next would be a nightmare for many businesses."

The campaign targets Britons intending to travel to the EU from Jan. 1, importers and exporters, UK nationals abroad, and EU, European Economic Area and Swiss nationals living in Britain.

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going.

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going." Britain left the European Union on Jan 31, three and a half years after a referendum, but a transition period has delayed any major change in the relationship. The two sides have been working to agree a trade deal ahead of that period expiring at the end of the year. Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said on Sunday progress was being made in talks but there were still divisions. Also read: Huawei to request UK to delay 5G network removal "At the end of this year we are leaving the single market and Customs Union regardless of the type of agreement we reach with the EU," he said. "This will bring changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare." The information campaign will launch on Monday, the government said, with ads appearing on TV, radio, billboards and online. A survey from lobby group the Institute of Directors (IoD) said only a quarter of companies were fully ready for the end of the transition period. Nearly half of 978 company directors polled in late June said they were not able to prepare right now, with one in seven distracted by the coronavirus and almost a third saying they needed details of changes to be clear, the IoD said. Also read: 'Freeports,' tax cuts: UK's road to becoming fully independent from EU "With so much going on, many directors feel that preparing for Brexit proper is like trying to hit a moving target," said IoD Director General Jonathan Geldart. "Jumping immediately into whatever comes next would be a nightmare for many businesses." The campaign targets Britons intending to travel to the EU from Jan. 1, importers and exporters, UK nationals abroad, and EU, European Economic Area and Swiss nationals living in Britain.

'Let's get going': UK tells businesses to prepare for Brexit crunch

Amid the escalating tensions between Beijing and London, UK ministers fear that China is planning a serious cyber-attack targetting Britain, dubbed as "cyber 9/11".&nbsp;

Security heads warn that these state-sponsored attacks, in a worst-case scenario could bring down computer networks, causing phone and power blackouts and choking businesses, government, and hospitals, reports Mail Online.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slaps-retaliatory-sanctions-against-us-officials-including-two-senators-312979">China slaps retaliatory sanctions against US officials including two senators</a>

However, UK's National Cyber Security Centre says it is not 'expecting' a rise in such attacks. But, ministers believe since Britain is set to harden its stance against China, these attacks could act as an intense retaliation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-professor-who-criticised-president-xi-jinping-312742">China releases professor who criticised President Xi Jinping</a>

The confrontation between London and Beijing increased over Hong Kong, the origins of coronavirus, and Huawei.

The UK could ban Chinese telecom giant Huawei from developing its 5G network after reports of a security review floated over the safety of Huawei.&nbsp;

Beijing is also angry with London following its decision to give citizenship to Hong Kongers recently in response to a stringent National Security Law implemented to stifle dissent in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also called on an inquiry to probe into the coronavirus origins.&nbsp;

"At this time of heightened tensions, the Government (UK) must be alert to the risk of cyber attacks from hostile states and prepare accordingly. Our critical national infrastructure should be ready and able to repel any such attack on the UK," Shadow Minister Security Minister Conor McGinn earlier said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid the escalating tensions between Beijing and London, UK ministers fear that China is planning a serious cyber-attack targetting Britain, dubbed as "cyber 9/11".

Amid the escalating tensions between Beijing and London, UK ministers fear that China is planning a serious cyber-attack targetting Britain, dubbed as "cyber 9/11". Security heads warn that these state-sponsored attacks, in a worst-case scenario could bring down computer networks, causing phone and power blackouts and choking businesses, government, and hospitals, reports Mail Online. Also read | China slaps retaliatory sanctions against US officials including two senators However, UK's National Cyber Security Centre says it is not 'expecting' a rise in such attacks. But, ministers believe since Britain is set to harden its stance against China, these attacks could act as an intense retaliation. Also read | China releases professor who criticised President Xi Jinping The confrontation between London and Beijing increased over Hong Kong, the origins of coronavirus, and Huawei. The UK could ban Chinese telecom giant Huawei from developing its 5G network after reports of a security review floated over the safety of Huawei. Beijing is also angry with London following its decision to give citizenship to Hong Kongers recently in response to a stringent National Security Law implemented to stifle dissent in Hong Kong. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also called on an inquiry to probe into the coronavirus origins. "At this time of heightened tensions, the Government (UK) must be alert to the risk of cyber attacks from hostile states and prepare accordingly. Our critical national infrastructure should be ready and able to repel any such attack on the UK," Shadow Minister Security Minister Conor McGinn earlier said.

'Cyber-9/11': UK ministers warn of China launching online attack against Britain

With Britain's coronavirus lockdown eased, sculptor Anish Kapoor can finally exhibit his work at Houghton Hall, one of the country's best-known stately homes.

After UK lockdown delay, sculptor Anish Kapoor exhibits at Walpole's mansion

A London riverboat service used by commuters and visitors will be rebranded Uber Boat by Thames Clippers later this summer as part of a deal with the ride-hailing app.

London river service to become Uber boat under new deal

British finance minister Rishi Sunak turned his hand to waiting tables at a central London eatery on Wednesday (July 8), shortly after he launched a $625 million "Eat out to help out" discount scheme to boost spending at restaurants, cafes and pubs that have been crippled by COVID-19.

"Eat out to help out" - UK offers diners some tasty morsels

The United Kingdom will resume arms sales to Saudi Arabia, despite fears that the weapons could be used against civilians in Yemen. This comes on the heels of London selectively slapping sanctions on individuals from Saudi Arabia. WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: United Kingdom's sanction hypocrisy

In the aftermath of Brexit, United Kingdom is asserting its independence from the European Union by slapping sanctions.

On its hit list are 49 individuals and organisations that are accused of human rights abuses. These include 25 Russian nationals involved in the death of Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsy. Additionally, there are 20 Saudis involved in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi along with two high-ranking generals implicated in the crimes against the Rohingyas in Myanmar. To top it all off are two North Korean organisations accused of forced labour.

Here on, all of them are&nbsp; barred from entering the UK,&nbsp; channeling money through the country's banks and doing business in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We don't want people responsible for these appalling crimes, with blood on their hands, coming to this country, doing their Christmas shopping in Knightsbridge or the King's road or trying to invest in British banks or British property”, UK’s foreign minister, Dominic Raab said.

Hypocrisy exposed

This all, while the country continues to ignore the mass persecution of Uighurs in China. Chinese Communist Party officials have been overlooked because of the business they bring.&nbsp;In 2018, China was the UK’s sixth largest export market, and the fourth largest source of imports. Additionally, there is a trade deficit of 22.1 billion Pounds in favour of London.

It's not just trade partners, Britain's allies like Israel and Bahrain also do not feature on the list. On the other hand, Saud al-Qahtani, the former advisor of the Saudi crown prince has been sanctioned.&nbsp;However, He is bidding to buy the British football team - New Castle United.&nbsp;Ironically, the UK is resuming arms sales to Saudi Arabia, to be used against civilians in Yemen.

Most of these sanctioned individuals are already blacklisted by the US. This means that they are already effectively banned from British banks through secondary sanction.

Can the UK handle counter-sanctions?&nbsp;Its economy has plummeted 2.2 per cent in 2020, the sharpest decline in 41 years.

In the aftermath of Brexit, United Kingdom is asserting its independence from the European Union by slapping sanctions. On its hit list are 49 individuals and organisations that are accused of human rights abuses.

In the aftermath of Brexit, United Kingdom is asserting its independence from the European Union by slapping sanctions. On its hit list are 49 individuals and organisations that are accused of human rights abuses. These include 25 Russian nationals involved in the death of Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsy. Additionally, there are 20 Saudis involved in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi along with two high-ranking generals implicated in the crimes against the Rohingyas in Myanmar. To top it all off are two North Korean organisations accused of forced labour. Here on, all of them are barred from entering the UK, channeling money through the country's banks and doing business in the country. “We don't want people responsible for these appalling crimes, with blood on their hands, coming to this country, doing their Christmas shopping in Knightsbridge or the King's road or trying to invest in British banks or British property”, UK’s foreign minister, Dominic Raab said. Hypocrisy exposed This all, while the country continues to ignore the mass persecution of Uighurs in China. Chinese Communist Party officials have been overlooked because of the business they bring. In 2018, China was the UK’s sixth largest export market, and the fourth largest source of imports. Additionally, there is a trade deficit of 22.1 billion Pounds in favour of London. It's not just trade partners, Britain's allies like Israel and Bahrain also do not feature on the list. On the other hand, Saud al-Qahtani, the former advisor of the Saudi crown prince has been sanctioned. However, He is bidding to buy the British football team - New Castle United. Ironically, the UK is resuming arms sales to Saudi Arabia, to be used against civilians in Yemen. Most of these sanctioned individuals are already blacklisted by the US. This means that they are already effectively banned from British banks through secondary sanction. Can the UK handle counter-sanctions? Its economy has plummeted 2.2 per cent in 2020, the sharpest decline in 41 years.

New British sanctions on grounds of human rights abuses expose the country's hypocrisy

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom.

Children are currently out of school, forced to stay at home, and for many in care homes. As a result, most of their time is spent online. However, they may be poached by predators on social media and even gaming platforms, which may have led to a spike in the unreported instances of abuse.

Dodgy data

After the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has not updated its data on sexual abuse against children. As per 2020 numbers of the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), over 300,000 people in the country are susceptible to committing child abuse, taking into account both the physical and digital world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/entertainment/sexual-abuse-victims-of-harvey-weinstein-win-19-million-settlement-309840" hreflang="en">Sexual abuse victims of Harvey Weinstein win $19 million settlement</a>

This is way more than 140,000 reported in the last year same time. The Guardian also received figures from the NCA which claimed that during 13 weeks of lockdown in the country, over 350 cases of online abuse against children. This marks a 10 per cent increase in the number of cases compared to last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/the-vatican-must-probe-cover-up-of-child-sexual-abuse-275752" hreflang="en">Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse</a>

Additionally, data from the Internet Watch Foundation claims that during the lockdown in the UK, three prominent internet companies reported 8.8 millions pings of imagery related to sexual abuse of children in the UK alone! The IWF is a charity that tracks and removes online child abuse.

Homes not safe

England and Wales have 2,360 children homes, where the vulnerability is more. Many homes have reported how kids were coaxed into leaving the premises by predators online and then abducted. Most of them were reached out by social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/95-increase-in-online-traffic-of-child-sexual-abuse-content-in-india-ncpcr-issues-notice-294837" hreflang="en">95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice</a>

Perhaps nowhere are vulnerable children more likely to be found in greater numbers than in England and Wales’s 2,360 children homes.

Sajid Javid, a British politician has launched an inquiry into child sex abuse and exploitation with the UK’s Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). The findings are set to be published later in the year.

Many analysts also argue that increased online presence due to lockdown restrictions has caused a surge of silent cases that are not reported.

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom.

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom. Children are currently out of school, forced to stay at home, and for many in care homes. As a result, most of their time is spent online. However, they may be poached by predators on social media and even gaming platforms, which may have led to a spike in the unreported instances of abuse. Dodgy data After the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has not updated its data on sexual abuse against children. As per 2020 numbers of the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), over 300,000 people in the country are susceptible to committing child abuse, taking into account both the physical and digital world. Also read: Sexual abuse victims of Harvey Weinstein win $19 million settlement This is way more than 140,000 reported in the last year same time. The Guardian also received figures from the NCA which claimed that during 13 weeks of lockdown in the country, over 350 cases of online abuse against children. This marks a 10 per cent increase in the number of cases compared to last year. Also read: Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse Additionally, data from the Internet Watch Foundation claims that during the lockdown in the UK, three prominent internet companies reported 8.8 millions pings of imagery related to sexual abuse of children in the UK alone! The IWF is a charity that tracks and removes online child abuse. Homes not safe England and Wales have 2,360 children homes, where the vulnerability is more. Many homes have reported how kids were coaxed into leaving the premises by predators online and then abducted. Most of them were reached out by social media. Also read: 95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice Perhaps nowhere are vulnerable children more likely to be found in greater numbers than in England and Wales’s 2,360 children homes. Sajid Javid, a British politician has launched an inquiry into child sex abuse and exploitation with the UK’s Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). The findings are set to be published later in the year. Many analysts also argue that increased online presence due to lockdown restrictions has caused a surge of silent cases that are not reported.

United Kingdom lodges more cases of child sexual abuse during lockdown

England is offering Hollywood film productions to skip quarantine in order to resume filming. 
 
Tom Cruise starrer 'Mission: Impossible 7' will be one of the first films to resume shoot in the country. The crew will reportedly be shooting at the Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, which is just outside of London. 
 
The British government listed a number of countries that don’t have to undergo quarantine when entering the country. The United States and Canada aren't on this list. 
 
The filming of 'Mission: Impossible 7' had been stalled in February end amid the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic. The crew was filming in Italy when the country started shutting down due to the pandemic. 
 
The rules to skip quarantining, however, only apply to England and not the entire UK. Those exempted from the 14 day quarantine period will all have to work and live together in their own 'bubble'. 
 
According to Variety, culture secretary of England Oliver Dowden said, “The world’s biggest blockbusters and high-end TV shows are made in Britain. Our creativity, expertise and highly successful tax reliefs for our screen industries means that we are an in-demand location that in turn delivers a great return for our economy. We want the industry to bounce back and exempting small numbers of essential cast and crew from quarantine is part of our continued commitment to getting cameras rolling safely again.”

England is offering Hollywood film productions to skip quarantine in order to resume filming. Tom Cruise starrer 'Mission: Impossible 7' will be one of the first films to resume shoot in the country.

England is offering Hollywood film productions to skip quarantine in order to resume filming. Tom Cruise starrer 'Mission: Impossible 7' will be one of the first films to resume shoot in the country. The crew will reportedly be shooting at the Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, which is just outside of London. The British government listed a number of countries that don’t have to undergo quarantine when entering the country. The United States and Canada aren't on this list. The filming of 'Mission: Impossible 7' had been stalled in February end amid the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic. The crew was filming in Italy when the country started shutting down due to the pandemic. The rules to skip quarantining, however, only apply to England and not the entire UK. Those exempted from the 14 day quarantine period will all have to work and live together in their own 'bubble'. According to Variety, culture secretary of England Oliver Dowden said, “The world’s biggest blockbusters and high-end TV shows are made in Britain. Our creativity, expertise and highly successful tax reliefs for our screen industries means that we are an in-demand location that in turn delivers a great return for our economy. We want the industry to bounce back and exempting small numbers of essential cast and crew from quarantine is part of our continued commitment to getting cameras rolling safely again.”

Tom Cruise, crew to skip quarantine in England to resume work on 'Mission:Impossible 7'

Britain will on Monday name the first individuals to be sanctioned under a new regime targeting people who violate human rights, with Russians and Saudis reportedly on the list. 
 
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will set out the new sanctions powers in parliament and reveal a list of individuals who will immediately be subject to UK asset and visa bans. 
 
"From today, the UK will have new powers to stop those involved in serious human rights abuses and violations from entering the UK, channelling money through our banks and profiting from our economy," Raab said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/uk-to-end-use-of-huawei-technology-in-its-5g-network-report-310811" hreflang="en">UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report</a> 
 
"This is a clear example of how the UK will help to lead the world in standing up for human rights.&nbsp; 
 
"We will not let those who seek to inflict pain and destroy the lives of innocent victims benefit from what the UK has to offer." 
 
The Foreign Office declined to say in advance who would be on the list. 
 
But the Financial Times said it is expected to include people believed by Britain to be implicated in the deaths of Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky and Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. 
 
Magnitsky was arrested after detailing an alleged large-scale tax fraud by Russian officials. He died in jail in 2009.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/drunk-people-cant-socially-distance-uk-police-conclude-310878" hreflang="en">Drunk people can't socially distance, UK police conclude</a> 
 
Khashoggi was a Saudi insider-turned-critic who was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018.&nbsp; 
 
Five people were sentenced to death for his killing in Saudi Arabia last year, but 20 more, including two former aides to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,&nbsp;are currently on trial in Turkey. 
 
The new sanctions regime, set up under a 2018 British law, will also target figures from North Korea but not China, the FT and the BBC reported. 
 
The Foreign Office said: "Future targets of the regime may include those who commit unlawful killings perpetrated against journalists and media workers, or activity motivated on the grounds of religion or belief." 
 
Overall, the regime could apply to those who "facilitate, incite, promote, or support these violations/abuses, as well as those who financially profit from human rights violations and abuses".

Britain will on Monday name the first individuals to be sanctioned under a new regime targeting people who violate human rights, with Russians and Saudis reportedly on the list.

Britain will on Monday name the first individuals to be sanctioned under a new regime targeting people who violate human rights, with Russians and Saudis reportedly on the list. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will set out the new sanctions powers in parliament and reveal a list of individuals who will immediately be subject to UK asset and visa bans. "From today, the UK will have new powers to stop those involved in serious human rights abuses and violations from entering the UK, channelling money through our banks and profiting from our economy," Raab said in a statement. Also read: UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report "This is a clear example of how the UK will help to lead the world in standing up for human rights. "We will not let those who seek to inflict pain and destroy the lives of innocent victims benefit from what the UK has to offer." The Foreign Office declined to say in advance who would be on the list. But the Financial Times said it is expected to include people believed by Britain to be implicated in the deaths of Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky and Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Magnitsky was arrested after detailing an alleged large-scale tax fraud by Russian officials. He died in jail in 2009. Also read: Drunk people can't socially distance, UK police conclude Khashoggi was a Saudi insider-turned-critic who was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. Five people were sentenced to death for his killing in Saudi Arabia last year, but 20 more, including two former aides to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are currently on trial in Turkey. The new sanctions regime, set up under a 2018 British law, will also target figures from North Korea but not China, the FT and the BBC reported. The Foreign Office said: "Future targets of the regime may include those who commit unlawful killings perpetrated against journalists and media workers, or activity motivated on the grounds of religion or belief." Overall, the regime could apply to those who "facilitate, incite, promote, or support these violations/abuses, as well as those who financially profit from human rights violations and abuses".

UK to unveil sanctions against human rights violators

Britain's house prices fell in annual terms for the first time since 2012 in June as the country reeled from the coronavirus shock to the economy, mortgage lender Nationwide said on Wednesday.

Nationwide said its measure of house prices fell by 0.1% compared with June of last year.&nbsp;

In monthly terms, prices fell by 1.4%, not as steep as May's 1.7% fall, which was the biggest drop in more than 11 years.

A Reuters poll of economists had pointed to an annual rise of 1.0% and a monthly fall of 0.7%.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/uk-plans-local-lockdowns-indian-origin-people-among-hardest-hit-by-coronavirus-309197" hreflang="en">UK plans local lockdowns, Indian-origin people among hardest hit by coronavirus</a>

The government eased restrictions on the housing market in mid-May but data published by the Bank of England earlier this week showed the lowest number of mortgage approvals on record during that month.

Nationwide's chief economist, Robert Gardner, said a further easing of broader lockdown measures in the coming weeks was likely to lead to a slight pick-up in activity in the housing market, but the medium-term outlook remained highly uncertain.

"The raft of policies adopted to support the economy, including to protect businesses and jobs, to support peoples’ incomes and keep borrowing costs down, should set the stage for a rebound once the shock passes, and help limit long-term damage to the economy," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-ready-to-quit-eu-on-australia-terms-if-no-brexit-deal-pm-johnson-says-309038" hreflang="en">UK ready to quit EU on 'Australia terms' if no Brexit deal, PM Johnson says</a>

Nationwide said on a seasonally adjusted basis, house prices in June were 3.2% lower than in April.

It said its sample sizes had remained sufficiently large to generate an accurate reading of price changes.

In London, house prices rose by an annual 2.1% over the second quarter and average prices in the capital were just 3% below all-time highs struck in early 2017.&nbsp;

A Reuters poll of property market analysts published last week showed prices in London were expected to fall 5.0% this year before rising 2.0% next year and 4.3% in 2022.

Britain's house prices fell in annual terms for the first time since 2012 in June as the country reeled from the coronavirus shock to the economy, mortgage lender Nationwide said on Wednesday.

Britain's house prices fell in annual terms for the first time since 2012 in June as the country reeled from the coronavirus shock to the economy, mortgage lender Nationwide said on Wednesday. Nationwide said its measure of house prices fell by 0.1% compared with June of last year. In monthly terms, prices fell by 1.4%, not as steep as May's 1.7% fall, which was the biggest drop in more than 11 years. A Reuters poll of economists had pointed to an annual rise of 1.0% and a monthly fall of 0.7%. Also read: UK plans local lockdowns, Indian-origin people among hardest hit by coronavirus The government eased restrictions on the housing market in mid-May but data published by the Bank of England earlier this week showed the lowest number of mortgage approvals on record during that month. Nationwide's chief economist, Robert Gardner, said a further easing of broader lockdown measures in the coming weeks was likely to lead to a slight pick-up in activity in the housing market, but the medium-term outlook remained highly uncertain. "The raft of policies adopted to support the economy, including to protect businesses and jobs, to support peoples’ incomes and keep borrowing costs down, should set the stage for a rebound once the shock passes, and help limit long-term damage to the economy," he said. Also read: UK ready to quit EU on 'Australia terms' if no Brexit deal, PM Johnson says Nationwide said on a seasonally adjusted basis, house prices in June were 3.2% lower than in April. It said its sample sizes had remained sufficiently large to generate an accurate reading of price changes. In London, house prices rose by an annual 2.1% over the second quarter and average prices in the capital were just 3% below all-time highs struck in early 2017. A Reuters poll of property market analysts published last week showed prices in London were expected to fall 5.0% this year before rising 2.0% next year and 4.3% in 2022.

UK house prices fall for first time since 2012

A British-Pakistani doctor's license has been suspended after he claimed that coronavirus was a conspiracy to control the world.&nbsp;

Iqbal Adil's reference number has been removed from the website of General Medical Council (GMC), &nbsp;reported Geo News.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-protest-in-karachi-against-enforced-disappearances-in-sindh-309134">Massive protest in Karachi against enforced disappearances in Sindh</a>

"This person has been suspended from the Medical Register and may not practice as a doctor in the UK," the website said, adding that Iqbal was neither on the General Practioner (GP) register nor on the specialist one.

"This doctor is not subject to revalidation (as) only doctors holding full registration with a license to practice are subject to revalidation."&nbsp;

Adil in an interview called his suspension political victimisation.&nbsp;

Iqbal, who graduated from Pakistan's Multan city in 1986 and worked as a specialist in colorectal and emergency surgery and laparoscopy in UK, peddled various conspiracy theories regarding coronavirus on social media and in interviews, describing the deadly virus "orchestrated by the elite and is indeed a hoax".

In various videos on Youtube which were later removed, Adil claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine could not find a cure and social distancing couldn't prevent the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Following his suspension, Adil filed a petition in change.org, which got the support so far of over 300 people, asking UK National Health Service (NHS) to revoke the suspension.&nbsp;

"Mr Adil has a family with 3 children to support. NHS UK need doctors to work. It would not be in the best interest of the public and health system to lose experienced and highly qualified surgeon like him," the petition said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A British-Pakistani doctor's license has been suspended after he claimed that coronavirus was a conspiracy to control the world. Iqbal Adil's reference number has been removed from the website of General Medical Council (GMC), reported Geo News.

A British-Pakistani doctor's license has been suspended after he claimed that coronavirus was a conspiracy to control the world. Iqbal Adil's reference number has been removed from the website of General Medical Council (GMC), reported Geo News. Also read | Massive protest in Karachi against enforced disappearances in Sindh "This person has been suspended from the Medical Register and may not practice as a doctor in the UK," the website said, adding that Iqbal was neither on the General Practioner (GP) register nor on the specialist one. "This doctor is not subject to revalidation (as) only doctors holding full registration with a license to practice are subject to revalidation." Adil in an interview called his suspension political victimisation. Iqbal, who graduated from Pakistan's Multan city in 1986 and worked as a specialist in colorectal and emergency surgery and laparoscopy in UK, peddled various conspiracy theories regarding coronavirus on social media and in interviews, describing the deadly virus "orchestrated by the elite and is indeed a hoax". In various videos on Youtube which were later removed, Adil claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine could not find a cure and social distancing couldn't prevent the spread of the virus. Following his suspension, Adil filed a petition in change.org, which got the support so far of over 300 people, asking UK National Health Service (NHS) to revoke the suspension. "Mr Adil has a family with 3 children to support. NHS UK need doctors to work. It would not be in the best interest of the public and health system to lose experienced and highly qualified surgeon like him," the petition said.

British-Pakistani doctor, who floated COVID-19 conspiracy theories, suspended

In United Kingdom's Scotland, 3 killed, 6 injured in in Glasgow stabbing attack. It's been the 2nd major stabbing attack in last 4 days.

UK: 3 killed, 6 injured in in Glasgow stabbing attack, 2nd major stabbing attack in last 4 days

Crowds flocked to the beach in the southern English town of Brighton on Thursday (June 25) in a spell of hot weather.

Crowds pack Brighton beach in scorching weather

Five-year-old Tony Hudgell has raised more than 1 million pounds ($1.24 million) for the London hospital that saved his life by walking 10 kilometres on his new prosthetic legs after being inspired by Captain Tom's record breaking endeavours.

Five year old double amputee raises more than £1 million for charity

Britain enjoyed its hottest weather of 2020 as temperatures hit 32 Celsius (90 Fahrenheit) on Wednesday (June 24).

Sun shines as Britain enjoys hottest day of 2020 so far

People in the UK were seen gathering in parks to sunbath as temperatures touched 32.6°C. People were grateful to be outdoors and many were not seen wearing masks. Watch report.

UK sizzles as mercury soars to 32.6° C: Hottest day of the year so far

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US&nbsp;administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-second-wave-of-coronavirus-medics-warn-britain-308318" hreflang="en">Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain</a>

"We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee.&nbsp;

"The US&nbsp;talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added.

Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pubs-restaurants-and-hotels-to-reopen-from-july-4-as-england-eases-social-distancing-308116" hreflang="en">Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing</a>

Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US&nbsp;tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US&nbsp;ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism.&nbsp;

"Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access.

Britain has no deadline to strike a trade deal with the United States, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, criticising the US administration for talking a good game on free trade while restricting import access. Britain left the European Union earlier this year and is now in the process of negotiating bilateral trade deals with major partners like the United States - something the government has cited as a major benefit of leaving the EU. Also read: Beware second wave of coronavirus, medics warn Britain "We're not going to rush into a deal and there is no deadline. We will be tough in pressing our interests," Truss told a parliamentary committee. "The US talk a good game about free trade and low tariffs. But the reality is that many UK products have been kept unfairly out of their markets," she added. Earlier, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said talks were continuing at a good pace and that the current round was due to end this week. Truss said she expected a couple of chapters of the deal to be finalised during the next round, but did not specify which. Also read: Pubs, restaurants and hotels to reopen from July 4 as England eases social distancing Nevertheless, she struck a combative tone, citing US tariffs on British steel, the threat of further tariffs on cars and US-centric procurement schemes which restrict access to government contracts. She said a US ban on lamb exports amounted to protectionism. "Let me be clear. I am not going to strike a trade deal with the US, unless all these points are dealt with," she said. "No deal is better than a bad deal."

UK says no deadline for US trade deal, talks tough on terms

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre.

"Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-uk-to-begin-trials-of-no-swab-self-test-kits-307695" hreflang="en">COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits</a>

However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/non-essential-shops-reopen-in-uk-after-3-months-306080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule.

The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278" hreflang="en">UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4.

"Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people. UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre. "Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Also read: COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible. Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule. The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly. Also read: UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4. "Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

UK to denounce two-metre distancing rule starting July; pubs and restaurants to resume service

In United Kingdom, 3 killed & 3 seriously injured after an incident of stabbing. Attacker targeted a group of 9-10 people.

United Kingdom: 3 killed, 3 seriously injured after an incident of stabbing

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found.

The NAO, Britain's spending watchdog, said the last estimate in 2005 suggested there were around 430,000 people in the UK with no legal right to remain and since then independent estimates indicate that figure could have nearly doubled, but there is no validated assessment available.

"The Home Office does not have an up-to-date estimate of how many people have no right to remain in the UK," notes the NAO report on 'Immigration Enforcement' released on Wednesday.

"Its last estimate was around 430,000 people in 2005. More recent estimates from other organizations suggest the population might have doubled, although the NAO has not validated these estimates," it said.

The highest estimate of the illegal population in the UK is 1.2 million, given by the Pew Research Centre last year, although the NAO stressed it had not attempted to verify that figure.

"Although there would be significant uncertainty around any estimate it [the department] developed, such an estimate could help the department to demonstrate that its activities are effective in deterring attempts to enter or remain in the UK illegally," the NAO said.

The NAO's report into the Home Office's Immigration Enforcement Directorate said the department had estimated demand for immigration enforcement activity, which was set between 240,000 and 320,000 cases a year.

But the report said there was no baseline given against which progress can be measured or to demonstrate whether demand is rising or falling.

"Due to data quality issues, Immigration Enforcement cannot say whether the number of people 'genuinely putting a demand' on its activities is increasing or decreasing," it said.

It suggested the Home Office should look at how other parts of government come up with estimates of "hidden activity", such as serious and organized crime, which it said could help to "improve its understanding of the full scale of the illegal population in the UK".

The watchdog concluded that despite collecting information around its mission and objectives, the Home Office often cannot demonstrate whether its measures are working.

'The Home Office's vision for Immigration Enforcement is to 'reduce the size of the illegal population and the harm it causes'.

It supports this vision through its operational missions of preventing illegal migration through greater compliance with laws, tackling threats associated with immigration offending and maximizing returns of the illegal population and foreign national offenders to their country of origin, the report notes.

"Despite introducing significant changes to its enforcement activity, the Home Office cannot fully demonstrate that the actions of its Immigration Enforcement directorate are helping it to achieve its objectives," it said.

In the past year to October 2019, detected attempts by people to come into the UK by clandestine means increased to 46,900.

However, the NAO said it was not clear if this was because more attempts were being made or if there was better detection.

A Home Office spokesperson said that the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) meant that it had taken back full control of the immigration system.

"As this report acknowledges, the nature of immigration crime and offending is complicated and we are consistently looking at ways to get ahead of the organized gangs behind it," the spokesperson said.

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found.

The UK government has no estimate of the number of illegal migrants living in the country because no figures have been produced for 15 years, a new National Audit Office (NAO) report has found. The NAO, Britain's spending watchdog, said the last estimate in 2005 suggested there were around 430,000 people in the UK with no legal right to remain and since then independent estimates indicate that figure could have nearly doubled, but there is no validated assessment available. "The Home Office does not have an up-to-date estimate of how many people have no right to remain in the UK," notes the NAO report on 'Immigration Enforcement' released on Wednesday. "Its last estimate was around 430,000 people in 2005. More recent estimates from other organizations suggest the population might have doubled, although the NAO has not validated these estimates," it said. The highest estimate of the illegal population in the UK is 1.2 million, given by the Pew Research Centre last year, although the NAO stressed it had not attempted to verify that figure. "Although there would be significant uncertainty around any estimate it [the department] developed, such an estimate could help the department to demonstrate that its activities are effective in deterring attempts to enter or remain in the UK illegally," the NAO said. The NAO's report into the Home Office's Immigration Enforcement Directorate said the department had estimated demand for immigration enforcement activity, which was set between 240,000 and 320,000 cases a year. But the report said there was no baseline given against which progress can be measured or to demonstrate whether demand is rising or falling. "Due to data quality issues, Immigration Enforcement cannot say whether the number of people 'genuinely putting a demand' on its activities is increasing or decreasing," it said. It suggested the Home Office should look at how other parts of government come up with estimates of "hidden activity", such as serious and organized crime, which it said could help to "improve its understanding of the full scale of the illegal population in the UK". The watchdog concluded that despite collecting information around its mission and objectives, the Home Office often cannot demonstrate whether its measures are working. 'The Home Office's vision for Immigration Enforcement is to 'reduce the size of the illegal population and the harm it causes'. It supports this vision through its operational missions of preventing illegal migration through greater compliance with laws, tackling threats associated with immigration offending and maximizing returns of the illegal population and foreign national offenders to their country of origin, the report notes. "Despite introducing significant changes to its enforcement activity, the Home Office cannot fully demonstrate that the actions of its Immigration Enforcement directorate are helping it to achieve its objectives," it said. In the past year to October 2019, detected attempts by people to come into the UK by clandestine means increased to 46,900. However, the NAO said it was not clear if this was because more attempts were being made or if there was better detection. A Home Office spokesperson said that the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) meant that it had taken back full control of the immigration system. "As this report acknowledges, the nature of immigration crime and offending is complicated and we are consistently looking at ways to get ahead of the organized gangs behind it," the spokesperson said.

UK unaware of level of illegal migrants in country, audit report finds

As protests against systemic racism soar across the world, people are changing the way they look at history, with calls for a revisionist lens in narrating historical events, especially involving minorities and the historically marginalised.

Caught in the whirlwind are the British, responsible for colonising a big chunk of the world almost a century ago.

In the last couple of days, thousands of people have come out on the streets to protest against&nbsp; imperial leaders, slave traders, and wartime heroes.

From Winston Churchill to Robert Clive, people who were once called the greatest britons are now being called racists.

A lot of statues have been vandalised across the country to boycott the imperialist history. Many have been burnt, and then thrown into the nearest waterbody.

The latest statue to face the heat is that of Mahatma Gandhi’s, with protesting demanding removal of his statue from Leicester.&nbsp;According to naysayers, Gandhi was a fascist, racist, sexual predator.

An online petition demanding the statue's removal has received over 5,000 signatures.&nbsp;The petition claims that Gandhi&nbsp; used words like “uncivilised”, “savages”, and “dirty” to refer to Africans.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-uk-protesters-say-mahatma-gandhi-was-a-racist-306139/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How have authorities reacted to this demand?

Some experts have called the demand absurd.&nbsp;Claudia Webbe, the parliamentarian from Leicester East -&nbsp; said the petition is a “massive distraction” from the Black Lives Matter movement.

Webbe further claimed that the Black community does not want to deface the symbol of change while drawing parallels between Gandhi's peaceful protests and the BLM movement. Webbe referred to both as “forces for change”.

Violent clashes

Protests against racism snowballed into clashes across the country over the weekend, with two sets of demonstrators taking to the streets. While one sided chanted anti-racism slogans, the other screamed racial slurs.

Far-right activists said they wanted to defend historical monuments and British culture

However, the two sides clashed at the iconic Trafalgar Square, which required police intervention, who were also attacked in the process. Over 15 people were injured owing to this, and at least five people have been booked for assaulting police officers.

Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson condemned the incident. He said that those indulging in violence would have to face the law.

“What we can't accept is people hijacking peaceful demonstrations and turning them into very ugly attacks on the police or on public monuments, we can't accept that and people who do that will feel the full force of the law”, said the British PM.

As protests against systemic racism soar across the world, people are changing the way they look at history, with calls for a revisionist lens in narrating historical events, especially involving minorities and the historically marginalised.

As protests against systemic racism soar across the world, people are changing the way they look at history, with calls for a revisionist lens in narrating historical events, especially involving minorities and the historically marginalised. Caught in the whirlwind are the British, responsible for colonising a big chunk of the world almost a century ago. In the last couple of days, thousands of people have come out on the streets to protest against imperial leaders, slave traders, and wartime heroes. From Winston Churchill to Robert Clive, people who were once called the greatest britons are now being called racists. A lot of statues have been vandalised across the country to boycott the imperialist history. Many have been burnt, and then thrown into the nearest waterbody. The latest statue to face the heat is that of Mahatma Gandhi’s, with protesting demanding removal of his statue from Leicester. According to naysayers, Gandhi was a fascist, racist, sexual predator. An online petition demanding the statue's removal has received over 5,000 signatures. The petition claims that Gandhi used words like “uncivilised”, “savages”, and “dirty” to refer to Africans. How have authorities reacted to this demand? Some experts have called the demand absurd. Claudia Webbe, the parliamentarian from Leicester East - said the petition is a “massive distraction” from the Black Lives Matter movement. Webbe further claimed that the Black community does not want to deface the symbol of change while drawing parallels between Gandhi's peaceful protests and the BLM movement. Webbe referred to both as “forces for change”. Violent clashes Protests against racism snowballed into clashes across the country over the weekend, with two sets of demonstrators taking to the streets. While one sided chanted anti-racism slogans, the other screamed racial slurs. Far-right activists said they wanted to defend historical monuments and British culture However, the two sides clashed at the iconic Trafalgar Square, which required police intervention, who were also attacked in the process. Over 15 people were injured owing to this, and at least five people have been booked for assaulting police officers. Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson condemned the incident. He said that those indulging in violence would have to face the law. “What we can't accept is people hijacking peaceful demonstrations and turning them into very ugly attacks on the police or on public monuments, we can't accept that and people who do that will feel the full force of the law”, said the British PM.

Protesters in the UK want 'fascist and racist' Gandhi's statue removed, clashes ensue

UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak today spoke out about the racist abuse he faced as a child growing up in Britain, but stressed that the country has made enormous progress over time.

UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak today spoke out about the racist abuse he faced as a child growing up in Britain, but stressed that the country has made enormous progress over time. The Indian-origin finance minister said that the abuse felt far worse when it occurred in the presence of his younger siblings, as he was asked to comment on another set of far-right and anti-racism protests in London over the weekend. "It's the sort of thing that's happening on your own it's difficult enough but when I had my younger brother and sister with me at the time it was particularly upsetting; I wanted to protect them from it," he told Sky News, when asked about his experience of racist abuse. "They may just be words, but they sting in a way that other things don't.... There is something about that [racist abuse] that cuts to your core," he said. The minister stressed that violent clashes, of the kind seen during some protests in London on Saturday, were "both shocking and disgusting" and those responsible should face tough legal consequences. He said: "This has always been an open, and tolerant country and what we saw yesterday was not that. There will always be a small minority who maintain prejudice, and indeed are racist, but that is not overall the description I would ascribe to our country. "I think there's been enormous progress that our country and our society has made if I think back to the time when my grandparents first arrived, when I was growing up." Sunak, who is leading the UK's economic response to the coronavirus pandemic, went on to encourage people to support the reopening of the country's high streets from Monday when non-essential retail stores are allowed to reopen under Covid-secure conditions. The minister indicated that the government was reviewing the current two-metre social distance norm in order to assist businesses further. "People need to have the confidence that it's safe... and I can give that assurance," he said, in reference to the next phase of the easing of the UK's lockdown from Monday. "The PM has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. We keep everything under review... I can very much understand the positive impact it will have on businesses in being able to open," he said. The senior cabinet minister once again admitted "hardship" in-store as steps unfold towards restarting the economy after months of lockdown imposed in the wake of the deadly virus, which has claimed over 41,000 lives in the UK.

Rishi Sunak speaks out on racism he faced as a child growing up in UK

Gorillas were treated to a mini celebration at London Zoo on Sunday (June 14) as the tourist attraction prepares to reopen on Monday. Staff at the zoo in the centre of the capital hid special treats for the gorillas and decorated their enclosure with colourful bunting ahead of the reopening.

Gorillas grab the limelight as London Zoo gets set for reopening

A new report claims that world’s biggest dairy firms release the same amount of greenhouse gases into the environment as the world’s sixth biggest economy, the United Kingdom.

The report by the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) in the US claimed that thirteen dairy firms maybe responsible for a huge chunk of the emissions.

Over the last two years, the emissions have grown by over 11 per cent, in the aftermath of the 2015 Paris climate change agreement.

Reducing consumption and dairy in rich nations is important to control the climate emergency, reports have shown.

Additionally, the report claimed that milk prices have fallen below production costs for the first time int he last decade. This has majorly affected local producers.

<img alt="Dairy farmer David Witter checks on his herd of 370 Friesian Holstein cows before preparing them for milking at Carters Green Farm in Weston, near Crewe, north west England on April 20, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eebd5f9e-5858-48f8-9969-28293e4b4871" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-4_6.jpg" /> 
Dairy farmer David Witter checks on his herd of 370 Friesian Holstein cows before preparing them for milking at Carters Green Farm in Weston, near Crewe, north west England on April 20, 2020 | AFP

According to the researchers, a cap on production needs to be reintroduced in order to protect climate.

Dairy industry’s big shots responded to the report. In a statement, Judith Bryans, the president of the International Dairy Federation, alongside Donald Moore, the Executive Director of the Global Dairy Platform claimed that “the dairy sector is committed to producing nutritious foods in environmentally sound and responsible ways.”

“It’s very easy to put out a report that criticises and tries to paint a simple picture of a sector which doesn’t contain all of the nuances or realities of how the global dairy sector nourishes the world with nutrient-rich, safe foods and does so in a manner that strives for continued environmental improvements while providing livelihoods to a large percentage of the world’s population,” the joint-statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/eat-more-cheese-it-is-your-patriotic-duty-french-dairy-industry-298075" hreflang="en">Eat more cheese, it is your patriotic duty: French dairy industry</a>

Bryans and Moore further said: “[Dairy’s] rich nutrition helps populations, particularly in developing nations, avoid malnutrition and poor health outcomes.”

In 2019, a report UNFAO and Global Dairy Platform had called for reducing greenhouse emissions from the industry.

Researchers believe soya and oat, which are also sources of milk are less harmful to the environment.

A new report claims that world’s biggest dairy firms release the same amount of greenhouse gases into the environment as the world’s sixth biggest economy, the United Kingdom.

A new report claims that world’s biggest dairy firms release the same amount of greenhouse gases into the environment as the world’s sixth biggest economy, the United Kingdom. The report by the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) in the US claimed that thirteen dairy firms maybe responsible for a huge chunk of the emissions. Over the last two years, the emissions have grown by over 11 per cent, in the aftermath of the 2015 Paris climate change agreement. Reducing consumption and dairy in rich nations is important to control the climate emergency, reports have shown. Additionally, the report claimed that milk prices have fallen below production costs for the first time int he last decade. This has majorly affected local producers. Dairy farmer David Witter checks on his herd of 370 Friesian Holstein cows before preparing them for milking at Carters Green Farm in Weston, near Crewe, north west England on April 20, 2020 | AFP According to the researchers, a cap on production needs to be reintroduced in order to protect climate. Dairy industry’s big shots responded to the report. In a statement, Judith Bryans, the president of the International Dairy Federation, alongside Donald Moore, the Executive Director of the Global Dairy Platform claimed that “the dairy sector is committed to producing nutritious foods in environmentally sound and responsible ways.” “It’s very easy to put out a report that criticises and tries to paint a simple picture of a sector which doesn’t contain all of the nuances or realities of how the global dairy sector nourishes the world with nutrient-rich, safe foods and does so in a manner that strives for continued environmental improvements while providing livelihoods to a large percentage of the world’s population,” the joint-statement said. Also read: Eat more cheese, it is your patriotic duty: French dairy industry Bryans and Moore further said: “[Dairy’s] rich nutrition helps populations, particularly in developing nations, avoid malnutrition and poor health outcomes.” In 2019, a report UNFAO and Global Dairy Platform had called for reducing greenhouse emissions from the industry. Researchers believe soya and oat, which are also sources of milk are less harmful to the environment.

13 dairy firms causing more greenhouse emissions than world's sixth-largest economy

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer.

All sites will need to comply with social distancing rules requiring people to keep at least two metres (six feet) apart and advising them to wear face coverings such as masks or scarves when indoors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-to-not-take-action-against-pm-johnsons-advisor-cummings-301610">UK police to not take action against PM Johnson's advisor Cummings</a>

Meanwhile, the coverings will be compulsory on public transport across England from Monday, with operators allowed to bar travel to those not wearing them.&nbsp;

"I know people are anxious," finance minister Rishi Sunak said Sunday as he encouraged shopping to help kickstart an economy seeing unprecedented declines.

"It's a slightly different experience... but it is a safe environment and we should all be able to go out knowing that we should be able to shop in confidence," he told Sky News.

'Adapt'&nbsp;

Non-essential shops in Northern Ireland reopened Friday, but Scotland and Wales have not yet decided when to follow suit, as Britain's devolved governments lift restrictions at different speeds.

The non-essential retail sector employs 1.3 million people and contributes £46.6 billion ($58.4 billion, 52 billion euros) to the British economy annually, according to the finance ministry, and its restart is viewed as economically vital.

Streets have been cleaned, footpaths widened and hand-sanitising stations installed in London's West End commercial district ahead of Monday.

But Jace Tyrrell, CEO of New West End Company, a partnership of 600 British and international operators in the area, predicted it will be "quite some time until we get back to normal".

"Retailers are going to have to adapt," she told AFP.&nbsp;

Britain has been among the worst-hit countries by the pandemic, with the number of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 deaths passing 50,000 last week, according to official statistics.

The government's less comprehensive rolling daily death count of those who have tested positive for the virus stands at nearly 42,000.

Despite the grim tolls, the transmission rate has dropped dramatically since the pandemic's peak in Britain in early April.

But the lockdown that helped turn that tide shrank the economy by one-fifth that month, official data showed Friday, stoking fears of a painful recession.

The OECD last week predicted the British economy was on course to shrink by more than 11 per cent in 2020 because of COVID-19.

'Margin for manoeuvre'&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has faced heavy criticism over his handling of the crisis, has set out a phased lifting of restrictions.

Outdoor markets and car showrooms reopened at the start of the month, when some younger children also returned to schools.

But his government drew ridicule last week after conceding it could not deliver on a plan to have all primary school children back for a month before the summer holidays.

Johnson has delayed reopening pubs and restaurants, the next stage in easing, until July 4 at the earliest.

Relaxing social distancing from the current two-metre requirement is seen as the only way for most of those businesses to operate viably, with proponents of easing the rule noting that other countries are adopting smaller distances.

Johnson confirmed Sunday he will review the measure as he faces growing pressure to ease it.

"You start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we'll be looking at that and we'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan," he said during a visit to a shopping centre in east London.

But he added: "What I don't want to do is sacrifice the huge efforts of the British people in beating this disease." 
&nbsp;

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer.

Leisure sites such as drive-in cinemas, safari parks and the outdoor parts of zoos will now be able to reopen, while places of worship are also set to swing open their doors again for individual prayer. All sites will need to comply with social distancing rules requiring people to keep at least two metres (six feet) apart and advising them to wear face coverings such as masks or scarves when indoors. Also read | UK police to not take action against PM Johnson's advisor Cummings Meanwhile, the coverings will be compulsory on public transport across England from Monday, with operators allowed to bar travel to those not wearing them. "I know people are anxious," finance minister Rishi Sunak said Sunday as he encouraged shopping to help kickstart an economy seeing unprecedented declines. "It's a slightly different experience... but it is a safe environment and we should all be able to go out knowing that we should be able to shop in confidence," he told Sky News. 'Adapt' Non-essential shops in Northern Ireland reopened Friday, but Scotland and Wales have not yet decided when to follow suit, as Britain's devolved governments lift restrictions at different speeds. The non-essential retail sector employs 1.3 million people and contributes £46.6 billion ($58.4 billion, 52 billion euros) to the British economy annually, according to the finance ministry, and its restart is viewed as economically vital. Streets have been cleaned, footpaths widened and hand-sanitising stations installed in London's West End commercial district ahead of Monday. But Jace Tyrrell, CEO of New West End Company, a partnership of 600 British and international operators in the area, predicted it will be "quite some time until we get back to normal". "Retailers are going to have to adapt," she told AFP. Britain has been among the worst-hit countries by the pandemic, with the number of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 deaths passing 50,000 last week, according to official statistics. The government's less comprehensive rolling daily death count of those who have tested positive for the virus stands at nearly 42,000. Despite the grim tolls, the transmission rate has dropped dramatically since the pandemic's peak in Britain in early April. But the lockdown that helped turn that tide shrank the economy by one-fifth that month, official data showed Friday, stoking fears of a painful recession. The OECD last week predicted the British economy was on course to shrink by more than 11 per cent in 2020 because of COVID-19. 'Margin for manoeuvre' Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has faced heavy criticism over his handling of the crisis, has set out a phased lifting of restrictions. Outdoor markets and car showrooms reopened at the start of the month, when some younger children also returned to schools. But his government drew ridicule last week after conceding it could not deliver on a plan to have all primary school children back for a month before the summer holidays. Johnson has delayed reopening pubs and restaurants, the next stage in easing, until July 4 at the earliest. Relaxing social distancing from the current two-metre requirement is seen as the only way for most of those businesses to operate viably, with proponents of easing the rule noting that other countries are adopting smaller distances. Johnson confirmed Sunday he will review the measure as he faces growing pressure to ease it. "You start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we'll be looking at that and we'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan," he said during a visit to a shopping centre in east London. But he added: "What I don't want to do is sacrifice the huge efforts of the British people in beating this disease."

English shops, attractions to reopen as virus lockdown eased

Brazil on Friday reached the grim milestone of becoming the second-highest coronavirus death toll in the world with 41,828 fatalities, surpassing Britain, AFP report said quoting the health ministry data.

Brazil on Friday reached the grim milestone of becoming the second-highest coronavirus death toll in the world with 41,828 fatalities, surpassing Britain, AFP report said quoting the health ministry data. The country recorded 909 deaths in the past 24 hours, the report added. There are 828,810 confirmed infections among a population of 212 million, the ministry said. Also read: COVID-19: Death toll in Brazil crosses 40,000; Peru reports deaths of 170 cops Experts say the true number of cases could be 10 or 15 times higher in Brazil, the largest country in Latin America. The United States has by far the highest death toll and caseload in the world. Three and a half months after Brazil's first virus case was detected, the outbreak is far from controlled, although some major cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have moved to reopen their economies. Sao Paulo state, with 46 million people, is by far the hardest-hit, with 10,368 deaths -- about a quarter of the country's total -- and 167,900 infections. Also read: Latin America reports 70,000 coronavirus deaths Rio de Janeiro has seen 7,417 deaths and nearly 78,000 cases. As of Friday, Britain had recorded 41,481 deaths from COVID-19. (With inputs from AFP)

With 41,828 fatalities Brazil coronavirus death toll now world's second-highest: Ministry

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