The government of the United Kingdom is likely to introduce a new 'game-changing' blood test which will be able to detect signs of the 12 most common&nbsp;cancers before patients develop any symptoms.

Health Secretary&nbsp;Wes Streeting, who is himself a cancer&nbsp;survivor, will introduce the government-funded 'universal' blood screening for treating the disease in five years.

<h2>All about the innovative blood test&nbsp;</h2>

The treatment is a type of PCR test which is used during the pandemic and it can increase survival chances and save many lives every year.

The development comes after a blood test was hailed by the doctors in June in which they can predict if there are chances of breast cancer relapsing before it appears on the scans.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-lifestyle-changes-that-may-help-in-lowering-the-chances-of-breast-cancer-764806">Lifestyle changes that may help in lowering the chances of breast cancer</a>

Speaking to The Mirror, Streeting said, "Just a couple of drops of blood could tell you if you had lung, breast or bladder cancer, helping end months-long waits for tests and scans. These innovations could be game changers."

This test will cost each patient £120 (approx. $157) and will check the 12 most common cancers which are lung, breast, prostate, pancreatic, colorectal, ovarian, liver, brain, oesophageal, bladder, bone and soft tissue sarcoma, and gastric.

The scheme has been provided £2.5 million ($3.28&nbsp;million) worth of funding by the UK government through the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

Watch:&nbsp;Kate Middleton Hugs Young Girl Battling Rare Cancer

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A startup company Xgenera has been set up by the scientists to help the scheme in rolling out, which they claimed has "potential to save millions of lives".&nbsp;

Every year, more than 320,000 people are diagnosed with prostate, breast, bowel and lung cancers.

According to experts, nearly 40,000 cancers had gone undiagnosed in the first year of the pandemic.

As of now, screening programmes are among the most effective ways of detecting early-stage cancers.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of the United Kingdom is likely to introduce a new 'game-changing' blood test which will be able to detect signs of the 12 most common cancers before patients develop any symptoms.

The government of the United Kingdom is likely to introduce a new 'game-changing' blood test which will be able to detect signs of the 12 most common cancers before patients develop any symptoms. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who is himself a cancer survivor, will introduce the government-funded 'universal' blood screening for treating the disease in five years. All about the innovative blood test The treatment is a type of PCR test which is used during the pandemic and it can increase survival chances and save many lives every year. The development comes after a blood test was hailed by the doctors in June in which they can predict if there are chances of breast cancer relapsing before it appears on the scans. Also Read: Lifestyle changes that may help in lowering the chances of breast cancer Speaking to The Mirror, Streeting said, "Just a couple of drops of blood could tell you if you had lung, breast or bladder cancer, helping end months-long waits for tests and scans. These innovations could be game changers." This test will cost each patient £120 (approx. $157) and will check the 12 most common cancers which are lung, breast, prostate, pancreatic, colorectal, ovarian, liver, brain, oesophageal, bladder, bone and soft tissue sarcoma, and gastric. The scheme has been provided £2.5 million ($3.28 million) worth of funding by the UK government through the National Institute for Health and Care Research. Watch: Kate Middleton Hugs Young Girl Battling Rare Cancer A startup company Xgenera has been set up by the scientists to help the scheme in rolling out, which they claimed has "potential to save millions of lives". Every year, more than 320,000 people are diagnosed with prostate, breast, bowel and lung cancers. According to experts, nearly 40,000 cancers had gone undiagnosed in the first year of the pandemic. As of now, screening programmes are among the most effective ways of detecting early-stage cancers. (With inputs from agencies)

A new 'game-changing' blood test will detect 12 types of cancers. Here's all about it

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom&nbsp;Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation.&nbsp;

The former prime minister had promised to “reveal what really happened during my time as [London] mayor, foreign secretary and PM” during the conversation next week.&nbsp;

Beth Rigby shared a post on X, saying "I was looking forward to interviewing Boris Johnson at Cheltenham but regrettably, I can’t go ahead with the event because I am not allowed [to] make an audio recording or transcript of the interview."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-cancels-former-british-pm-boris-johnsons-interview-over-pre-sent-notes-764173">Also read:&nbsp;BBC cancels former British PM Boris Johnson's interview over pre-sent notes</a>

“As a journalist in conversation with a former PM at a public event, I can only proceed if we do it on the record. I’m sorry to have to pull out," she added.&nbsp;

This comes days after the BBC cancelled Johnson's interview after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg mistakenly sent him her briefing notes.

Kuenssberg said she had sent Johnson the briefing notes “in a message meant for my team”, adding that the error was "embarrassing and disappointing" and meant it was "not right for the interview to go ahead".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Former UK PM Boris Johnson Claims Netanyahu Bugged His Bathroom

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“It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added.&nbsp;

The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, and the Partygate scandal.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation.

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation. The former prime minister had promised to “reveal what really happened during my time as [London] mayor, foreign secretary and PM” during the conversation next week. Beth Rigby shared a post on X, saying "I was looking forward to interviewing Boris Johnson at Cheltenham but regrettably, I can’t go ahead with the event because I am not allowed [to] make an audio recording or transcript of the interview." Also read: BBC cancels former British PM Boris Johnson's interview over pre-sent notes “As a journalist in conversation with a former PM at a public event, I can only proceed if we do it on the record. I’m sorry to have to pull out," she added. This comes days after the BBC cancelled Johnson's interview after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg mistakenly sent him her briefing notes. Kuenssberg said she had sent Johnson the briefing notes “in a message meant for my team”, adding that the error was "embarrassing and disappointing" and meant it was "not right for the interview to go ahead". Watch | Former UK PM Boris Johnson Claims Netanyahu Bugged His Bathroom × “It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added. The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Partygate scandal. Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week. (With inputs from agencies)

British broadcaster backs out of interview with former PM Boris Johnson over recording ban

Defence experts have voiced concerns about Britain's Armed Force's inability to defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. They have highlighted that RAF Typhoon jets lack the necessary weapons to intercept missiles and attacks like the one launched by Tehran on Tuesday (Oct 1). Despite recent upgrades, the UK has been relegated to a supporting role in response to Iranian aggression; they say.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:102,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1789}">Underfunding to blame?</h2>

Former defence secretary Sir Ben Wallace, according to the Telegraph, said that the Type-45 anti-missile destroyers would struggle. He also said that the Royal Navy's carrier strike groups do not have enough sailors to operate effectively in the war zone.

According to retired navy commander Tom Sharpe, "Our involvement [in the response to Iran] was underwhelming, and it's a reflection of 40 years of underfunding."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-issues-travel-advisory-regarding-iran-warns-nations-to-avoid-non-essential-travel-763815">India issues travel advisory regarding Iran; warns nationals to avoid 'non-essential' visit</a>

"Given what is going on in the Middle East and Russia, we need to expedite our ability to provide ballistic missile defence from our T45 destroyers."

The situation has underscored concerns about years of underfunding in the UK's military, which experts argue has diminished the country's global defence capabilities.

However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Wednesday maintained that the armed forces remain ready and capable of shooting down cruise missiles and drones, but experts warn that on Tuesday they struggled to shoot down more advanced ballistic missiles.

Iran has built a significant stockpile of ballistic missiles, and its recent attacks on Israel have demonstrated the complexity of defending against these advanced weapons. While the US deployed advanced interceptors from its Navy to protect Israel, the UK was limited to monitoring and support roles during the latest Iranian missile barrage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:500,&quot;w&quot;:601,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2187}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-planning-to-target-irans-oil-facilities-resort-to-targeted-assassinations-report-763835">Israel planning to target Iran's oil facilities, resort to targeted assassinations: Report</a>

This has led to calls from former defence secretary Sir Ben Wallace and other experts for faster upgrades to the UK's missile defence systems and better equipping of its fighter jets, such as the F-35, which remains under-equipped due to delays in the US.&nbsp;

"Britain could have the capability to have a Type 45 permanently guarding our shores equipped with the upgraded Aster 30," said Sir Ben.

"We should with immediate effect seek to accelerate the already planned upgrade of their missile systems in light of what we are seeing in the Middle East," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Defence experts have voiced concerns about Britain's Armed Force's inability to defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. They have highlighted that RAF Typhoon jets lack the necessary weapons to intercept missiles and attacks like the one launched by Tehran on Tuesday (Oct 1).

Defence experts have voiced concerns about Britain's Armed Force's inability to defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. They have highlighted that RAF Typhoon jets lack the necessary weapons to intercept missiles and attacks like the one launched by Tehran on Tuesday (Oct 1). Despite recent upgrades, the UK has been relegated to a supporting role in response to Iranian aggression; they say. Underfunding to blame? Former defence secretary Sir Ben Wallace, according to the Telegraph, said that the Type-45 anti-missile destroyers would struggle. He also said that the Royal Navy's carrier strike groups do not have enough sailors to operate effectively in the war zone. According to retired navy commander Tom Sharpe, "Our involvement [in the response to Iran] was underwhelming, and it's a reflection of 40 years of underfunding." Also read | India issues travel advisory regarding Iran; warns nationals to avoid 'non-essential' visit "Given what is going on in the Middle East and Russia, we need to expedite our ability to provide ballistic missile defence from our T45 destroyers." The situation has underscored concerns about years of underfunding in the UK's military, which experts argue has diminished the country's global defence capabilities. However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Wednesday maintained that the armed forces remain ready and capable of shooting down cruise missiles and drones, but experts warn that on Tuesday they struggled to shoot down more advanced ballistic missiles. Iran has built a significant stockpile of ballistic missiles, and its recent attacks on Israel have demonstrated the complexity of defending against these advanced weapons. While the US deployed advanced interceptors from its Navy to protect Israel, the UK was limited to monitoring and support roles during the latest Iranian missile barrage. Also read | Israel planning to target Iran's oil facilities, resort to targeted assassinations: Report This has led to calls from former defence secretary Sir Ben Wallace and other experts for faster upgrades to the UK's missile defence systems and better equipping of its fighter jets, such as the F-35, which remains under-equipped due to delays in the US. "Britain could have the capability to have a Type 45 permanently guarding our shores equipped with the upgraded Aster 30," said Sir Ben. "We should with immediate effect seek to accelerate the already planned upgrade of their missile systems in light of what we are seeing in the Middle East," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Defence experts warn UK unable to defend Israel from Iranian missile threats

An alien-like fungus - called 'Devil's Fingers' - has made a rare appearance in the New Forest, United Kingdom.

The fungus smells "like rotting flesh" and has a ghoulish&nbsp;hand-like appearance which appears to be coming straight out of the grave.

It was discovered by a retired teacher Julia Rosser, as reported by The Daily Mail. The 67-year-old said, "This one looked more like a hand than any I have ever seen before. It looked like it was reaching out from beyond the grave. It looked very creepy."

This fungus is generally found in late October but it has made appearance early because of the wet weather.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deadly-fungal-infections-spread-like-silent-pandemic-can-kill-40mn-people-in-just-25-years-study-760914">Deadly fungal infections spreading like 'silent pandemic', can kill 40mn people in just 25 years: Study</a>

"I found Devil's Fingers in roughly the same area last year so I was on the lookout for them. They burst out of the ground with these red tentacles or fingers," said Rosser.

This strange-looking fungus also has other names like "octopus stinkhorn" or "octopus fungus".

<h2>All about Devil's Fingers</h2>

The fungus is native to New Zealand and Australia and is believed to have been carried to France as part of the military supplies during the First World War.

"The species is from the southern hemisphere and was first discovered in Britain in 1914," explained Wildlife Trusts.

According to experts, the fungus gets hatched from an "egg" which is slimy and gelatinous in nature and its tentacle-like arms start protruding as it grows.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-wants-to-grow-fungus-and-algae-houses-on-moon-for-astronauts-763462">NASA wants to 'grow' fungus and algae houses on Moon for astronauts</a>

It is easy to spot because of its bright red colour, however, it is very rare in the United Kingdom.

"About 5cm high, tentacles can be up to 7cm long. Usually, there are at least 3 or 4 tentacles. Often found amongst leaf litter under trees or in parks and gardens," stated Wildlife Trusts.&nbsp;

"This fungus smells like rotting flesh which attracts insects to arms where the spores are found. The spores are then spread by the visiting insects," they added.

(With inputs from agencies)

An alien-like fungus - called 'Devil's Fingers' - has made a rare appearance in the New Forest, United Kingdom. The fungus smells "like rotting flesh" and has a ghoulish hand-like appearance which appears to be coming straight out of the grave.

An alien-like fungus - called 'Devil's Fingers' - has made a rare appearance in the New Forest, United Kingdom. The fungus smells "like rotting flesh" and has a ghoulish hand-like appearance which appears to be coming straight out of the grave. It was discovered by a retired teacher Julia Rosser, as reported by The Daily Mail. The 67-year-old said, "This one looked more like a hand than any I have ever seen before. It looked like it was reaching out from beyond the grave. It looked very creepy." This fungus is generally found in late October but it has made appearance early because of the wet weather. Also Read: Deadly fungal infections spreading like 'silent pandemic', can kill 40mn people in just 25 years: Study "I found Devil's Fingers in roughly the same area last year so I was on the lookout for them. They burst out of the ground with these red tentacles or fingers," said Rosser. This strange-looking fungus also has other names like "octopus stinkhorn" or "octopus fungus". All about Devil's Fingers The fungus is native to New Zealand and Australia and is believed to have been carried to France as part of the military supplies during the First World War. "The species is from the southern hemisphere and was first discovered in Britain in 1914," explained Wildlife Trusts. According to experts, the fungus gets hatched from an "egg" which is slimy and gelatinous in nature and its tentacle-like arms start protruding as it grows. Also Read: NASA wants to 'grow' fungus and algae houses on Moon for astronauts It is easy to spot because of its bright red colour, however, it is very rare in the United Kingdom. "About 5cm high, tentacles can be up to 7cm long. Usually, there are at least 3 or 4 tentacles. Often found amongst leaf litter under trees or in parks and gardens," stated Wildlife Trusts. "This fungus smells like rotting flesh which attracts insects to arms where the spores are found. The spores are then spread by the visiting insects," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien-like fungus 'Devil's Fingers' with smell of rotten flesh makes rare appearance in UK

On July 5, Rishi Sunak resigned as leader of the Conservative Party after the Tory’s 14-year rule ended with a landslide victory for the Labour Party in the 2024 UK elections. Sunak was unseated from his role as Prime Minister by Labour's Keir Starmer. The process to select Sunak's successor and the next Conservative Party leader began soon after and has recently gained momentum. Following much competition, six former ministers entered the race to take over the Tory leadership. However, after two rounds of voting by party lawmakers, Priti Patel and Mel Stride have been eliminated from the contest.

UK: Who Will Succeed Rishi Sunak As Leader Of The UK's Conservative Party?

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner asserts that she has not violated parliamentary rules regarding her stay in a New York flat owned by a Labour donor. Her comments come amidst scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest, as she defends her actions and seeks to clarify the situation.

UK Deputy PM Angela Rayner Defends Stay At Donor's New York Flat: 'All MPs Accept Gifts'

#Gravitas | Russia on Friday revoked accreditation of six British diplomats in Moscow accusing them of spying and carrying out sabotage, all in aid of Ukraine. This announcement came just hours before U.S. President Joe Biden and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer were scheduled to meet in Washington D.C. to decide on the next steps for supporting Ukraine in the ongoing war against Russia.

Russia accuses British diplomats of spying

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.”

Findings by the cancer surgeon and former minister Ara Darzi revealed that the NHS was in ‘critical condition’ owing to years of neglect and falling productivity.

After collecting evidence from 227 organisations, the report found that the “awful state” of NHS was likely causing more deaths in UK annually, estimated at 14,000, than going to wars.

<h2>Sorry state of NHS</h2>

To put things into perspective, the report revealed that patients turning up at A&amp;E (accident and emergency) could now see 100 people lined up ahead of them. Just 15 years ago, the number was 39.

In 2010, 94 per cent of patients at A&amp;E would be taken care of within four hours. Now, 10 per cent of them may have to wait for more than 12 hours. Also, just 60 per cent of the patients are now seen within four hours.

<h2>PM vows action</h2>

UK PM Starmer said he will not shy away from taking “controversial” action to fix the NHS and public health in England.

He also said that the NHS had to “reform or die” and it would take 10 years to implement the changes needed. “We need to have the courage to deliver long-term reform – major surgery not sticking plasters. We’ve got to face up to the challenges – ageing society, a higher burden of disease,” he said.

“I know some prevention measures will be controversial, but I’m prepared to be bold, even in the face of loud opposition. So no, some of our changes won’t be universally popular, we know that, but I will do the right thing for our NHS, our economy and our children,” the PM said.

Starmer said his administration is committed to build 40 new hospitals, a promise that was initially offered by Boris Johnson in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.

An investigation into UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has revealed that the country’s healthcare system is surviving on ventilator support, with PM Keir Starmer now vowing to perform “major surgery.” Findings by the cancer surgeon and former minister Ara Darzi revealed that the NHS was in ‘critical condition’ owing to years of neglect and falling productivity. After collecting evidence from 227 organisations, the report found that the “awful state” of NHS was likely causing more deaths in UK annually, estimated at 14,000, than going to wars. Sorry state of NHS To put things into perspective, the report revealed that patients turning up at A&E (accident and emergency) could now see 100 people lined up ahead of them. Just 15 years ago, the number was 39. In 2010, 94 per cent of patients at A&E would be taken care of within four hours. Now, 10 per cent of them may have to wait for more than 12 hours. Also, just 60 per cent of the patients are now seen within four hours. PM vows action UK PM Starmer said he will not shy away from taking “controversial” action to fix the NHS and public health in England. He also said that the NHS had to “reform or die” and it would take 10 years to implement the changes needed. “We need to have the courage to deliver long-term reform – major surgery not sticking plasters. We’ve got to face up to the challenges – ageing society, a higher burden of disease,” he said. “I know some prevention measures will be controversial, but I’m prepared to be bold, even in the face of loud opposition. So no, some of our changes won’t be universally popular, we know that, but I will do the right thing for our NHS, our economy and our children,” the PM said. Starmer said his administration is committed to build 40 new hospitals, a promise that was initially offered by Boris Johnson in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Starmer vows ‘surgery’ as UK NHS found to be surviving on ventilator support

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer began the first visit by a British leader to Ireland in five years, aiming to "reset" the relationship with the island nation and the broader European Union (EU). &nbsp;

Starmer held talks with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, less than two months after hosting the Irish PM at his Chequers country residence following the Labour Party’s win in&nbsp;UK’s general election.&nbsp;

The two leaders in a joint article for The Irish Times emphasised that they were moving "from friction back to friendship".

"It is the moment for reset. It’s when we put meaning behind those words," Starmer told Harris at the Farmleigh Estate. The estate is the former residence of the Guinness family on the outskirts of Dublin.

Britain's decision to leave the EU after its 2016 Brexit referendum, strained Anglo-Irish relations significantly. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-offers-state-apology-for-grenfell-tower-tragedy-that-killed-72-755874">Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Keir Starmer offers state apology for Grenfell Tower tragedy that killed 72</a>

Downing Street described Starmer's visit to Ireland as a "historic moment for UK-Ireland relations", and signalled further warming in bilateral ties that had frayed under Britain's&nbsp;previous Conservative Party-led&nbsp;government.&nbsp;

The UK PM emphasised that he wants better ties with EU states, and further hopes to improve diplomatic and trade relations without revisiting the fundamental basis of Britain's departure from the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

Starmer's Irish counterpart welcomed him to Dublin and&nbsp;the two leaders were seen shaking hands and posing for photographs before heading for talks.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Keir Starmer asks for European cooperation to tackle far-right

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"Today we're in Dublin to flesh out what a reset actually looks like... in a practical sense for our citizens on both islands," Harris said at the beginning of the talks.

He added, "And I certainly know that it has to be embedded in things like peace, prosperity, mutual respect, and friendship."

Meanwhile, Starmer said that the reset in the relationship between the two countries was "really important to me and my government".&nbsp;

"(It) can be meaningful. It can be deep," he said.

"This moment represents a fundamental shift in our bilateral relationship. With the Brexit debates behind us, we’re moving from friction back to friendship," Harris and Starmer said in a joint article for The Irish Times.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer began the first visit by a British leader to Ireland in five years, aiming to "reset" the relationship with the island nation and the broader European Union (EU).

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer began the first visit by a British leader to Ireland in five years, aiming to "reset" the relationship with the island nation and the broader European Union (EU). Starmer held talks with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, less than two months after hosting the Irish PM at his Chequers country residence following the Labour Party’s win in UK’s general election. The two leaders in a joint article for The Irish Times emphasised that they were moving "from friction back to friendship". "It is the moment for reset. It’s when we put meaning behind those words," Starmer told Harris at the Farmleigh Estate. The estate is the former residence of the Guinness family on the outskirts of Dublin. Britain's decision to leave the EU after its 2016 Brexit referendum, strained Anglo-Irish relations significantly. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer offers state apology for Grenfell Tower tragedy that killed 72 Downing Street described Starmer's visit to Ireland as a "historic moment for UK-Ireland relations", and signalled further warming in bilateral ties that had frayed under Britain's previous Conservative Party-led government. The UK PM emphasised that he wants better ties with EU states, and further hopes to improve diplomatic and trade relations without revisiting the fundamental basis of Britain's departure from the 27-nation bloc. Starmer's Irish counterpart welcomed him to Dublin and the two leaders were seen shaking hands and posing for photographs before heading for talks. Watch | Keir Starmer asks for European cooperation to tackle far-right × "Today we're in Dublin to flesh out what a reset actually looks like... in a practical sense for our citizens on both islands," Harris said at the beginning of the talks. He added, "And I certainly know that it has to be embedded in things like peace, prosperity, mutual respect, and friendship." Meanwhile, Starmer said that the reset in the relationship between the two countries was "really important to me and my government". "(It) can be meaningful. It can be deep," he said. "This moment represents a fundamental shift in our bilateral relationship. With the Brexit debates behind us, we’re moving from friction back to friendship," Harris and Starmer said in a joint article for The Irish Times. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Starmer visits Dublin, aims to 'reset' ties with Ireland

Former UK interior minister Priti Patel was eliminated from the Conservative leadership contest on Wednesday after registering the fewest votes of the six candidates vying to succeed ex-premier Rishi Sunak.

Sunak announced his resignation as Tory leader after the party suffered a historic election defeat to Keir Starmer's Labour party in July, ending 14 years of Conservative rule.

The leadership race is seen as crucial in determining the future direction of the party: does it tack further to the right to pick up anti-immigrant voters or seek to regain the centre ground?

Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick won the first round, picking up 28 votes of fellow Tory MPs. The bookmakers' favourite and right-winger Kemi Badenoch was second on 22.

Shadow ministers James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat and Mel Stride made it through to the next week's second round of voting but Patel dropped out after securing only 14 votes.

MPs will whittle the candidates down to a final two before party members choose which of them will become the next leader, the result of which is due on November 2.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Former UK interior minister Priti Patel was eliminated from the Conservative leadership contest on Wednesday after registering the fewest votes of the six candidates vying to succeed ex-premier Rishi Sunak.

Former UK interior minister Priti Patel was eliminated from the Conservative leadership contest on Wednesday after registering the fewest votes of the six candidates vying to succeed ex-premier Rishi Sunak. Sunak announced his resignation as Tory leader after the party suffered a historic election defeat to Keir Starmer's Labour party in July, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. The leadership race is seen as crucial in determining the future direction of the party: does it tack further to the right to pick up anti-immigrant voters or seek to regain the centre ground? Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick won the first round, picking up 28 votes of fellow Tory MPs. The bookmakers' favourite and right-winger Kemi Badenoch was second on 22. Shadow ministers James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat and Mel Stride made it through to the next week's second round of voting but Patel dropped out after securing only 14 votes. MPs will whittle the candidates down to a final two before party members choose which of them will become the next leader, the result of which is due on November 2. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ex-interior minister Priti Patel eliminated from UK Conservative leadership race

The people in Britain were, on Saturday&nbsp;(August 24), asked to stay inside amid a health alert as corrosive and acidic gas clouds engulfed the skies of the United Kingdom early in the morning.

In the country's weather maps, a huge cloud of sulphur dioxide (SO2) was seen covering the skies at 4 am local time after getting released in recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland.

SO2 is produced from crude oil or coal combustion, but volcanoes also produce it in huge quantities when they erupt.&nbsp;

People who inhale this gas can suffer from symptoms like a sore throat, coughing, a runny nose, burning eyes, tight lungs, and difficult&nbsp;breathing.

Some people can also suffer from asthma and chronic bronchitis due to&nbsp;direct exposure to SO2.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-deploys-1500-firefighters-to-tackle-amazon-wildfires-amidst-severe-drought-752469">Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought</a>

This gas, which was emitted from coal, led to the famous London&nbsp;smog in 1952, when thousands of respiratory-related deaths were recorded.

SO2, when combined with water vapour present in the earth's atmosphere, leads to the formation of acid rain.

Young children and elderly people, who are especially vulnerable to SO2 inhalation, were advised to avoid exposure to the gas and stay inside.

<h2>People in Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon evacuated after volcanic eruption</h2>

The dangerous smog travelled from Iceland to London after it was released in a volcanic eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula near Grindavik on Thursday (Aug 22).

The eruption was expected to take place because of the ongoing seismic activity in the area as well as the pressure changes in boreholes.

According to the reports, rescue teams were called up in Reykjanes and Olfus and thousands of residents in Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon were evacuated.

Watch:&nbsp;EU sends planes to battle fire in Madeira

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The residents were asked by local authorities to stay at a distance from the area to ensure their own safety.

The lava samples and seismic data recorded in the last three years amid eruptions were analysed by an international team of scientists.

It was found that the peninsula is present on an interconnected magma plumbing system which can keep volcanoes fed with molten rock.

Professor of petrology at Uppsala University and lead author Valentin Troll said, "A comparison of these eruptions with historical events provides strong evidence that Iceland will have to prepare and be ready for this volcanic episode to continue for some time, possibly even years&nbsp;to decades."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The people in Britain were, on Saturday (August 24), asked to stay inside amid a health alert as corrosive and acidic gas clouds engulfed the skies of the United Kingdom early in the morning.

The people in Britain were, on Saturday (August 24), asked to stay inside amid a health alert as corrosive and acidic gas clouds engulfed the skies of the United Kingdom early in the morning. In the country's weather maps, a huge cloud of sulphur dioxide (SO2) was seen covering the skies at 4 am local time after getting released in recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland. SO2 is produced from crude oil or coal combustion, but volcanoes also produce it in huge quantities when they erupt. People who inhale this gas can suffer from symptoms like a sore throat, coughing, a runny nose, burning eyes, tight lungs, and difficult breathing. Some people can also suffer from asthma and chronic bronchitis due to direct exposure to SO2. Also Read: Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought This gas, which was emitted from coal, led to the famous London smog in 1952, when thousands of respiratory-related deaths were recorded. SO2, when combined with water vapour present in the earth's atmosphere, leads to the formation of acid rain. Young children and elderly people, who are especially vulnerable to SO2 inhalation, were advised to avoid exposure to the gas and stay inside. People in Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon evacuated after volcanic eruption The dangerous smog travelled from Iceland to London after it was released in a volcanic eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula near Grindavik on Thursday (Aug 22). The eruption was expected to take place because of the ongoing seismic activity in the area as well as the pressure changes in boreholes. According to the reports, rescue teams were called up in Reykjanes and Olfus and thousands of residents in Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon were evacuated. Watch: EU sends planes to battle fire in Madeira The residents were asked by local authorities to stay at a distance from the area to ensure their own safety. The lava samples and seismic data recorded in the last three years amid eruptions were analysed by an international team of scientists. It was found that the peninsula is present on an interconnected magma plumbing system which can keep volcanoes fed with molten rock. Professor of petrology at Uppsala University and lead author Valentin Troll said, "A comparison of these eruptions with historical events provides strong evidence that Iceland will have to prepare and be ready for this volcanic episode to continue for some time, possibly even years to decades." (With inputs from agencies)

Britain on health alert, asks people to stay inside as corrosive gas fills skies in UK

The toxic sulphur dioxide gas which had covered the skies of the United Kingdom on Saturday morning (Aug&nbsp;24) will soon make a comeback and cover some parts of the country on Tuesday (Aug&nbsp;27) and Wednesday (Aug&nbsp;28), according to a report published by The Daily Mail.

On Saturday (Aug&nbsp;24), the poisonous gas filled the skies of the country after it was released during a volcanic eruption in Iceland on Thursday (Aug&nbsp;22).

Later, some parts of the toxic cloud floated across parts of Europe while some were reported hovering above the Scottish Highlands early morning on Monday (Aug&nbsp;26).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/britain-on-health-alert-people-asked-to-stay-inside-as-corrosive-gas-fills-skies-in-uk-753149">Britain on health alert, asks people to stay inside as corrosive gas fills skies in UK</a>

The experts have now predicted that another layer of this toxic gas will come back into the United Kingdom and cover the skies of the Midlands and the south on Tuesday (Aug&nbsp;27) and Wednesday (Aug&nbsp;28).

<h2>When will toxic gas again fill the skies of the UK?</h2>

The second cloud of sulphur dioxide (SO2) will approach the country at around 6 am (local time) on Tuesday and will spread across the lower and middle parts of the country. It is expected to get cleared by around 7 pm (local time) on Wednesday, according to the data gathered by Czech weather portal Windy.

SO2 is produced from crude oil or coal combustion, but volcanoes also produce it in huge quantities when they erupt.&nbsp;

People who inhale this gas can suffer from symptoms like a sore throat, coughing, a runny nose, burning eyes, tight lungs, and can face difficulty in&nbsp;breathing.

Some people can also suffer from asthma and chronic bronchitis due to&nbsp;direct exposure to SO2.

Watch:&nbsp;UK riots: UK heading towards civil war?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-riots-uk-heading-towards-civil-war-747482/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This gas, which was emitted from coal, led to the famous London&nbsp;smog in 1952 when thousands of respiratory-related deaths were recorded.

SO2, when combined with water vapour present in the earth's atmosphere, leads to the formation of acid rain.

Young children and elderly people, who are especially vulnerable to SO2 inhalation, were advised to avoid exposure to the gas and stay inside.

The&nbsp;Met Office had stated that it was "monitoring" the gas cloud&nbsp;and assured that it would have "little influence on ground-level air quality".

(With inputs from agencies)

The toxic sulphur dioxide gas which had covered the skies of the United Kingdom on Saturday morning (Aug 24) will soon make a comeback and cover some parts of the country on Tuesday (Aug 27) and Wednesday (Aug 28), according to a report published by The Daily Mail.

The toxic sulphur dioxide gas which had covered the skies of the United Kingdom on Saturday morning (Aug 24) will soon make a comeback and cover some parts of the country on Tuesday (Aug 27) and Wednesday (Aug 28), according to a report published by The Daily Mail. On Saturday (Aug 24), the poisonous gas filled the skies of the country after it was released during a volcanic eruption in Iceland on Thursday (Aug 22). Later, some parts of the toxic cloud floated across parts of Europe while some were reported hovering above the Scottish Highlands early morning on Monday (Aug 26). Also Read: Britain on health alert, asks people to stay inside as corrosive gas fills skies in UK The experts have now predicted that another layer of this toxic gas will come back into the United Kingdom and cover the skies of the Midlands and the south on Tuesday (Aug 27) and Wednesday (Aug 28). When will toxic gas again fill the skies of the UK? The second cloud of sulphur dioxide (SO2) will approach the country at around 6 am (local time) on Tuesday and will spread across the lower and middle parts of the country. It is expected to get cleared by around 7 pm (local time) on Wednesday, according to the data gathered by Czech weather portal Windy. SO2 is produced from crude oil or coal combustion, but volcanoes also produce it in huge quantities when they erupt. People who inhale this gas can suffer from symptoms like a sore throat, coughing, a runny nose, burning eyes, tight lungs, and can face difficulty in breathing. Some people can also suffer from asthma and chronic bronchitis due to direct exposure to SO2. Watch: UK riots: UK heading towards civil war? This gas, which was emitted from coal, led to the famous London smog in 1952 when thousands of respiratory-related deaths were recorded. SO2, when combined with water vapour present in the earth's atmosphere, leads to the formation of acid rain. Young children and elderly people, who are especially vulnerable to SO2 inhalation, were advised to avoid exposure to the gas and stay inside. The Met Office had stated that it was "monitoring" the gas cloud and assured that it would have "little influence on ground-level air quality". (With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom to soon get covered by toxic gas clouds again amid volcanic eruptions: Report

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by&nbsp;The Telegraph.

The report highlights that some people have already received payments for serious conditions like strokes, heart attacks, dangerous blood clots, inflammation of the spinal cord, severe swelling in the vaccinated arm, and even facial paralysis.

AstraZeneca is said to be behind 97 per cent&nbsp;of all the approved claims, with only a few related to Pfizer or Moderna.

The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS), initiated in 1979, has received a total of 16,000 applications over the years, and the majority of recent claims are related to COVID-19 vaccines. Many have been denied payments because they weren’t considered “disabled enough.”

Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine attacks Russia's key supply routes

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For those who are successful, there’s a one-time payment of £120,000 ($155,321). However, the government has only approved payments in 175 cases so far, which is less than two per cent&nbsp;of the total applications, according to The Telegraph.

Over 5,500 claims have been reportedly rejected, and another 519 were dismissed before even reaching a medical assessment. Out of nearly 1,000 people who asked for their cases to be reconsidered, only 12 have had their decisions reversed and received a payment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-x-to-end-operations-in-brazil-effective-immediately-following-spat-with-judge-751000">Elon Musk's X to end operations in Brazil 'effective immediately' following spat with judge</a>

Around 350 claims were denied because, while the vaccine was recognised as harmful, it was determined that the harm didn’t cause “severe disablement.” To qualify, applicants need to be at least 60 per cent disabled. More than 700 people have been waiting over a year for a decision.

Despite warnings and increasing reports of blood clots, the UK government continued to recommend the AstraZeneca vaccine, even as other countries like Germany, Italy, France, and Spain stopped using it by March 2021.

Last year, AstraZeneca admitted that its vaccine could cause VITT in some cases, and in May, it started pulling the vaccine worldwide, saying that newer vaccines were better at targeting COVID-19&nbsp;variants.

However, AstraZeneca was given legal protection early in the pandemic, so even if someone won a civil case, it would be UK taxpayers who foot the bill for compensation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by The Telegraph.

Around 14,000 people in the United Kingdom have applied for government compensation, claiming they were harmed by COVID-19 vaccines, according to a recent report by The Telegraph. The report highlights that some people have already received payments for serious conditions like strokes, heart attacks, dangerous blood clots, inflammation of the spinal cord, severe swelling in the vaccinated arm, and even facial paralysis. AstraZeneca is said to be behind 97 per cent of all the approved claims, with only a few related to Pfizer or Moderna. The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS), initiated in 1979, has received a total of 16,000 applications over the years, and the majority of recent claims are related to COVID-19 vaccines. Many have been denied payments because they weren’t considered “disabled enough.” Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine attacks Russia's key supply routes × For those who are successful, there’s a one-time payment of £120,000 ($155,321). However, the government has only approved payments in 175 cases so far, which is less than two per cent of the total applications, according to The Telegraph. Over 5,500 claims have been reportedly rejected, and another 519 were dismissed before even reaching a medical assessment. Out of nearly 1,000 people who asked for their cases to be reconsidered, only 12 have had their decisions reversed and received a payment. Also read: Elon Musk's X to end operations in Brazil 'effective immediately' following spat with judge Around 350 claims were denied because, while the vaccine was recognised as harmful, it was determined that the harm didn’t cause “severe disablement.” To qualify, applicants need to be at least 60 per cent disabled. More than 700 people have been waiting over a year for a decision. Despite warnings and increasing reports of blood clots, the UK government continued to recommend the AstraZeneca vaccine, even as other countries like Germany, Italy, France, and Spain stopped using it by March 2021. Last year, AstraZeneca admitted that its vaccine could cause VITT in some cases, and in May, it started pulling the vaccine worldwide, saying that newer vaccines were better at targeting COVID-19 variants. However, AstraZeneca was given legal protection early in the pandemic, so even if someone won a civil case, it would be UK taxpayers who foot the bill for compensation. (With inputs from agencies)

UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation

As many as eight people were arrested On Friday (Aug 2) after a police station was torched in Sunderland while a far-right mob surrounded a local mosque and chanted Islamophobic slogans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The violence following the killing of three children in Stockport earlier this week spilled to the northern English city with anti-immigrant demonstrators creating unrest.&nbsp;

Emergency services had to be rushed to the old Sunderland Central Police Office where flames engulfed parts of the building. Three police officers had to be taken to hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

Sunderland&nbsp;MP Bridget Phillipson condemned the unrest in the city as “unforgivable violence and thuggery”.

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Protests outside the mosque in Sunderland now. <a href="https://t.co/p0Zfe60pJj">pic.twitter.com/p0Zfe60pJj</a>
— Ghosterbuzz (@ghosterbuzz1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ghosterbuzz1/status/1819443155667677265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Second police station destroyed in Sunderland as the people revolt. 
 
You should've listened <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Keir_Starmer</a> <a href="https://t.co/XK6URXjM6P">pic.twitter.com/XK6URXjM6P</a>
— Tommy Robinson 🇬🇧 (@TRobinsonNewEra) <a href="https://twitter.com/TRobinsonNewEra/status/1819472851797148087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"The safety of the public is our utmost priority and when we became aware that a protest had been planned, we ensured there was an increased policing presence in the city,"&nbsp;Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron said in a statement.&nbsp;

After the events of Monday and Friday, the mosques across the country are on a heightened state of alert, according to the Muslim Council of Britain.&nbsp; 
 
Watch |&nbsp;UK stabbing: Violent clashes erupt outside Southport

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&nbsp;

<h2>Stockport stabbing&nbsp;</h2>

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of the girls in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in the northwestern seaside town of Southport, a crime that has shocked the nation.

The accused, identified as&nbsp;Axel Rudakubana has been&nbsp;charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and one of possession of a bladed article.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjn6JyOtdWHAxVNUGwGHapbBgAQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw22Be798d_yKL4jZPCZws4O&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017" target="_blank">Riots erupt in&nbsp;Southport&nbsp;over death of 3 kids in mass stabbing</a>

The three kids killed have been identified as&nbsp;Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine.&nbsp;

Police informed that the attack was not related to terrorism and confirmed that the suspect, born in Britain, is not connected to any particular origins or external factors. At the time, social media was rife with false reports that the stabber was a Muslim illegal immigrant leading to riots.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, Prime Minister Keir Starmer&nbsp;warned social media companies that they must uphold laws that prohibit the incitement of violence online.&nbsp;

"Let me also say to large social media companies, and those who run them, violent disorder clearly whipped up online: that is also a crime. It's happening on your premises, and the law must be upheld everywhere," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as eight people were arrested On Friday (Aug 2) after a police station was torched in Sunderland while a far-right mob surrounded a local mosque and chanted Islamophobic slogans.

As many as eight people were arrested On Friday (Aug 2) after a police station was torched in Sunderland while a far-right mob surrounded a local mosque and chanted Islamophobic slogans. The violence following the killing of three children in Stockport earlier this week spilled to the northern English city with anti-immigrant demonstrators creating unrest. Emergency services had to be rushed to the old Sunderland Central Police Office where flames engulfed parts of the building. Three police officers had to be taken to hospital for treatment. Sunderland MP Bridget Phillipson condemned the unrest in the city as “unforgivable violence and thuggery”. Protests outside the mosque in Sunderland now. pic.twitter.com/p0Zfe60pJj — Ghosterbuzz (@ghosterbuzz1) August 2, 2024 × Second police station destroyed in Sunderland as the people revolt. You should've listened @Keir_Starmer pic.twitter.com/XK6URXjM6P — Tommy Robinson 🇬🇧 (@TRobinsonNewEra) August 2, 2024 × "The safety of the public is our utmost priority and when we became aware that a protest had been planned, we ensured there was an increased policing presence in the city," Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron said in a statement. After the events of Monday and Friday, the mosques across the country are on a heightened state of alert, according to the Muslim Council of Britain. Watch | UK stabbing: Violent clashes erupt outside Southport × Stockport stabbing A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of the girls in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in the northwestern seaside town of Southport, a crime that has shocked the nation. The accused, identified as Axel Rudakubana has been charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and one of possession of a bladed article. Also read: Riots erupt in Southport over death of 3 kids in mass stabbing The three kids killed have been identified as Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine. Police informed that the attack was not related to terrorism and confirmed that the suspect, born in Britain, is not connected to any particular origins or external factors. At the time, social media was rife with false reports that the stabber was a Muslim illegal immigrant leading to riots. In the aftermath, Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned social media companies that they must uphold laws that prohibit the incitement of violence online. "Let me also say to large social media companies, and those who run them, violent disorder clearly whipped up online: that is also a crime. It's happening on your premises, and the law must be upheld everywhere," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunderland riots: Police station torched, mosque surrounded by far-right mob - VIDEO

A 54-year-old Indian-origin woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for stealing from over 1,000 shops across the UK and returning the stolen goods for over $641,507 (₹53.7 million or £500,000).

She was identified as Narinder Kaur alias Nina Tiara, a prolific shoplifter from Cleverton, Wiltshire.

The woman was found guilty in March 2023 of 25 offences, including fraud, possessing and transferring criminal property, and perverting the course of justice.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:148,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2038}">A thoroughly dishonest individual</h2>

Narinder Kaur would carry out the theft and fraudulent returns all across the UK. As per the BBC, she targeted stores in&nbsp;Solihull, Worcester, Cheltenham, Malvern, Shrewsbury, Cardiff, Trowbridge, Reading, Yeovil, and more.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:241,&quot;w&quot;:460,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2131}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-dares-donald-trump-to-debate-say-it-to-my-face-745852">Kamala Harris dares Donald Trump to debate: 'Say it to my face!'</a>

Between July 2015 and February 2019, Kaur deceived major retailers like Boots, Debenhams, Homebase, John Lewis, House of Fraser, Monsoon, M&amp;S, and TK Maxx, and carried out over a thousand fraudulent transactions.

Judge Ian Lawrie KC, at Gloucester Crown Court, described Kaur as a "thoroughly dishonest individual" while sentencing her in her absence.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:375,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2265}">How did she manage to get away with fraud for such a long time?</h2>

Prosecutors during her trial revealed that Kaur had devised a method to exploit high street stores by claiming refunds for items she had stolen. She would return an item, claim to have lost the receipt, and simultaneously purchase a low-value item to obtain a receipt for both, thus securing fraudulent refunds.

In addition to defrauding retailers, Kaur scammed eight firms of solicitors by instructing them to sue her brother and using stolen credit cards to pay compensation, which was then forwarded to her.&nbsp;

She also attempted to defraud the Wiltshire Council of $9,493 (£7,400) by overpaying with stolen credit cards and then requesting a refund, claiming a payment error.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:583,&quot;w&quot;:798,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2473}" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/woman-goes-missing-as-her-plan-to-die-in-suicide-pod-lands-in-trouble-is-she-dead-or-alive-remains-mystery-745818">Woman goes missing as her plan to die in 'suicide pod' lands in trouble. Is she dead or alive remains mystery</a>

Kaur's criminal activities were meticulously planned and executed. She would hire cars to avoid detection and even resorted to creating fake identities to open new bank accounts after her accounts were closed due to suspicions.&nbsp;

West Mercia Police fraud investigator Steve Tristram described the case as the most "planned" and "sophisticated" operation he had ever encountered.

"This lady was operating on an industrial scale. This was a full-time job for her, six days a week - eight or nine hours a day," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 54-year-old Indian-origin woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for stealing from over 1,000 shops across the UK and returning the stolen goods for over $641,507 (₹53.

A 54-year-old Indian-origin woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for stealing from over 1,000 shops across the UK and returning the stolen goods for over $641,507 (₹53.7 million or £500,000). She was identified as Narinder Kaur alias Nina Tiara, a prolific shoplifter from Cleverton, Wiltshire. The woman was found guilty in March 2023 of 25 offences, including fraud, possessing and transferring criminal property, and perverting the course of justice. A thoroughly dishonest individual Narinder Kaur would carry out the theft and fraudulent returns all across the UK. As per the BBC, she targeted stores in Solihull, Worcester, Cheltenham, Malvern, Shrewsbury, Cardiff, Trowbridge, Reading, Yeovil, and more. Also read | Kamala Harris dares Donald Trump to debate: 'Say it to my face!' Between July 2015 and February 2019, Kaur deceived major retailers like Boots, Debenhams, Homebase, John Lewis, House of Fraser, Monsoon, M&S, and TK Maxx, and carried out over a thousand fraudulent transactions. Judge Ian Lawrie KC, at Gloucester Crown Court, described Kaur as a "thoroughly dishonest individual" while sentencing her in her absence. How did she manage to get away with fraud for such a long time? Prosecutors during her trial revealed that Kaur had devised a method to exploit high street stores by claiming refunds for items she had stolen. She would return an item, claim to have lost the receipt, and simultaneously purchase a low-value item to obtain a receipt for both, thus securing fraudulent refunds. In addition to defrauding retailers, Kaur scammed eight firms of solicitors by instructing them to sue her brother and using stolen credit cards to pay compensation, which was then forwarded to her. She also attempted to defraud the Wiltshire Council of $9,493 (£7,400) by overpaying with stolen credit cards and then requesting a refund, claiming a payment error. Also read | Woman goes missing as her plan to die in 'suicide pod' lands in trouble. Is she dead or alive remains mystery Kaur's criminal activities were meticulously planned and executed. She would hire cars to avoid detection and even resorted to creating fake identities to open new bank accounts after her accounts were closed due to suspicions. West Mercia Police fraud investigator Steve Tristram described the case as the most "planned" and "sophisticated" operation he had ever encountered. "This lady was operating on an industrial scale. This was a full-time job for her, six days a week - eight or nine hours a day," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

How an Indian-origin woman ran a £500,000 'industrial scale' shoplifting scam across UK

In Northwest England, two children have been stabbed to death at a dance class. The attacker wounded at least nine from which six are in critical condition and two adults are also in critical condition.

UK: Two children stabbed to death at dance class, knife attack in Northwest England

London seems to be turning too pricey for its citizens. In an unbelievable incident, a couple flew to Milan just to grab some tasty sandwiches, as they found that travelling to London for the same was comparatively costlier.&nbsp;

49-year-old Sharon Summer made the decision to travel with her partner Dan Puddifoot to another country just to buy some sandwiches.&nbsp;

Earlier, the two had decided to go on a morning meal together. However, when they checked the roundtrip ticket from Cranfield, Bedfordshire, to London, it cost approximately £35 ($45) and £50 ($64.29) and the travel time was nearly an hour and a half.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-strikes-pay-deal-with-junior-doctors-to-end-nhs-walkouts-745383">UK government strikes pay deal with junior doctors to end NHS walkouts</a>

But the flight to Italy's Milan only cost £14 ($18). So, they opted for Milan, where they explored the city, ate sandwiches and flew back home at night.&nbsp;

<h2>Another 'thrifty' woman opts for a day trip to Milan over London</h2>

Another woman in the United Kingdom found it cheaper to travel to Milan for a day than to London. The woman said that she paid £50 ($64.29) for return flights to&nbsp;Milan, which was comparatively cheaper.&nbsp;

Dagmara Kedzierska said she chose to travel to Milan because rail tickets&nbsp;are expensive in the United Kingdom.

The 30-year-old said that a return train from the capital to her home in&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;would have cost her more than £100 ($128.58).&nbsp;

The woman reached the Italian city at 10:50 am (local time) and started her day with freshly baked croissants and coffee.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Shoplifting cases hit all-time high

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-shoplifting-cases-hit-all-time-high-744120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The&nbsp;day trips abroad&nbsp;are way more appealing, as most of the time they work out cheaper than staying in the UK. My Milan trip cost me less than £200, including the flights, transport, food and drinks," Dagmara said.&nbsp;

"I also love food and travelling abroad even for one day lets me try new foods. The restaurants in the UK are very basic and most of the time you will eat pre-cooked pasta or pre-baked pizza," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

London seems to be turning too pricey for its citizens. In an unbelievable incident, a couple flew to Milan just to grab some tasty sandwiches, as they found that travelling to London for the same was comparatively costlier.

London seems to be turning too pricey for its citizens. In an unbelievable incident, a couple flew to Milan just to grab some tasty sandwiches, as they found that travelling to London for the same was comparatively costlier. 49-year-old Sharon Summer made the decision to travel with her partner Dan Puddifoot to another country just to buy some sandwiches. Earlier, the two had decided to go on a morning meal together. However, when they checked the roundtrip ticket from Cranfield, Bedfordshire, to London, it cost approximately £35 ($45) and £50 ($64.29) and the travel time was nearly an hour and a half. Also Read: UK government strikes pay deal with junior doctors to end NHS walkouts But the flight to Italy's Milan only cost £14 ($18). So, they opted for Milan, where they explored the city, ate sandwiches and flew back home at night. Another 'thrifty' woman opts for a day trip to Milan over London Another woman in the United Kingdom found it cheaper to travel to Milan for a day than to London. The woman said that she paid £50 ($64.29) for return flights to Milan, which was comparatively cheaper. Dagmara Kedzierska said she chose to travel to Milan because rail tickets are expensive in the United Kingdom. The 30-year-old said that a return train from the capital to her home in Manchester would have cost her more than £100 ($128.58). The woman reached the Italian city at 10:50 am (local time) and started her day with freshly baked croissants and coffee. Watch: UK: Shoplifting cases hit all-time high "The day trips abroad are way more appealing, as most of the time they work out cheaper than staying in the UK. My Milan trip cost me less than £200, including the flights, transport, food and drinks," Dagmara said. "I also love food and travelling abroad even for one day lets me try new foods. The restaurants in the UK are very basic and most of the time you will eat pre-cooked pasta or pre-baked pizza," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK couple claims flying to Milan, not London, for sandwiches is ‘cheaper’

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday. His followers are called the Mahdi [Messiah] Servants Union.&nbsp;

The mile-long island has been uninhabited for 85 years and is located in the Slate Isles. Last year, Savills advertised it for £1.5 million. It is accessible only by sea using a private boat from the neighbouring island of Luing, which is reached via a ferry from the island of Seil.&nbsp;

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Reports have said that the Muslim scholar, who already runs military-style training camps, has raised more than £3 million to buy a small Scottish island and allow Muslims "from all over the world" to get a visa and live in their new "homeland".&nbsp;

As quoted by local reports, al-Habib said in a video: "If you want to live free under the banner of the imam [Shia leader], in a special homeland where you feel everything in it reminds you of the awaited mahdi, everything is the Shia homeland…support this project."&nbsp;

Another man, who's filming from Torsa, can be heard saying in the same video: "Here, my brothers, God willing, we want to build a large mosque, a school and a hawza [Shia seminary]. We want this place to be a homeland to the Shias and the believers."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-praises-brave-and-beautiful-female-agent-amid-sexist-criticism-after-assassination-bid-745022">Trump praises ‘brave and beautiful’ female agent amid sexist criticism after assassination bid</a>&nbsp;

The extremist academic fled Kuwait and claimed asylum in the United Kingdom around 20 years ago. Fulmer, a little village in South Buckinghamshire, is home to his "global headquarters".&nbsp;

Al-Habib, known as the "Mullah of Fulmer," is charged with inciting sectarian hatred in the UK and in the Arab world between Shias and rival Sunni Muslims.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that al-Habib has been raising money via his contentious satellite station, Fadak TV, which has been operating&nbsp;out of a converted church hall for several years.&nbsp;

Several MPs have called to shut down the station. Ofcom, the regulatory authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries of the UK, raised objections over attacks on people of the Sunni faith.&nbsp;

However, despite repeated warnings, al-Habib has continued his lectures, spreading hate toward the Sunni faith across the world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday.

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday. His followers are called the Mahdi [Messiah] Servants Union. The mile-long island has been uninhabited for 85 years and is located in the Slate Isles. Last year, Savills advertised it for £1.5 million. It is accessible only by sea using a private boat from the neighbouring island of Luing, which is reached via a ferry from the island of Seil. Also read: Nigeria: 125 Boko Haram insurgents convicted by court in mass trial Reports have said that the Muslim scholar, who already runs military-style training camps, has raised more than £3 million to buy a small Scottish island and allow Muslims "from all over the world" to get a visa and live in their new "homeland". As quoted by local reports, al-Habib said in a video: "If you want to live free under the banner of the imam [Shia leader], in a special homeland where you feel everything in it reminds you of the awaited mahdi, everything is the Shia homeland…support this project." Another man, who's filming from Torsa, can be heard saying in the same video: "Here, my brothers, God willing, we want to build a large mosque, a school and a hawza [Shia seminary]. We want this place to be a homeland to the Shias and the believers." Also read: Trump praises ‘brave and beautiful’ female agent amid sexist criticism after assassination bid The extremist academic fled Kuwait and claimed asylum in the United Kingdom around 20 years ago. Fulmer, a little village in South Buckinghamshire, is home to his "global headquarters". Al-Habib, known as the "Mullah of Fulmer," is charged with inciting sectarian hatred in the UK and in the Arab world between Shias and rival Sunni Muslims. The report mentioned that al-Habib has been raising money via his contentious satellite station, Fadak TV, which has been operating out of a converted church hall for several years. Several MPs have called to shut down the station. Ofcom, the regulatory authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries of the UK, raised objections over attacks on people of the Sunni faith. However, despite repeated warnings, al-Habib has continued his lectures, spreading hate toward the Sunni faith across the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Extremist Muslim scholar wants to turn Scottish island into his own ‘Islamic State’

The Labour Party in the UK has won the&nbsp;general election 2024 with majority&nbsp;votes. Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party is expected to take oath as Britain's next prime minister.&nbsp;

Starmer has defeated the Conservative Party leader, Rishi Sunak by a huge margin, thereby ending the 14-year rule of the Conservatives over Britain. The Labour Party crossed the 326-seat threshold in the 650-member parliament in the UK and will form the government.&nbsp;

<h2>History of the Labour Party&nbsp;</h2>

The Labour Party originated during the 20th century as a result of the frustration of the working class people and their dissatisfaction with the Liberal Party (the dominant party in Britain back in the days).&nbsp;

During the 1900s, the Trade Union Congress cooperated with the Independent Labour Party (established in 1893) to form a Labour Representation Committee, which later took the name of the Labour Party in 1906.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-election-results-2024-sunak-concedes-defeat-paving-way-for-labours-victory-738098">UK Election Results 2024: Sunak concedes defeat, paving way for Labour victory</a>

Until 1914, the Labour Party did not have a strong nationwide presence. It primarily functioned through mutual agreements with the Liberals not to put candidates against them. However, by 1922, the Labour Party had successfully replaced the Liberals as an opposition to the Conservative Party.&nbsp;

<h2>Labour Party Manifesto&nbsp;</h2>

Determined to end the Conservatives' dominance over Britain the Labour Party had promised a mission-driven government in its manifesto. The Party had primarily focused on five key points to rebuild Britain.&nbsp;

The primary goal of the Labour Party is to boost economic growth and secure the highest sustained growth among the G7 nations.

They also aim to make Britain clean in energy and try to switch to zero-carbon electricity by 2030.&nbsp;

The Labour Party has envisioned safe streets for Britain by increasing confidence in the police and justice system.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK Elections 2024: Exit polls predict Labour landslide

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-2024-exit-polls-predict-labour-landslide-738084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Furthermore, their goal is to reform the education sector and ensure no discrimination based on class for the youth of Britain.&nbsp;

The Labour Party also aims to improve the National Health Service (NHS) for the future and make sure all citizens of the nation live a healthy and long life.&nbsp;

<h2>The Way Forward&nbsp;</h2>

The Labour Party has acknowledged that bringing a change in Britain will require perseverance and determination. They have promised to build a strong foundation for the nation and focus on enhancing national security and bringing economic stability.&nbsp;

With the Labour Party forming the government under the leadership of Keir Starmer the people of Britain have great expectations from them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Labour Party in the UK has won the general election 2024 with majority votes. Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party is expected to take oath as Britain's next prime minister.

The Labour Party in the UK has won the general election 2024 with majority votes. Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party is expected to take oath as Britain's next prime minister. Starmer has defeated the Conservative Party leader, Rishi Sunak by a huge margin, thereby ending the 14-year rule of the Conservatives over Britain. The Labour Party crossed the 326-seat threshold in the 650-member parliament in the UK and will form the government. History of the Labour Party The Labour Party originated during the 20th century as a result of the frustration of the working class people and their dissatisfaction with the Liberal Party (the dominant party in Britain back in the days). During the 1900s, the Trade Union Congress cooperated with the Independent Labour Party (established in 1893) to form a Labour Representation Committee, which later took the name of the Labour Party in 1906. Also read | UK Election Results 2024: Sunak concedes defeat, paving way for Labour victory Until 1914, the Labour Party did not have a strong nationwide presence. It primarily functioned through mutual agreements with the Liberals not to put candidates against them. However, by 1922, the Labour Party had successfully replaced the Liberals as an opposition to the Conservative Party. Labour Party Manifesto Determined to end the Conservatives' dominance over Britain the Labour Party had promised a mission-driven government in its manifesto. The Party had primarily focused on five key points to rebuild Britain. The primary goal of the Labour Party is to boost economic growth and secure the highest sustained growth among the G7 nations. They also aim to make Britain clean in energy and try to switch to zero-carbon electricity by 2030. The Labour Party has envisioned safe streets for Britain by increasing confidence in the police and justice system. Watch | UK Elections 2024: Exit polls predict Labour landslide Furthermore, their goal is to reform the education sector and ensure no discrimination based on class for the youth of Britain. The Labour Party also aims to improve the National Health Service (NHS) for the future and make sure all citizens of the nation live a healthy and long life. The Way Forward The Labour Party has acknowledged that bringing a change in Britain will require perseverance and determination. They have promised to build a strong foundation for the nation and focus on enhancing national security and bringing economic stability. With the Labour Party forming the government under the leadership of Keir Starmer the people of Britain have great expectations from them. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Election 2024: Labour Party origin, vision and more

People were left stunned when a beast-sized shark washed up on a beach in the United Kingdom over the weekend and a forklift was required to haul the shark off the shore.&nbsp;

The onlookers saw the basking shark's carcass floating in the waters off Maidens Beach and eventually reaching the shore in Ayrshire, Scotland on Sunday (June 30).

A basking shark is the second-largest living fish found in the sea. The basking shark is also known as a 'Toothless Bruce' since it does not have teeth.&nbsp;

A rope was caught in between the creature's mouth and was also wrapped across its tail when it was found by Yolanda McCall. It was first mistaken by her as a whale.

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After noticing the sea creature, McCall immediately reached out to the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) and British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDLMR) teams to remove the shark.&nbsp;

The animal was identified by animal research and rescue groups who then moved it from the beach.

Yolanda McCall said it was difficult to ascertain if the animal was alive from the shore.

<h2>How did rescuers move the giant sea creature?</h2>

“It was tangled in a long loop of rope, in its mouth and caught around its tail," &nbsp;McCall said.

“The creature was bobbing around in the water and we couldn’t tell if it was dead or alive.&nbsp;I wanted to try to help it, if it was alive and floundering, so I put on a wetsuit and got in the water to check," she&nbsp;added while speaking to What’s The Jam.

"Sadly it was dead, but it looked very complete, a recent death. Maybe it got tired trying to free itself," McCall added, further stating that the shark appeared to have only recently died.

Watch:&nbsp;Climate Change: Surge in climate lawsuits since Paris agreement

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-surge-in-climate-lawsuits-since-paris-agreement-735607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the carcass had washed up onto the beach, a forklift was used to pick up the big fish and move it off the sand.

“After the tide went out, we could see the full beautiful big creature. [It was] very sad," McCall said.

In length, basking sharks can reach 30 feet. Even though their gaping jaws and massive size can appear terrifying, the toothless sharks are not harmful to humans and other fish and only consume plankton.

(With inputs from agencies)

People were left stunned when a beast-sized shark washed up on a beach in the United Kingdom over the weekend and a forklift was required to haul the shark off the shore.

People were left stunned when a beast-sized shark washed up on a beach in the United Kingdom over the weekend and a forklift was required to haul the shark off the shore. The onlookers saw the basking shark's carcass floating in the waters off Maidens Beach and eventually reaching the shore in Ayrshire, Scotland on Sunday (June 30). A basking shark is the second-largest living fish found in the sea. The basking shark is also known as a 'Toothless Bruce' since it does not have teeth. A rope was caught in between the creature's mouth and was also wrapped across its tail when it was found by Yolanda McCall. It was first mistaken by her as a whale. Also Read: Australian scientists shocked after tiger shark vomits spiky echidna After noticing the sea creature, McCall immediately reached out to the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) and British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDLMR) teams to remove the shark. The animal was identified by animal research and rescue groups who then moved it from the beach. Yolanda McCall said it was difficult to ascertain if the animal was alive from the shore. How did rescuers move the giant sea creature? “It was tangled in a long loop of rope, in its mouth and caught around its tail," McCall said. “The creature was bobbing around in the water and we couldn’t tell if it was dead or alive. I wanted to try to help it, if it was alive and floundering, so I put on a wetsuit and got in the water to check," she added while speaking to What’s The Jam. "Sadly it was dead, but it looked very complete, a recent death. Maybe it got tired trying to free itself," McCall added, further stating that the shark appeared to have only recently died. Watch: Climate Change: Surge in climate lawsuits since Paris agreement After the carcass had washed up onto the beach, a forklift was used to pick up the big fish and move it off the sand. “After the tide went out, we could see the full beautiful big creature. [It was] very sad," McCall said. In length, basking sharks can reach 30 feet. Even though their gaping jaws and massive size can appear terrifying, the toothless sharks are not harmful to humans and other fish and only consume plankton. (With inputs from agencies)

Enormous 24-foot shark washes up on UK beach, officials use a forklift to remove the beast

Student debt in the US is old news, but did you know that some 1.8 million people in Britain have student debts running into millions of pounds?

According to data accessed by BBC, nearly 1.8 million people still have more than 50,000 pounds or more per person in student debts.&nbsp;

Besides this, individual debts of at least 50 people go beyond 200,000 pounds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-know-how-to-do-this-job-joe-bidens-new-election-campaign-ad-paints-donald-trump-as-a-liar-737046">'I know how to do this job': Joe Biden's new election campaign ad paints Donald Trump as a 'liar'</a>

More than 61,000 people have to pay over 100,000 pounds per person, according to Student Loans Company (SLC), from which BBC accessed the data.

Average tuition fees in the UK are around 9,250 pounds per year.

The loan terms can last up to 30 years, after which they are often written off.

According to data published by Britain's Department of Education, student loan balance reached 236.2 billion pounds as of 2023-24, including new lending and interest.&nbsp;

This is a massive rise from a decade ago, when loan balances were 54.4 billion pounds in 2013-14. The figure for 2022-23 was at 205.6 billion, nearly 15 per cent less than the subsequent financial year.

It noted that new lending and interest added to existing balances outweigh repayments and write-offs.

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Nearly 75 per cent of these amounts are liable for repayment as due dates have passed.

The BBC report said loan balances are higher for those doing multiple or lengthy courses.

It quoted Tom Allingham of the website Save The Student as saying that the debts were "alarming."

As the UK goes into elections this week, none of the parties have taken up student debt as an issue, something the National Union of Students (NUS) termed 'ridiculous'.

BBC quoted Ben Waltmann of the Institute of Fiscal Studies as saying that those who took Plan 2 loans, introduced when fees were tripled, are unlikely to pay back fully.

<h2>Cost of studying in the UK: Tuition fees</h2>

Tuition fees in the UK were raised three-fold a decade ago.

Depending on the nature of institution and course, the undergraduate tuition fee in the UK can range from 10,000 pounds to 25,000 pounds. It is particularly difficult for international students when cost of living is added.

According to the British Council, international undergraduate tuition fees could be up to 38,000 pounds, while that for post-graduation could be up to 30,000 pounds.

Cost of stay, groceries and other bills will add up to 1,400 pounds per month. This includes hostels or private accommodation, gas, electricity, water, internet and TV, public transport and mobile phone among other things.

<h2>Rise in cost of living for UK students</h2>

In the post-pandemic world, UK students saw a 57 per cent rise in cost of living as of November 2022, according to NUS.

The student union also said that 25 per cent of students reported having less than 50 pounds left from their budget every month after paying bills in this period.

(With inputs from agencies)

Student debt in the US is old news, but did you know that some 1.8 million people in Britain have student debts running into millions of pounds? According to data accessed by BBC, nearly 1.

Student debt in the US is old news, but did you know that some 1.8 million people in Britain have student debts running into millions of pounds? According to data accessed by BBC, nearly 1.8 million people still have more than 50,000 pounds or more per person in student debts. Besides this, individual debts of at least 50 people go beyond 200,000 pounds. Also read | 'I know how to do this job': Joe Biden's new election campaign ad paints Donald Trump as a 'liar' More than 61,000 people have to pay over 100,000 pounds per person, according to Student Loans Company (SLC), from which BBC accessed the data. Average tuition fees in the UK are around 9,250 pounds per year. The loan terms can last up to 30 years, after which they are often written off. According to data published by Britain's Department of Education, student loan balance reached 236.2 billion pounds as of 2023-24, including new lending and interest. This is a massive rise from a decade ago, when loan balances were 54.4 billion pounds in 2013-14. The figure for 2022-23 was at 205.6 billion, nearly 15 per cent less than the subsequent financial year. It noted that new lending and interest added to existing balances outweigh repayments and write-offs. Also read | Kenya protests: Human rights body puts deaths at 39, double than govt data Nearly 75 per cent of these amounts are liable for repayment as due dates have passed. The BBC report said loan balances are higher for those doing multiple or lengthy courses. It quoted Tom Allingham of the website Save The Student as saying that the debts were "alarming." As the UK goes into elections this week, none of the parties have taken up student debt as an issue, something the National Union of Students (NUS) termed 'ridiculous'. BBC quoted Ben Waltmann of the Institute of Fiscal Studies as saying that those who took Plan 2 loans, introduced when fees were tripled, are unlikely to pay back fully. Cost of studying in the UK: Tuition fees Tuition fees in the UK were raised three-fold a decade ago. Depending on the nature of institution and course, the undergraduate tuition fee in the UK can range from 10,000 pounds to 25,000 pounds. It is particularly difficult for international students when cost of living is added. According to the British Council, international undergraduate tuition fees could be up to 38,000 pounds, while that for post-graduation could be up to 30,000 pounds. Cost of stay, groceries and other bills will add up to 1,400 pounds per month. This includes hostels or private accommodation, gas, electricity, water, internet and TV, public transport and mobile phone among other things. Rise in cost of living for UK students In the post-pandemic world, UK students saw a 57 per cent rise in cost of living as of November 2022, according to NUS. The student union also said that 25 per cent of students reported having less than 50 pounds left from their budget every month after paying bills in this period. (With inputs from agencies)

UK student debt: 1.8 million owe 50,000 pounds each as total balance crosses 236.2 billion pounds

British monarch King Charles III's sister Princess Anne has reportedly suffered 'memory loss' after sustaining head injuries following a horse-related incident. The 73-year-old suffered minor injuries to her head and a concussion at Gatcombe Park on Sunday evening, the royal palace said in a statement, without revealing exact details of the accident. She was airlifted to hospital.&nbsp;

"The King has been kept closely informed and joins the whole Royal Family in sending his fondest love and well-wishes to The Princess for a speedy recovery," the palace said.&nbsp;

The reports of 'memory loss' came as her husband, Tim Laurence, said on Tuesday (Jun 25) that Princess Anne is improving in hospital. He visited her at the Southmead Hospital in Bristol, western England, where she spent the second night.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch-prince-william-grooves-to-taylor-swifts-shake-it-off-at-eras-tour-concert-in-london-734175">Watch: Prince William grooves to Taylor Swift's 'Shake It Off' at Eras Tour concert in London</a>&nbsp;

Providing a brief update, Laurence said, "She's doing fine — slow but sure."&nbsp;

"She is recovering well, thank you. We are both profoundly grateful to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care — and to the emergency services who were all so wonderful at the scene," he said.&nbsp;

"We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far. It means a great deal," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch-taylor-swift-fever-reaches-buckingham-palace-for-the-changing-of-the-guard-ceremony-734116">Watch: Taylor Swift fever reaches Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony</a>&nbsp;

However, the Telegraph said in a report that Anne's memory loss is thought to be temporary.&nbsp;

As per media reports, she was believed to have been kicked by a horse when she was walking within the estate, which also hosts equestrian events.&nbsp;

Laurence, who is a retired naval commander, said she was "recovering well", adding that they were both "profoundly grateful" to the medical teams that treated her at the scene and in hospital.&nbsp;

Princess Anne is a skilled horsewoman who competed at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and has a reputation as the hardest-working royal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

British monarch King Charles III's sister Princess Anne has reportedly suffered 'memory loss' after sustaining head injuries following a horse-related incident. The 73-year-old suffered minor injuries to her head and a concussion at Gatcombe Park on Sunday evening, the royal palace said in a statement, without revealing exact details of the accident.

British monarch King Charles III's sister Princess Anne has reportedly suffered 'memory loss' after sustaining head injuries following a horse-related incident. The 73-year-old suffered minor injuries to her head and a concussion at Gatcombe Park on Sunday evening, the royal palace said in a statement, without revealing exact details of the accident. She was airlifted to hospital. "The King has been kept closely informed and joins the whole Royal Family in sending his fondest love and well-wishes to The Princess for a speedy recovery," the palace said. The reports of 'memory loss' came as her husband, Tim Laurence, said on Tuesday (Jun 25) that Princess Anne is improving in hospital. He visited her at the Southmead Hospital in Bristol, western England, where she spent the second night. Also read: Watch: Prince William grooves to Taylor Swift's 'Shake It Off' at Eras Tour concert in London Providing a brief update, Laurence said, "She's doing fine — slow but sure." "She is recovering well, thank you. We are both profoundly grateful to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care — and to the emergency services who were all so wonderful at the scene," he said. "We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far. It means a great deal," he added. Also read: Watch: Taylor Swift fever reaches Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony However, the Telegraph said in a report that Anne's memory loss is thought to be temporary. As per media reports, she was believed to have been kicked by a horse when she was walking within the estate, which also hosts equestrian events. Laurence, who is a retired naval commander, said she was "recovering well", adding that they were both "profoundly grateful" to the medical teams that treated her at the scene and in hospital. Princess Anne is a skilled horsewoman who competed at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and has a reputation as the hardest-working royal. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Princess Anne suffering 'memory loss' following head injury: Report

With political parties in the United Kingdom out wooing the electorate, ahead of July 4th elections, a new poll suggests that while Conservative vote share is dipping.

UK's new polls show mood of nation, Labour party leading with 42% compared to Tory to 19%

A major Savanta poll reveals big Tory leaders, about three quarters of the present cabinet, are set to lose elections as the United Kingdom goes to polls on July 4th.

Big Tory leaders set to lose elections: Polls | 21 of 27 members contesting elections to be routed

The marks of India's 200-year-long colonial subjugation by the UK are everywhere. From the railways to "modern" education (though Indians were educating themselves much before the British), pro-colonialists somehow use these to justify the brutal looting of Indian coffers for the benefit of British wealth.

As Congress MP Shashi Tharoor pointed out in a now-famous speech, 'India missed the bus, for they (the British) threw us under its wheels.' He went on to note that British children are not even taught about their colonial history, let alone about the troubles of the colonised.

For a kingdom on which the 'Sun never set,' the UK sure has a very dark history.

<h2>Giving or Returning?</h2>

Oxford University, whose student union has recently been accused of racism, is about to send back a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-loot-returns-home-oxford-university-to-hand-back-500-year-old-bronze-idol-to-india-730151">500-year-old bronze artefact</a>, depicting the saint Tirumankai Alvar, which until now was on display at its Ashmolean Museum.

This is just the latest in a long list of antiquities that came back to their origins after years of diplomatic parleys. Many more are still in private collections or in foreign museums, forcing Indians to travel long distances to see their own history!&nbsp;

The ones to blame are not just the erstwhile British Raj but smugglers too, as the illegal sale of artefacts to foreign lands is an ever-persistent threat. Who buys them and who sponsors the buyers are the real questions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-loot-returns-home-oxford-university-to-hand-back-500-year-old-bronze-idol-to-india-730151">British loot returns home. Oxford University to hand back 500-year-old bronze idol to India</a>

Let's take a look at some of the famous artefacts that were stolen and often brought back to India years later.&nbsp;

<h3>1.&nbsp;Vrishanana Yogini</h3>

<h3><img alt="sta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd48ac9f-5fa8-43b5-98a4-d211e6f44667" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download_2.png" /></h3>

Source: indianculture.gov.in

This 400-kilogramme statue of a buffalo-headed deity was found in France after being stolen and sold to an art collector. After his death, his wife gave the statue to the Indian Embassy in Paris in 2008, and in 2013, it was brought to the National Museum in Delhi.

<h3>2. Shiva in Nataraja form &nbsp;</h3>

<h3><img alt="shiva" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4b2b927-8b03-4bf0-9b62-b5c3b3435f5d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%281%29_1.png" /></h3>

Source: indianculture.gov.in

A bronze statue of Lord Shiva doing the cosmic dance was returned to India by the Australian government in 2014. This priceless artefact was stolen and sold to an art gallery in Australia, only to be brought back years later.&nbsp;

<h3>3. Lord Buddha's bronze statues</h3>

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Source: Wikipedia

In 2018, the London Metropolitan Police Service returned one of these statues. This was done as a gesture of goodwill on India's Independence Day. Interestingly, this Budhha statue was first spotted at a trade fair in London earlier in the year. The owner was unaware of its origins and agreed to return the artefact after being informed.

<h3>4. 157 artefacts from the USA &nbsp;</h3>

In 2021, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the USA, the American government returned 157 artefacts and antiquities that were stolen from India.&nbsp;

<h2>Global Habit &nbsp;</h2>

This looting and subsequent return of priceless treasures is a global trend, with the Benin Bronzes being the most famous and recent. The Oxford and Cambridge universities have agreed to eventually return these bronze masks, statues, and other treasures to Nigeria. This was hailed as a massive Nigerian victory, and experts around the world rejoiced.

Watch:&nbsp;Harry Potter offers magical boost to UK tourism

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But it is to be noted that countries—like Nigeria and India—receiving their rightful artefacts, after years of 'requesting' or as 'tokens of appreciation' on their 'Independence Days' is irony at its best.&nbsp;

What is even more ironic is that the country that gave the world so many 'Independence Days' is also home to the crown jewel (quite literally) of all Indian treasures—the Kohinoor Diamond.

<h2>The 'Peacock' Diamond</h2>

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(Source: Wikipedia)&nbsp;

The diamond, which is one of the world's largest cut gems, was seized by the East India Company in Punjab, northern India, in 1849. Some say it was "given," but others say that coercion doesn't create a level playing field.&nbsp;

It was then given to Queen Victoria and has remained a part of the crown jewels. It has been housed for public display at the Tower of London ever since.&nbsp;

Multiple calls for Kohinoor to be returned to India have not worked, but efforts are still ongoing.&nbsp;

<h2>The Way Forward</h2>

India and the UK's only way forward is for the latter to return all artefacts to their birthplace and help not erase the colonial past but learn from it.&nbsp;

Diplomats of both parties are busy doing just this, trying to help bring back India's history.&nbsp;

Some say "the past is in the past," but often the past is what holds us back from heralding in the future.

The marks of India's 200-year-long colonial subjugation by the UK are everywhere. From the railways to "modern" education (though Indians were educating themselves much before the British), pro-colonialists somehow use these to justify the brutal looting of Indian coffers for the benefit of British wealth.

The marks of India's 200-year-long colonial subjugation by the UK are everywhere. From the railways to "modern" education (though Indians were educating themselves much before the British), pro-colonialists somehow use these to justify the brutal looting of Indian coffers for the benefit of British wealth. As Congress MP Shashi Tharoor pointed out in a now-famous speech, 'India missed the bus, for they (the British) threw us under its wheels.' He went on to note that British children are not even taught about their colonial history, let alone about the troubles of the colonised. For a kingdom on which the 'Sun never set,' the UK sure has a very dark history. Giving or Returning? Oxford University, whose student union has recently been accused of racism, is about to send back a 500-year-old bronze artefact, depicting the saint Tirumankai Alvar, which until now was on display at its Ashmolean Museum. This is just the latest in a long list of antiquities that came back to their origins after years of diplomatic parleys. Many more are still in private collections or in foreign museums, forcing Indians to travel long distances to see their own history! The ones to blame are not just the erstwhile British Raj but smugglers too, as the illegal sale of artefacts to foreign lands is an ever-persistent threat. Who buys them and who sponsors the buyers are the real questions. Also Read: British loot returns home. Oxford University to hand back 500-year-old bronze idol to India Let's take a look at some of the famous artefacts that were stolen and often brought back to India years later. 1. Vrishanana Yogini Source: indianculture.gov.in This 400-kilogramme statue of a buffalo-headed deity was found in France after being stolen and sold to an art collector. After his death, his wife gave the statue to the Indian Embassy in Paris in 2008, and in 2013, it was brought to the National Museum in Delhi. 2. Shiva in Nataraja form Source: indianculture.gov.in A bronze statue of Lord Shiva doing the cosmic dance was returned to India by the Australian government in 2014. This priceless artefact was stolen and sold to an art gallery in Australia, only to be brought back years later. 3. Lord Buddha's bronze statues Source: Wikipedia In 2018, the London Metropolitan Police Service returned one of these statues. This was done as a gesture of goodwill on India's Independence Day. Interestingly, this Budhha statue was first spotted at a trade fair in London earlier in the year. The owner was unaware of its origins and agreed to return the artefact after being informed. 4. 157 artefacts from the USA In 2021, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the USA, the American government returned 157 artefacts and antiquities that were stolen from India. Global Habit This looting and subsequent return of priceless treasures is a global trend, with the Benin Bronzes being the most famous and recent. The Oxford and Cambridge universities have agreed to eventually return these bronze masks, statues, and other treasures to Nigeria. This was hailed as a massive Nigerian victory, and experts around the world rejoiced. Watch: Harry Potter offers magical boost to UK tourism But it is to be noted that countries—like Nigeria and India—receiving their rightful artefacts, after years of 'requesting' or as 'tokens of appreciation' on their 'Independence Days' is irony at its best. What is even more ironic is that the country that gave the world so many 'Independence Days' is also home to the crown jewel (quite literally) of all Indian treasures—the Kohinoor Diamond. The 'Peacock' Diamond (Source: Wikipedia) The diamond, which is one of the world's largest cut gems, was seized by the East India Company in Punjab, northern India, in 1849. Some say it was "given," but others say that coercion doesn't create a level playing field. It was then given to Queen Victoria and has remained a part of the crown jewels. It has been housed for public display at the Tower of London ever since. Multiple calls for Kohinoor to be returned to India have not worked, but efforts are still ongoing. The Way Forward India and the UK's only way forward is for the latter to return all artefacts to their birthplace and help not erase the colonial past but learn from it. Diplomats of both parties are busy doing just this, trying to help bring back India's history. Some say "the past is in the past," but often the past is what holds us back from heralding in the future.

UK to return 500-year-old bronze statue to India: Can the 'return' of looted treasures erase history?

In an effort to end their ongoing pay dispute with the government, junior doctors in England will go on strike for five days in the run-up to the election. One week before to election day, on June 27, British Medical Association (BMA) members will stage a walkout starting at 07:00 BST.

In an effort to end their ongoing pay dispute with the government, junior doctors in England will go on strike for five days in the run-up to the election. One week before to election day, on June 27, British Medical Association (BMA) members will stage a walkout starting at 07:00 BST. The union stated that it took action because, since new negotiations began in mid-May, there had been no convincing offer. However, ministers blasted the BMA for using "cynical" methods in asking for a walkout in the midst of the election campaign. Seeking compensation equivalent to 15 years of wage hikes below inflation, the BMA has requested a 35% pay increase. In the previous fiscal year, junior physicians had an average salary increase of about 9%. Last year, the BMA pulled out of discussions that included a 3% wage increase on top. This will be junior doctors' 11th walkout, after their first strike in March 2023. Also read: Kate Middleton steps out in public for the first time since cancer diagnosis BMA junior doctors committee co-chairs Dr Robert Laurenson and Dr Vivek Trivedi said, "We made clear to the government that we would strike unless discussions ended in a credible pay offer." "For more than 18 months we have been asking Rishi Sunak to put forward proposals to restore the pay junior doctors have lost over the past 15 years. Even at this late stage, Mr Sunak has the opportunity to show that he cares about the NHS and its workers," they added. Never-ending NHS waiting Depending on the amount of time waited several metrics are used to evaluate NHS waiting lists in England. Just over 300,000 of the 3.2 million people who have been waiting for more than 18 weeks have been on the list for a year or more, according to the most current data. There are around 6.3 million people on the waiting list overall. The shadow health secretary expressed his concern in an interview with the Guardian, "I really fear that if Rishi Sunak wins another term, what we've seen happen to NHS dentistry - which is a poor service for poor people and everyone else going private - that is what we will see for the whole NHS." (With inputs from agencies)

Sunak’s health woes: Junior doctors in England to strike for five days ahead of election

UK-based Helm Motorcars, founded by renowned restoration specialist Chedeen Battick, who has over a decade’s worth of experience restoring E-types, has announced the third in its limited series of 20 Jaguar E-type Series 1 builds, The Rhode Island Commission. Commissioned by a US client in New England, the bespoke E-Type will&nbsp;be shown&nbsp;at the famed Newport Concours in Rhode Island, USA.

According to Battick, ‘The E-type is rightfully considered an icon in automotive design&nbsp;but&nbsp;I have always felt that it deserves a performance to match.’&nbsp;With his restoration projects, Battick ensures the E-Type takes advantage of the most modern build and engineering practices&nbsp;on offer so that&nbsp;it can&nbsp;be preserved&nbsp;for the next generation.&nbsp;“I wanted to create the ultimate E-type: remaining sensitive to its&nbsp;history,&nbsp;but ensuring the drive, build&nbsp;and&nbsp;performance is as good as it can possibly be, using the finest materials and British craftsmanship combined with the finest standards of modern engineering, instilling a feeling of love, care and attention to detail within each component,” he added.

On the Rhode Island Commission, Helm has concentrated on improving the driving experience by strengthening the chassis and engine frames, adding a bespoke Ohlins suspension kit and a new hand-crafted air intake. Further technological upgrades include the fitment of front and rear parking aids and an immersive infotainment system with an integrated seven-speaker Apple Airplay system and Bluetooth connectivity.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-tcs-and-jaguar-land-rover-expand-partnership-with-a-1-bn-deal-633220">India’s TCS and Jaguar Land Rover expand partnership with a $1 bn deal</a>

The metallic Emerald Green paintwork has&nbsp;been executed&nbsp;using the latest Electrophoretic body coating techniques for better corrosion resistance and uniform paint thickness on the body shell.

The bespoke leather interior of the Rhode Island Commission&nbsp;has been designed by the UK’s Bill Amberg Studio.&nbsp;It features a combination of aniline European calf hide and European calf&nbsp;suede,&nbsp;in rich&nbsp;Ochre,&nbsp;to complement the Emerald Green exterior and hand-crafted aluminium panelling of the interior trim. There’s also a luggage set of two matching Bill Amberg Rocket bags and two Weekender bags, held neatly in place with handmade leather straps.

Helm E-types are produced to the exact specification of the&nbsp;owners,&nbsp;to create bespoke works of automotive&nbsp;art,&nbsp;which&nbsp;will never be replicated. As a result, Helm will produce only 20 such cars.

UK-based Helm Motorcars, founded by renowned restoration specialist Chedeen Battick, who has over a decade’s worth of experience restoring E-types, has announced the third in its limited series of 20 Jaguar E-type Series 1 builds, The Rhode Island Commission.

UK-based Helm Motorcars, founded by renowned restoration specialist Chedeen Battick, who has over a decade’s worth of experience restoring E-types, has announced the third in its limited series of 20 Jaguar E-type Series 1 builds, The Rhode Island Commission. Commissioned by a US client in New England, the bespoke E-Type will be shown at the famed Newport Concours in Rhode Island, USA. According to Battick, ‘The E-type is rightfully considered an icon in automotive design but I have always felt that it deserves a performance to match.’ With his restoration projects, Battick ensures the E-Type takes advantage of the most modern build and engineering practices on offer so that it can be preserved for the next generation. “I wanted to create the ultimate E-type: remaining sensitive to its history, but ensuring the drive, build and performance is as good as it can possibly be, using the finest materials and British craftsmanship combined with the finest standards of modern engineering, instilling a feeling of love, care and attention to detail within each component,” he added. On the Rhode Island Commission, Helm has concentrated on improving the driving experience by strengthening the chassis and engine frames, adding a bespoke Ohlins suspension kit and a new hand-crafted air intake. Further technological upgrades include the fitment of front and rear parking aids and an immersive infotainment system with an integrated seven-speaker Apple Airplay system and Bluetooth connectivity. Also Read: India’s TCS and Jaguar Land Rover expand partnership with a $1 bn deal The metallic Emerald Green paintwork has been executed using the latest Electrophoretic body coating techniques for better corrosion resistance and uniform paint thickness on the body shell. The bespoke leather interior of the Rhode Island Commission has been designed by the UK’s Bill Amberg Studio. It features a combination of aniline European calf hide and European calf suede, in rich Ochre, to complement the Emerald Green exterior and hand-crafted aluminium panelling of the interior trim. There’s also a luggage set of two matching Bill Amberg Rocket bags and two Weekender bags, held neatly in place with handmade leather straps. Helm E-types are produced to the exact specification of the owners, to create bespoke works of automotive art, which will never be replicated. As a result, Helm will produce only 20 such cars.

Helm’s The Rhode Island Commission Series 1 Jaguar E-type revealed

In the United States, six people of the same family caught an infection by a rare roundworm parasite known as trichinellosis after consuming an undercooked meal that included black bear meat, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention said in a release on Thursday.

The meat was initially served rare during a family reunion in South Dakota after being stored frozen for more than a month. The incident took place in the year 2022. However, several investigations later revealed what had exactly happened.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/consumption-of-coffee-might-lower-risks-of-parkinsons-study-finds-725355">Consumption of coffee might lower risks of Parkinson's, study finds</a>&nbsp;

When the incident happened, the Minnesota Department of Health stated that one of the members showed symptoms like high fever, swelling around the eyes, severe muscle soreness and other severe signs. The person received medical attention and was hospitalised multiple times for short periods.&nbsp;

In the latest findings, the CDC noted that the meat from the bear was stored in a freezer for a month and a half. It added that proper procedure was followed to guarantee that it was healthy and worm-free.&nbsp;

The meat was then frozen and offered as rare due to its black hue. However, it was re-cooked and served after family members detected the undercooked taste. The nine-member family then consumed it.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-life-expectancy-is-lowest-in-over-a-decade-due-to-covid-who-725276">World's life expectancy is lowest in over a decade due to Covid: WHO</a>&nbsp;

"Persons who consume meat from wild game animals should be aware that adequate cooking is the only reliable way to kill Trichinella parasites, and that infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods," the CDC said in the release.&nbsp;

While mentioning the infection, the CDC said that after exposure to gastric acid and pepsin, the larvae are released from the cysts and invade the small bowel mucosa where they develop into adult worms. It added, "Females are 2.2 mm in length; males 1.2 mm. The life span in the small bowel is about four weeks. After one week, the females release larvae that migrate to striated muscles where they encyst."&nbsp;

The US health body advised: "Cooking meat to an internal temperature of ≥165°F (≥74°C) is necessary to kill Trichinella spp. parasites. Trichinella-infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods, and raw meat should be kept and prepared separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the United States, six people of the same family caught an infection by a rare roundworm parasite known as trichinellosis after consuming an undercooked meal that included black bear meat, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention said in a release on Thursday.

In the United States, six people of the same family caught an infection by a rare roundworm parasite known as trichinellosis after consuming an undercooked meal that included black bear meat, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention said in a release on Thursday. The meat was initially served rare during a family reunion in South Dakota after being stored frozen for more than a month. The incident took place in the year 2022. However, several investigations later revealed what had exactly happened. Also read: Consumption of coffee might lower risks of Parkinson's, study finds When the incident happened, the Minnesota Department of Health stated that one of the members showed symptoms like high fever, swelling around the eyes, severe muscle soreness and other severe signs. The person received medical attention and was hospitalised multiple times for short periods. In the latest findings, the CDC noted that the meat from the bear was stored in a freezer for a month and a half. It added that proper procedure was followed to guarantee that it was healthy and worm-free. The meat was then frozen and offered as rare due to its black hue. However, it was re-cooked and served after family members detected the undercooked taste. The nine-member family then consumed it. Also read: World's life expectancy is lowest in over a decade due to Covid: WHO "Persons who consume meat from wild game animals should be aware that adequate cooking is the only reliable way to kill Trichinella parasites, and that infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods," the CDC said in the release. While mentioning the infection, the CDC said that after exposure to gastric acid and pepsin, the larvae are released from the cysts and invade the small bowel mucosa where they develop into adult worms. It added, "Females are 2.2 mm in length; males 1.2 mm. The life span in the small bowel is about four weeks. After one week, the females release larvae that migrate to striated muscles where they encyst." The US health body advised: "Cooking meat to an internal temperature of ≥165°F (≥74°C) is necessary to kill Trichinella spp. parasites. Trichinella-infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods, and raw meat should be kept and prepared separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination." (With inputs from agencies)

Undercooked black bear meat infected six people in US with brain worm: CDC report

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, local media reported that people in Devon were urged to boil their water due to concerns about contamination earlier this month. It was followed by over 100 cases of a waterborne illness that were apparently linked to contaminated drinking water. At least 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis were also confirmed in and around the town of Brixham in South West England.&nbsp;

Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the parasite cryptosporidium. The infections can be caused by drinking contaminated water or swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools or streams.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-year-war-57-million-or-over-1-in-4-people-extremely-poor-in-syria-reports-world-bank-725364">13 year war: 5.7 million or over 1 in 4 people 'extremely poor' in Syria, reports World Bank</a>&nbsp;

Addressing Beckenham, Thames Water said in a post on X that they can confirm there are no failures from the Central Sydenham water zone. It said that their technicians collected samples from a property in the area on Tuesday (May 22) following customers contacting them.&nbsp;

Thames Water said that initial on-site testing carried out by an accredited technician did not indicate an aesthetic issue with the water. However, further samples were also collected for laboratory analysis and the results showed no concerns.&nbsp;

"We take the quality of our water extremely seriously – it is the highest quality drinking water in the world – and since 2010 more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation," Thames Water said.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-170-climate-activists-arrested-amid-protests-targeting-totalenergies-725342">More than 170 climate activists arrested amid protests targeting TotalEnergies</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Keir Starmer 'would lower voting age in one of Labour's first acts'

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Thames Water is a British private utility company that is in charge of the water supply and wastewater treatment in the majority of Greater London, Luton, the Thames Valley, Surrey, Gloucestershire, and north Wiltshire. It also supplies water to far west Kent and some other parts of England.&nbsp;

On its website, Thames Water wrote, "We work hard to improve the quality of your drinking water. Every year we carry out more than 500,000 tests. We take samples from our water mains and pipes, as well as from customers' taps. Since 2010, more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing.

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing. Earlier this month, local media reported that people in Devon were urged to boil their water due to concerns about contamination earlier this month. It was followed by over 100 cases of a waterborne illness that were apparently linked to contaminated drinking water. At least 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis were also confirmed in and around the town of Brixham in South West England. Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the parasite cryptosporidium. The infections can be caused by drinking contaminated water or swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools or streams. Also read: 13 year war: 5.7 million or over 1 in 4 people 'extremely poor' in Syria, reports World Bank Addressing Beckenham, Thames Water said in a post on X that they can confirm there are no failures from the Central Sydenham water zone. It said that their technicians collected samples from a property in the area on Tuesday (May 22) following customers contacting them. Thames Water said that initial on-site testing carried out by an accredited technician did not indicate an aesthetic issue with the water. However, further samples were also collected for laboratory analysis and the results showed no concerns. "We take the quality of our water extremely seriously – it is the highest quality drinking water in the world – and since 2010 more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation," Thames Water said. Also read: More than 170 climate activists arrested amid protests targeting TotalEnergies Watch: Keir Starmer 'would lower voting age in one of Labour's first acts' × Thames Water is a British private utility company that is in charge of the water supply and wastewater treatment in the majority of Greater London, Luton, the Thames Valley, Surrey, Gloucestershire, and north Wiltshire. It also supplies water to far west Kent and some other parts of England. On its website, Thames Water wrote, "We work hard to improve the quality of your drinking water. Every year we carry out more than 500,000 tests. We take samples from our water mains and pipes, as well as from customers' taps. Since 2010, more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation." (With inputs from agencies)

Britain’s Thames Water tests samples amid contamination fears after illnesses reported

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flagship bill aimed at banning smoking appears to be shelved after he called a surprise July general election as there's not much time for bills to be made into law.&nbsp;

Sunak on Wednesday (May 22) announced that the general election will be held on July 4, after months of speculations over the polls.&nbsp;

In a Downing Street statement, Sunak said he had spoken to the head of state King Charles III and requested the dissolution of parliament.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parties-launch-campaigns-as-sunak-surprises-with-early-election-nigel-farage-opts-out-724600">UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out</a>&nbsp;

"The king has granted this request and we will have a general election on July 4," he said. "Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future."&nbsp;

The dissolution of parliament means that the government would not guarantee the passing of the bill. The Parliament will be adjourned for the election on Friday.

Hence, the government and opposition parties are currently discussing which laws to rush through before the adjournment.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-russia-taking-advantage-of-its-lack-of-air-defence-by-launching-brutal-strikes-724634">Zelensky claims Russia taking advantage of its 'lack of air defence' by launching brutal strikes</a>&nbsp;

Sunak's ambitious plan included introducing some of the world's strictest anti-smoking rules in&nbsp;Britain. He wants to ban anyone aged 15 and under from ever buying cigarettes.&nbsp;

The ban was not specifically mentioned as being on the parliamentary agenda in the next few days, but one can expect it to be in the Conservative manifesto.&nbsp;

Watch: Poland buys US radar systems&nbsp;

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On Thursday, Penny Mordaunt, the House of Commons leader, did not list the smoking bill in the business scheduled to be debated before parliament shuts down for the election.&nbsp;

She said cross-party negotiations were ongoing over the future of bills not included in the schedule.

Dozens of lawmakers in Sunak's Conservative party voted&nbsp;against it but despite that, the&nbsp;bill had passed its first parliamentary hurdle in April.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I will do everything I can to move these things forward, but it is dependent on the cooperation of other parties across parliament as well," Sunak said on Thursday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flagship bill aimed at banning smoking appears to be shelved after he called a surprise July general election as there's not much time for bills to be made into law.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's flagship bill aimed at banning smoking appears to be shelved after he called a surprise July general election as there's not much time for bills to be made into law. Sunak on Wednesday (May 22) announced that the general election will be held on July 4, after months of speculations over the polls. In a Downing Street statement, Sunak said he had spoken to the head of state King Charles III and requested the dissolution of parliament. Also read: UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out "The king has granted this request and we will have a general election on July 4," he said. "Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future." The dissolution of parliament means that the government would not guarantee the passing of the bill. The Parliament will be adjourned for the election on Friday. Hence, the government and opposition parties are currently discussing which laws to rush through before the adjournment. Also read: Zelensky claims Russia taking advantage of its 'lack of air defence' by launching brutal strikes Sunak's ambitious plan included introducing some of the world's strictest anti-smoking rules in Britain. He wants to ban anyone aged 15 and under from ever buying cigarettes. The ban was not specifically mentioned as being on the parliamentary agenda in the next few days, but one can expect it to be in the Conservative manifesto. Watch: Poland buys US radar systems × On Thursday, Penny Mordaunt, the House of Commons leader, did not list the smoking bill in the business scheduled to be debated before parliament shuts down for the election. She said cross-party negotiations were ongoing over the future of bills not included in the schedule. Dozens of lawmakers in Sunak's Conservative party voted against it but despite that, the bill had passed its first parliamentary hurdle in April. "I will do everything I can to move these things forward, but it is dependent on the cooperation of other parties across parliament as well," Sunak said on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak's proposed law to ban smoking for younger generations appears to be in jeopardy

The F-Pace arrived in 2016 as Jaguar’s first-ever SUV&nbsp;and&nbsp;it soon became one of the fastest-selling and most successful Jaguars ever, with more than 328,000 units rolling off the Solihull production line to date.&nbsp;Over the past eight years, the F-Pace has undergone significant updates, but now, as Jaguar&nbsp;is embracing&nbsp;an all-electric future from 2025 onwards, it’s time for the F-Pace to call it a day in its current internal combustion guise. To mark the end of the F-Pace model line, Jaguar has unveiled two special editions&nbsp;that are&nbsp;available to order at the Jaguar website.

The F-Pace 90th Anniversary Edition, as the name suggests,&nbsp;marks 90 years of Jaguar’s internal combustion models.&nbsp;It&nbsp;is based&nbsp;on the R-Dynamic trim of the SUV. Highlights include commemorative ‘90th Anniversary’ badging,&nbsp;a choice of&nbsp;options including diamond-turned alloy wheels, privacy glass, a&nbsp;panoramic roof, a 3D surround-view camera, ebony headlining, and an aluminium interior trim.

Available in all specifications (except the SVR), customers can choose from the S, SE and HSE specifications with a choice of engines – including mild-hybrid and plug-in electric hybrid. The latter offers up to 64km of electric-only driving range (WLTP figure) and DC fast charging capability to top up the battery from 0-80% in about 30 minutes.

At the top of the F-Pace range sits the new SVR 575&nbsp;Edition&nbsp;powered by the brand’s signature 5.0-litre supercharged V8. With a power increase of 25PS, the SVR 575 Edition develops 575PS and 700Nm, which makes it the most&nbsp;powerful&nbsp;version of the F-Pace to date, capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds.

The SVR 575 Edition benefits from unique SVR bodywork with a performance-optimised front bumper, a Black Exterior Pack with black grille surround and bonnet louvres, and an SVR-specific rear bumper with black detailing.&nbsp;The range-topping special edition also features 22-inch forged alloy wheels with a diamond-turned finish and Satin Technical Grey contrast.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-tcs-and-jaguar-land-rover-expand-partnership-with-a-1-bn-deal-633220">India’s TCS and Jaguar Land Rover expand partnership with a $1 bn deal</a>

Inside, the F-Pace SVR 575 Edition offers Suede cloth and Windsor leather-wrapped performance seats, with ventilation and 14-way electric adjustment. Customers also have the choice to spec the performance seats with semi-aniline leather.

Jaguar has neither revealed the duration of&nbsp;the availability of&nbsp;these special&nbsp;editions,&nbsp;nor the number of units of each&nbsp;of the&nbsp;special editions destined for production.

The F-Pace arrived in 2016 as Jaguar’s first-ever SUV and it soon became one of the fastest-selling and most successful Jaguars ever, with more than 328,000 units rolling off the Solihull production line to date.

The F-Pace arrived in 2016 as Jaguar’s first-ever SUV and it soon became one of the fastest-selling and most successful Jaguars ever, with more than 328,000 units rolling off the Solihull production line to date. Over the past eight years, the F-Pace has undergone significant updates, but now, as Jaguar is embracing an all-electric future from 2025 onwards, it’s time for the F-Pace to call it a day in its current internal combustion guise. To mark the end of the F-Pace model line, Jaguar has unveiled two special editions that are available to order at the Jaguar website. The F-Pace 90th Anniversary Edition, as the name suggests, marks 90 years of Jaguar’s internal combustion models. It is based on the R-Dynamic trim of the SUV. Highlights include commemorative ‘90th Anniversary’ badging, a choice of options including diamond-turned alloy wheels, privacy glass, a panoramic roof, a 3D surround-view camera, ebony headlining, and an aluminium interior trim. Available in all specifications (except the SVR), customers can choose from the S, SE and HSE specifications with a choice of engines – including mild-hybrid and plug-in electric hybrid. The latter offers up to 64km of electric-only driving range (WLTP figure) and DC fast charging capability to top up the battery from 0-80% in about 30 minutes. At the top of the F-Pace range sits the new SVR 575 Edition powered by the brand’s signature 5.0-litre supercharged V8. With a power increase of 25PS, the SVR 575 Edition develops 575PS and 700Nm, which makes it the most powerful version of the F-Pace to date, capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds. The SVR 575 Edition benefits from unique SVR bodywork with a performance-optimised front bumper, a Black Exterior Pack with black grille surround and bonnet louvres, and an SVR-specific rear bumper with black detailing. The range-topping special edition also features 22-inch forged alloy wheels with a diamond-turned finish and Satin Technical Grey contrast. Also Read: India’s TCS and Jaguar Land Rover expand partnership with a $1 bn deal Inside, the F-Pace SVR 575 Edition offers Suede cloth and Windsor leather-wrapped performance seats, with ventilation and 14-way electric adjustment. Customers also have the choice to spec the performance seats with semi-aniline leather. Jaguar has neither revealed the duration of the availability of these special editions, nor the number of units of each of the special editions destined for production.

Jaguar F-Pace bows out with final special editions

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