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Macron Warns Of US-China Dependence, Calls For UK-France Strategic Reset

July 9, 2025, 4:16 am

Speaking in a historic address to British Parliament on Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron urged the United Kingdom and France to form renewed unity against increasing global threats and limited dependence on such powers as the United States and China. Macron’s state visit was the first of a European leader since Brexit and represents improved relations between the two countries.

Addressing both chambers of Parliament after a formal welcome by King Charles and senior royals, Macron highlighted the necessity of collective action on defence, climate change, immigration, and trade. “We must advance hand in hand,” he told them, cautioning against the dangers of excessive reliance on US and Chinese economies. He called for greater co-operation between them on technology, artificial intelligence, and child protection online.

Macron’s visit is at a time when Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration aims to restore ties with Europe after Brexit. France and Britain unveiled a £1.1 billion commitment by French energy company EDF in a UK nuclear venture and cultural exchanges around the Bayeux Tapestry and British treasures.

Despite past disputes over migration and post-Brexit policies, the two nations are also cooperating on a potential military task force to support Ukraine in a post-war scenario. Starmer is also pushing for a new asylum seeker returns deal with France to tackle illegal migration across the Channel an issue still under discussion.

King Charles, who hosted a state dinner in Macron’s honor, reiterated the need for closer UK-France collaboration in meeting common global challenges. His clearly red eye during the ceremony, which was due to a burst blood vessel, was not related to his continued cancer treatment, sources at the palace asserted.

The visit marks a new chapter in UK-France relations following years of strains, as both leaders stressed shared values and the imperative for collective action.

UK Police Arrest Over 20 For Backing Newly Banned Palestine Action Group

July 5, 2025, 11:40 pm

British police detained over 20 people in London on Saturday for reportedly backing the newly banned group Palestine Action, just hours after the group’s inclusion on the terrorism list officially came into force.

The UK government took the decision to proscribe Palestine Action last month after its activists infiltrated a Royal Air Force base and vandalized two aircraft in protest of Britain’s claimed support for Israel. The proscription was carried out under the nation’s anti-terror legislation, which makes it a criminal offence to have an opinion favorable towards the group, wear symbols, or promote them punishable by up to 14 years behind bars and/or a fine.

Late on Friday evening, the group lost an emergency court appeal to block the ban, and the act took effect at midnight. By Saturday, supporters congregated in London’s Parliament Square, some with placards stating “I OPPOSE GENOCIDE. I SUPPORT PALESTINE ACTION.” Sky News footage depicted a number of people being arrested near the Mahatma Gandhi statue as chanting support for the group.

Palestine Action has long targeted Israel-affiliated companies in the UK. While Home Secretary Yvette Cooper argued its violent tactics justified the terror designation, critics including UN experts and civil liberties advocates say the proscription blurs the line between criminal damage and terrorism.

Meanwhile, five Youth Demand activists of pro-Palestinian affinities disrupted London’s Pride parade by splattering red paint on a Cisco truck and sticking themselves to it. Youth Demand had accused Cisco of providing technology that is utilized by Israel and asserted that their action was in protest against “crimes against humanity.”

The parade continued after arrests were made, police affirmed. Cisco has yet to comment on the incident.

The clampdown has raised questions about freedom of protest and political opposition amid lingering tensions in the UK over the Gaza dispute.

UK’s Stuck F-35B Jet to Be Dismantled; Larger Navy Aircraft to Airlift It

July 3, 2025, 3:42 pm

The UK’s F-35B fighter aircraft, which has been grounded in Thiruvananthapuram International Airport since mid-June, will need to be disassembled since it cannot be repaired locally, senior government officials informed CNN-News18. They further said the British Navy will deploy a bigger aircraft to carry away the dismantled aircraft. The UK will also pay all outstanding dues to India, such as parking and hangar charges.

The plane had a hydraulic snag that subsequently undermined its starting system, sources confirmed. Although the precise components to be dismantled were not detailed, a rectification team from the UK is said to be on its way to undertake the process.

The jet has been waiting for repair after it was forced to make an emergency landing in Kerala on the evening of June 14 due to a technical problem. Last week, ANI had quoted an official saying, “UK F-35B aircraft is waiting for repairs at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport after developing a technical snag. The UK has accepted an invitation to relocate the aircraft to the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility at the airport.”

The official continued, “The plane will be relocated to the hangar as soon as UK engineering staff arrive with specialized equipment, thus ensuring there is minimal disruption to scheduled maintenance of other aircraft.”

At the same time, the British High Commission said ground crews were collaborating with Indian authorities to maintain safety procedures as they prepared for the jet’s required repairs and inspections. They also thanked India for assistance after the emergency landing.

Early on, the jet had been unable to fly back to the UK warship HMS Prince of Wales because of unfavorable weather. In precaution, the jet took a detour to the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, where it safely landed. While grounded, however, the aircraft encountered additional technical issues that made its return imminent. Aboard HMS Prince of Wales, engineers assessed the situation and decided that support from a UK-based engineering team was called for.

UK Spy Hunt: Decades-Long Hunt For Russian Mole Inside MI6 Ends In Mystery

June 27, 2025, 11:58 pm

In one of Britain’s most secretive and long-running Cold War-style espionage investigations, MI5 initiated a secret operation code-named Operation Wedlock amid concerns that a high-ranking MI6 officer had been spying for Russia.

The 20-year investigation, begun in the 1990s, followed a tip-off to the CIA that suspected one of its Britain-based British intelligence officials was passing sensitive information to Moscow. Although the probe later ended without concrete proof, it left authorities suspecting that a mole might still be within the UK foreign intelligence service.

As many as 35 MI5 agents participated in the exercise, risking surveillance on a high-level scale across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. One reported operation required an entire surveillance unit to travel to the Middle East, where they used a CIA safe house without the knowledge of the host nation a violation of international law.

In order to keep the operation secret, officers were briefed in nondescript places, even a church, and functioned from a front business in south London. MI5 also wired the suspect’s house, employing hidden cameras and stealthy devices, and monitored his global travels using real passports with false names.

In spite of vast resources and worldwide operations, MI5 was unable to find conclusive proof that the MI6 officer was a double agent. Sources involved explained that although some of the officer’s conduct was suspicious, it was not attributable to espionage.

The probe uncovered the novelity of the UK intelligence services monitoring each other, highlighting the seriousness of the operation. The suspect being monitored was a senior MI6 officer and had access to top-secret information. The intelligence authorities were concerned that he might have picked up on the surveillance.

Operation Wedlock officially came to a close in approximately 2015, after the officer had resigned from MI6, but doubts linger. “If he was not him,” said one source, “then maybe the true mole is still at large.”

Bangladesh Expands Defence Ties With UK Amid Push To Modernise Air Capabilities

June 25, 2025, 9:57 pm

Bangladesh is changing its defense strategy by advancing alliances with Western countries such as the United Kingdom, as part of a grand plan to upgrade its air defense systems and cut ties with conventional allies like China.

A high-level Bangladeshi military contingent, headed by Major General Mohammad Kamrul Hassan Rangpur Area Commander and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 66 Infantry Division landed in London on Monday to participate in a major global defence conference. The visitors comprise six top army and air force officers of Bangladesh.

The company is attending the 19th Full Spectrum Air Defence Summit, which takes place from June 23 to 26 in London. The summit convenes international defence specialists to promote cooperation on integrated air and missile defence with a common emphasis on interoperability and prompt, cost-effective threat reaction.

Bangladesh’s attendance at the summit reflects an unmistakable strategic turnaround towards more advanced and diversified defence acquisition. The move is well-timed in the face of rising regional instability, especially in neighboring Myanmar’s Rakhine State, creating fears of cross-border security threats. The government of Bangladesh seeks to advance its military capability while lessening its reliance on any one foreign supplier.

One of the air defense systems the Czech Republic is said to be considering is the British Sky Sabre system. Released in 2021 and priced approximately at USD 900 million, Sky Sabre provides a mobile, medium-range air defense capability able to defend against aircraft, drones, helicopters, and precision-guided munitions. It is already operational in locations like the Falkland Islands and Poland for NATO missions.

Bangladesh’s growing involvement with the UK defence industry reflects its determination to augment national security by becoming technologically self-sufficient and realigning itself with changing regional dynamics. This step represents an important element of Dhaka’s larger strategy of future-proofing its military.

British National Arrested In Cyprus Over Suspected Espionage And Terror Plot Near RAF Base

June 22, 2025, 2:54 am

A British citizen has been detained in Cyprus on charges of espionage and terror-related crimes, as reports of surveillance of major UK military facilities on the island emerged.

It had been tracking RAF Akrotiri, which is the UK’s strategic airbase for operations in the Middle East, and is said to have connections with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), local media reports indicate. The authorities apparently responded to intelligence that indicated the man was preparing to carry out a terrorist attack in the near future.

The man was arrested on Friday, and he showed up before a district court on Saturday. The court remanded him into custody for eight days pending investigations. Cypriot police have refused to provide further information, citing national security.

The suspect was said to have been living in a flat in Zakaki, Limassol, close to RAF Akrotiri. Witnesses claimed to have seen him near the base carrying a long-lens camera and three mobile phones. It is also reported that he had been watching the Andreas Papandreou airbase at Paphos from mid-April.

Although local media had referred to the suspect as Azerbaijani, the UK Foreign Office has confirmed that he is British. “We are aware of the arrest of a British man and are in touch with the authorities in Cyprus,” a Foreign Office spokesman said.

The arrest is timely as RAF security is already under the spotlight. In an unrelated incident, pro-Palestine activists broke into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire recently and sabotaged two planes. The base is key to Britain’s strategic air transport and refuelling, including flights to RAF Akrotiri.

The Cyprus investigation is still under way, and authorities have not officially identified the suspect or detailed charges as of yet.

Dignity In Dying: UK Parliament Approves Assisted Dying Bill For Terminally Ill In Historic Vote

June 20, 2025, 11:18 pm

In a historic ruling, the UK Parliament on Friday voted to legalize assisted dying, taking a significant step towards one of the biggest social changes in years. The “Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life)” bill cleared the House of Commons by 314 to 291 votes and will now move to the House of Lords for consideration.

The law would enable mentally capable adults in England and Wales, with a terminal disease and life expectancy of six months or less, to opt for a medically assisted death. The bill is a copycat of already implemented measures in Australia, Canada, and some states in the US.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour administration took a neutral position, permitting MPs to vote on party-neutral conviction. Starmer himself voted for the bill.

Proponents of the bill contend it preserves dignity and compassion for those under immense suffering at the end of life. Opponents are concerned that vulnerable people may be pressured into ending their lives.

Outside Parliament, there were emotional scenes as advocates cheered the result with placards and cheers, but opponents remained quietly in dismay.

Emma Bray, a 42-year-old mother of three who suffers from motor neurone disease, expressed backing for the bill, stating her own intention to kill herself by starvation next month. “This victory will ensure that people won’t have to endure the same ordeal that I’ve experienced,” she said.

Public opinion in favor of assisted dying has increased over the last few years with opinion polls repeatedly reporting majority support throughout the UK.

Although the bill still awaits further examination and possible amendment in the House of Lords, its passage in the elected chamber greatly increases the bill’s prospects of becoming law, bringing a possible revolution to end-of-life care policy.

China Slams UK Warship Patrol in Taiwan Strait

June 20, 2025, 4:00 pm

China’s military has sharply condemned the British Royal Navy after HMS Spey made its way through the Taiwan Strait earlier this week. Calling the action a calculated move to provoke tensions, Beijing labeled it an “intentional provocation” that “undermines peace and stability” in the area.

The British Royal Navy defended the journey of HMS Spey, citing the patrol was conducted under a routine deployment and adhered to international law. The first UK naval vessel to travel through the strategic strait in four years.

The deployment is being made in tandem with the arrival of a UK carrier strike group in the Indo-Pacific, which will spend the next eight months in the region. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the mission, the largest in decades, he says—led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, and declared it is intended to “send a clear message of strength to our adversaries, and a message of unity and purpose to our allies.”

Approximately 4,000 British troops are involved in the operation, with engagement with 30 nations and combined military exercises with the US, India, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Reaction of Beijing and Sovereignty Issues

China, which asserts Taiwan as a part of its territory even though the island has democratic rule, responded sharply. China’s navy spokesman accused the UK of “publicly hyping up” the transit of the HMS Spey and called Britain’s explanation “a distortion of legal principles and an attempt to mislead the public.

“These acts are deliberate provocations which interfere with the situation and erode peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” the spokesperson continued. The Chinese military confirmed it closely followed the ship in its passage and warned that its forces “will resolutely counter all threats and provocations.”

Subsequently, a Chinese foreign ministry official recognized other countries’ freedom to navigate the strait but gave a clear warning: “China respects other countries’ rights to navigate the Taiwan Strait,” he said, with China “opposing firmly any country using the term freedom of navigation to provoke and menace China’s sovereign security.”

Support From Taiwan

Taiwan’s ministry of foreign affairs hailed the patrol as a gesture that assists in the defense of freedom of navigation across the Taiwan Strait.

Whereas the United States regularly holds such operations within the region, Britain’s previous transit of the strait occurred in 2021 when HMS Richmond sailed through on a mission to Vietnam. That operation was also condemned by China, which reacted by sending troops to scout the vessel.

HMS Spey is one of two British warships to be permanently based in the Indo-Pacific, bolstering the UK’s increasing naval presence in the region.

The fresh tensions are occurring amid increasing tension between China and Taiwan, especially since Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, a strident Beijing critic, took office. He has referred to China as a “foreign hostile force” and introduced measures geared towards pushing back against Chinese influence in Taiwan.

Beijing has persisted with its military intimidation with constant exercises near Taiwan, such as a live-fire exercise in April that it said imitated attacks on critical infrastructure like ports and energy facilities.

China’s rebuke of the UK comes as its two carriers conduct an unprecedented combined military exercise off Japan. The move has been raising alarm in Tokyo and contributing to regional concern over Beijing’s growing military assertiveness.

UK Appoints First Female MI6 Chief Blaise Metreweli

June 16, 2025, 12:24 pm

For the first time in history, the United Kingdom has chosen a woman to lead its foreign intelligence agency, MI6.

Blaise Metreweli Makes History

On Monday, the UK government announced that Blaise Metreweli CMG will become the 18th Chief of MI6. At 47, she will also be the first woman to lead the organisation in its 116-year history.

Long Career in Intelligence

Metreweli joined MI6 in 1999. Since then, she has steadily risen through the ranks. She now serves as Director General ‘Q’, leading the agency’s work in technology and innovation. Later this year, she will take over from the current chief, Sir Richard Moore.In response to her appointment, Metreweli said, “I am proud and honoured to have been asked to lead.”

Prime Minister Welcomes the Appointment

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the decision. He called it “historic” and timely. “The United Kingdom is facing threats on an unprecedented scale—be it aggressors who send their spy ships to our waters or hackers whose sophisticated cyber plots seek to disrupt our public services,” he said. He noted that Metreweli’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the country’s security.

What the MI6 Chief Does

The head of MI6, known as ‘C’, leads the organisation’s operations. This person is also the only publicly named official in the agency and reports to the Foreign Secretary.

Main Objectives of MI6

MI6 works alongside MI5 and GCHQ. Its mission is to gather intelligence overseas, prevent terrorism, counter hostile threats, and strengthen cyber defense.

Metreweli, who earlier held a senior post in MI5, emphasized collaboration. “MI6 plays a vital role with MI5 and GCHQ in keeping the British people safe and promoting UK interests overseas.”

Outgoing Chief Backs Successor

Sir Richard Moore, the outgoing MI6 Chief, welcomed her promotion. “I am absolutely delighted by this historic appointment of my colleague, Blaise Metreweli, to succeed me as ‘C’. Blaise is a highly accomplished intelligence officer and leader, and one of our foremost thinkers on technology.”

A Steady Rise from Fieldwork to the Top

Metreweli started her career as a case officer in 1999. She worked mainly in operational roles across West Asia and Europe.
She studied Anthropology at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and has become one of MI6’s most respected leaders.

UK And Allies Sanction Israeli Ministers For ‘Vile’ Gaza Remarks, Settlement Extremism

June 10, 2025, 9:40 pm

The United Kingdom, joined by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, has sanctioned two Israeli cabinet ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich over inflammatory remarks made on Gaza and the West Bank. The ministers face travel bans and asset freezes, immediately.

Ben-Gvir is a minister for National Security, while Smotrich is the country’s Finance Minister. Both have gained much negative attention for their rhetoric of demolishing Gaza and settling the occupied West Bank through aggressive settlement expansion. This rhetoric has been called inciting violence and defense of human rights abuses against Palestinians.

In a joint statement, the five allied countries reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution and criticized the Israeli ministers for fostering extremist settler violence. “We are acting now to hold individuals accountable for inciting violence and undermining peace,” said UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and his counterparts.

The statement emphasized the urgency of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas, and a push toward humanitarian aid and lasting regional stability.

Israel’s government was notified of the decision on Tuesday. Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the move “outrageous,” criticizing sanctions on elected officials and revealing that a special cabinet meeting would be held to discuss a response.

The UK Foreign Office cited repeated incitement of violence as grounds for the sanctions. It has previously warned Israel against expanding illegal settlements and urged condemnation of extremist rhetoric. Though options to impose sanctions had existed for over a year, the decision was delayed to build international consensus.

Notably, the United States has not joined this coordinated action.

Smotrich and Ben-Gvir have previously called for harsh measures against Palestinians, with Smotrich stating that Gaza should be “entirely destroyed,” while Ben-Gvir has advocated for the expulsion of Gaza’s residents.

UK, India Deepen Secret Counter-Terror Pact Amid Rising Kashmir Conflict And Trade Surge

June 8, 2025, 12:56 am

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy met Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss enhancing counter-terrorism collaboration between the two countries, after recent spates of tension between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.

Lammy, who is the highest-ranking Western official to have visited both India and Pakistan since their May 10 ceasefire, emphasized that peace must be preserved in the region. The ceasefire came after weeks of rising tension that started with the April killing of 26 people in Indian-controlled Kashmir a incident which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan-backed insurgents, which Islamabad rejected.

India hit back with attacks on supposed terrorist facilities in Pakistan, provoking a volatile military build-up that subsequently died down with a ceasefire.
“We want to see the ceasefire stick,” Lammy said in an interview at the British High Commission in New Delhi. “But we recognize that the situation remains delicate, especially with the continued threat of terrorism targeting destabilisation of India.

Lammy mentioned he talked to Modi and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar about the increase in counter-terrorism and did not disclose further information. The UK and India have previously looked at options including cracking down on terror funding, increasing cooperation between law enforcement agencies, and intelligence sharing.

Aside from security concerns, Lammy indicated that economic relations were also on the table. Negotiations between the two nations on a long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) were wrapped up last month.
Lammy assured that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will travel to India shortly to officially sign the agreement. “There is huge potential for the UK and India to deepen their economic partnership,” he stated, noting that the FTA would open up additional trade potential between the fifth and sixth-largest economies in the world.

The visit reflects the UK’s commitment to enhancing strategic and economic ties with India in the face of regional and global challenges.

Pak Army Runs the Country, Not Democracy: Ravi Shankar Prasad in UK

June 2, 2025, 7:53 am

An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, met UK’s Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel and her team on Sunday. They strongly conveyed India’s firm commitment to fighting cross-border terrorism.

The MPs also explained how Operation Sindoor sets a new benchmark in India’s counter-terror efforts.

The Indian High Commission in the UK shared on X, “The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation met with Shadow Foreign Secretary @pritipatel and her team to share India’s firm resolve in combating cross-border terrorism. They also highlighted how #OperationSindoor exemplifies the new normal set by India in this ongoing effort.”

Delegation Includes MPs from Multiple Parties

The delegation included BJP MPs Daggubati Purandeswari and Samik Bhattacharya, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, and Congress MPs Ghulam Ali Khatana and Amar Singh. Former Union Minister MJ Akbar and former Ambassador Pankaj Saran also joined the team.

MPs Interact with Indian Diaspora in London

Earlier, the delegation met members of the Indian diaspora at India House in London. During the interaction, the MPs reiterated India’s united stance against terrorism.

They stated that India remains fully committed to punishing every act of terror.

The High Commission posted on X, “The All Party Delegation of MPs interacted with representatives of the large and diverse Indian Diaspora at India House in London today. They reaffirmed India’s united stance and unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms, and underlined the readiness of India to continue to decisively punish any and all acts of terror.”

Ravi Shankar Prasad Slams Pakistan’s Military Rule

While addressing the Indian community in London, Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a sharp attack on Pakistan. He said Pakistan is not a democracy. Instead, he claimed its army controls the country without accountability.

Prasad said, “Pakistan was created by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, but now it has become a generals’ shop. Their military leaders are unelectable and unaccountable.”

He highlighted past military rulers like Ayub Khan, Yahya Khan, Zia-ul-Haq, and Musharraf. Then, he criticised current Army Chief General Asim Munir, calling him a failed general who still became Field Marshal.

India Gave a Decisive Response on May 7

Prasad detailed how India responded strongly after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. On May 7, Indian forces struck terrorist camps in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad.

“In just 20 minutes, we eliminated 100 terrorists. The attack happened around 1:30 a.m., with zero civilian casualties,” Prasad said.

He added, “In the morning, we informed the Pakistani establishment that we only hit terrorist camps. But they responded with missile attacks on our cities. Thankfully, our Air Force intercepted every missile.”

Prasad praised the armed forces, calling their action “a complete success.”

India Targets Terror Camps Under Operation Sindoor

Ravi Shankar Prasad also reminded the audience that Osama bin Laden was found hiding in Pakistan. He said India had eliminated the hijackers linked to Masood Azhar. He also claimed Indian forces had killed some of Azhar’s family members during Operation Sindoor.

Following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, India launched Operation Sindoor. The mission targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian forces killed over 100 terrorists from groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

BJP MP in UK: India Will Fight Terror Diplomatically and Militarily

June 2, 2025, 7:33 am

BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana, part of the all-party delegation led by Ravi Shankar Prasad, strongly criticised Pakistan for backing terrorism. Speaking in London, he said, “Pakistan begs on one side and spreads terrorism on the other.” He stressed that India doesn’t need outside mediation to tackle terrorism and knows how to deal with it.

While addressing the Indian community at India House, he urged them to act as ambassadors. “Our army will fight on the ground. But we must fight diplomatically and on social media too,” he said. Khatana praised the Indian diaspora’s enthusiasm and commitment to the nation.

Khatana Highlights Kashmir’s Democratic Progress

Khatana pointed out that Pakistan felt threatened by the rise in democratic participation in Kashmir after Article 370 was revoked. He criticised Pakistan for sending infiltration and drugs in return for India sharing river water. “We gave them 80% of our rivers’ water, and in return, we got terrorism, infiltration, and drugs,” he added.

He said Pakistan wants to disrupt peace in Kashmir because democracy weakens the military’s hold there. “Over 40,000 people were killed in the last 30 years. Many became orphans, and Kashmiri Pandits were forced to leave,” he said.

MJ Akbar Calls Terror Attacks ‘Fascism and Ethnic Cleansing’

Former Union Minister MJ Akbar called recent terror attacks in Pahalgam acts of fascism. “This is the terror of ethnic cleansing,” he said, reminding the audience of Europe’s history with fascism. He added that Pakistan was born in violence and still clings to it.

He also cited Mahatma Gandhi’s response to terrorism in 1947. “Gandhiji said the state must stand up. The Indian Army must not retreat. They will give their lives, but never retreat,” Akbar noted. He urged the audience to explain this ideology to others to honour those who died fighting terrorism.

Daggubati Purandeswari Emphasises India’s Peaceful Nature

BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari said India has never raised arms against another country. “If India has ever waged war, it has been against underdevelopment, poverty, and unemployment,” she said.

She described a chilling moment when a woman begged a terrorist to kill her after he shot her husband. “His response was, ‘Go and tell Modi’,” she recounted. She added that Operation Sindoor showed India’s resolve after the Pahalgam attack.

Samik Bhattacharya Blames Pakistan’s Creation on India’s Peaceful Approach

BJP MP Samik Bhattacharya said India chose peace over civil war, which led to Pakistan’s creation. “We didn’t want civil war, so Pakistan was formed,” he said.

He criticised those who divided India and said Pakistan continues to harm others while India walks with pride. “We didn’t come here to beg. We came here to warn that what is happening to us can happen to you,” he told the diaspora.

Priyanka Chaturvedi Condemns Pakistan’s Terror Support

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticised Pakistan for supporting terrorism. She said, “They host the T20 — the top 20 terrorists of the world.” She recalled how Osama bin Laden was hidden in Pakistan and supported by its state.

She also referred to a speech by Pakistan’s Army Chief before the Pahalgam attack. “He said there’s a difference between Hindus and Muslims. But 200 million Indian Muslims stood with India and demanded a strong response,” she said. Chaturvedi added that India’s Muslims rejected Pakistan’s divisive ideology.

High Commissioner Praises Indian Diaspora in the UK

Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, praised the Indian community for strengthening India-UK ties. He said people of Indian origin have helped build and rebuild the UK after the world wars.

“Our community has helped shape the UK’s growth and achievements. Today, Indians hold top positions here, and because of their hard work, India is seen in a positive light,” he said. Over 650 people had registered to attend the event within two days, showing their dedication to India and its global partnerships.

Car Rams Into Liverpool Fans During Title Parade, Local Man Arrested Amid Chaos

May 27, 2025, 3:11 am

A vehicle unexpectedly rammed into a group of Liverpool supporters at the Premier League title procession on Monday, injuring several pedestrians and prompting instant police intervention. The police were quick to arrest a 53-year-old suspect believed to be involved in the incident.

Merseyside Police confirmed the white British male driver from the Liverpool area was arrested as probes continue to find out the circumstances surrounding the shocking crash. Several pedestrians along the parade route were hit after Liverpool’s open-top bus for players and coaching staff traveled through the city center.

Videos online recorded the terrifying moment when the car smashed into the crowd, just steering clear of the most crowded masses. Some videos caught persons lying on the roads while others filmed fans swarming and trying to attack the driver as soon as after the accident.

The police asked the public not to speculate as their wide-ranging investigation takes its course. “We would ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding tonight’s incident,” they explained in a message.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer labeled the scenes “appalling” in a post on X, offering condolences to the injured and thanking the emergency services. “My thoughts with everyone hurt or impacted. I want to thank the police and emergency services for their immediate and continued response to this appalling incident,” he stated.

Liverpool Football Club too reacted on X, assuring they were in close communication with the police and that they stand with their support. “Our hearts and prayers are with the victims of this terrible incident,” read the statement from the club, reiterating concern for the fan base and the community.

While the city recovers from this shocking loss amidst a time of celebration, investigations are ongoing into what caused this horrific event.

UK Eyes Bold Justice Reform: Sex Offenders Face Drug Treatment To Cut Reoffending

May 22, 2025, 10:41 pm

British government will start prescribing medication to dampen the libido of sex offenders, as part of an overall strategy to cut reoffending and ease growing pressure on the jam-packed prison network.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood made the announcement to Parliament on Thursday after the publication of an independent review of sentencing that was prepared by former Justice Secretary David Gauke. The treatment, sometimes termed “chemical castration,” will be first implemented in 20 prisons in two regions.

Mahmood further said that the government is also looking at making the treatment mandatory. “It is important that this strategy is complemented by psychological interventions aimed at other drivers of offending, including the need to exercise power and control,” she said.

Even though the review recognized that the treatment would not work with all offenders most notably those whose offending is not sexually motivated research indicates that it can cut reoffending by as much as 60 percent.

Chemical castration was previously used voluntarily in Germany and Denmark, and compulsorily in Poland for particular groups of offenders.

The review, to bring the justice system up to date, also suggested wider reforms. These include removing prison terms of under 12 months save in exceptional circumstances like domestic violence and the increased use of tagging. Foreigners who received sentences of three years or less would be deported immediately.

Mahmood invested £700 million a year to strengthen the probation service, stressing that rehabilitation is highly reliant on proper support and monitoring.

The reforms were denounced by opposition politicians, including Conservative justice spokesman Robert Jenrick, who warned that removing short-term sentences would in effect “decriminalize” offenses such as burglary and assault.

The government also intends to build a series of prisons on a major scale to replace Victorian-era prisons which are increasingly obsolete and add space to handle the growing prison population, currently approaching 90,000.

UK Cedes Chagos Sovereignty, Locks In 99-Year Lease For Key US-UK Base

May 22, 2025, 10:35 pm

United Kingdom signed a historic deal transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, opening the door to further military cooperation with the United States on the strategically vital island of Diego Garcia.

The agreement, signed on Thursday after a judge in London lifted a temporary injunction, offers Britain a 99-year lease to hold on to the Diego Garcia air base an asset described as crucial to national and worldwide security.

A last-minute legal challenge from a British national born on the Chagos Islands had briefly held up the signing, but High Court Judge Martin Chamberlain declared that Britain’s national interests would be harmed if the injunction was continued.

The multibillion-dollar deal was defended by Prime Minister Keir Starmer against opposition leaders criticism about its expense and possible geopolitical ramifications, as well as concerns over Chinese influence.

“The location of this base is of strategic importance to Britain conquering terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan to pushing back against threats in the Indo-Pacific,” Starmer said in a press conference.

Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, who replaced Pravind Jugnauth last year and had initially expressed concerns about the plan, greeted the accord. “With this accord, we are finishing the process of decolonization,” Ramgoolam declared in a televised speech. “It’s complete recognition of our sovereignty over the Chagos, including Diego Garcia.”

The signing puts an end to months of back-and-forth negotiations and delays, including a hiatus after the January inauguration of US President Donald Trump. Washington had asked for time to study the deal, and in February, Trump gave the deal his unconditional support.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also gave the deal his seal of approval, citing its significance in assuring the long-term stability and operational efficiency of the combined US-UK military facility at Diego Garcia.

The accord represents a major advance in post-colonial reconciliation but confirms Western military presence in the Indian Ocean.

Western Allies Turn Up Heat: UK, France, Canada Warn Israel, Halt Gaza Strikes Or Face Global Sanctions

May 21, 2025, 2:10 am

United Kingdom, France, and Canada have conveyed profound concern at the deepening Israeli military attack in Gaza, threatening that tangible measures, such as targeted sanctions, could be taken if Israel fails to stop its campaign and lift limits on humanitarian assistance.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his outrage in a parliamentary session on Tuesday, calling for an urgent ceasefire in the wake of Israel’s heightened assault that has left a minimum of 87 individuals dead over the last 24 hours. Starmer, joined by French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, publicly criticized the actions of Israel as “wholly disproportionate” and the crisis in Gaza as “intolerable.”

The three leaders condemned in a joint statement the extension of military action inside Gaza and illegal settlements on the occupied West Bank. They warned Israel against the forced transfer of Palestinians, describing the actions as illegal under international law. The statement showed Israel’s limited aid deliveries of a few trucks after months of closure and deemed the gesture inadequate.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed those nations for rewarding Hamas, the Palestinian militant movement with Israeli hostages, with “a huge prize.” In the meantime, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK called for a complete embargo of arms to Israel and emphasized responsibility through international tribunals.

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese stressed that the sanctions must involve the whole Israeli government, not just particular leaders. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot labeled Israel’s easing of the blockade as “totally insufficient,” using Gaza as a “death trap” because of its continuing violence and restrictions on aid.

Amid increasing global pressure, 23 nations made a joint appeal to Israel to open the gates to unhindered humanitarian assistance to avert massive starvation, condemning the politicization of relief operations under the command of Israeli armed forces.

The future of the conflict is uncertain as Netanyahu’s insistence on the continuation of the offensive conflicts with increasing global demands for restraint and justice.

UK Halts New Trade Talks With Israel, Imposes Sanctions Over Gaza War Conduct

May 20, 2025, 10:31 pm

United Kingdom said it would put on hold new free trade talks with Israel in reaction to Israel’s continued military actions in Gaza and heightened settler attacks in the occupied West Bank. The move follows growing international criticism of Israel’s actions in the region, where hundreds of Palestinians have died in recent days under intense shelling and renewed ground assault.

On Tuesday, the UK also placed new sanctions on illegal Israeli settlements. The action came after a joint statement by the UK, France, and Canada condemning Israel’s actions in both Gaza and the West Bank.

British PM Keir Starmer stepped up the vitriol against Israel, describing conditions for children in Gaza as “utterly intolerable” and repeated his demand for an immediate ceasefire. His Labour government has been increasingly under domestic pressure for not going far enough to help the Palestinians, with weekly “Stop the War” protests continuing to draw thousands of protesters throughout the UK.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said that unless the current UK-Israel trade deal is withdrawn, there will be no renewed negotiations with a government imposing what he termed “egregious policies” on Gaza and the West Bank.
Lammy also imposed further sanctions on three individuals, two unauthorized settlements, and two organizations accused of backing violence against Palestinians.

“The government of Israel has a responsibility to prevent these violent acts,” Lammy stated, threatening that punishment by Israel jeopardizes the future of Palestinian society and the possibility of a two-state solution.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry quickly denounced the UK’s action, stating: “Trade negotiations have already reached a deadlock and stall, and the sanctions are unjustified and regrettable.

The UK’s new steps signal a dramatic change of tone, joining an increasing number of countries putting pressure on Israel to restrain its settler and military activity.

Starmer To Seal Post-Brexit Deal With EU To Boost Trade And Ease Travel Hassles

May 18, 2025, 3:40 am

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is to seal a major deal with the European Union next week to deepen post-Brexit ties and remove trade barriers, his office said in a statement on Saturday.

Starmer will receive EU diplomats in London on Monday for a summit aimed at rebooting relations between the UK and its biggest trading partner. Both sides will make advances in key points, but some issues will remain off-limits.

Since assuming office a year ago, Starmer’s Labour government has attempted to enhance the traditionally tense relationship with the EU after Britain left in 2020. The prospective deal is meant to solve lingering issues that face British producers, who presently go through complicated checks or are barred from exporting some foodstuffs to the EU.

Moreover, the deal also seeks to ease challenges for British families such as lowering the more expensive fares and longer lines encountered when journeying to Europe.

“This week, the Prime Minister will sign yet another deal that will deliver in the national interest of this country. It will be good for growth, good for jobs, good for bills, and good for our borders,” read a release issued from 10 Downing Street.

Starmer also suggested the possibility of negotiating a youth mobility agreement with the EU at the summit, possibly giving more chances for youths to work and live abroad.

Brexit has grown less and less popular with the British public, with a lot of people worried about the economic slump and difficulties caused by new trade rules. Starmer’s attempt to repair ties with the EU is part of a larger goal to stabilize the UK economy and calm global trade tensions.

The agreement is set to be a significant move forward in post-Brexit diplomacy, albeit with some contentious issues likely to be left unresolved.

Three Iranian Men Charged In UK Over Alleged Iran-Backed Spy Plot Targeting Journalists

May 18, 2025, 3:32 am

Three Iranian nationals were produced in a London court on Saturday charged under the National Security Act, with conspiracy to violence and to assist a foreign intelligence service, which is Iran. The men 39-year-old Mostafa Sepahvand, 44-year-old Farhad Javadi Manesh, and 55-year-old Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori are said to have conducted activity to assist Iranian intelligence from August 2024 to February 2025, British police say.

The accusations come at a time when there are increased worries about Iranian-backed activity in the UK, with the government stepping up efforts to fight foreign interference. Iran’s actions were condemned by Interior Minister Yvette Cooper and vowed “separate action” to improve national security. “We will not stand by as state threats rise on our territory,” Cooper stated.

The detainees are the result of two large counter-terrorist operations in May that netted eight men, seven of whom were Iranian. Four of the men have since been let go without charge, and the probe continues. The authorities stated that the suspects had been thought to be plotting against a particular location, with ongoing police presence at that location.

At Saturday’s court hearing, prosecutors charged the three men with targeting Britain-based journalists affiliated with Iran International, a broadcaster which has been critical of the Iranian regime. Sepahvand was also charged with charges over surveillance and seeking to commit serious violence, while Manesh and Noori face charges over surveillance and conspiring to cause serious harm through other people.

The defendant is said to have arrived in the UK unlawfully between 2016 and 2022, including on small boats crossing the English Channel. Immigration is a delicate political topic in Britain, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer promising to tackle illegal crossings.

Iranian authorities rejected the accusations as unfounded but indicated a desire to collaborate in case of authentic evidence. The British government has put Iran in its top foreign influence warning, emphasizing suspicions regarding Tehran’s secret operations in the UK.

Ukrainian National Charged With Arson In Fires Linked To Properties Tied To UK PM Keir Starmer

May 16, 2025, 1:38 am

British police have charged a Ukrainian man with arson after a wave of fires erupted at properties linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Metropolitan Police confirmed Thursday that 21-year-old Roman Lavrynovych is charged with three counts of arson intended to endanger life.

Lavrynovych was detained on Tuesday over three different fires in north London. These involve a car blaze on May 8 in Kentish Town, a blaze at the entrance of a building in Islington on Sunday, and a fire at the old home of Starmer in Kentish Town later that evening.

Prosecutors say all three events are being investigated as targeted attacks. Starmer occupied the Kentish Town house with his family before relocating to 10 Downing Street in July 2024. He is said to still own the house.

British media also indicated that the Islington house, which was turned into flats, has known connections to Starmer, increasing speculations on why the attacks were carried out.

Because a high-profile political player was involved, the investigation has been carried out by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command. The investigation is aimed at finding out if the attacks were politically motivated or connected to another type of extremism.

Lavrynovych is to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday. The authorities have not as yet provided more information on the potential motive.

A government spokesperson stated the prime minister’s spokesperson said that Starmer had thanked the emergency services for their prompt response and assistance in response to the incidents.

The case has renewed the debate regarding the security and safety of public officials within the UK, particularly during the increased number of threats and politically motivated incidents in recent years.

Chris Brown Held In UK Over Bottle Attack Linked To 2023 Mayfair Nightclub Brawl

May 16, 2025, 12:20 am

American R&B singer Chris Brown was detained in Britain on Thursday in relation to an alleged attack on a London club in 2023, reports several British media websites.

Brown, 36, was allegedly held in the early hours of Thursday at Manchester’s Lowry Hotel. The arrest follows an altercation on February 2023, when Brown allegedly confronted music producer Abe Diaw with a bottle at Tape nightclub in Mayfair, one of London’s most upscale areas.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed a 36-year-old man was detained on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, although they did not officially identify the man. “A 36-year-old man was arrested at a Manchester hotel shortly after 2am on Thursday, 15 May on suspicion of grievous bodily harm,” said a spokesperson for AFP. “He has been brought into custody where he is still.

Reports say Brown had arrived in Manchester via private jet on Wednesday afternoon and was scheduled to perform several concerts in the UK next month.

The Grammy-winning singer first became famous in the mid-2000s for his soulful R&B singing and energetic performances. But his career has been marred by a history of run-ins with the law, most famously his 2009 conviction for attacking then-girlfriend Rihanna before that year’s Grammys a case that made headlines worldwide and severely tarnished his public image.

Brown has since been involved in other legal troubles throughout the years, such as for assault and violent actions. His recent arrest just contributes to a line of controversies that still surround his career.

The investigation is currently ongoing, and Brown’s representatives have not publicly spoken on the arrest yet.

Indians Urge Boycott of Azerbaijan, Turkey Over Support to Pakistan

May 8, 2025, 6:53 pm

In wake of India’s precision strikes within Operation Sindoor against nine terrorism hotspots in Pakistan and PoK, Turkey and Azerbaijan came out in the support of Pakistan, incensing Indian nationals in the cyberspace.

In a formal release on Wednesday, the foreign ministry of Azerbaijan condemned India’s military action and expressed sympathy towards Pakistan. “The Republic of Azerbaijan is concerned about the further rise of tension between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan,” the ministry stated.

The statement further added, “We condemn the military attacks on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that caused death and injuries to a number of civilians. Being in sympathy with the Pakistani people, we offer condolences to the families of the innocent victims and pray for the speedy recovery of those who were injured.”

Social Media Reactions

The support declarations evoked sharp responses on social media platforms, with numerous Indian users urging a boycott of tourism in Azerbaijan and Turkey—two countries that have been on the rise among Indian tourists.

“Azerbaijan (BAKU) and Turkey should now witness India’s Power. We should ban these places from our holidays,” wrote one user Anant Ladha.

Enough of Baku visits please. Azerbaijan saw a large influx of Indian tourists in 2024. Let’s show them the might of Indian tourists now!” said another user, Alok Jain.

Another user who used the handle The Skin Doctor recommended redirecting holiday trips to other players in the region: “I see no reason why any nationalist Indian should spend his money there (Azerbaijan and Turkey). Instead, visit their regional competitors, Armenia and Greece.”

During the rising sentiment, Goa Villas, an aggregator of villa rentals, said that it would discontinue providing accommodation to Turkish nationals. “Since Turkey’s non-cooperative behavior in the prevailing global situation involving India and Pakistan, we have decided not to provide any accommodation services to Turkish nationals in Goa. We remain with our nation,” the firm posted on X.

Operation Sindoor Avenges Pahalgam Attack

On Wednesday early morning, Indian forces carried out targeted missile strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, including Jaish-e-Mohammad headquarters in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke. This attack took place just two weeks after 26 civilians were brutally killed in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

UK Woman Dies at 31 After Battling THIS Rare Form of Dementia

May 8, 2025, 1:26 pm

31-year-old woman Gemma Illingworth died following the fight with rare and violent kind of dementia posterior cortical atrophy (PCA). Gemma, diagnosed when she was just 28, wasn’t aware how serious she was. According to her brother, Ben Illingworth, she didn’t recognize the signs warning her that something was going terribly wrong and believed she was going to keep a normal life.

“She didn’t realize what was happening, and she believed that she could live a normal life, but she couldn’t… Before we knew it, she couldn’t live without assistance,” Ben revealed to The Sun. “Once she had the diagnosis, it was really only going one way. We didn’t know it was going to be that fast.”

PCA is an advancing neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects the section of the brain that is responsible for visual perception. While the disease progresses, it not only causes vision problems but also results in memory loss and physical disability. Physicians describe that PCA makes the neurons in the posterior cerebral cortex degrade, affecting the ability of one to process visual information.

Gemma had started to develop greater problems with everyday tasks—she had coordination, distance judgement, and reading difficulties. She was ‘ditsy’ from childhood according to her brother, frequently losing sight, struggling with telling time, and having orientation problems, but the family never suspected she had an underlying disease.

As the symptoms grew stronger, Gemma couldn’t function on her screen and had to give up work. Neurological exams confirmed that she had PCA. As time passed, her condition grew worse—she lost the capacity to feed herself, talk, walk, and even swallow.

What is Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA)?

PCA is commonly linked with other conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia. While there is no cure, physicians generally seek to determine the underlying cause in an effort to treat and retard the development of symptoms with medication and supportive therapy.

Signs and Symptoms

Though PCA typically occurs in people in their 50s and 60s, it may start even during one’s 30s. The condition impacts both the parietal and occipital lobes of the brain. Symptoms are as follows:

Reading difficulty due to moving or scrambled lines of text
Difficulty judging distance, e.g., steps or curb-to-curb distance
Getting confused when giving and following directions and identifying left from right
Difficulty identifying faces, objects, or locations
Recurring bumping into doors or furniture
Difficulty with using numbers, devices, and tools
Anxiety caused by confusion of the mind

Gemma’s case brought to the forefront the need for early detection and knowledge of uncommon types of dementia such as PCA. In spite of her valiant struggle, her condition took a sharp turn, reminding all of the unpredictable course of such ailments.

Indian Community in London Counter-Protests Outside Indian High Commission | Watch

May 1, 2025, 8:17 pm

On May 1, 2025, thousands of members of the Indian diaspora in the UK came together outside the Indian High Commission in London. Their peaceful protest was a counter-reaction to a pro-Khalistani and Pakistani-led protest. The diaspora came together to show their solidarity with India, challenging external protests with a strong and unified message of national pride and unity.

#WATCH | London: Members of the Indian community in the UK gathered in large numbers to show solidarity and support for India, countering a protest organised by a group of pro-Khalistani and Pakistani demonstrators outside the Indian High Commission in London

The Indian diaspora… pic.twitter.com/xe5ghJtNYv

— ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2025

Peaceful Counter-Protest by Indian Diaspora

Indian diaspora in the UK, with its strong and energetic presence, was in unison with their native country, undermining the slogans being spread by the protesting communities. The demonstration was peaceful with the intention of upholding India’s interests and reiterating their commitment to the country’s politics and social beliefs. This display of strength occurs as tensions have been escalating all over the world against political movements, and the Indian community’s stand is a response to such external pressures.

The Pahalgam Attack: A Background Context

The demonstrations and protests, both in the UK and abroad, follow the recent tragic Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of several Indian nationals, has been met with widespread condemnation throughout the country. Although the protests outside the Indian High Commission were based on geopolitical issues, the recent security issues, including the attack in Pahalgam, serve as a reminder of the unstable nature of the region.

Indian Community’s Growing Influence Abroad

The demonstration in London showcases the growing activism of the Indian diaspora. With more presence in other countries, the community is now more assertive about supporting India’s policies and national security. By mobilizing counter-protests, Indian community members are not just asserting their cultural identity but also enhancing diplomatic relations between India and host countries.

A Message of Unity and Peace

In spite of the tensions, the protest outside the Indian High Commission was peaceful. Protesters waved Indian flags and shouted slogans of togetherness, showing their national pride. The protest highlighted the strength of peaceful protests as a means to instill national pride and counter divisive ideologies. It also demonstrated the Indian community’s strength in upholding their values overseas.

UK Man Purchases WWI Shipwreck for Just Rs. 34,000 on Facebook Marketplace

April 26, 2025, 4:23 pm

Facebook Marketplace typically has a variety of listings, ranging from clothing and electronics to jewelry and home goods. But a UK man recently made an outlandish buy a World War I shipwreck for only 300 pounds (approximately Rs 34,000) on the site. As reported by the BBC, Dom Robinson was amazed to see the SS Almond Branch, a 3,300-tonne cargo vessel 330 feet in length, up for sale online and immediately ordered it because of its historic value.

Robinson, a diving expert and shipwreck historian, was ecstatic about the discovery. The SS Almond Branch had disappeared on November 27, 1917, when it was allegedly torpedoed by a German submarine off the coast of Cornwall. It had since been lying on the bed of the Atlantic Ocean.

Sharing his excitement, Robinson told the BBC, “I just went along & kind of kicked the tyres and I sucked my teeth, and I knew what it was.” He confirmed the identity of the wreck by diving off Dodman Point before finalising the purchase.

Although Robinson does not plan to sell the wreck, he expressed interest in retrieving the ship’s bell. He added, “It does sort of feel slightly different when you are diving a wreck, and you think that you do have an ownership of it. So, if anyone does find the bell, they must report it to the Receiver of Wreck, who will seek my opinion on whether I wish to retain it or not. And, if they do find the bell, then of course, hands off my bell.”

A Plymouth project manager, Robinson, became interested in underwater discovery at a young age. Throughout his 30-year diving career, he has discovered 20 to 25 wrecks. The 53-year-old logs his finds on his YouTube channel, which he has attracted over 9,000 subscribers to.

UK On Brink Of Nationalizing British Steel As Lawmakers Tackle Urgent Crisis

April 12, 2025, 6:56 pm

In an emergency Saturday sitting, British MPs were brought back from Easter recess in a hurry to enact emergency laws that will ensure the blast furnaces of British Steel remain operational, as nationalisation of Britain’s sole maker of virgin steel grows more likely.

China’s Jingye Group-owned Scunthorpe plant, with 3,500 workers, risks closure after negotiations on how to fund a shift to more environmentally friendly steel production broke down. With furnaces said to be losing £700,000 daily, the government indicated drastic action was necessary to avoid them shutting down shortly and to buy more time to broker a sustainable future for the firm.

The legislation, passed on Saturday, gives ministers powers to control British Steel’s operations, ensure staff pay, and command the raw materials required to maintain production. The previous time Parliament sat on a Saturday during a recess was in 1982 during the Falklands War.

Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds informed MPs that state control was now an eventual prospect, but the government would still want to collaborate with the private sector. “Delaying today would make any other preferable option unconsiderable,” Reynolds stated.

Closing of the Scunthorpe furnaces would make the UK the sole G7 country incapable of manufacturing virgin steel from raw materials. British Steel has been in trouble amidst a worldwide surplus of steel, high energy prices, and recently imposed 25% tariffs on exports of steel to the US a market valued at £400 million a year.

The government of the UK has set aside £2.5 billion for the steel industry, with a national plan to come out next spring in 2025. Meanwhile, Tata Steel’s Port Talbot works are switching to electric arc furnaces, but new production won’t start until 2027 or beyond.

Nationalising British Steel would be the biggest state action since the 2008 bank bailouts.

UK Woman Jailed 7 Hours for Taking Daughters’ iPads

April 12, 2025, 4:12 pm

A teacher reported she was detained overnight in a police cell for seven-and-a-half hours after seizing two iPads from her daughters.

Vanessa Brown Shares Her Ordeal

Speaking to LBC in an interview, Vanessa Brown revealed she has been kept awake at night since the March 26 incident, following allegations she had stolen the devices.

The woman, who is 50 years old, claimed she took the tablets to prompt her daughters to be diligent with their studies, which was welcomed by Surrey Police later.

Arrest and Search at Staines Police Station

Ms Brown stated she was taken to Staines police station where she was searched, fingerprints and custody photographs were taken, before she was put in a cell. Police also attended her children’s school and removed her daughter from class over the issue, she said, the force traced the iPads to Ms Brown’s mother’s home in Cobham, Surrey.

Brown Describes the Incident as Traumatic

She told LBC, “I find it quite traumatic even talking about this now. At no point did they [the officers] think to themselves, ‘Oh, this is a little bit of an overreaction for a moment, confiscating temporarily her iPads and popping over to her mum’s to have a coffee’. It was just a complete overreaction. It was thoroughly unprofessional. They were speaking to my mother, who is in her 80s, like she was a criminal.”

When she was released, the terms of Ms Brown’s bail prevented her from talking to her daughters because they were attached to the inquiry as the police continued their enquiries.

A spokesperson for Surrey Police told LBC they were originally alerted to the potential theft by a man in his 40s and officers attended a property “where the occupant was questioned about the iPads and denied any knowledge of their whereabouts”.

Police Confirm iPads Belonged to Her Daughters

They continued: “However, a tracking device on the iPads showed that they were at the address and a 50-year-old woman from Cobham was arrested on suspicion of theft. A search was then carried out using post-arrest powers and the iPads were located.”

“The woman was subsequently released on conditional bail while further enquiries were carried out. The police bail conditions included not speaking to her daughters, who were connected to the investigation, while officers carried out their enquiries. Following these enquiries, officers discovered that the iPads belonged to the woman’s children and that she was entitled to confiscate items from her own children.”

Brown Criticises Police Overreaction

Of police’s handling of the incident, the mother-of-two said: “They were able to send a police car with police officers to my children’s school, they were able to send another police car or two to arrest me… I know people are making reports of thefts, of assaults and very violent crimes in and around our neighbourhood and they’re not getting a response for days. I cannot get to the bottom of why (my arrest) was done in such a quick turnaround maybe less than an hour. All these police cars and police officers going into an address over a completely false report of a theft.”

Putin-Appointed Ex-Crimea Governor Jailed In UK For Luxury Lifestyle Fraud

April 11, 2025, 8:06 pm

A Russian politician handpicked by President Vladimir Putin to run Sevastopol, Crimea’s largest city, was sentenced to 40 months in prison by a London court on Friday for violating UK sanctions. Dmitrii Ovsiannikov, 48, was found guilty earlier this week of six offenses of evading sanctions and two of having or using criminal property the first such conviction in Britain.

Ovsiannikov was governor of Sevastopol in 2016, two years subsequent to Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Following his subsequent removal from the position of Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, he moved to London and attempted to have the EU-imposed sanctions on him removed. The British prosecutors, however, exposed that he had improperly accessed money to maintain a life of luxury.

The court was told that Ovsiannikov’s wife, Ekaterina Ovsiannikova, paid £76,000 (approximately $97,000) into his account, some of which was spent on the purchase of a Mercedes-Benz SUV. His brother, Alexei Owsjanikow, bought and insured the vehicle and paid more than £41,000 ($53,500) for Ovsiannikov’s children’s fees at their private school.

While Ovsiannikov was sentenced and imprisoned, his brother was given a 15-month suspended sentence. Ovsiannikov’s wife was acquitted on all charges, and the jury was deadlocked on a seventh count of sanction evasion.

Graeme Biggar, Director General of the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), highlighted the importance of the decision. “Dmitrii Ovsiannikov and his family well understood he was sanctioned and went out of their way to seek to circumvent those prohibitions,” he stated. “These convictions confirm that both sanctioned subjects and their facilitators are within our reach.

When first charged in 2023, the NCA confirmed Ovsiannikov as the UK’s first individual prosecuted for breaching sanctions related to Russia. The case is a landmark in Britain’s anti-Kremlin asset crackdown.